The port city of Marseille is a vibrant, multicultural destination with its share of history and art. a simple look at Places to visit in Marseille Will leave you wondering how to fit it all into your itinerary. The Old Port is full of character and charm and brimming with charm.
If you only have one day to spend in the city, this is where it should be spent. As you head out, you'll find parks, museums and cultural centers to help you experience the best of Marseille tourism.
With so many must-visits, we've put together a list of what to see in Marseille. See if you can cover them all!
10 best places to visit in Marseille
This list of must-see places in Marseille will help you plan the perfect itinerary for an authentic French holiday experience.
1. Old Port
Image credit: Didier Duforest for Wikimedia Commons
The Vieux Port or Old Port is one of the main points of interest in Marseille. Today it is home to historic buildings such as the Sainte Marie Lighthouse and the Maison Diamanty, as well as restaurants, cafés and hotels. The bustling marina offers many different activities, such as browsing the fish market and taking a yacht.
Ideal for: Hobby
2. Notre-Dame de la Garde
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Every tour of Marseille should include a visit to Notre-Dame de la Garde, an important symbol of the city that also offers some of the most breathtaking views. The basilica has Roman-Byzantine architectural style with multi-coloured stones and mosaics. Outside, a colossal statue of the Virgin Mary stands atop the bell tower.
Ideal for: leisure, history
3. Château d'If
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The island prison of Château d'If served as the setting for Alexandre Dumas's 'The Count of Monte Cristo'. Even if you haven't read the book, this is a place you won't want to miss. This 16th-century fortress did not see much action in its time, but its popularity in fictional works, notably the 1971 film, The French Connection, made it one of Marseille's biggest tourist attractions.
Ideal for: history, leisure
4. Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations
Image credit: Sébastien Bertrand for Wikipedia
The Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean is neither old nor historical. In fact, if you have visited the city's historical sites, it is a surprise. The cube-shaped building exudes an ultra-modern style and houses a collection of exhibitions dedicated to Mediterranean culture. You'll want to make this part of your Marseille sightseeing tour, especially if you want a contemporary flavor.
Ideal for: history, leisure
5. Fort Saint-Jean
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At the entrance to the port of Marseille is Fort Saint-Jean, a fort built on a hill that offers the most beautiful view of Notre-Dame de la Garde and the city. It is adjacent to the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations and is connected to it by a bridge. The 17th-century structure incorporates two earlier buildings, the Commandery of the Order of the Knights of Saint John and the 15th-century Tower of King René I of Provence.
Ideal for: History
6. Marseille Cathedral
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This national monument of France is a magnificent example of the Romanesque-Byzantine style and is a must-see during your visit to Marseille. The cathedral has a seating capacity of 3,000 and offers a spectacular view of the sea. It stands on the site of an ancient church dating back to the 5th century. Inside, you'll find floors made of mosaics and marble, as well as ornate light fixtures and statues.
Ideal for: History
7. Old donation
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This former hospice is today a museum and cultural centre. This is one of the best places to see in Marseille, especially if you like art and history. Explore the museum collections dedicated to Egyptian and classical antiquities, and when you're done, visit the Charity Café for daily specials and beverages.
Ideal for: History
8. Pars Borelli
Image credit: Arnaud 25 via Wikimedia Commons
There is nothing better than a picturesque park in which to relax and that is exactly what Park Borelli invites you to do. It is classified among the notable gardens of France. It presents many small gardens, sculptures, monuments and museums of different styles such as the Château Borelli. Entry is free and you can visit anytime from 6 am to 9 pm.
Ideal for: Hobby
9. Museum of Fine Arts, Marseille
Image credit: Georges Seguin, Wikimedia Commons
Discover art from the 16th to the 19th centuries at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Marseille, a must-see in Marseille. The Palace is located in Longchamp and houses an invaluable collection of Italian and Provencal paintings and sculptures. Don't forget to visit the Natural History Museum of Marseille, which is also located here.
Ideal for: history, leisure
10. Noelles
Image credit: IngolfBLN for Wikimedia Commons
There is something special about the markets. Maybe it's the energy or seeing life flow by at a rapid pace. Noailles is one of those places to visit in Marseille where you can feel the excitement of a market. There is a daily market in the neighborhood where you can buy clothes and food, spices and household items. You don't need to buy anything; Just feeling the excitement is already exciting enough!
Location for: Hobby
Looking at the above great places to visit in Marseille, we know you will definitely want to include them in your France holidays. So choose the places you like the most and start planning!
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