The Best Things to Do in Marseille

Affectionately known as “La Bonne Mère” (The Good Mother) by locals, this iconic 19th-century basilica stands proudly atop the city’s highest hill. The Romano-Byzantine church features stunning mosaics, a golden Madonna statue, and offers the most spectacular 360-degree views over Marseille, the surrounding hills, and the Mediterranean Sea.

Made famous by Alexandre Dumas’ novel “The Count of Monte Cristo,” this 16th-century fortress sits on a small rocky island in the Bay of Marseille. Originally built as a defensive structure by King François I, it later served as a notorious prison. Today, visitors can explore the fortress cells, learn about its fascinating history, and enjoy magnificent views of Marseille’s coastline.

Opened in 2013 as part of Marseille’s European Capital of Culture celebrations, MuCEM is a stunning contemporary museum dedicated to Mediterranean civilizations. The striking cube-shaped building, designed by architect Rudy Ricciotti, features an innovative concrete lattice exterior and is connected to the historic Fort Saint-Jean by an elevated walkway. Inside, fascinating exhibitions explore Mediterranean cultures, migrations, and shared histories.

Located in the heart of Le Panier district, La Vieille Charité is a magnificent 17th-century architectural complex originally built as an almshouse for the city’s poor. Today, this beautifully restored building houses several museums and exhibition spaces. The stunning courtyard features three levels of elegant arcaded galleries surrounding a baroque chapel with an oval dome designed by Pierre Puget, Marseille’s most celebrated architect.

Just a short distance from Marseille’s city center lies one of France’s most spectacular natural wonders. The Calanques National Park features a series of dramatic limestone cliffs and narrow inlets with crystal-clear turquoise waters. This protected area stretches for 20 kilometers along the coast between Marseille and Cassis, offering world-class hiking, swimming, rock climbing, and kayaking opportunities in a breathtaking Mediterranean setting.

Just a 20-minute boat ride from the Vieux Port lies the Frioul archipelago, a group of four limestone islands known for their rugged beauty and rich biodiversity. The two main islands, Pomègues and Ratonneau, are connected by a causeway and offer visitors pristine beaches, hiking trails, and fascinating historical sites including the Caroline Hospital, a former quarantine facility. The islands’ arid, windswept landscape creates a striking contrast with the deep blue Mediterranean waters surrounding them.

Every morning along the Quai des Belges, local fishermen sell their fresh catch directly from their boats in a tradition that has continued for centuries. This authentic market offers visitors a glimpse into Marseille’s deep connection with the sea and an opportunity to see Mediterranean fish species up close. Arrive early (before 9am) to watch the fishermen arrange their colorful displays of sea bream, red mullet, squid, and other local specialties while bantering with regular customers.

No visit to Marseille is complete without sampling bouillabaisse, the city’s iconic fish stew that originated as a humble fishermen’s dish and evolved into haute cuisine. This complex dish combines several varieties of Mediterranean fish, shellfish, potatoes, and aromatic herbs in a rich saffron-infused broth. Traditionally served in two parts—first the broth with bread and rouille (spicy garlic mayonnaise), then the fish—authentic bouillabaisse is a culinary experience that represents the soul of Marseille.

Marseille’s creative heart beats in Cours Julien, a vibrant neighborhood transformed from a former wholesale market into the city’s hippest district. This pedestrianized area is characterized by colorful street art covering nearly every available wall, independent boutiques, record stores, and an abundance of trendy cafés and bars. The nearby Place Jean Jaurès (known locally as La Plaine) hosts a bustling market on Thursdays and Saturdays, attracting a diverse crowd of locals from all walks of life.

Tucked beneath a large stone viaduct just south of the city center lies Vallon des Auffes, a tiny traditional fishing port that feels like a separate village preserved within Marseille. This picturesque cove with its colorful boats, fishermen’s cottages, and waterfront restaurants offers visitors a glimpse into old Marseille. The small harbor is still home to traditional wooden fishing boats called “pointus,” and some residents continue the fishing traditions that have defined this community for generations.

Often called the “belly of Marseille,” the Noailles Market is a vibrant, multicultural marketplace where the city’s North African influences are on full display. Located just steps from the Canebière (Marseille’s main avenue), this bustling area features narrow streets lined with spice shops, tea houses, bakeries, and produce stalls. The market offers an authentic sensory experience with its colorful displays, exotic aromas, and the animated calls of vendors. It’s the perfect place to purchase ingredients for a picnic or unique culinary souvenirs.

For a more contemporary shopping experience, Les Terrasses du Port offers an upscale mall with spectacular Mediterranean views. This modern shopping center near the cruise terminal features over 190 stores ranging from international brands to French designers, along with numerous restaurants and cafés. The highlight is the 260-meter-long rooftop terrace on the upper level, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean while relaxing with a drink or meal after shopping.

Just 30 minutes from Marseille by train lies Aix-en-Provence, a refined city of elegant boulevards, ornate fountains, and golden stone buildings. Often described as the Paris of Provence, Aix offers a sophisticated atmosphere with its tree-lined Cours Mirabeau, upscale boutiques, and vibrant café culture. As the birthplace of Post-Impressionist painter Paul Cézanne, the city celebrates its artistic heritage with several sites dedicated to the artist, including his preserved studio and walking routes to his favorite painting locations with views of his beloved Mont Sainte-Victoire.

The charming fishing village of Cassis, located just 20 kilometers east of Marseille, offers a perfect combination of natural beauty and Provençal charm. Its picturesque harbor lined with colorful buildings and outdoor restaurants creates a postcard-perfect setting. Cassis is famous as the gateway to some of the most spectacular calanques, with boat tours departing regularly from the port. The town is also known for its excellent white wines produced in vineyards surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs, creating a unique terroir that wine enthusiasts appreciate.