As I stepped off the train in Marseille, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement and curiosity about this ancient city. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and mouth-watering cuisine, Marseille is a destination that has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll delve into the best places to visit, things to do, and tips to make your weekend in Marseille unforgettable.
A Brief History of Marseille
Marseille’s history dates back to the Phoenicians in 600 BC, who established the city as a major trading hub. Over time, the city has been influenced by various cultures, including the Romans, Arabs, and French. This rich cultural heritage is reflected in the city’s architecture, art, and cuisine.
Day 1: Discovering the Old Town
On our first day, we set out to explore the old town, which is filled with narrow streets, charming shops, and historic landmarks. Here are some of the top attractions to visit:
- Port of Marseille: The port is one of the largest in Europe and has been an important hub for trade and commerce for centuries.
- MUCEM: The Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, art, or culture. The museum’s unique design and interactive exhibits make it a standout attraction.
- Cathedral of Saint Mary Major (the Major): This stunning cathedral was built in the 19th century and features an impressive facade and beautiful stained-glass windows.
- Le Panier Quarter: This historic quarter is known for its narrow streets, charming shops, and picturesque alleys. It’s a great place to get lost and discover hidden gems.
- La Canebière: This famous street runs through the heart of the old town and is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops.
Day 2: Exploring the City
On our second day, we explored more of what Marseille has to offer. Here are some of the top attractions:
- Centre de la Vieille Charité: This historic building dates back to the 17th century and features a beautiful courtyard and ornate architecture.
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of the Guard: This stunning basilica is one of the oldest in France and features an impressive facade and beautiful stained-glass windows.
- Parc Borély: This large park offers plenty of green space, walking trails, and picnic areas. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Day 3: Discovering the Coast
On our final day, we headed to the coast to explore some of Marseille’s beautiful beaches and scenic viewpoints. Here are some of the top attractions:
- Iles Frioul and Castle d’If: These two islands off the coast of Marseille offer stunning views, beautiful beaches, and a historic castle.
- National Park of Calanques (panorama tour from Marseille): This park offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in France.
Accommodation and Transportation
Marseille has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. For this trip, we stayed in the Le Vieux Port area, which offered stunning views of the port but was also one of the most expensive neighborhoods. Alternative options include La Joliette, L’Estaque, and Corniche-Roucas-Blanc.
Getting around Marseille is easy, with a comprehensive public transportation system that includes buses and trains. We used the Marseille City Pass, which included unlimited travel on public transport and discounts at many attractions.
Food and Drink
Marseille is known for its delicious cuisine, which reflects the city’s Mediterranean heritage. Some of our favorite dishes included bouillabaisse (a hearty fish stew), ratatouille (a vegetable stew), and tarte provençale (a savory tart). We also sampled some of the local specialties, including Marseille soap, which is made from natural ingredients like olive oil and lavender.
Costs for a Weekend in Marseille
The cost of a weekend in Marseille will depend on your accommodation choices, food options, and activities. Here’s a rough estimate of what you might expect to pay:
- Food: €60 per person per day (including breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Museums and attractions: €50 per person per day
- Transportation: €5 per day per person
- Accommodation: €60 per room (book offers)
- Leisure activities: €25 per day per person
Total cost for a weekend in Marseille: €500 per person (excluding flights and transfers)
Useful Tips
Before you go, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Choose late spring or summer for the best weather, to visit beaches and the Calanques Park. Avoid August, as it’s hot and crowded.
- If you’re driving from Italy, consider leaving your car at a garage or parking lot outside Marseille, as parking is difficult within the city.
- Buy authentic Marseille soap at Savonnerie Marseillaise de la Licorn (there are 4 locations in the city) or at the Museum of Soap of Marseille.
- Pack sunscreen and a swimsuit for summer visits. Alternatively, you can participate in a boat tour to the Calanques Park.
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Conclusion
Marseille is a city that has something for everyone. From its rich history and stunning architecture to its delicious cuisine and beautiful beaches, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. With this guide, you’ll be well on your way to planning an unforgettable weekend in Marseille.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best time to visit Marseille?
A: The best time to visit Marseille is from late spring to early autumn, when the weather is mild and sunny.
Q: How do I get to Marseille airport?
A: You can take a taxi or bus from the airport to your accommodation. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive to your destination.
Q: What are some of the top attractions in Marseille?
A: Some of the top attractions in Marseille include the Port of Marseille, MUCEM, Cathedral of Saint Mary Major (the Major), Le Panier Quarter, La Canebière, Centre de la Vieille Charité, Basilica of Notre-Dame of the Guard, and Iles Frioul and Castle d’If.
Q: What is the best way to get around Marseille?
A: The best way to get around Marseille is by public transportation, including buses and trains. Alternatively, you can rent a car or take a taxi.
Q: What kind of food can I expect in Marseille?
A: You can expect to find traditional Mediterranean cuisine in Marseille, including dishes like bouillabaisse, ratatouille, and tarte provençale.
Q: How much does it cost to stay in Marseille for a weekend?
A: The cost of staying in Marseille for a weekend will depend on your accommodation choices, food options, and activities. Here’s a rough estimate:
- Food: €60 per person per day (including breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Museums and attractions: €50 per person per day
- Transportation: €5 per day per person
- Accommodation: €60 per room (book offers)
- Leisure activities: €25 per day per person
Total cost for a weekend in Marseille: €500 per person (excluding flights and transfers)
Q: Are there any unique souvenirs I can buy in Marseille?
A: Yes, some unique souvenirs you can buy in Marseille include authentic Marseille soap, made from natural ingredients like olive oil and lavender.
Q: How do I get to the Calanques Park for a boat tour?
A: You can take a taxi or bus from your accommodation to the port of Marseille, where you can book a boat tour to the Calanques Park.
Bonus Tips
- Consider purchasing a local SIM card or portable Wi-Fi hotspot to stay connected while you’re in Marseille.
- Don’t forget to try some of the local specialties, such as bouillabaisse and tarte provençale.
- If you have time, consider taking a day trip to the nearby town of Cassis, which is known for its beautiful beaches and historic architecture.
Marseille’s Hidden Gems
While Marseille is a city that has plenty to offer, there are also some hidden gems worth exploring. Here are a few of our favorites:
- The Cours Mirabeau: This pedestrian street runs through the heart of the old town and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
- The Jardin de Villefranche: This beautiful garden is located in the heart of Marseille and features beautiful flowers, trees, and a peaceful atmosphere.
- The Marché de Noailles: This bustling marketplace is filled with fresh produce, cheeses, and other local specialties.
Marseille’s Festivals and Events
Marseille hosts a wide range of festivals and events throughout the year. Here are some of our favorites:
- Fête de la Musique: This annual festival celebrates music in all its forms, from classical to rock to electronic.
- Fête des Lumières: This magical festival features stunning light installations and performances throughout the city.
- Jazz à Villefranche: This popular jazz festival takes place every summer and features some of the best jazz musicians from around the world.
Conclusion
Marseille is a city that has something for everyone. From its rich history and stunning architecture to its delicious cuisine and beautiful beaches, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. With this guide, you’ll be well on your way to planning an unforgettable weekend in Marseille. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or outdoor activities, Marseille has something for everyone.