Marseille 4 Day Itinerary

Marseille 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Exploring the City Center

Arrival: Fly into Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) or train station. Consider getting a Navigo Week Pass for unlimited public transport in the region during your stay.

Check-in: Check into your hotel, such as Hotel Mériadec, located in the heart of Marseille’s historic district and close to many attractions.

Lunch: Head to Le Petit Nice Passedat for a Michelin-starred lunch, overlooking the Mediterranean (booking in advance is essential). Alternatively, grab a quick bite at Cours Julien, a vibrant neighborhood with plenty of street food and casual eateries.

Afternoon: Visit the iconic Vieux-Port (Old Port) and its surrounding area, including Notre-Dame de la Garde, the city’s most famous landmark, offering panoramic views of Marseille.

Evening: Stroll through the bustling Canebière, the main street in Marseille, and grab dinner at Chez FonFon or Le P’tit Bac, both offering traditional Provençal cuisine.

Day 2: Exploring the Islands & Aix-en-Provence

Morning: Take a ferry from Vieux-Port to Château d’If, a fortress island located just off Marseille’s coast. The site was immortalized by Alexandre Dumas in “The Count of Monte Cristo.”

Lunch: Have lunch on the island or return to Marseille and grab a meal at La Boucherie du Palais, a popular seafood restaurant.

Afternoon: Hop on a train (approx. 30 min) to nearby Aix-en-Provence, known for its elegant fountains, cobblestone streets, and historic architecture. Wander through the Cours Mirabeau, visit the Cathedrale Saint Sauveur Aix-en-Provence, and explore the charming streets filled with art galleries, boutiques, and cafes.

Evening: Return to Marseille for dinner at Mère Bruno, a beloved institution in Marseille known for its hearty Provençal dishes.

Day 3: Museums & Modern Art

Morning: Visit the MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations) and the nearby Fort Saint Jean, which houses temporary exhibitions and offers stunning views of the Old Port.

Lunch: Have lunch at Le Garage or Maison Emma, both offering contemporary French cuisine in trendy settings.

Afternoon: Explore the Palais Longchamp and its museums: the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Marseille and the Museum of Natural History.

Evening: Stroll through the Panier district, one of Marseille’s oldest neighborhoods, and dine at Café des Épices or Chez Michel, both offering traditional Provençal cuisine in cozy settings.

Day 4: Relaxation & Departure

Morning: Spend your last morning relaxing at one of Marseille’s beaches, such as Plage des Catalans or Calanque de Sormiou.

Lunch: Have a final meal at Le Bistro du Port or Chez Fonfon, both offering stunning views of the Old Port and delicious Provençal cuisine.

Afternoon: Depart from Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) or train station, with fond memories of your time in Marseille.