Marseille-2-day-itinerary

Marseille: A 2-Day Itinerary

This itinerary focuses on exploring the heart of Marseille, combining historical sights with vibrant culture and delicious cuisine.

Things to Know:

  • Language: French is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Best time to visit: Spring (April-May) or Fall (September-October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Transportation:

  • Marseille Metro: Efficient and affordable way to get around the city center.
  • Bus: Extensive network covering most areas. Purchase tickets from machines or kiosks.
  • Walking: Many attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in the Vieux Port area.

Where to Stay:

  • Hotel de France: Charming boutique hotel near the Vieux Port, offering comfortable rooms and a rooftop terrace with stunning views. (Budget-friendly)
  • InterContinental Marseille - Hotel Dieu: Luxury hotel housed in a historical building overlooking the Old Port. (Splurge)

Day 1: History & Charm of the Vieux Port

  • Morning:

    • Start your day with breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien (Vieux Port), known for its delicious pastries and organic bread.
    • Explore the Vieux Port, Marseille’s iconic harbor, bustling with boats, fishermen, and street vendors.
    • Visit the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, a stunning basilica perched atop a hill offering panoramic views of the city and Mediterranean Sea. Take the bus (line 24) or walk up for exercise and breathtaking scenery.

  • Afternoon:

    • Lunch at ** Chez Fonfon**, a traditional Provençal restaurant in the Vieux Port serving delicious seafood dishes.
    • Wander through the narrow streets of the Panier, Marseille’s oldest neighborhood, filled with colorful houses, artisan shops, and street art.
    • Visit the Musée des Docks Romains, showcasing archaeological remnants from Roman times, including ancient warehouses and a mosaic floor.

  • Evening:

    • Enjoy a pre-dinner drink at Le Bar de la Marine, overlooking the Vieux Port with live music on weekends.
    • Dinner at La Mercerie for modern French cuisine with a focus on local ingredients and a lively atmosphere.

Day 2: Culture & Coastal Views

  • Morning:

    • Start your day with coffee and pastries at Le Petit Nice, a Michelin-starred restaurant with stunning views overlooking the Mediterranean Sea (splurge).
    • Visit the MuCEM (Musée des Civilisations de l’Europe et de la Méditerranée), a modern museum dedicated to exploring the history and cultures of the Mediterranean region.
    • Take a stroll through the Parc Borély, a beautiful botanical garden with sculptures, fountains, and panoramic views.

  • Afternoon:

    • Enjoy lunch at Le Miramar in the Vallon des Auffes, a charming fishing port with fresh seafood restaurants overlooking turquoise waters.
    • Relax on the beach at Plage du Prado, a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and watersports.

  • Evening:

    • Indulge in a traditional bouillabaisse (fish stew) dinner at Chez Etienne, a renowned restaurant known for its authentic Provençal cuisine.
    • Conclude your evening with a drink at Le Rooftop atop the InterContinental Marseille - Hotel Dieu, offering breathtaking views of the city lights.

Tips:

  • Marseille Card: Consider purchasing this card for access to museums, public transportation discounts, and other benefits.
  • Learn basic French phrases: While English is spoken in tourist areas, knowing some basic French will enhance your experience and interactions with locals.
  • Stay hydrated: Marseille can get hot during the summer months, so be sure to carry water with you.
  • Be aware of your surroundings: Like any large city, petty theft can occur. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid displaying valuable items openly.

Other Things of Interest:

  • Calanques National Park: Explore breathtaking fjords and turquoise waters by boat or hiking trails.

  • Château d’If: A historic island fortress, made famous by Alexandre Dumas’ novel “The Count of Monte Cristo.”

  • Frioul Islands: A group of islands accessible by ferry from the Vieux Port, offering stunning coastal views and opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.