Top 10 Things To Do In Marseille

Top 10 Things To Do In Marseille

Marseille is the biggest city in Provence- Alpes- Cote-d’Azur in France. It is currently the largest port for commerce, freight and cruise ships, and takes after Paris as the largest metropolitan area in the whole of France. Located West of the famous French Riviera, Marseilles has a mixed population of about 794,811.

With its approximately  24 museums and 42 theaters, the  beaches, architecture and culture, it is highly unlikely that you will run out of things to do while in Marseille. Here are Top 10 Things To Do while in the city.

Cathedrale de la Major

Cathedrale de la Major- by Christophe- Wikimedia Commons

One of Marseille’s most important buildings is Cathedrale de la Major. Quite picturesque, this building has astounding views- like most ancient buildings in France, this Cathedral’s structure is imposing. Its high domed towers complement the beautifully decorated interior. It’s a plus that a visit to the cathedral doesn’t come at an extra cost.

Notre Dame de la Garde

Notre Dame de la Garde- by ChrisO- Wikimedia Commons

Despite having visited the Cathedral de la Major, you should visit Notre Dame de la Garde in Marseille. This church is located atop a hill, overlooking the city and the sea.  Notre Dame de la Garde is one of Marseille’s most famous landmarks. Here, you will be treated to beautiful views of the city and relish in the beautifully crafted mosaic interior of the church.

Parc National des Calanques

Parc National des Calanques- by Tobi 87- Wikimedia Commons

A boat ride to the beautiful Calanques will reward you with stunning views, beautiful beaches and a refreshing sea breeze. These rocky cliffs and bays between the city of Marseille and the town of Cassis are in the South of France. If the weather is perfect, especially in the summer, this boat ride is quite relaxing. Alternatively, you could ride a bike for the beautiful landscapes of Les Calanques. If feeling more adventurous, take a bike ride to the beach, then rent a kayak or canoe out to the cliffs.

Vieux Port

Marseille Vieux Port- by Benh Lieu Song- Wikimedia Commons

The Vieux Port, or the Old Harbour is famous for its fresh fish and seafood which you can enjoy as you watch the boats or ride the Ferris wheel. Vieux Port is strategically located from whence you have access to all of Marseille’s main attractions. If you stay around the area until evening, you’ll get treated to beautiful sunsets and views.

Le Panier Neighborhood

Le Panier neighborhood- by Arthur Crombez- Wikimedia Commons

From Vieux Port, head over to Marseille’s old town in the South of France that was first inhabited in 600 BC with the settlement of the Greeks. Le Panier Neighborhood blends the various influences that are currently present in Marseille. This neighborhood offers a great evening spot or a cosy walk. Le Panier Neighborhood has lots of artists ateliers, some of the greatest cafes and restaurants in Marseilles and antique shops. Le Panier Neighborhood boasts a rich history, showcased in the buildings that you will see as you walk around this neighborhood such as La Vieille Charite, Passage Lorette and Place des Moulins among others.

Château d’If

Château d’If- by Jan Drewes- Wikimedia Commons

Château d’If is located off shore in the bay of Marseilles. You may have heard of it if familiar with the novel Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas– the novel is set there. History has it that the fortress Château d’If was meant to keep watch over Marseille, provide cover for the new royal fleet of galleys and protect the coast from invasion. The monument has a unique panorama that you will find interesting as you explore inside of the Chateau that was used as a prison, until the end of the 19^th century.

La Canebière

La Canebière- by Likemonkeys- Wikimedia Commons

It would be a disservice to yourself if you saw the Vieux Port and Le Panier neighborhood without visiting La Canebière since the three are close to each other. La Canebière is definitely one of the top 10 things to do in Marseilles. It is the city’s biggest avenue!

Marseilles once possessed a lot of wealth with huge ornate buildings and elegant hotels. La Canebière has these on display albeit not in their original state. For a stretch of about one kilometer, you will take in restaurants and shops in their display of former grandiose.

Palais Longchamp

Palais Longchamp- by Jan Drewes- Wikimedia Commons

Another top 10 thing to do in Marseille is visiting Palais Longchamp. This monument is surrounded by Longchamp Park, one of the few green areas in Marseille’s center. You will enjoy good weather as you take in the beautiful artwork. Palais Longchamp hosts the oldest museum in Marseille- the Musée des Beaux-Arts. Here you can sample works by Italian and Provençal artists, dating from the 17^th century to present day.

Musee des Civilisations de l’Europe et de la Mediterranee (MuCEM)

Musee des Civilisations de l’Europe et de la Mediterranee – by Karmakolle- Wikimedia Commons

When visiting Marseille, a museum or two is definitely on your top 10 things to do. The Musee des Civilisations de l’Europe et de la Mediterranee is Marseille’s best museum. The eclectic MuCEM gives you Mediterranean civilization and history 101- from its development to what it is today.

You’ll enjoy exhibitions, mini-films and lectures across three entire buildings! You will learn about Gods, gardens, travel routes, spices among other fascinating topics and leave Marseille with vast knowledge on the Mediterranean life.

La Corniche

La Corniche- by Jddmano- Wikimedia Commons

To round off the Top 10 things to do in Marseilles is a walk through La Corniche, a seaside roadway along the Mediterranean coast with views of beaches and interesting neighborhoods. La Corniche stretches for around 5 kilometers, 3 of which were renamed in honor of President Kennedy. A walk along this strip will uncover exceptional vistas of the Frioul Archipelago and the domes of the Château d’If in the bay, making your trip to Marseilles and La Corniche worth it.

A good number of the top 10 things to do in Marseilles will take you on the enchanting sights in the town with the most picturesque locations. This is a trip worth your time and dime.