Discover the emblematic city of Marseille and some of its calanques for a weekend with a difference.
How about escaping the grey skies of Paris for a breath of sea air?
Let me take you on a little winter getaway to recharge under the sun. Marseille is the perfect destination for that — just a 3-hour train ride from Paris, and packed with great places to explore.
I’ll guide you through the vibrant city of Marseille with a selection of local experiences and activities that let you see the city through the eyes of its people.
Don’t forget to check out all our articles featuring unique accommodations and things to do as a couple, with friends or family, across the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region:
- Cannes, I tested the solar-powered boat on the Lérins Islands
- Rustrel – Discover the Colorado Provencal
- What to see and do in Cannes – My must sees and good addresses
- Cannes – A charming guest house 2 steps from downtown
- Massif de la Saint Beaume -Green Provence between charm and nature with Campings Tohapi
- Unusual | Sleep a night in the Monts d’Azur reserve
- My unforgettable encounter with the Mercantour wolves
If you’ve only got a weekend or a few days to discover Marseille, don’t waste your time spreading yourself too thin and discover a few ideas and tips for organizing your days in the city.
TABLE OF CONTENTS :
| WHAT TO DO IN MARSEILLE
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THE VIEUX-PORT & THE MUCEM
If you’re coming to Marseille for the first time, you won’t be able to avoid the Marseille landmarks now recognized the world over, and we start with the famous the fish market. An early morning rendezvous at the Vieux Port to meet the fishermen who come to sell the day’s catch at the fish market, with their lilting, “cheap” accent that I love! It’s quite folkloric but quite authentic, and the market will immediately immerse you in this Marseille atmosphere. It’s an opportunity to immortalize in photos these scenes of life, these moments, the inhabitants, the boats, the southern light and the sea.
Good idea: if you want to take an original photo, go under the mirror of the shade designed by British architect Norman Foster. I’ll let you be surprised!
Once you’ve toured the market and the Old Port, we invite you to continue your visit by going to Marseille’s emblematic museum: the Mucem (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilization, dedicated to architecture and heritage). Here you’ll find a range of temporary exhibitions, as well as treasures such as a section of the Berlin Wall, and a bookshop with 300,000 French and foreign titles… there’s really plenty to do. For an incredible panorama, we recommend using the museum’s walkways and outdoor areas free of charge.
If you’re coming from the city center, you can borrow this little itinerary starting with the place Bargemon and taking a detour to theHôtel Dieu, a beautiful monument renovated into a palace, then continue to the place de Lenche the oldest square in Marseille and Saint Laurent church which leads to the Mucem via Fort Saint Jean.
Informations pratiques et Réservations
The Mucem is a very popular museum with travelers, so we recommend that you book your tickets in advance:
➡️ Click here to book Mucem tickets online
- Opening hours: From 10 a.m. on Sundays during high season (July and August), and from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. the rest of the year.
- Open every day except Tuesday.
- Ticket offices close 45 minutes before the site’s closing time.
- Bus no. 60 stops nearby, at Métro Vieux-Port and Mucem Saint Jean.
- DISTRICT “LE PANIER”
For your lunch break, head to Le Panier, one of Marseille’s most picturesque neighborhoods, located in the city’s 2nd arrondissement. This is the oldest district in Marseille, it’s here that the Greek settlers first established the city. But more than its age, Le Panier is also its most authentic and charming area. If you’ve heard of the French TV show Plus Belle la Vie, the fictional Mistral neighborhood is directly inspired by Le Panier.
Wandering through its narrow, cobbled streets and admiring the colorful façades, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a small Provençal village. Le Panier is also a creative hub, home to local artists and artisans who proudly display their work right in the streets. It’s a welcoming, Mediterranean-style neighborhood full of life — with touches of street art, designer boutiques, sunny terraces, and cozy restaurants. Here are some of our favorite spots to check out:
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L’effet Clochette (2 rue Caisserie) — A great place to taste local specialties such as panisses, aïoli, or fresh fish dishes. In summer, its lovely terrace is perfect for outdoor dining.
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Vinoneo (6 place Daviel) — A seasonal menu featuring flavorful dishes and an excellent wine selection.
If you’re a fan of Plus Belle la Vie, you’ll love the atmosphere at Place des Pistoles or Le Bar des 13 Coins (45 rue Sainte-Françoise), which both evoke the vibe of the show’s iconic Mistral bar.
Have a sweet tooth? Don’t miss one of the city’s traditional biscuit shops where you can sample navettes, Marseille’s iconic orange blossom-flavored cookies. You’ll find them at 68 Rue Caisserie, especially popular during Candlemas (La Chandeleur). Curious foodies should also try L’Espérantine, a dark chocolate treat shaped like an olive leaf, infused with olive oil and filled with almond, candied orange, or strong mint — a true taste of the Mediterranean, available at 70 rue Caisserie.
For an afternoon treat, nothing beats a homemade ice cream from Le Glacier du Roi (4 place de Lenche) — considered one of the best in the city! And for tea lovers, Cup of Tea (1 rue Caisserie) offers a wide selection of teas in a cozy setting.
Pétanque lovers, take note! Marseille is home to a small museum dedicated to this iconic Provençal pastime. La Maison de la Boule (fittingly named!) showcases the evolution of pétanque balls, including early versions made of stone — and even lets you try your hand on a small indoor boulodrome.
| Informations
Maison de la boule
Open from Wednesday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
4 Place des 13 Cantons, 13002 Marseille
Suggested walking itinerary through the heart of Le Panier
- Start your stroll at the Hôtel de Cabre, located on Grand Rue, one of the oldest buildings in Marseille.
- Then head towards Le Panier and take a break at the impressive Hôtel-Dieu, now a luxury hotel with stunning views.
- Make your way down Place Villeneuve-Bargemont, where you’ll discover Pavillon Daviel, Marseille’s City Hall, and the historic Maison Diamantée.
- From the square, walk to Rue Caisserie and take the Montée des Accoules stairs on your right. Let yourself wander through the charming alleys at the heart of Le Panier, and end your visit with a peaceful stop at La Vieille Charité, a beautiful cultural center steeped in history.
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MAJOR CATHEDRAL AND “NOTRE DAME DE LA GARDE”
From Le Panier, continue your walk toward La Cathédrale de la Major, one of Marseille’s most iconic and awe-inspiring monuments. With its striking striped façade and sea views, it’s a must-see during your visit.
Later in the afternoon, I recommend heading up to Notre-Dame de la Garde to catch the golden hour light and enjoy a breathtaking 360° view over the entire city. Bus no. 60 will take you straight there. Known affectionately as La Bonne Mère (the Good Mother), this basilica holds a special place in the hearts of the locals. Perched high above the city, she is said to watch over and protect Marseille and its people. It’s truly the best panoramic view in town — magical at sunset!
Opening hours – Major Cathedral
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- Open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (closed on Mondays)
Opening hours – Notre-Dame de la Garde
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- Winter (October to March): 7:00 a.m. to 6:15 p.m. – last gate closes at 7:00 p.m.
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Summer (April to September): 7:00 a.m. to 7:15 p.m. – last gate closes at 8:00 p.m.
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LE PALAIS LONGCHAMP
Just above Marseille Saint-Charles train station, you’ll find the magnificent Palais Longchamp, built in 1835 by architect Henri Espérandieu. Surrounded by a vast garden, this elegant monument is a favorite among locals and it’s easy to see why. With its lush greenery, shaded pathways, and peaceful atmosphere right in the heart of the city, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing walk or a quiet break away from the hustle and bustle.
Métro Station – Cinq Avenues / Longchgamp
Discover a Different Side of Marseille
There are many ways to explore Marseille and let’s not forget, it’s a big city! Exploring it on foot is absolutely doable, but there are several great alternatives to see both the must-sees and the city’s hidden gems from a different angle.
➡️ We recommend discovering Marseille by electric bike, either for a half-day or a full-day tour.
Under the beautiful southern sun, it’s a fun and active way to explore the city, whether you’re with family, friends, or as a couple, and enjoy everything Marseille has to offer!
- NOAILLES MARKET, COURS JULIEN, LA PLAINE, MALMOUSQUE AND PRADO BEACHES
We’re changing atmospheres completely now, let’s head east for a taste of the Orient. Start your morning with a stroll through Noailles market, a vibrant, colorful spot perfect for photos and soaking up the scents of fresh produce and exotic spices.
As you wander between the stalls of fruits, vegetables and herbs, don’t miss some of Marseille’s oldest shops, like the Herboristerie du Père Blaise on Rue Méolan, open since 1815, or Quincaillerie Empereur on Rue d’Aubagne, founded in 1827, true pieces of Marseille’s history.
From the market, take a walk to the Cours Julien, the city’s artistic and street art district. Follow Rue d’Aubagne, then Cours Lieutaud, where you’ll cross a one-of-a-kind diagonal bridge designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel, and make your way up the city’s most unexpected staircase.
This neighbourhood is truly unique lively by day and by night. Take your time exploring the streets of “Cours Ju” (as locals affectionately call it) and La Plaine. You’ll find vibrant graffiti murals, small designer boutiques, and plenty of delicious places to eat. The food here is as diverse as the community. Enjoy Indian, Japanese, Italian, Spanish, Tunisian cuisine and more. It’s one of the most cosmopolitan corners of Marseille.
To end your day on a high note, take a walk along the Prado beaches. It’s the perfect place to watch windsurfers and kitesurfers in action, and a great excuse to grab a seat on a sunny terrace and enjoy a refreshing cold beer.
| THE OUTSKIRTS OF CENTRAL MARSEILLE
Strolling along the Corniche
If you’re driving, you simply can’t miss the Corniche, this iconic coastal road overlooking the sea is a must-see! Take your time and follow it all the way to Le Vallon des Auffes, a charming little fishing port with colorful boats and an unbeatable local vibe.
It’s the perfect place for an early evening apéro, followed by dinner with a view of the sunset. Locals absolutely love this spot and so will you!
You can also take bus No. 83 or 583 to Malmousque (get off at Endoume stop), a tiny hidden cove with a small port that feels like a true escape from the city. Just be aware, there’s no beach here, only rocks, and no parking, so it’s best to avoid coming by car.
People come for the peaceful village feel and the narrow winding streets that give this area its undeniable charm.
Goudes village
Goudes is a small fishing village at the very end of Marseille. The road leading to this exotic village is winding but pleasant, as it runs along the rocks by the sea from the Madrague district. On sunny days, Goudes is quite busy and attracts many locals and travelers. There are plenty of bars, restaurants and shacks to eat in. The hill behind Les Goudes, between Callelongue and Cap Croisette, offers a stunning 360° view of Ile Maire, Marseille harbor, the Riou archipelago and the Passage des Croisettes. Goudes will seduce you, I’m sure.
✖️ For those without a car, take bus no. 20 from the Prado roundabout.
✖️ Alternatively, if you’re coming by car, there’s a large free parking lot high up between Les Goudes and Callelongue.
✖️ For a quick bite on the go, head at Caro, a small café-restaurant serving salads, sandwiches and fresh juices. Just a fifteen-minute walk away, we recommend the restaurant the bay of monkeys, at Cap Croisette. A well-known super restaurant with a breathtaking view!
➡️ Accommodation in the Goudes area, find what you’re looking for here .
Our Favourite Calanques near Les Goudes | Things to Do
If you’re looking for small creeks around here, we suggest the calanque blanche next to the viewpoint of Les Goudes, the calanque des trous not far from the calanque blanche, the Calanque Callelongue with its tiny beach and port. If you’re looking for a nice place to have lunch, head for the restaurant La Grotte in Callelongue.
➡️ If you visit the parc naturel des Calanques, take advantage of the opportunity to hike Electric mountain bikes. Information and reservations here.
➡️ You can also hiking in the park with an experienced guide who will show you the hidden spots of the locals. Information and reservations here.
| SAILING THROUGH THE WILD BEAUTY OF MAREILLE’CALANQUES
We highly recommend spending a full day sailing through the Calanques of Marseille expect laughter, a real change of scenery, and unforgettable memories. We absolutely loved it!
No boating license needed for this sea adventure. It’s the perfect outing if you enjoy the sea breeze, swimming in crystal-clear waters, sunbathing, and discovering the coastline from a new perspective. A sailing trip is truly one of the best ways to admire the majestic cliffs plunging into turquoise waters.
Hop aboard a catamaran from Marseille and spend the day exploring the hidden coves and islands of the Calanques National Park.
➡️ Book your catamaran trip now
You can also go on a sailing cruise to discover several stunning spots in a single day, including Baie des Singes, Rocher des Goudes, the Frioul Archipelago, and Port Frioul.
| WHERE TO STAY IN MARSEILLE
During our weekend in Marseille, we rented an apartment in the port district near the city center. The area is well served by public transportation (tram and metro) and is just a stone’s throw from the recently renovated docks. The apartment had been recently renovated and was located in a building with old-world charm.
Another option is Mama Shelter, which I’ve often heard recommended as a great place to stay in Marseille. I’ve already tried it during a trip to Prague and really liked the concept.
| WHERE TO EAT IN MARSEILLE
- Restaurant le parpaing qui flotte (3 Rue Goudard, 13005 Marseille) offers delicious tapas and sparkling cocktails at very affordable prices.
- The Palais de la Major (2 quai de la Tourette, 13002 Marseille)
- La Ruche (128 rue Sainte, 13007 Marseille)
- Le Carmine located on the old port of Marseille opposite Notre Dame de la Garde, this Italian restaurant offers a diverse menu of homemade dishes.
- Ciné bistrot La baleine (59 Cours Julien, 13006 Marseille) A comfortable movie theater, a restaurant, and a selection of fine wines
- Tapas Bar La Tasca (102 Rue Ferrari, 13005 Marseille) tapas restaurant inspired by Iberian, Corsican, and Provençal cuisine in a cozy and festive setting or on the terrace.
- Le Couteau (145 Rue Sainte, 13007 Marseille) for lovers of good meat and quality
- L’eau à la bouche (120 Corniche Président John Fitzgerald Kennedy, 13007 Marseille) This small pizzeria has a relaxed atmosphere and colorful wood paneling. It offers classic and original recipes in a magnificent setting on the Corniche Kennedy.
- The Sweet Marseille, cuisine de comptoir bistrot (29 Rue Glandeves, 13001 Marseille)
- The Cantine de Aussih (9 rue Chateaubriand 13007 Marseille
) offers Mediterranean cuisine with an Asian twist. - The Bords de mer (52 Corniche Président John Fitzgerald Kennedy, 13007 Marseille) for lunch with one of the most beautiful views of Marseille.
- Pizzeria la Bonne Mère (16 Rue Fort du Sanctuaire, 13006 Marseille ) voted best pizza in 2016 and since then has remained Marseille’s must-visit pizzeria.
- Pizzeria chez Sauveur (10 Rue d’Aubagne, 13001 Marseille)
- Bar à tapas El picoteo (53 rue Saint Pierre, 13005 Marseille)
- Le bar Bu pour d’excellents burgers (8 Rue Euthymenes, 13001 Marseille)
- Restaurant le château in the creeks of Sormiou.
Near the Vieux Port (old port), you will find good restaurants at the bottom of Rue Sainte, on the corner with Rue Breteuil, such as La Part des Anges (33 Rue Sainte, 13001 Marseille), Les Panisses (23 Rue Caisserie, 13002 Marseille) and L’alimentation générale (34 rue plan Fourmiguier, 13007 Marseille), tucked away in an alley behind the Old Port.
GOOD DEAL
If you want to enjoy a delicious local meal in someone’s home and sample some Marseille specialties, such as authentic bouillabaisse with homemade aioli or panisses, I recommend checking out Mamaz Social Food for the kind of wonderful experiences we love! Mamaz Social is a platform for publishing and booking dinners between individuals. It’s an invitation to meet new people and experience cultural openness through cuisine and gastronomy.
It’s a cultural and human experience: a unique way of sharing.
It’s a real social and economic alternative to restaurants.
Unfortunately for us, it was already too late to try out this platform, as we had to leave. The concept is brilliant: you enter the city and choose where you would like to eat based on the menu offered. We found this address, which seemed perfect for immersing ourselves in the Marseille atmosphere in the company of a local.
Otherwise, to avoid scams at the port of Marseille, be aware that there is a bouillabaisse charter that was created in 1980 to combat certain restaurants that do not follow traditional recipes.
It is prepared according to certain culinary rules:
- Two different dishes: one for the broth, the other for the fish
- The fish are: scorpion fish, spider crab, conger eel, scorpion fish, and white scorpion fish.
- Additional ingredients are potatoes, garlic, onion, and tomatoes.
- Bouillabaisse must be served with a sauce called rouille (you enjoy it with good bread croutons).
|WHERE TO HAVE A COFFEE/EAT AN ICE CREAM
- Emki Pop (80 Boulevard Vauban, 13006 Marseille) 100% natural ice pops
- Café borely (Pavillon Est. 134, avenue Clot-Bey. 13008 Marseille). Simple French menu featuring organic produce in a café-tea room with a peaceful courtyard.
- Café La fiancée (8 Rue Haxo, 13001 Marseille)
| WHERE TO HAVE A DRINK ACCORDING TO THE PEOPLE OF MARSEILLE
- Have a coffee at the Salon des Regards Café, located on the second floor of the Regard de Provence Museum.
- On the rooftop of the Intercontinental Hotel for a view of the Bonne Mère
- The Dantès, The Sofitel bar offers a 150 m² terrace with panoramic views of the Mucem and the Bonne Mère.
- At the rooftop Les Terrasses du port for a 360-degree view
- La friche bar for a view of the harbor.
- The Carry Nation is a secret bar where you can enjoy delicious cocktails. To find out the address, you need to make a reservation on the website, where you will be given all the necessary information.
- For a rock ‘n’ roll atmosphere, head to Le White Rabbit, behind the Major Cathedral.
- L’ébénisterie closed to the place Castellane (29 Rue Louis Maurel, 13006 Marseille)
- The Bar Bu for its cocktails
- Tubaclub at the Goudes district (2 Boulevard Alexandre Delabre, 13008 Marseille)
- Le cabanon de Paulette (Boulevard des Baigneurs, 13008 Marseille)
| GETTING TO AND AROUND MARSEILLE
- The train TGV is a good option for traveling to Marseille from Paris, with very attractive prices. The journey takes 3 hours from Paris and Don’t forget to check out Ouigo trains too, as you can find some really low prices!
- Marseille is also easily accessible by plane. If you book in advance, you can expect to pay less than €100 for a round trip from Paris or Lyon. Find your flight with Skyscanner
- Once there, it is also very easy to get around by public transportation. There is an XL pass (costing around €5) that allows you to make unlimited journeys on the entire RTM network (buses, metro, trams, ferry boats) for 24 hours. You can buy it from metro and tram ticket machines, authorized RTM vendors, and RTM sales points at Saint Charles and Espace Clients Bourse.
- Self-service bicycles are also available. For €1, you can purchase a card directly from the terminals. Please note that the first half hour is free. After 30 minutes, you will be charged €1 for each additional hour.
Are you familiar with Marseille? If you have any other great ideas for places to visit or cool spots to check out, feel free to leave us a comment.
Before you go, I invite you to check out all our articles on accommodations and activities for couples or families in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region:
- Cannes, I tested the solar-powered boat on the Lérins Islands
- Rustrel – Discover the Colorado Provencal
- What to see and do in Cannes – My must sees and good addresses
- Cannes – A charming guest house 2 steps from downtown
- Massif de la Saint Beaume -Green Provence between charm and nature with Campings Tohapi
- Unusual | Sleep a night in the Monts d’Azur reserve
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Cet article est notre ressenti et notre expérience. Il fut possible grâce à une collaboration avec Boaterfly que nous remercions pour leur invitation et cette découverte
