Marseille, the second-largest city in France after Paris, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. Located on the Mediterranean coast, it’s the perfect base for exploring the surrounding region, which boasts stunning landscapes, charming villages, and vibrant cities.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through some of the most beautiful destinations within easy reach of Marseille, highlighting their unique attractions and experiences. Whether you’re interested in history, art, nature, or simply soaking up the Provençal sun, these day trips are sure to captivate your senses.
1. Aix-en-Provence: The Heart of Provence
Aix-en-Provence, 29.6 kilometers from Marseille, is a charming city that embodies the essence of Provence. Known as the “City of Cézanne,” it’s a haven for art lovers and those seeking a taste of la vie Provençale.
Must-visit attractions include:
- The Saint-Sauveur Cathedral, a beautiful Catholic church with stunning architecture
- The Old Aix quarter, with its cobblestone streets and picturesque houses
- The Mazarin neighborhood, famous for its elegant 17th-century mansions
A visit to Aix-en-Provence is not complete without strolling through the historic center’s charming streets and alleys. Be sure to stop by the Place de la République, a vibrant square surrounded by cafes and shops.
Day Trips from Marseille: How to Get There
Getting to Aix-en-Provence is easy by car or bus. The journey takes approximately 35 minutes by car and 55 minutes by bus. Alternatively, you can take the train from Marseille’s Saint-Charles station to Aix-en-Provence station, which takes about an hour.
Tips for Visiting Aix-en-Provence
- Visit the Saint-Sauveur Cathedral during morning or afternoon mass to experience the city’s rich spiritual heritage.
- Explore the Old Aix quarter and admire its beautiful architecture and historic houses.
- Enjoy a coffee or lunch at one of the many charming cafes in Mazarin, where you can sample local specialties like tapenade and saucisson.
2. The Alpilles: Nature’s Gem
The Alpilles, 77.3 kilometers from Marseille, is a natural park that boasts breathtaking landscapes, rolling hills, and scenic valleys. This protected area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want to connect with nature.
Must-visit attractions include:
- Les Baux-de-Provence, a picturesque village perched on a hilltop
- Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, a charming town surrounded by vineyards and olive groves
- The Natural Regional Park of the Alpilles, offering hiking trails, bike paths, and horseback riding opportunities
The Alpilles are a nature lover’s paradise, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Hike through the park’s scenic trails, or take a bike ride to explore its rolling hills.
Day Trips from Marseille: How to Get There
Getting to the Alpilles is easy by car or bike. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes by car, while biking can take around 2-3 hours depending on your pace.
Tips for Visiting the Alpilles
- Take a hike through the park’s scenic trails to experience its breathtaking landscapes.
- Visit Les Baux-de-Provence and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence to explore their picturesque villages.
- Enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the park’s many scenic spots, surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards.
3. Arles and La Camargue: Van Gogh’s Inspiration
Arles, 85.3 kilometers from Marseille, is a city that inspired Vincent van Gogh during his final years. The Natural Regional Park of La Camargue, located just outside the city, is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking an authentic Provençal experience.
Must-visit attractions include:
- The Roman amphitheater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- The church and cloister of St-Trophime, with its stunning architecture and beautiful sculptures
- The Natural Regional Park of La Camargue, offering hiking trails, birdwatching, and horseback riding opportunities
La Camargue is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including pink flamingos, white egrets, and wild horses. Take a guided tour or hike through the park’s scenic trails to experience its natural beauty.
Day Trips from Marseille: How to Get There
Getting to Arles and La Camargue is easy by car or train. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 6 minutes by car, while taking the train takes around 53 minutes.
Tips for Visiting Arles and La Camargue
- Visit the Roman amphitheater during sunrise or sunset for breathtaking views of the city.
- Explore the church and cloister of St-Trophime to admire its stunning architecture and beautiful sculptures.
- Take a horseback ride through the park’s scenic trails, surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards.
4. Avignon and Luberon: A City and a Park
Avignon, 96 kilometers from Marseille, is a charming city known as “the City of Popes.” Its Palazzo dei Papi, built during the Avignon Captivity, is a must-visit attraction.
The Luberon Regional Natural Park, located just outside the city, offers breathtaking landscapes and scenic hiking trails. Must-visit attractions include:
- The village of Gordes, with its picturesque streets and stunning views
- Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, a charming village surrounded by vineyards and olive groves
Avignon’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring charming streets, picturesque squares, and iconic landmarks like the Palazzo dei Papi.
- Featuring 120 new destinations, this best-selling inspirational travel guide reveals 500 celebrated...
- Completely revised and updated for its 10th anniversary
- Compiled from the favorite trips of National Geographic's legendary travel writers, this fully...
Day Trips from Marseille: How to Get There
Getting to Avignon and Luberon is easy by car or train. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 13 minutes by car, while taking the train takes around 39 minutes.
Tips for Visiting Avignon and Luberon
- Visit the Palazzo dei Papi during morning or afternoon mass to experience the city’s rich spiritual heritage.
- Explore the village of Gordes and admire its stunning views from the hilltop.
- Hike through the park’s scenic trails, surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards.
5. Cassis: A Fishing Village on the Coast
Cassis, 22.7 kilometers from Marseille, is a small fishing village that boasts stunning coastal scenery. Its historic center features colorful houses, narrow streets, and a picturesque old port.
Must-visit attractions include:
- The market, held every Wednesday and Friday morning
- Boat trips to discover the beautiful calanques (small white rock inlets)
Cassis’s scenic coastline is perfect for hiking or taking a boat trip to explore its stunning beaches and coves. Visit the village’s historic center to admire its colorful houses and charming streets.
Day Trips from Marseille: How to Get There
Getting to Cassis is easy by car or bus. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes by car and 45 minutes by bus.
Tips for Visiting Cassis
- Visit the market on Wednesday or Friday morning to sample local specialties like fresh seafood and cheeses.
- Take a boat trip to explore the village’s stunning coastline and calanques.
- Enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the village’s scenic spots, surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards.
6. Roussillon: The Painted Village
Roussillon, 12 kilometers from Marseille, is a charming village known for its vibrant colors and picturesque landscapes. Must-visit attractions include:
- The Domaine de la Mégisserie, a historic estate with stunning views of the surrounding countryside
- The Saint-Jean-de-Védas church, with its beautiful architecture and scenic views
Roussillon’s colorful houses are inspired by Van Gogh’s famous painting “The Starry Night.” Take a guided tour to learn more about the village’s history and artistic significance.
Day Trips from Marseille: How to Get There
Getting to Roussillon is easy by car or bus. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes by car and 45 minutes by bus.
Tips for Visiting Roussillon
- Visit the Domaine de la Mégisserie during morning or afternoon to admire its stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
- Explore the village’s colorful houses and learn about their artistic significance.
- Enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the village’s scenic spots, surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards.
7. Fréjus: The Roman City
Fréjus, 30 kilometers from Marseille, is a historic city that boasts stunning Roman ruins and picturesque landscapes. Must-visit attractions include:
- The Roman amphitheater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- The Saint-Maurice church, with its beautiful architecture and scenic views
Fréjus’s historic center features charming streets, picturesque squares, and iconic landmarks like the Roman amphitheater.
Day Trips from Marseille: How to Get There
Getting to Fréjus is easy by car or train. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes by car, while taking the train takes around 1 hour.
Tips for Visiting Fréjus
- Visit the Roman amphitheater during morning or afternoon mass to experience the city’s rich spiritual heritage.
- Explore the Saint-Maurice church and admire its beautiful architecture and scenic views.
- Enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the village’s scenic spots, surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards.
Conclusion
Exploring the French Riviera is an unforgettable experience that offers stunning landscapes, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage. Marseille is the perfect base for day trips to these incredible destinations, with easy access by car or train. Whether you’re interested in history, art, nature, or simply soaking up the Provençal sun, there’s something for everyone on this fantastic itinerary. So why wait? Start planning your French Riviera adventure today!
