Marseille Travel Tips

Traveling in Marseille: Etiquette Tips

Marseille is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. To ensure you have a respectful and enjoyable visit, here are some key things to keep in mind:

General Etiquette:

  • Bonjour/Bonsoir: Always greet people with “bonjour” (good morning/good day) before 6 pm and “bonsoir” (good evening) after 6 pm.
  • Greetings: A firm handshake is the standard greeting for formal situations. In informal settings, a simple “bonjour” or “salut” (hello) to those you encounter is sufficient.
  • Learn basic French phrases: While many Marseillais speak English, making an effort to learn and use some basic French greetings and courtesies will be appreciated.
  • Respect time: Punctuality is important in Marseille.

Language:

  • Learn a few key phrases: Even if your French isn’t perfect, knowing how to say “hello,” “thank you” (merci), “goodbye” (au revoir), “please” (s’il vous plaît), and “excuse me” (excusez-moi) is crucial.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask: People are generally friendly and willing to help if you need something explained or translated. A simple “Excuse me, parlez-vous anglais?” (Do you speak English?) will suffice.

Dining & Drinking:

  • Reservations recommended: Especially for popular restaurants during peak hours.
  • “Merci” is key: Always say “merci” when someone serves you, brings your bill, or refills your drinks.
  • Respect the chef: The chef is considered a highly respected figure in Marseille. Saying “Merci au chef!” (Thank you to the chef!) when leaving shows appreciation for their craft.

Dining & Drinking Etiquette:

  • “Bon appétit”: This isn’t just a polite way to say “enjoy your meal,” it’s a must-say! Say this before starting to eat, as a sign of respect and enjoyment for the food you are about to enjoy.
  • Wait for the “Bon Appétit”: It is considered rude to start eating before the host or hostess has said “bon appétit.” This signals that everyone is ready to begin enjoying their meal.

General Tips:

  • Be patient with language barriers: Many locals may not speak English, so try to learn a few basic French phrases.
  • Embrace the local culture: Marseille is known for its vibrant culture and strong sense of community. Show respect by being open-minded and trying to understand their traditions.

Shopping Etiquette:

  • Say “Bonjour”: Always greet shopkeepers with “bonjour” before entering a store.

  • Shop hours: Be aware that shops in Marseille typically close for lunch (12 pm - 2 pm) and often have shorter hours on weekdays.

Markets & Shopping:

  • Marché de Provence: When visiting the markets, remember to greet vendors with “Bonjour” and say “Merci” when leaving.
  • Bargaining: While common in some cultures, bargaining is not typically done in Marseille’s markets (except for flea markets).
  • Respect local produce:

Be mindful of the freshness and quality of the food items.

  • Market etiquette:

  • Avoid touching the produce unless you are invited to by the vendor.

  • Don’t be afraid to ask for prices, but be polite.

  • Be prepared for a lively atmosphere.

Other Tips:

  • Kissing greetings: While “bonjour” and “merci” are expected everywhere, in Marseille (and France in general) it is common to greet friends with kisses on the cheek. This can be surprising for some tourists, but it’s a friendly gesture that shows warmth and familiarity.

  • Market etiquette:

  • In outdoor markets, especially, greetings are important. Greet people you pass with “Bonjour” even if you don’t know them personally.

  • Be aware of personal space and avoid standing too close to vendors or other customers.

  • Respect personal belongings:

Always ask before taking pictures of someone, their shop, or their belongings.

Remember:

  • Street safety:

Be aware of your surroundings in busy areas, especially at night. Keep valuables out of sight and be cautious of pickpockets.**

  • Public transportation:

Use public transportation for getting around the city. Respect the designated quiet hours on public transport.

  • Greetings:

Remember to say “Bonjour” (good morning) or “Bonsoir” (good evening) when entering a shop, restaurant, or cafe. This is a simple but effective way to show respect and courtesy.

Public transportation etiquette:

  • Be mindful of other passengers by keeping conversations quiet, keeping your belongings close and secure, and avoiding loud music.
  • Respecting personal space:

Avoid playing loud music on public transport. Don’t talk loudly on the phone during the ride. Keep bags off seats and aisles clear for passengers.

Other Tips:

  • “Bonjour” is a polite greeting in French.
  • Be patient with others, especially during rush hour.
  • Public transportation etiquette**:

Avoid blocking the doors or doorways while waiting to get on or off.

Remember:

  • Respectful behavior:

Yield your seat for those who need it more than you (elderly, pregnant women, people with disabilities).

  • Avoid talking loudly and be mindful of personal space when using public transport.

Travel & Transport:

  • Always carry a valid ticket.

  • Be respectful of the train/bus schedule:

Respect “bonjour” etiquette - don’t block the doors for others.

  • Dining out:

Remember to say “Bonjour” and “Merci” when entering and leaving restaurants, even if you’re just grabbing a quick bite.

  • Shopping:

Use your manners when shopping at markets or shops.

Transportation:

  • Marseille has a good public transport system.

Familiarize yourself with it before arriving in the city, especially the metro and bus lines.

  • Be aware of rush hours and avoid them if possible.

  • Respect for others:

Be mindful of noise levels when on public transport.

  • Keep your belongings close to you so as not to block the doors or walkways.

Other Tips:

  • Respect personal space:**

Avoid making loud noises while using public transport, and be considerate of other people’s personal space.

  • Be aware of cultural differences:

Remember that Marseille is a port city with a strong maritime history.

  • Dress appropriately: While casual attire is generally acceptable for tourists in everyday situations, it’s a good idea to dress slightly more formally when visiting churches or attending formal events.

Transportation

  • Learn some basic French phrases like “Bonjour” and “Merci” as they are essential

for navigating the city.

  • Respect personal space:

In busy public transport, such as on the metro or bus, try to be mindful of others’ personal space. Avoid

spreading out your belongings and taking up too much room.

Respecting Public Transport Etiquette in Marseille:

  • Avoid making loud noises:

This includes loud conversations, playing music aloud, and being

respectful of others’ enjoyment of their journey. Keep the volume down and enjoy the ride.

  • Be respectful of fellow passengers’ space by avoiding large movements

and keeping your belongings close to you.

Remember:

  • Respect personal space:

Avoid standing too close to people or leaning into them.

  • Use headphones for listening

to music.

  • Be aware of others and avoid loud conversations.