Lively Marseille in 10 tips
Tips for your city trip to Marseille
Hop onboard the train and discover the best sights for your city trip to Marseille with these ten tips.
The view from Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde
On a limestone hill, the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde proudly towers over the city. This basilica, with its very tall statue of the Holy Mary, is the eye-catcher of Marseille. The climb up is definitely wort hit because the view over the city, the old port and the islands off the coast is phenomenal.
Eating fish at Vieux Port
Don't miss the old port, Vieux Port, while staying in Marseille. Find a lovely terrace for the local speciality; bouillabaisse or fresh fish from the local fish market. The streets between the port and Opéra de Marseille are teeming with buzzing bars and clubs.
Art district Le Panier
Wander around picturesque little squares, past quaint restaurants and art studios, north of the port in the artists' quarter of Le Panier. In the oldest district of the city, the winding streets are richly decorated with street art. At the multicultural centre De la Vieille Charité, you can visit various museums and exhibitions.
Viewing street art in Cours Julien
Marseille's raw, multicultural character is most evident in the lively streets around the Cours Julien square. Colourful graffiti covers every available space, and you’ll be overwhelmed by the number of bars, record shops, markets and trendy boutiques.
The many restaurants serve meals with ingredients from all over the world.
Shopping in Les Docks Marseille
In a row of dilapidated warehouses by the harbour, you’ll find the shopping haven Les Docks Marseille. Since the huge building was completely renovated, it houses young French designers, art exhibitions, terraces and restaurants.
The trendy atmosphere, high glass ceilings and lots of greenery make these warehouses worth a visit.
An afternoon at beach Plage des Catalans
With all these cultural and culinary attractions, you’ld almost forget that Marseille is a genuine coastal city. A walk from the port takes you to the city beach Plage des Catalans, where you can spend a pleasant afternoon.
There are toilets, showers and a small kiosk with water, soft drinks and snacks.
Rooftop bar Les Bords de Mer
Conclude your beach afternoon with a provencal cocktail or a flavoursome French wine at the rooftop bar of the Hotel Les Bords de Mer.
From the panoramic terrace, you can watch the sun sink into the sea with a breathtaking view of the Frioul archipelago. The menu, with a lot of seafood, is a tribute to the sea.
Mediterranean with a twist at local bistro Coin Coin
A stone's throw away from the old harbour, you’ll find the local district bistro Coin Coin. The Mediterranean dishes on the menu are as fresh and exciting as the interior. Classic French cuisine is given a modern twist with fresh, seasonal produce. Brunch is also available on weekends.
Soak up culture in Friche la Belle de Mai
This former tobacco factory near Saint-Charles station has been transformed into a gigantic cultural breeding ground. On the La Friche website, you'll find a self-guided walking tour along with exhibitions, cafés, street art and a skate park. In the gardens, you can play boules, have a picnic or even a barbecue. Don't hesitate to spend a couple of hours here!
Spending the night at designer hotel Mama Shelter
You can stay in the centre of Marseille at Mama Shelter for an affordable price. This trendy hotel was designed by none other than top designer Philippe Starck. It's located near the Cours Julien. Expect a relaxed Mediterranean vibe, modern rooms with superheroes on the walls, a restaurant for breakfast, brunch and dinner and an actual cactus garden.
Travel easy and comfortable by train
From Amsterdam, you can reach Marseille in <!-- [tijd_amsterdam-marseille]--> hours. With TGV, you can travel to Marseille with a connection in Brussels-South (Midi) or Paris. In addition, you can take the direct Eurostar Sun every Saturday in July and August.
Read more about travelling to Marseille by train
Tips Marseille
Train to Marseille
Typical harbour town with many fish restaurants and relaxing atmosphere.
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