Marseille is a beautiful place to visit in France with its many urban attractions and busy harbor. In fact, Marseille is France’s oldest cosmopolitan city and the second largest after Paris, making it a must-see destination for people traveling to Europe. When you get to Marseille, you’ll be enchanted by the red-tiled roofs and the numerous fishing boats next to sun-soaked docks. The serene blue waters are a simply stunning view while strolling across charming, historic streets. And if you’re looking to take a relaxing pit stop here in your France travel journey, you might also want to find trusted luggage storage in Marseille. This way, you’ll be free to go about your day without the hassle of carrying your bags around. Read on to learn more about the best places to visit on your trip to Marseille.
Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde
Perfectly placed atop a grand hilltop location, one of the most iconic places to see in Marseille is the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde. This breathtaking church is the number one landmark in this sprawling city. Once used as an observation point and a pilgrimage chapel, the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde is a true emblem of Marseille and has held important religious significance from ancient times to now.
Built starting in 1853, the church’s architecture is ubiquitous and ornate with an enormous gilded Madonna crowning the belfry. Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde carries its lavish design and opulent Neo-Byzantine-style interior. You’ll be at a loss for words when you spot the light and dark marble arches with gilded mosaic cupolas. And after you’ve spent time inside of this marvelous landmark, visitors can lounge on the glorious terrace which offers panoramic views of the class red roofs of Marseille’s houses and the old harbor, spanning all the way to the Mediterranean Sea.
The Vieux Port (Old Harbor)
Commonly known as the birthplace of Marseille and a huge contributor to the city’s culture, the Vieux Port is a can’t-miss sight on your to-do list. This ancient harbor is where the city began as a Greek port dating all the way back to 600 BC. Surrounded by tranquil, deep blue waters, the Vieux Port sits in the west of Marseille near Canebière boulevard. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around this buzzing harbor.
Enjoy the complete cultural immersion in this thriving Mediterranean port. As for authentic food, you’ll be spoiled with choices for local French cuisine, focusing on the wealth of fresh seafood. Restaurants in the harbor specialize in bouillabaisse, the flavorful seafood stew that is Marseille’s stand-out signature dish. And on the east side of the harbor, the Quai des Belges welcomes locals and visitors to a wonderful fish market every morning. Although the Vieux Port is no longer leveraged as a major commercial port, it is primarily used as a docking spot for fishing boats and sports craft.
Old Town and the Colorful Streets of Le Panier
La Panier is a splendid and brightly colored neighborhood that is not to miss when spending a day in Marseille. Located above the Vieux Port on a hillside, La Panier is the historic center and cultural mecca of the city. It is the city’s oldest quarter since the ancient Greeks settled there in 600 BC. Take a stroll across Marseille’s winding streets and picturesque pastel buildings. La Panier was once a working class neighborhood, and now it serves as a residential area still carrying its pleasant old-fashioned character.
For those that are visiting short-term, there is a walking tour on the north side of the old harbor basin starting at the Quai du Port. Then, you’ll walk up La Canebière, a vibrant boulevard that thrives with shops, local restaurants, gourmet food spots, art galleries, and other fun activities. La Panier also has several significant landmarks, including the Town Hall which was built in the latter half of the 17th century. You can also revel in the stunning historical architecture of Cathédrale de la Major and the Vieille Charité, which also has a museum with remarkable art exhibits.
Calanques National Park
If you’re looking to dive deeper into the breathtaking scenery that Marseille has to offer, look no further than Calanques National Park. Located between Marseille and the small fishing village of Cassis is the outstanding national park where the Mediterranean meets the Massif des Calanque mountains. Even outdoor sports lovers will find a great deal to do here, such as hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, and swimming in crystalline, blue waters. There’s an abundance of trails within the park that allows visitors to appreciate the pristine environment and views of the gorgeous coast. For those who delight in yachting, boat tours and relaxing private cruises, the fjords in Calanques offer spectacular and idyllic views.
