Marseilles is a city that didn't really start to welcome tourists until the very last decade of the 20th century. The "oldest city in France'' and one of the oldest in western Europe is Marseille. Around 600 BC, Massalia, the current name of the city, was established. Soon after, it became a significant port in the ancient Greek world. It served as a significant hub for trade and transition between the Mediterranean and Gaul and northwest European civilizations for the Greeks and later the Romans.

When To Visit Marseille in France

The greatest time to visit Marseille is from September to November, when the beaches, attractions, and lodging are free of visitors who came during the high season from May to August. Low season, which lasts from December to March, is marked by temperatures that typically hover in the 40s and a deserted city. Another excellent time of year is April, when visitors may find lower airfares and hotel rates coupled with pleasant weather and few other people around.

What To Know About Marseille in France 

Currency

In France, purchasing and paying for products. With very few exceptions, only the euro is accepted as payment in France.

Language

The majority of people in Marseille speak French. Since Marseille is the principal port of entry for immigrants from the other side of the Mediterranean sea, some also speak Arabic. The vast majority of high school graduates throughout France have taken at least some English.

Culture

Since Marseille is the oldest city in France, it has a very extensive history. You may fully immerse yourself in this significant historical location with just a stroll around its streets and a cursory glance at its numerous buildings from so many different eras. This French city offers you the chance to learn about all of its historical mysteries through its neighbourhoods.

The game of pétanque, Marseille soap, regional perfumeries, and other delightful locations where you can learn more about all the legends of this old Mediterranean city are just a few of the attractions that can help you discover or rediscover Marseille's traditions.

How To Reach Marseille in France

The Marseille Provence Airport, the fifth busiest airport in France, is the one that is closest to Marseille. It is situated 27 kilometres to the northwest of the city. Every day, flights from all around Europe land at the airport, with 86 of those coming from Paris alone.

Top Places To Visit In Marseille, France

Old Port

One of the most popular attractions in Marseille is the Vieux Port, or Old Port. Restaurants, cafes, and hotels are now located there among ancient structures like the Sainte Marie lighthouse and Maison Diamante. The bustling marina offers a variety of activities, including ferry rides and fish market exploration.

Notre-Dame de la Garde

Visits to the Notre-Dame de la Garde, a significant local landmark that also provides some of the most breathtaking views, should be a part of every tour of Marseille. The basilica has mosaics and multicoloured stones in a Roman-Byzantine architectural style. The bell tower's exterior features a sizable statue of the Virgin Mary.

Château d’If

The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas was set in the island prison of Château d'If. Even if you haven't read the book, you shouldn't skip this location. The 16th-century castle didn't see much action when it was active, but thanks to its fame in fiction, such as the 1971 film The French Connection, it is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in Marseille.

Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations

It is neither old nor historical to visit the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations. In fact, it surprises you if you've been visiting the city's historical landmarks. The ultra-modern cube-shaped building holds a collection of exhibits devoted to Mediterranean culture. If you're in the mood for something modern, you should include it in your tour of Marseille.

Fort Saint-Jean

Fort Saint-Jean, a stronghold situated on a hill at the entrance to the Port of Marseille, provides the best views of the Notre-Dame de la Garde and the surrounding area. It is connected to the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations via a bridge and is located nearby. The commandery of the Order of the Knights of Saint John and Rene I's tower from the 15th century are both incorporated into the 17th-century construction.

Nightlife in Marseille, France

These days, Marseille comes alive at night with fresh ideas and places. With a glass of the renowned pastis and a seat on one of the city's many terraces, the evening frequently starts off with an aniseed note. French and European visitors are hurrying to take advantage of this popular and welcoming town's attractions.

Due to its size and importance as a major port, Marseille is naturally home to a number of pubs, some of which have a reputation for being very rowdy. Though these days, the hippest of all congregate in the streets around Rue Sainte and Rue d'Endoume, up above the Vieux Port in a hitherto little-visited neighbourhood, many of the best of the rest are concentrated around the Vieux Port. Other attractions include a huge rooftop bar with views of the ocean, a delightfully bizarre bar in a design-forward hotel, and a great place for craft beer enthusiasts with more than 400 different options.

Best Food To Try In Marseille, France

Bouillabaisse

This gently flavoured fish stew is a native of the coastal city of Marseille and is widely regarded as the culinary icon of the region. The stew is prepared with the catch of the day (or several), simmered in a bouillon flavoured with Provence herbs, and garnished with extra-virgin olive oil, saffron, and fresh seasonal vegetables.

Aioli with vegetables and fish

This tasty and healthful beginning is a common sight in Marseille and other parts of Provence, and it is especially well-liked in the late summer. Boiling eggs, some form of seafood (typically poached fish), or escargot are served over a heaping tray of boiled vegetables, frequently including carrots, potatoes, artichokes, and cauliflower.

Pastis de Marseille

This famous Marseille anise-flavoured liqueur is a must-have for hot summer days spent outside, particularly during a match of pétanque. Pastis is well recognized for being a simple drink to consume when combined with ice-cold water and served in large glasses (with or without ice). The drink's characteristic flavour comes from the addition of Provence herbs including verbena, sage, rosemary, and thyme to the mixture in addition to the licorice root.