If you are looking for a great city break to relax and take in some of the best of French culture, look no further than Marseille – an incredible city located in the South of France. With its stunning coastal views, buzzing bistros and vibrant nightlife, Marseille is a city full of surprises. Historic sights, delicious food and beautiful beaches all await! Here are 7 must-visit sites and what to eat when visiting Marseille.
The Old Port: The Old Port of Marseille is an iconic site for visitors. Not only is it the city’s oldest port, but it’s also a great place to enjoy lunch or dinner with its extensive selection of bars and restaurants. With its impressive backdrop of forts and historical buildings, it’s also one of the city’s most photographed sites. There are no entrance fees and it’s open all year round Notre-Dame de la Garde: Notre-Dame de la Garde is a beautiful basilica located on the highest hill in Marseille. This majestic building offers stunning views of the city and is a great place to take a break from sightseeing. The basilica is open every day of the year, from 8am to 7pm, and admission is free. Insider tip: take the time to visit the crypt, which houses a Hof, an ancient Greek painting. La Vieille Charite: La Vieille Charite is an iconic renaissance building located in the heart of Marseille. Its impressive architecture showcases some of the city’s best art and historical artifacts. Open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm, admission costs €5. La Canebiere: The main shopping street in Marseille, La Canebiere is a bustling and iconic place to hang out. With its vibrant stores, narrow alleys and lively bars, La Canebiere is a great place to explore. Insider tip: take a moment to admire the grand architecture of the various buildings along the street. Mucem: Located on the old port, Mucem is a museum dedicated to the culture and history of Marseille. With over a million artifacts and objects, Mucem offers a fascinating insight into the city’s past. Open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm, admission costs €10. La Plage des Catalans: La Plage des Catalans is a picturesque beach located in the heart of Marseille. With its soft sand and crystal waters, it’s a great place to spend a lazy day. Insider tip: make sure to take your swimsuit if you want to take a dip! Food: When visiting Marseille, make sure to try some of its local cuisine. The city is famous for its bouillabaisse, a fish stew with tomatoes, saffron and garlic. For dessert, try some of the city’s famous tarts, such as the tarte tropezienne.Marseille is a stunning destination for a great city break, with plenty of history, gastronomy and culture to enjoy. From the grand Old Port to the vibrant beach of La Plage des Catalans, there are plenty of activities to experience. So, grab your suitcase and explore all that Marseille has to offer!