Marseille 5 Day Itinerary

Marseille 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Explore the Vieux Port (Old Port)

  • Check-in at your accommodation. Recommended areas to stay: Le Panier, Santa-Maria, or the Vieux Port. (e.g., Hotel Les Arts, Hotel Le Vieux-Port, or Airbnb)

  • Start your day with a traditional French breakfast at Café des Épices in the vibrant Le Panier district.

  • Visit the Vieux Port: Stroll around, take in the views, and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the numerous waterfront restaurants like Chez FonFon.

  • Explore the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations (MuCEM) and the Fort Saint-Jean located on the opposite side of the Vieux Port.

  • End your day with a sunset walk along the Corniche Kennedy, offering stunning views of the city and the sea. Have dinner at Le Frioul, serving Provençal cuisine.

Day 2: Discover Historical Landmarks & Le Panier

  • Begin your day with breakfast at Maison Tavagne in Le Panier district.

  • Visit the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, Marseille’s most iconic landmark, for a panoramic view of the city.

  • Explore the winding streets of Le Panier, the city’s oldest district, with its charming houses and artisan workshops.

  • Lunch at La Tête de l’Art offering Provençal specialties in a cozy atmosphere.

  • In the afternoon, visit the Canebière - Marseille’s main street lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings.

  • Dinner at Le Petit Nice Passedat, a Michelin-starred restaurant overlooking the sea.

Day 3: Island Hopping & Relaxation

  • Have breakfast at your accommodation or grab something quick from a bakery.

  • Take a boat tour to explore the Frioul Archipelago, home to beautiful beaches, historic fortifications, and rich marine life. (e.g., Navette Bateau)

  • Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beaches of Château d’If or Rat Island.

  • Return to Marseille for dinner at Chez Georges, a seafood restaurant with a lively atmosphere.

Day 4: Explore Modern Art & Provencal Villages

  • Breakfast at your accommodation or try La Boucherie de Famille in Le Panier.

  • Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art (MuCEA), dedicated to contemporary and avant-garde art.

  • Take a day trip to the charming Provencal villages: Château des Baux-de-Provence, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. (Consider renting a car or joining a guided tour.)

  • Dinner back in Marseille at La Regalade Plage, offering Mediterranean cuisine with sea views.

Day 5: Local Markets & Farewell

  • Breakfast at your accommodation or try Le Méridien.

  • Visit the Les Posses Market for fresh produce, flowers, and local delicacies. (Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays)

  • Spend the morning exploring the Palais Longchamp, home to the Natural History Museum and the Decorative Arts Museum.

  • Lunch at Chez Omar, a popular North African restaurant near the Bourse.

  • In the afternoon, relax, shop, or sightsee before your departure.

Transportation: The best way to get around Marseille is by foot or public transportation (buses and trams). Consider purchasing a City Pass for unlimited travel on these modes of transport.

Tips & Things to Know:

  • Learn a few basic French phrases for smoother interactions with locals.
  • Always carry water with you, as temperatures can rise during summer.
  • Marseille is a lively city, particularly in the evenings, so take care when walking around after dark.
  • Try local specialties like bouillabaisse (fish soup), socca (chickpea pancake), and salade niçoise (salad).