Connoisseurs of French cinema, admirers of the charm of Provence and many other travel lovers dream of visiting Marseille, but have doubts. No wonder: news reports often call it “the crime capital of France,” and forums are full of stories about garbage, the flow of migrants and quick pickpockets. We decided to find out how real these fears are and compiled a list of things to do for the perfect acquaintance with this city.
What to see first in Marseille
Do you want to know which places in Marseille should be visited by every tourist? Then carefully study our review. We will share information about what will be interesting to see in Marseille for travelers of all ages. To compile our list of the best places in Marseille, we relied on the opinions of local residents and advice from experienced tour guides. In our opinion, during your visit to this city you should definitely visit the following places:
Notre-Dame de la Garde
The Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde in Marseille is one of the top places to visit in this French city. This beautiful Catholic cathedral, built in the 19th century, is located on top of a hill, making it visible from afar. The architectural style of the building is neo-Byzantine and is decorated with a gilded figure of the Virgin Mary. In addition, the basilica offers observation decks from which stunning panoramas of Marseille and its surroundings open. A visit to this historical place is sure to leave an unforgettable experience.
Abbey of St. Victor
The Abbey of Saint Victor in Marseille amazes with its antiquity and grandeur. According to historical data, the temple, built in the 5th century, fell victim to the invasion of nomads, but was restored in the 11th century. The abbey owes its name to the great martyr Victor and is a truly impressive medieval fortress. Local guides strongly recommend visiting this historical place, where inside the cathedral you can see unique relics left by the memory of the times when the building was just being erected.
Palais Longchamp
Palais Longchamp in Marseille is an exquisite palace that is a true pearl of this city. Its construction took place in the 19th century, and since then it has attracted attention with its majestic appearance and architectural splendor. Inside the Palais Longchamp you can discover many amazing architectural masterpieces, including the Museum of Fine Arts, a magnificent fountain with several levels and sculptures, a symmetrical triumphal arch and an observatory with stunning views of the starry sky. Thanks to the water tower that supplies water to every corner of Marseille, this palace is sometimes called the "Palace of Water". A visit to this place will definitely leave you with an unforgettable experience.
Marseille Cathedral
The Church of St. Mary Major in Marseille is a true architectural marvel and is ideal for a day tour of Marseille for history and architecture lovers. This majestic cathedral, built in the 19th century, surprises with its color and luxury. Various Byzantine techniques were used during construction, giving the building a unique character. The cathedral is decorated with elegant frescoes, mosaics, sculptures and bas-reliefs both outside and inside. The beautiful balustrades and powerful domes evoke particular admiration. Being included in the list of the main attractions of France, this cathedral is worth the attention of every traveler.
Castle d'If
The Castle of If, located on the island of If in Marseille, is a unique architectural structure created in the mid-16th century to protect the city from naval attacks. Subsequently, the castle was turned into a prison where prisoners were kept, including the famous French revolutionary Mirabeau. This place became widely known thanks to the novel by Alexandre Dumas about the Count of Monte Cristo, who described the mysterious fortress in his work. Today, the Chateau d'If attracts tourists from all over the world with its historical significance and mysterious atmosphere.
Vielle-Charite Museum
The Viel-Charite Museum in Marseille is a unique space where you can enjoy a variety of exhibitions in a beautiful 17th-century building. Initially, this building was a hospital and shelter for the needy. Today it houses museums of archeology and art with collections of works from different parts of the world, including examples from America, Oceania and Africa. In addition, there is a cultural and exhibition center offering interesting events and exhibitions. Even if you're not a fan of museums, it's worth visiting this unique complex to admire the Baroque chapel and beautiful courtyard.
Fort St. John
Fort St. John in Marseille is one of the most interesting places to visit in this French city. This majestic and impregnable structure was erected on the site of an ancient temple back in the 13th century. The main purpose of building the fort was to protect Marseilles from enemy attacks and suppress possible local uprisings. Surprisingly, the fort was built in just a few years, which was quite a fast pace for that time. If you're looking for things to see in Marseille, a tour of this ancient fortress with an experienced guide is a great choice, but you can also explore this historic site on your own.
Boreli Park
Parc Borely in Marseille is one of the main attractions of this beautiful French city. After a busy excursion around Marseille, a walk through this park is the perfect way to relax and unwind. The history of the park is rich: initially there was a castle here that belonged to the famous family of shipowner and industrialist Borely, which was later transferred to the ownership of the city authorities. A visit to this amazing place is a must, as here you can enjoy the beautiful gardens, which are a skillfully woven combination of English, Japanese, French and Mediterranean styles, as well as see the 18th century castle, which houses a rich collection of decorative arts and earthenware.
Marseille Observatory
The Marseille Observatory, located in Marseille, France, is one of the main attractions of this city. Various departments and laboratories are included here, such as the world interference laboratory, the Haute-Provence laboratory, as well as the astrophysical laboratory and others. Employees of this scientific institution are engaged in observations of outer space and the search for asteroids. In the past, such famous scientists as A.L. worked here and made important discoveries. Nicholas, Borelli and K. Steffan.
Museum of Fine Arts
The Fine Arts Gallery (Musee des Beaux-Arts) in Marseille is one of the main attractions of France. Its exhibitions feature works of contemporary sculpture and painting, including works by such outstanding artists as Buren, Behn, Warhol, Arman and many others. The total number of exhibits exceeds 47 thousand, occupying an area of more than 2.5 thousand square meters. Gallery visitors can also visit a cinema room and a library with an extensive art collection. Exhibitions on various topics are regularly held, offering visitors new experiences and knowledge. The museum is surrounded by a picturesque park, open to everyone who wants to enjoy the beauty of nature.
Calanques of Marseille
One of Marseille's most breathtaking natural features is the calanques, which are not to be missed when traveling through this city. These unique formations, formed over 120,000 years ago, form a national park with deep coves and limestone cliffs. This protected zone has its own ecosystem, protected by the state. You can go on a tour of the calanques on a rented boat or go on foot with a guide (almost all hotels in Marseille offer such excursions). The walk will take about an hour. Don't miss the opportunity to admire the inaccessible islands, calm bays, azure waters and sharp rocky peaks. Locals consider the calanques the most magnificent place not only in Marseille, but throughout the Mediterranean. If you are looking to capture the splendor of French nature in photographs, this is a must visit.
Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
The Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations in Marseille is one of the main attractions of this French city. Opened in 2013, this museum complex welcomes everyone interested in the rich history and development of the peoples of the Mediterranean. Its main exhibition is located in a building, part of which is located above the water, creating a unique atmosphere. Other exhibits are located in Fort Saint-Jean with its picturesque park. Some of them are presented in a modern research center, decorated in modern and classic styles. This museum is not only a source of knowledge, but also a place where every visitor can plunge into the fascinating world of history and culture.
Arc de Triomphe of Portd’Aix
The Arc de Triomphe of Porte d'Aix in Marseille is one of the key attractions of this beautiful city in France. Its majestic architectural form, designed in an almost perfect square, attracts the attention of everyone who passes by on the way to Aix-en-Provence. The sides of the arch are of impressive size, about 18 meters each, creating a majestic impression. The relief images on its surfaces tell the story of the military exploits of France. Visiting and photographing this arch is completely free and available at any time of the day, making it an attractive place to visit both day and night.
26th Century Park
The 26th Century Park in Marseille, located in France, is one of the city's landmarks. This extensive park, created on the site of a former railway station, impresses with its variety of vegetation and recreational areas. Walking through its territory, you will definitely notice a beautiful fountain, ponds where ducks swim, as well as a long canal. There are attractions and rentals for children and adults alike, including bicycles and roller skates, as well as basketball and playgrounds. The park is open to picnics, making it an ideal place for family fun and recreation when the weather is good.
Old port of Marseille
The port of Marseille is the heart of the city, beating to the beat of its history and culture. The old port, with its roots in ancient times, is still active as the largest port in the Mediterranean. Here history and modernity meet: fishermen return with their catch, and tourists enjoy the panorama and atmosphere. The fish market amazes with the freshness of its seafood, and boat excursions open up the city from new angles. A walk along the embankment is a pleasure, especially in the morning and evening, when the city wakes up and falls asleep to the sounds of the sea. Don't miss the chance to experience the authentic spirit of Marseille in its Old Port!
Fort St. Nicholas
Fort Saint Nicholas in Marseille is a historical and architectural landmark of France dating back to the 17th century. This defensive structure was erected on the site of an ancient chapel and was subject to rebuilding and reconstruction for many years. Throughout its history, the fort performed not only protective functions, but also served as a prison. Currently, part of the structure is in the possession of the state army, which limits access to it for the public. However, a small part of the fort is open to the public to appreciate its historical significance and architectural grandeur.
Faro Palace
On an elevated plateau protected by the sea in Marseille, stands the majestic Faro Palace, overlooking the Old Port. This masterpiece of classical architecture was erected by order of Napoleon III in the mid-19th century as a gift to his wife. The majestic structure, consisting of three floors, amazes with its scale: inside there are more than five hundred rooms, each of which is decorated in a luxurious Empire style. Although the monarch's dream of living in this palace did not come true, it nevertheless became a historical monument. Later, the palace became home to the Medical Institute, and today it hosts ceremonial events, exhibition halls and panoramic restaurants, delighting guests with a magnificent view of the Marseille harbor.
City Hall
The main façade of the Marseille Town Hall, created in the mid-17th century in the Provençal Baroque style, is a majestic example of architectural heritage. It is the oldest building in the historical center of Marseille and has successfully survived many difficult periods in French history. The baroque elements of this building still delight in its exquisite design, and the upper floors house the offices of the city administration. The ground floor was traditionally occupied by merchants, but today it is decorated with various shops, boutiques and antique shops. The facade of the town hall, designed in the style of a Genoese palazzo with elegant stucco, is the hallmark of the city. An interesting feature of the building is the absence of an internal staircase, which creates a unique atmosphere and adds mystery to its appearance.
Fort Saint-Jean
The massive quadrangular Fort Saint-Jean with loopholes at the entrance to the Old Port of Marseille. On the northern side of the Marseille harbor, right at the entrance to the Old Port, rises the majestic Fort Saint-Jean - a fortress that invariably attracts the eye with its grandeur. The history of this monumental structure goes back more than a century: since the 12th century, Saint-Jean served as a starting point for the crusaders in their campaigns against non-believers. In the 15th century, a watchtower was erected here, and another century later - a lighthouse. Under King Louis XIV, the construction of defensive fortifications began, although their main purpose was to suppress rebellions rather than protect against naval attacks. In the 60s of the last century, extensive restoration of the fort began, which was declared an architectural monument. Currently, archaeological excavations continue in the vicinity of the fort, and the artifacts found enrich the exhibitions of the local Museum of the Middle Ages, located inside the fort.
Fashion Museum
The building of the Fashion Museum on rue Canebière in Marseille takes on a special magic under the city's night sky. The institution was founded in 1989 and since then has been a continuous source of inspiration for fashion lovers. Located in the Mediterranean fashion centre, the museum occupies an impressive building designed by Baron Georges-Eugene. The exhibition invites you to immerse yourself in the fashion atmosphere of the second half of the 20th and early 21st centuries over two floors, covering more than 600 square meters. Particular attention is paid to accessories, and regular thematic exhibitions give the museum a special charm.
Marseille Bourse
The monumental columns in the Corinthian style that adorn the façade of the 19th-century Chamber of Commerce of Marseille are the hallmark of the city. The history of this building is rich in events since the end of the 16th century, when it served as a place for large trade transactions and even served as a stock exchange. In the mid-19th century, it was decided to erect a new building, which was majestically opened in 1860 with the participation of Napoleon III himself. The facade of the building is impressive with its portico of 10 columns, and the relief composition and allegorical sculptures complement its grandeur. The huge trading hall, capable of accommodating 2.5 thousand people, remains the pride of the chamber. During the Second World War, the building suffered significant damage, but was restored and today houses the offices of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, as well as a Maritime Museum and Library, and regularly hosts exhibitions.
Le Corbusier's Marseille House
Le Corbusier's house on Boulevard Michelet in Marseille is a unique residential complex with a height of 17 floors. Starting from the historic city center, you can take a taxi to Boulevard Michelet, where this amazing site is located. Built by the great architect Le Corbusier in the 40-50s of the last century, this residential complex became one of his first “residential units”. Today the house is open to the public and is of interest for architectural studies, and also includes a museum, restaurant and even a hotel. The “Radiant House” is a complex structure with 18 floors, standing on powerful supports. Inside the building there are more than 300 apartments of 23 different types, connected by internal streets or corridors. Each apartment is an independent micro-object that combines living and living areas, and also has unique views of the environment.
Prado beaches
The Mediterranean coast of Marseille is famous for its beaches, and one of the most popular among tourists is the Prado beaches. These artificial beaches, stretching along the coast for many kilometers, have become a real decoration of the city. Covered with tiny pebbles in the 70s, they became a comfortable area for relaxation and entertainment. It is important to note that before the creation of these beaches, there were no opportunities for beach recreation in Marseille due to the rocky terrain. Today, here you can enjoy not only passive relaxation in the sun, but also active sports such as diving, windsurfing and water skiing. Prado beaches have a well-developed infrastructure, including changing rooms, showers and numerous cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy local cuisine.
Velodrome Stadium
The Orange Velodrome Stadium is the largest among French club football arenas. Residents of Marseille show an inexhaustible interest in sports, following the performances of their favorite club Olympique on their home field, the Vélodrome. Built in 1937, the stadium took its name from a ceremony that included the cycling races that became its hallmark. Despite the fact that today the arena serves exclusively for football matches, its historical name continues to live in the hearts of fans. The Stade Velodrome has witnessed many sporting events and has undergone several renovations, including the construction of a huge roof and infrastructure improvements for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
Friulian Islands
Contemplating the panorama of Marseille from the Gard hill, a magnificent view of the Friulian archipelago in the Mediterranean opens. Starting just a kilometer from the Old Port, this route leads to the top of the city where you can enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the islands. To travel to the islands, you can use tourist ships that regularly depart from the Old Port. On the Isle of If stands an ancient 16th-century fort that once served as a prison and inspired the novel The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas. The other two large islands are connected by a bridge that forms a harbor, and are inhabited by inhabitants not exceeding a hundred people. However, about 400 thousand tourists visit the islands annually, attracted by protected areas with numerous species of birds and vegetation. The underwater world here is also rich in a variety of fish species, making the Friulian archipelago a unique place to immerse yourself in nature and explore the depths of the sea.
So, Marseille offers unique opportunities for travelers, especially those who love a combination of history, nature and culture. Guests can enjoy scenic views of the Friulian archipelago, immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the medieval fort on the island of If, explore the underwater world and enjoy the beauty of the local nature. Travel agency TurPoisk offers a search for tours to Marseille that will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the wonderful world of this amazing city. Contact us today to choose the perfect tour, plan your unforgettable trip to Marseille now!
