French travel news: Seven of the best things to see during a visit to Marseille
France’s oldest city, Marseille, sits proudly on the Mediterranean coast, offering a mix of seaside charm, enthusiastic energy, and southern French flair.
With a rich port history, diverse culture, and dramatic coastal views, it’s a city that blends sun, seafood, and street art into a perfect balance.
Whether you’re stopping by on a football trip to the Stade Vélodrome or exploring the Provençal coastline, Marseille has plenty to offer.
Here, Travel News Blitz’s Sam Condy picks out seven of the best things to see during a visit to Marseille.
Vieux-Port
The heart of the city, the Old Port of Marseille has been in operation for over 2,600 years, and is now a lively marina lined with cafés, fish markets, and ferries leading trips to nearby islands.
Walk along the harbourfront at sunset and take in the street musicians, artists, and relaxed local attitude.
Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde
Perched on a hill overlooking the city, this basilica is one of Marseille’s most recognisable landmarks.
You can either hike to the top or take the petit train touristique for a more leisurely ascent.
Upon reaching the summit, you’re rewarded with sweeping views over the city and coastline, while the building features a stunning interior filled with mosaics and maritime tributes.
Le Panier
Just north of the Old Port, Le Panier is Marseille’s oldest neighbourhood, and easily one of its most photogenic.
Wander the narrow alleys filled with colourful shutters, street art, and steep staircases, and take in its bohemian charm.
The area is lined with artisan shops, galleries, and tucked-away cafés, making it a great place to get lost, away from the main tourist trail.
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Calanques National Park
Marseille might be a major city, but it’s only a short journey from some of southern France’s most dramatic natural scenery.
The Calanques are a series of steep limestone cliffs and inlets stretching along the coast between Marseille and Cassis.
Whether you choose to hike, kayak, or take a boat tour, the turquoise waters and rugged cliffs make for unforgettable views.
MuCEM
The Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations sits right by the water near the Old Port, featuring a striking design that's worth seeing on its own.
Inside, you’ll find rotating exhibitions covering history, art, and culture from around the Mediterranean basin.
The museum offers a modern perspective on Marseille’s diverse identity and is a must-visit during a trip to the city.
Marché Noailles
Dive into the heart of Marseille’s multicultural atmosphere with a visit to the Noailles Market.
Located just behind the Old Port, this daily market combines North African culture with southern French charm.
Spices, olives, herbs, and handmade goods fill the stalls, with the scent of grilled meats and couscous floating through the air. It’s loud, lively, and full of flavour.
Stade Vélodrome Tour
Even if there’s no matchday to plan around, a tour of the Stade Vélodrome is a great way to explore the city’s sporting spirit.
Home to Olympique de Marseille, the stadium is a modern architectural gem, while the team features an intense local following.
A guided tour lets you explore the pitch, changing rooms, and club history, all in a city that lives and breathes football.
Summary
Marseille is a city that rewards curiosity, and its range of different activities makes it the perfect stop for a whole manner of travellers.
Whether you're gazing out over the Mediterranean from Notre-Dame or digging into a plate of bouillabaisse in the Old Port, there is something for everyone in the coastal city.
For visitors looking to mix beach, culture, and local charm, Marseille delivers in spades.
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