Marseille Travel & Vacation Guide
Current Weather
Description
Founded by Phocaean Greeks 2 600 years ago, Marseille is France’s oldest town, a melting pot of peoples and cultures, and a gateway to southern Europe and North Africa. Today, the city is still dependent on the port for its revenue and is dominated by fishing boats and people selling fresh produce. Marseille is cut in half by La Canebière, one of the main shopping streets, which runs west to east from the Vieux Port. The city is divided into 15 arrondissements (districts), ranging from gentrified to run-down, and is famed for its fish-dominated culinary menu and its potent aniseed tipple, called pastis. The exclusivity increases as you head further south to the corniche and Prado, the city’s best beach, with three kilometres of fine sand.
Useful information
The city: 870,321 Marseille urban area: 1.6 million
Euro (EUR) €1 = 100 cents
Ambulance: 15
Police: 17
Fire: 18
EU Emergency Number: 112
Normal opening hours for shops are 10am– 7 pm from Monday to Saturday. Some shops might be closed over lunch. On Sundays shops are normally closed or have reduced opening hours.
Do & See
Dining
Cafés
Bars & Nightlife
Shopping
Tourist Information
Frequently Asked Questions
The best time to visit Marseille is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the tourist crowds are smaller. Summers can be hot and crowded, while winters are cooler and quieter, offering a different charm.
A stay of 2 to 3 days in Marseille is ideal to explore its main attractions, including the Old Port, Notre-Dame de la Garde, and the historic Le Panier district. This timeframe also allows for a day trip to nearby attractions like the Calanques National Park.
Must-see attractions in Marseille include the Old Port, Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica for panoramic views, the historic Le Panier district, and the MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations). Don't miss a boat trip to the Frioul Islands and Château d'If.
Marseille has an efficient public transportation system including buses, trams, and a metro. The RTM network covers most areas. Walking is also a great option in central areas like the Old Port and Le Panier. Taxis and rideshares are available for convenience.
Marseille is famous for its seafood, particularly the traditional bouillabaisse, a flavorful fish stew. Other local specialties include aioli, a garlic mayonnaise served with fish, and panisse, a chickpea flour fritter. Pair your meal with a glass of local rosé wine.
Popular day trips from Marseille include visiting the Calanques National Park for hiking and stunning sea views, exploring the charming town of Aix-en-Provence, or taking a wine tour in the nearby vineyards of Provence. Cassis, a picturesque coastal town, is also worth a visit.
Marseille hosts several cultural events and festivals throughout the year. The Marseille Jazz des Cinq Continents in July is a popular music festival. The Fête de la Musique in June celebrates music city-wide, and the Fiesta des Suds in October offers a vibrant mix of music and culture.
