Marseille, France 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Historic Marseille

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café des École, located in the vibrant Panier district.
  • Visit the Notre-Dame de la Garde, Marseille’s most famous landmark, offering stunning views of the city and port.
  • Wander through the narrow, winding streets of the historic Panier District, taking in its charming architecture and local boutiques.

Afternoon:

  • Head to the Vieux Port (Old Port), where you can see the iconic Two Towers (Les Deux Fforts) and enjoy a seafood lunch at Restaurant 83 Provence.
  • Explore the modern Canebière boulevard, Marseille’s main thoroughfare, filled with shops, cafes, and street performers.
  • Visit the Palais Longchamp, an impressive 19th-century building housing museums of natural history and fine arts.

Evening:

  • Take a stroll along the Calanques coastline for breathtaking sunset views (note that access to the calanques may require a boat tour or hiking).
  • Dine at Le Petit Nice Passedat, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering Provençal cuisine with stunning sea views.

Day 2: Discovering Marseille’s Modern Side

Morning:

  • Start your day with breakfast at La Boîte à Bulles, known for its croissants and coffee.
  • Visit the MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations), located on the J4 fort, showcasing the history of Marseille and the Mediterranean region.
  • Take a guided tour of the CFPU prison (Palais de Justice), offering a unique glimpse into France’s penal system (reservations required).

Afternoon:

  • Head to the modern district of Euroméditerranée, where you can visit the Concorde shopping center or relax at the beach at Plage de la Catalans.
  • Enjoy lunch at Le Comptoir du Soir Thé à l’Étranger, offering a mix of Mediterranean and Asian flavors.
  • Visit the Jardin des Vestiges, an archaeological park showcasing the history of Marseille from its earliest days.

Evening:

  • Take a stroll along the modern waterfront, known as the Quai de Rive Neuve.
  • Dine at Chez Fonfon, offering traditional Provençal dishes in a lively atmosphere.

Transportation: Marseille has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and the metro (Métro de Marseille). Consider purchasing a multi-day travel pass for unlimited travel within the city.

Things to Know:

  • Marseille can be quite hilly, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some walking.
  • French is the primary language spoken in Marseille, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • Tipping is customary in restaurants and taxis (around 10%).

Tips:

  • Explore the city’s street art scene by taking a guided tour or downloading a map of notable murals.
  • Take a boat tour to explore the Calanques coastline or visit the nearby Château d’If, made famous by Alexandre Dumas’ “The Count of Monte Cristo.”
  • For a more local experience, consider renting an apartment in one of Marseille’s neighborhoods instead of staying at a hotel.