France’s great 2,600-year-old port, symbolised by the Vieux-Port and the hilltop Notre-Dame de la Garde, close to the white cliffs and turquoise coves of the Calanques National Park.
Good weather for Calanques hikes, swimming and Vieux-Port strolls. source
Around 2 February (Candlemas)
Celebrated at the Abbey of Saint-Victor, when Marseillais eat boat-shaped navette biscuits. source
Weather: May–June and September–October are best for both sea and walks; July–August is hot and crowded, and parts of the Calanques close on high fire-risk days. source
Times to avoid: In summer the Calanques may close at short notice for fire risk; check the official notice the day before. source
Weather varies from year to year; check the forecast before you go.
Don't miss in Marseille
Notre-Dame de la Garde The basilica on the city’s highest hill, with sweeping views of the port and sea; free to enter. source
Mucem A lattice-clad museum linked by footbridge to the old fort at the harbour mouth, with a sea-view roof terrace. source
Château d’If The island fortress-prison of The Count of Monte Cristo, reached by boat from the Vieux-Port (fare extra). source
Calanques National Park Limestone cliffs and turquoise coves, explored on foot or by boat. source
Where to stay in Marseille
Vieux-Port
The centre of restaurants and boat piers, on Metro line 1.
Around Saint-Charles station
Handy for TGVs and the airport shuttle.
What to eat in Marseille
Bouillabaisse — Rock-fish stew with saffron and fennel, broth and fish served separately
Panisses — Fried slices of chickpea-flour batter from l’Estaque
Navettes — Boat-shaped orange-blossom biscuits, made in Marseille since 1781
Marseille tips and things to watch out for
Marseille travel tips
The tiny Ferry Boat crossing the Vieux-Port is short but a Marseille institution. source
Airport to city: the airport shuttle bus reaches Saint-Charles station in about 30 minutes; combined tickets with city transit are available. source
Good to know in France
French restaurants use service-included pricing, and tipping is not mandatory; check the bill before paying. source
Many shops close on Sundays, while some in tourist areas open; check opening hours before visiting. source
Watch out for in France
Pickpockets work tourist sites and the metro; wear your bag in front. source
Avoid people pushing petitions or friendship bracelets on you. source
General advice for the whole country. Check official government travel advice for entry rules and safety before you go.
Restaurant prices for Marseille are still being collected. The estimate also uses some official meal and transit prices checked in other cities in France.
Marseille attraction & theme park tickets
Official sellers’ prices for one adult admission. Select attractions in the calculator to add them to your budget.