Marseille Travel Guide
Located in southeastern France, Marseille is France’s second-largest city. Founded around 600 BCE as a Greek port city, Marseille is the oldest city in the country.
Marseille lacks the iconic beauty of Paris but, while the city is a bit gritty (in a good way), it’s a melting pot of cultures from Europe, Africa, and the Middle East that makes the city way more diverse and interesting than other parts of France. It’s melting pot here and that’s really reflected in the languages you hear, the vibe, and the food.
The city is filled with nightlife, enticing restaurants, theaters, museums, and an international soccer stadium. I loved the city a lot more than I expected. It’s definitely worth a few nights.
This travel guide to Marseille can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit.
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Top 5 Things to See and Do in Marseille
1. Visit Le Vieux Port
The Old Port of Marseille is ideal for watching fishermen sell their fresh seafood. Check out the Quai des Belges Fish Market where the locals come to pick up their ingredients for the day. The local white limestone of the Phare de Sainte-Marie lighthouse at the northern end of the harbor contrasted with the blue water and sky is worth a stroll. The Saint-Ferréol les Augustinschurch at the eastern end of the Old Port dates back to the Knights Templar of the 12th century. The mashup of architectural styles is fascinating to see! You can also hire a boat for the day here. For a relaxed visit, simply sit, read a book, eat, and gaze at all the expensive yachts in the harbor.
2. See the Notre Dame de la Garde
Known as “the big church,” this Byzantine and Romanesque Revival basilica sits at the highest point overlooking the city, making for one of the best views of Marseille. Old fishermen used to have their boats blessed in this church. The first chapel on this site was built in 1214. In the 1500s, Francis I expanded it to include a fort and a larger chateau to better defend the city. Entrance is free but dress respectfully. For an in-depth look at the history of the church, you can join a guided tour for 8 EUR.
3. See the Vieille Charite
Home to the Museum of Mediterranean Archaeology and Museum of African, Oceanian, Amerindian Arts, Vieille Charite is a former almshouse built in the mid-17th century. Its architecture consists of an impressive three-floor corridor on a rectangular courtyard, with a domed Italian Baroque chapel in the center. There are many cultural stops throughout the grounds and the alcoves are a wonderful place to relax in the shade.
4. Walk La Corniche
This striking seaside walkway winds along the coast for 5 kilometers (3 miles), offering lovely scenic views over the sea, as well as Chateau d’If and Les Calanques (a steep-walled inlet made of limestone and dolomite) to the east. You’ll wander past the homes of fishermen, historic monuments, luxury hotels, bars, beaches, and renowned restaurants. I particularly enjoyed the colorful houses along the Port du Vallon des Auffes. It’s a wonderful way to spend a few hours!
5. Admire Château d’If
This small island located 1.5 kilometers (1 mile) off the city’s coast was a penal colony for political prisoners, including the Revolutionary hero Mirabeau and the Communards of 1871. The fort was completed in 1531 as a defense for the city and was later turned into a prison. It’s best known for its role in the novel by Alexandre Dumas, The Count of Monte-Cristo. You can easily spend a couple of hours wandering through the fortress and around the island, learning about the history and enjoying the views of the surrounding area. Admission is 7 EUR.
Other Things to See and Do in Marseille
1. Roam around Le Cours Julien and La Plaine
This trendy part of Marseille is full of bookstores, cafes, vintage clothing stores, fountains, and colorful street art. Every Thursday and Saturday morning, La Plaine market takes place here, offering the opportunity to shop for everything from clothing and knick-knacks to shoes and delicious food. Treat yourself to dinner at Lacaille or opt for tapas at Le Couz’in.
2. Relax in Borély Park
Borély Park is known as one of the most remarkable parks in France and its captivating gardens are a highlight of visiting Marseille. Located near the ocean, this park was created in the 17th century by French merchant Joseph Borléy. You can wander the flowing English garden, the perfectly manicured French garden, and a Zen garden. Borély Park is also home to Château Borély, an 18th-century country home that now houses the Museum of Decorative Arts, Earthenware and Fashion. Admission is free.
3. Visit Le Panier
This is the oldest area of Marseille, dating back to around 600 BCE. In French, its name means “the basket” and was named for an inn that had a basket as a sign. In time, the hilltop neighborhood became known by the same name. Today, Le Panier is known as an artistic hub, with colorful street art adorning the buildings and artist studios dotting the neighborhood. Be sure to visit the Vieille Charité, a 17th-Century villa that has museums and exhibitions.
4. Go to La Place Castellane
This historic roundabout in the 6th arrondissement was built in 1774 and contains a magnificent fountain (the current fountain was added in 1913 to replace the original). The fountain represents the three Provençal rivers (Durance, Gardon, and Rhône). An obelisk was originally part of the fountain, but it was relocated in 1911 to the 9th arrondissement. The square is named after the aristocrat who funded the project, Henri-César de Castellane-Majastre, and was mentioned in Joseph Conrad’s 1919 novel The Arrow of Gold (Conrad also wrote the famous novel Heart of Darkness).
5. Wander the Mazargues War Cemetery
Over 9,000 square meters, Mazargues War Cemetery is the final resting place of allied soldiers from World War I and World War II. The bodies of soldiers and laborers were buried in various cemeteries in Marseille during WWI, however, after the war and before Armistice, the grounds of Mazargues Cemetery were expended and the remains of hundreds of soldiers were moved from the smaller cemeteries and laid to rest here. It is located about 6 km (3.5 miles) from central Marseille.
6. Visit the Palais de Longchamp
This monument opened in 1869 and celebrates the completion of the Durance canal, which brought fresh potable water into Marseille. The famous animal sculptor Antoine Louis Barye made the lions and tigers at the entrance, while the monumental fountain in the middle of the colonnade is by Jules Cavelier. It also hosts the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Marseille’s oldest museum, with its large collection of 16th-19th century Provencal and Italian artwork. Admission is free.
7. Eat in Noailles
This area of the city (around the Noailles subway station) is known for its Arab, Indian, and Chinese communities. It’s filled with delicious places to eat for. Try places like Les Portes de Damas, Caffé Noir, and Le 5.5 karaoke bar. There is also daily market where vendors sell North African specialties including spices, dried fruit, sticky pastries, flatbreads, and more.
8. Go diving
Diving may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of France, but Marseille is making a name for itself as the country’s diving capital. Take a trip out into the Mediterranean, where you can explore tunnels, caves, and admire colorful sea sponges, anemones, and sea fans. You can also spot moray eels and octopus as well as numerous of shipwrecks, such as Le Liban (1882) and Le Chaouen (1961). June to October, when the water is a bit warmer, are the best months for diving here. Prices start at 60 EUR.
9. Go on a Food Tour
Explore the historic district of Marseille on a 3.5-hour walking food tour. Food tours can be a fun way to learn about the history and culture of the city, while sampling regional foods such as tuna and shrimp tartare, tapenade, panisse, and roasted Camembert. Tours with Do Eat Better Tours start at 89 EUR.
10. Tour the Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean (MuCEM)
Inaugurated in 2013, this museum is located next to Fort St. Jean towards the entrance of the harbor. Designed by French architects Rudy Ricciotti and Roland Carta, the museum is a 15,000 square meter cube surrounded by a latticework of fiber and concrete. The museum features two levels of exhibits devoted to Mediterranean and European history, as well as an underground auditorium, and bookshop. The restaurant on the top of the museum offers one of the best viewpoints in the city. Tickets are 11 EUR, but you can walk around the exterior for free.
11. Go on a Wine Tour
When visiting Marseille, it is hard to pass up an opportunity to go on a wine tour. You can choose from half-day or full-day tours. Provence Wine Tours offers a full-day tour around Aix-en-Provence for 115 EUR, lunch not included. They also offer half-day tours for 95 EUR. While the wine region isn’t too far away, it’s far enough away that I would suggest doing the full-day tour so you get the most bang for your buck.
How to Stay Safe in Marseille
Marseille has become a lot safer in recent years and the risk of violent crime here is very low. As in any destination, avoid walking through unfamiliar areas alone at night and beware of pickpocketing and petty theft as those are still pretty common here. Pickpocketing is most common around the train station and tourist areas so always keep your belongings secure and out of reach.
Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). Check out any one of the solo female travel blogs on the Internet for more specific tips as they can provide better advice than I, a male, can.
As with most major cities, there are neighborhoods to avoid. It’s a good idea to be extra cautious in neighborhoods like Quartiers Nord, Malpassé, Felix Payat, and Le Caillols where crime is a higher risk.
While there are not a lot of tourist related scams in the city, you can read about common travel scams to watch out for on this post.
If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.
Always trust your gut instinct. Avoid isolated areas at night and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.
The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.
Where to Stay in Marseille
There are only a few hostels and budget hotels in Marseille. You’ll mostly want to stay around the old port as that area is the safest and most central. Here are my recommended places to stay in Marseille:
Marseille Travel Costs
Accommodation
- Hostel dorms – 27-50 EUR per night
- Hostel private rooms – 65-125 EUR per night
- Budget hotels – 55-100 EUR per night
- Luxury Hotels – 250+ EUR per night
- Airbnb private rooms – 30-45 EUR per night
- Airbnb apartments – 55-70 EUR per night
Expect prices 30% to 50% higher during the summer.
Food
- Lunch specials – 10-15 EUR
- Pre-made sandwiches – 5-10 EUR
- Sit-down restaurants – 25-35 EUR per meal
- “Nice” restaurants – 50-70 EUR per meal
- Fast food (i.e. McDonald’s) – 10 EUR
- Beer – 4-5 EUR
- Glass of wine – 5-8 EUR
- Cocktails – 10-13 EUR
- Cappuccino/latte- 3 EUR
- Bottled water – 1-2 EUR
- Groceries for a week – 50 EUR
Marseille Suggested Budgets
Backpacker – 80 EUR Per Day
This budget covers staying in a hostel dorm, cooking all of your meals, using public transportation, limiting your drinking, and sticking to free and cheap activities. If you plan on drinking more, add another 5-10 EUR to your budget.
Midrange – 175 EUR Per Day
This mid-range budget covers a private room, eating at cheap restaurants for a few meals, using public transportation, enjoying a few glasses of wine, and a few paid activities such as walking tours or visiting museums.
Upscale – 400+ EUR Per Day
On this budget, you can stay in a 4* hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, rent a car, and do whatever activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!
Marseille Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips
Marseille is not as cheap as you would think it would be due to the limited budget accommodation options. While there are a number of cheap restaurants, I didn’t find the city to be as inexpensive as I thought it would be. However, there are some ways to save money when you visit Marseille:
Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
Explore on foot – Marseille is small enough to walk around and it’s a great way to experience the architecture and the vibes of the city without spending any money.
Redeem hotel points – Sign up for hotel credit cards and use the points you earn to cover accommodations on your trip. Most cards give you 1-2 nights free just for signing up, which can help you save a lot. Here’s a post that will help you understand the basics so you can start earning points now and have saved up by the time you go.
Buy the City Pass – The City Pass for Marseille includes more than ten activities, museums, and experiences, plus discounts for more than thirty other museums, activities, tastings, and vendors. If you’re planning to do a lot of the popular activities, this can save over paying for each one separately. The City Pass also includes unlimited public transportation access. You can buy a pass for 24, 48, or 72 hours for 29-47 EUR.
Get a transit pass – Marseille has an extensive public transportation network that includes bus, metro, and tram lines. If you’re staying outside the city center or want to visit sites further afield, a pass can save you a lot over the 1.70-2 EUR single ride. You can get a card with 10 rides for 15 EUR. There are also passes with unlimited access to public transit for 24 or 72 hours that cost 5.20 EUR and 10.80 respectively. If you get a City Pass, it comes with unlimited transportation so you won’t need a separate transit pass.
Get the set lunch menu – If you eat out, do so at lunch and get the prix fixe menu (two- or three-course set menu). Restaurants throughout town offer this set menu during lunch, and with prices between 10-20 EUR, it’s a way better deal than the regular dinner menu.
Get discount museum prices – Pick up a City Pass for free public transportation, free entry to museums and attractions, and discounts on tours. A one-day pass is 27 EUR, a two-day pass costs 37 EUR and a three-day pass costs 43 EUR.
Take a free walking tour – If you want to learn more about the city, a free walking tour is a great place to start. You’ll learn about the history and architecture while getting to see all the major sights. Marseille Free Walking Tour is the best one. Just be sure to tip at the end!
Stay with a local – If you want to save money and get some local insight into the city, use Couchsurfing. Staying with a local is the best way to get a feel for the city and learn some insider tips.
Save money on rideshares – Uber is cheaper than taxis and is the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to wait for a bus or pay for a taxi.
How to Get Around in Marseille
Public transportation – Tickets for the bus and the metro can be bought in metro stations, at tourist offices, or anywhere displaying the RTM sign. It’s best to buy groups of tickets at 3.40 EUR (2 trips) or 15 EUR (10 trips) to save a bit (prices on board the bus cost 2 EUR per trip). A day pass costs 5.20 EUR, a 3-day pass costs 10.80 EUR, and a 7-day pass costs 15.50 EUR.
Most public transportation in the city center stops running regularly around 9pm, so consider taking an Uber or a taxi if you’re in a hurry. There are, however, a couple of night buses that run through central Marseilles. Consider downloading the RTM app for current public transportation schedules.
If you get a City Pass tourism card, you’ll be able to ride the public transit for free.
Ferry – RTM also operates a ferry service between Vieux-Port and Estaque or La Pointe Rouge. Ticket prices are 5 EUR one-way. You can also take a ferry across Vieux-Port for 0.50 EUR, one-way.
Bicycle – Le Vélo is a public bike-sharing system that lets you rent bicycles around the city once you register online. It costs 1 EUR to register, which gives you a 7-day pass. The first 30 minutes are free and it costs 1 EUR per hour after that.
Taxi – Taxis are expensive in Marseille, with a base rate of 2 EUR plus about 1.72 EUR per kilometer. This rate may increase in the evenings so skip the taxis if you can — they add up fast!
Ridesharing – Uber is available in Marseille and is generally cheaper than taxis. That said, the city is small so you shouldn’t really need to use it much.
Car rental – Car rentals start at 30 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. You’ll only really need a car if you’re doing some day trips outside the city though. Drivers need to be at least 21 years of age. For the best deals, I use Discover Cars.
When to Go to Marseille
Summer is the most popular time to visit Marseille. This is also the hottest time of the year, with temperatures daily highs reaching 30°C (86°F). Summer is peak season in Marseille, and the streets are filled with backpackers and European vacationers who want to soak up the ambiance of the south of France in all its hot glory. There are only a few days with rain during the summer, but it’s still a good idea to bring an umbrella along.
September and October, when the average high temperature is 24°C (75°F), is an ideal time to visit Marseille. In autumn, the crowds lessen considerably and the Mediterranean is still perfect for swimming. The days are usually warm, but the nights can be cooler with average lows around 13-16°C (55-61°F). There are also five to seven days of rain during these months, so it’s a good idea to pack layers.
In spring, Carnaval de Marseille takes place (April) in Bolély Park, with colorful costumed floats, live music, games, and family entertainment. The high temperatures in spring average around 15-22°C (59-71°F). Evenings are much cooler with low temperatures between 6-13°C (44-56°F), and there are a handful of rainy days each month, so pack accordingly.
The Christmas season, although chilly, is an excellent time to explore the markets and festivities. The Santon Fair, one of the oldest fairs in Provence, takes place throughout the month of December and features hand-painted terracotta nativity figurines created by local artisans. The average temperatures in winter are between 7-12°C (46-53°F). It doesn’t snow in Marseille, but there is likely to be rain in the winter months so be sure to bring an umbrella.
Marseille Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources
These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.
- Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
- Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
- Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
- Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
- SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
- LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
- Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
- Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
- BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!
- Take Walks – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of France.
GO DEEPER: Nomadic Matt’s In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!
There’s a lot of free information online but do you want to spend days searching for information? Prob not! That’s why guidebooks exist.
While I have a lot of free tips on Europe, I also wrote an entire book that goes into great detail on everything you need to plan a trip here on a budget! You’ll get suggested itineraries, budgets, even more ways to save money, my favorite restaurants, prices, practical information (i.e. phone numbers, websites, prices, safety advice, etc etc), and cultural tips.
I’ll give the insider view of Europe that I got from years of traveling and living here! The downloadable guide can be used on your Kindle, iPad, phone, or computer so you can have it with you when you go.
Click here to learn more about my book on Europe!
