The oldest city in France- Five things you should not miss in Marseille

30.01.2023.

The second largest city in France was inhabitated already around 600 BC by the Greek settlers. The ancient port city is the vibrant capital of Provence region.

The Old Port represents the heart of Marseille, surrounded by many bars and restaurants. It’s a surprising fact that you can even visit some islands near Marseille.

This city is a colourful panorama of contrasts, of the shining spirit that belongs to cultural life. More than Marseille, you shouldn’t miss the chance to visit the Natural Park Les Calanques. These seaside canyons lead all the way from Marseille to the pretty town of Cassis. The views are fascinating and offer some of the most amazing hikes in France.

If you’re in Marseille, don’t hesitate to visit the charming Aix-en-Provence.

See also: The prettiest towns in Provence;

The Old Port, Marseille

You cannot miss the Old Port in Marseille, it’s the captivating centre of the city. It put the seeds to modern Marseille and has an authentic vibe.

Strolling around gives you the lovely views, especially having in focus the cathedral Notre Dame de la Garde. It can be seen in a majestic way just near the MUCEM Museum. Fort Saint Jean lies next to MUCEM being a favourite place of leisural walks to locals. It frames up the entrance of Old port with wonderful views. The Fort Saint Nicholas on the other side stretches on the southern entrance. Fort Saint Jean was built 1660 by Louis XIV. The militar history of Fort Saint Nicholas gives it a fabulous shine to its hilly location.

The fantastic experience arrives in the morning, when the small vendors sell the fresh fish. Old Port is quite vibrant and full of activities.

Visiting the traditional soap factory

Lovely shops around the Old Port offer the flavours of Provence, where giant soaps stand as a decor. The soap museum blends with the soap factory and shop. It’s the chance to make your own soap. Standing just at the corner from the Old Port it brightens up your visit to Marseille.

Starting with Pierre Bruna over the century ago this tradition continues it the marvelous way. You can testimony the history of soap, including the prehistory. Its frescoes are the charming invite to absorb the Provencal shine.

The unique story of soap belongs to the city Salon-de-Provence and the Febre family. If you have extra time, go visit their soap factory.

Le Panier, the old quarter of Marseille full of street art

Wandering around le Panier brings the soft vibes and definitely highlights the city. Following the Old Port to the hilly streets hides this ancient heart of Marseille. It stretches just above the Cathedral La Major and MUCEM Museum.

The narrow streets fill on the surface the tranquil shine and create the open-air museum. Le Panier shows the Marseille of the old times and demonstrates the power of the ancient city.

Just wander and admire the art. The colourful murals follow one another as you admire their humouristic side. Small caffes and lovely shops will give you a moment to relax.

History of Le Panier, Marseille

The Panier is the cradle of Marseille, when Greek inhabitants founded the city 600 BC. Massala was the original name of this district, which eventually became the Marseille. Its position on the hill just next to the city was the main reason. Agora had its exquite place on the place de Lenche and Acropolis was also here on the butte des Moulins.

Le Panier developed during the time and the principal building became the Vieille Charité. Its original purpose was to serve the poor citizens but eventually turned into a prison. Its housed the numerous homeless people of Marseille. La Vieille Charité is a cultural centre today with several museums and art galleries.

Mucem- National Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations, Marseille

There are many museums in Marseille but MUCEM  stands out thanks to its design and attractive purpose. The brifge next to the museum leads to the marvelous Fort Saint Jean.

It’s the first large museum dedicated to the Mediterrean, which exists from 2013. The Parisian Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions, after closing, transferred some its exhibitions here.

The Museum dives into the all aspects of Mediterrean cultures, including anthropology, archeology and art. It houses also an underground auditorium and restaurant on the top.

Notre Dame de la Garde

Notre Dame de la Garde amazes with the views that Marseille offers, specially at sunset. Sitting on a top a hill above the port, you can see the lovely islands around. Check out the wonderful views at this video.

It’s the symbol of Marseille, taking the role of basilica (not a cathedral). Cathedral de la Major is also pretty marvelous with the stunning interior.

An ancient fort is the basis of this popular Romanesque basilica. Basilica is very impressive inside, where mosaics and murals of the Byzantine style rule. An amazing statue of Mary (protector of the city) shines at the summit.

Taking the highest point in the city, the views are simply delightful.

Palais Lonchamp

Are you seeking a wonderful monument that just sparkles its elegance in Marseille? Head to Palais Longchamp, which is 30 minutes by foot from the Old Port.

It represents the oldest museum in France, Musée des Beaux-Arts (museum of fine arts). It also covers the Museum of Natural History.

Marseille in the past experienced the problems of water storage. To celebrate the solution ie. the Canal of Marseille this wonderful palace was build. River Durance became the main source of water.

The construction of the Palace started in 1839 but it took more than 30 years to finish. Museum of Fine Arts exists from 1801.

The Palais Longchamp is surrounded by majestic park, which once hosted a zoo. Central sculpture at the fountain Durance was made by Jules Cavelier.

What else to see in Marseille

Of course, don’t hesitate to discover the beaches of Marseille. Main city might not be the coziest one but it’s certainly refreshing. Plage de Catalan is about 20 minutes by foot from the Old Port. If you don’t prefer swimming here, volleyball is the popular activity. A Corniche follows the Plage de Catalan and it’s a more picturesque.

Island d’If with its castle is an incredible post to see the views, only 20 by boat from the harbour. It has very historical meaning due to the setting of Alexandre Dumas’s novel „The count of Monte Christo“.

Park Borely is an elegant and refreshing spot, close to Prado beach. It holds a title belonging to the Notable Gardens of France.

Aix-en-Provence is a lovely city that takes only 40 minutes by train. Take a chance to visit.

Final thoughts

Marseille definitely deserves the discovery beyond its Old Port. It’s a vibrant city with Provencal charm and historical treasure. Don’t miss the delightful Les Calanques as it’s one of the best seaside hikes. Loveliest beaches of Marseille hide here with the irresisteble allure.

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