Marseille-3-day-itinerary

Marseille: A 3-Day Itinerary

Things To Know:

  • Language: French is the official language. Basic phrases like “bonjour” (hello), “merci” (thank you), and “s’il vous plaît” (please) will be appreciated.
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds.

Transportation:

  • Airport: Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) is well connected to the city centre by bus (Line 91) and taxi.
  • Public Transport: Marseille has a good public transport system including buses, trams, and the metro. Purchase a “Carte Navigo” for unlimited travel during your stay.

Where To Stay:

  • Le Panier: This charming historic district offers boutique hotels and guesthouses with a unique atmosphere.
  • Vieux Port (Old Port): Hotels with stunning harbour views are abundant in this lively area.
  • Préfecture: A central location for exploring the city, offering a variety of accommodation options.

Day 1: Exploring Marseille’s Heartbeat

  • Morning: Stroll through Le Panier, the oldest district of Marseille. Admire colourful houses, artisan shops, and street art. Visit the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, perched on a hilltop with panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at La Bonne Mère, a traditional restaurant near Notre-Dame de la Garde, savouring Provençal cuisine.
  • Evening: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Vieux Port. Dine at Chez Fonfon, a seafood institution renowned for its fresh catches and bouillabaisse (a classic Marseille fish stew).

Day 2: Culture & Coastline

  • Morning: Delve into Marseille’s maritime history at the Musée de la Marine. Afterwards, explore the MuCEM, a modern museum dedicated to Mediterranean cultures.
  • Afternoon: Escape the city bustle with a boat trip to the Calanques National Park. Hike along breathtaking coastal trails and marvel at turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs. Pack a picnic lunch or grab fresh seafood at a local eatery in Cassis.
  • Evening: Indulge in a delicious dinner at Le Miramar, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering innovative cuisine with stunning views of the sea.

Day 3: Markets & Art

  • Morning: Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Marché de Noailles. Sample local delicacies, purchase fresh produce, and soak up the vibrant energy.
  • Afternoon: Discover contemporary art at the Friche la Belle de Mai, a former industrial site transformed into a cultural complex with exhibitions, performances, and workshops.
  • Evening: Enjoy your final dinner at La Table du Fort, a charming restaurant nestled in the historical Fort Saint-Jean. Savor Provençal dishes while overlooking the harbour illuminated by twinkling lights.

Tips:

  • Learn a few basic French phrases for smoother interactions.
  • Carry small denominations of Euros for markets and smaller shops.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
  • Embrace the laid-back Mediterranean vibe and enjoy the fresh seafood and local wines.

Have an unforgettable trip to Marseille!