Things to do in Marseille: the must-sees and our tips

In short: Marseille is all about the sea. Start with the Old Port (Vieux-Port), go up to Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde for the view, wander the lanes of Le Panier, visit the Mucem, then treat yourself to a day in the calanques or on the islands. The city is big: group your visits by area.

The Old Port

The historic heart of Marseille since Antiquity, the Old Port is where every visit begins. In the morning, the fish market sets up on the quay; the Ombrière, a huge suspended mirror, reflects the passers-by. Boats to the Château d’If, the Frioul islands and the calanques leave from here.

Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde

The “Bonne Mère” watches over the city from its hill. Its terrace offers the best view of Marseille, the sea and the islands. Walk up (it’s steep) or take the bus.

Le Panier

Marseille’s oldest district: sloping lanes, colourful façades, workshops and small squares. In the middle stands the Vieille Charité, a former almshouse now home to museums and exhibitions.

The Mucem and Fort Saint-Jean

At the entrance to the Old Port, the Mucem, dedicated to Mediterranean civilisations, is linked by a footbridge to Fort Saint-Jean. Its roof terraces offer a superb sea view, even without visiting the exhibitions.

The calanques

Between Marseille and Cassis, the Calanques National Park lines up white cliffs and turquoise coves. Explore them on foot, with good shoes and plenty of water, or by boat from the Old Port. Access is regulated: some calanques must be booked in summer, and the massifs close when there is a fire risk. Check the official National Park website before you go.

The Château d’If and the Frioul islands

The Château d’If, made famous by The Count of Monte Cristo, can be visited after a short crossing. The nearby Frioul islands offer coves and trails. Boats depend on the weather.

The Corniche and the Vallon des Auffes

The Corniche Kennedy runs along the sea to the south, with viewpoints and beaches. On the way, the Vallon des Auffes, a small fishing harbour hidden under a bridge, is one of the most photogenic spots in the city.

Cours Julien and local life

Street art, bars, bookshops and small music venues: the Cours Julien and its surrounding streets are Marseille’s creative district, ideal in the evening.

Eating in Marseille

Bouillabaisse, best enjoyed in a restaurant that makes it the traditional way; Marseille-style pizza, navettes (orange-blossom biscuits) and food from all around the Mediterranean.

Day trips from Marseille

• Cassis, its harbour and Cap Canaille.
• Aix-en-Provence, its fountains and the Cours Mirabeau.
• The Côte Bleue, to the west, and its small calanques.

Getting around

• Metro, trams and buses cover the city; Saint-Charles station is linked to the Old Port by metro.
• From the airport, Marseille-Provence, a shuttle bus runs to Saint-Charles station.
• In summer, set off early for the calanques: heat and crowds build up quickly.

For the rest of your trip: Travel in France.

Where to stay in Marseille

The Old Port for a first visit, Le Panier for charm, Cours Julien for a tighter budget and nightlife, Endoume and the Corniche for the sea. Every area is detailed in our guide Where to stay in Marseille.