The second largest city in France located on the delightful Côte d’Azur: Marseille! Attractions abound that you absolutely must visit during your stay in this city. Originally founded by the Greeks, this gem boasts an idyllic old port and a stunning basilica. Read below to discover what top Marseille attractions you must see and why.
Which attractions in Marseille should you not miss?
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- Notre Dame de la Garde;
- The Old Port;
- Cathédral de la Major;
- Vallon des Auffes;
- The Pharo Palace;
- Malmousque;
- Corniche Kennedy;
- Hotel de Cabra;
- Panier;
- Château d’If
Map of the attractions:
Notre Dame de la Garde
One of the most visited attractions in the city. As soon as you see this impressive work of art, you’ll immediately understand why. The Notre Dame de la Garde is unmissable, as it is located on a hill, the highest point of the city. Traditionally, the locals see it as the protector of the city and a landmark for sailors. Naturally, from the hill, you have an impressive view over the city.
Be sure not to miss a look inside for the full experience. The interior is richly decorated with, among other things, marble from Italy. You can also choose to join a guided tour.
The Old Port
Also known as Vieux Port, a lively area where you can enjoy the French culinary delights and the Burgundian lifestyle. This centuries-old port is bustling with activity. Hotels, restaurants, shopping streets, and of course, the boats. In the vicinity of the Vieux Port, there are many Marseille attractions to admire. Sights like the lighthouse and the national theater are easily accessible on foot.
Cathédral de la Major
A 140-meter high impressive cathedral that you must not miss in Marseille. Attractions like these are unique and are no longer built anywhere else. The beautiful mosaic floor and the simple interior decorations with the striped exterior and domes create a prestigious picture.
The cathedral, dating from the 19th century, is officially called the ‘Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-Majeure de Marseille’ and is built in the Neo-Byzantine style. With free entry, this cathedral is definitely worth a visit!
Vallon des Auffes
Vallon des Auffes is a charming fishing port located in Marseille, France. It is a popular tourist attraction due to its picturesque setting and stunning sea views. If you’re in Marseille, Vallon des Auffes is definitely worth a visit.
The port is surrounded by old fishermen’s houses and offers an authentic atmosphere that reflects the history of Marseille. The area is peaceful and relaxing, perfect for a stroll along the quay or a picnic on the grass.
It’s also a great place to taste local seafood dishes, as there are many restaurants serving fresh fish. The specialty of Vallon des Auffes is bouillabaisse, a delicious fish soup that has been prepared in Marseille for centuries.
If you enjoy walking, you can also take a beautiful walk along the coastline. The path offers a stunning view of the Mediterranean Sea and leads to the Notre-Dame de la Garde, an impressive basilica towering over the city.
In short, Vallon des Auffes is a beautiful place to visit during your stay in Marseille. The authentic atmosphere, delicious seafood dishes, and stunning surroundings make it a unique experience you won’t want to miss.
The Pharo Palace
This is a historic monument located on top of a hill in Marseille, France. It is a beautiful palace overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and offers breathtaking views of the city of Marseille.
The palace was built in the 19th century and served as a residence for Emperor Napoleon III and his wife Eugénie. The palace is now a conference center and offers a range of facilities for events and meetings.
One of the highlights of the Pharo Palace is the large garden that stretches over the hill. The garden offers a stunning view of the sea and is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sun.
Inside the palace, there are beautiful rooms and halls decorated in the 19th-century style. The palace also has an impressive library and a collection of antique furniture and artworks.
The Pharo Palace is easily accessible by car or public transport and is a must-visit for anyone visiting Marseille. The combination of history, architecture, and stunning views makes it a unique experience you won’t want to miss.
Malmousque
Malmousque is a charming district located on the coast of Marseille, France. It is a picturesque and scenic neighborhood known for its small fishing harbor and colorful houses.
The fishing harbor is still active and offers an authentic experience for visitors who want to see how the locals earn their daily bread. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafés nearby where you can enjoy delicious seafood dishes.
A walk through the streets of Malmousque is like stepping back in time, with narrow alleys and old houses built in the traditional Provençal style. It’s the perfect place to relax and soak up the atmosphere of Marseille.
There are also several beaches near Malmousque where you can enjoy the sun and the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. It’s the ideal spot for a relaxing day out with friends and family.
Corniche Kennedy
This is a stunning coastal road that runs along the Mediterranean Sea in Marseille, France. It offers breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding hills and is a popular spot for a walk or bike ride.
The road is named after the American President John F. Kennedy and was built in the 1960s. It is one of the most iconic Marseille attractions and draws many visitors.
Along Corniche Kennedy, you’ll find several beaches where you can relax and enjoy the sun and sea. There are also numerous restaurants and cafés where you can savor delicious local dishes and drinks.
A walk along Corniche Kennedy is a great way to explore the beautiful coastline of Marseille. It’s a scenic route that passes some of the city’s most impressive views.
If you’re visiting Marseille, Corniche Kennedy is definitely a must-see attraction. It’s a fantastic place to enjoy the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea and the city of Marseille.
Hotel de Cabre
Hotel de Cabre is a historic building located in the heart of Marseille’s old port. The hotel dates back to the 18th century and has been recently renovated to meet modern standards while still retaining its old-world charm.
The hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites decorated in a classic French style. Guests can enjoy modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a flat-screen TV. The hotel also features a beautiful courtyard where guests can relax and enjoy the tranquil views of the old port.
Hotel de Cabre is perfectly situated for visitors looking to explore the old city of Marseille. Within walking distance, you’ll find plenty of restaurants, cafés, and shops. The old port itself is a popular attraction, offering stunning views of the sea and historic buildings.
Panier
Panier is one of the oldest districts in Marseille and is a beautiful place to visit. It is filled with colorful houses and narrow streets that invite exploration.
One of the highlights of Panier is the Church of Saint Laurent, which dates back to the 12th century. The church has an impressive interior and offers breathtaking views over Marseille from the top of the hill on which it stands.
Stroll through the streets of Panier and discover the many boutiques and artisan shops. You’ll also find numerous cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy delicious local dishes and drinks.
Another must-see attraction in Panier is the Vieille Charité, an old hospital that has been converted into a cultural center. It offers a stunning collection of exhibitions and events that highlight the history and culture of Marseille.
A walk through the alleys of Panier is like stepping back in time. It’s a wonderful place to visit for those seeking an authentic Marseille experience.
Château d’If
Château d’If is a famous fortress located on an island in the bay of Marseille. The fort was built in the 16th century to protect the city from sea attacks. It is best known for its role in the novel ‘The Count of Monte Cristo’ by Alexandre Dumas.
When visiting the fort, you can enjoy stunning views of the city of Marseille and the surrounding sea. Inside the fort, you can explore the prison cells, which mainly held political prisoners. One of the most famous prisoners was the Protestant pastor Nicolas Durant, who was imprisoned here in the 17th century for his beliefs.
Today, the fort is open to the public, and you can take a tour of the different parts of the fort. However, if you’re only in Marseille for a short time, this might take too long to visit, so check out Marseille in 1 day.
It is a popular tourist attraction and draws thousands of visitors from around the world each year. A visit to Château d’If is a unique experience you won’t soon forget.
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Tip: Join the Marseille Complete Bike Tour through the old town and discover these top Marseille attractions the Dutch way. Let a professional guide take you on a journey through the city’s best highlights. See more in less time and ask the guide for the best restaurant tips!