Marseille, France 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore the Heart of Marseille

  • Morning:

    • Start your day with a hearty French breakfast at Café des Écossais, a historic café in the Panier district.
    • Visit Notre-Dame de la Garde, Marseille’s iconic landmark, offering panoramic views of the city.
    • Explore the Panier District, the oldest neighborhood in Marseille, filled with narrow streets and beautiful old buildings.

  • Afternoon:

    • Head to the Vieux Port (Old Port), where you can enjoy a seafood lunch at Chez FonFon. Don’t forget to try bouillabaisse, a traditional Marseille fish stew.
    • Take a stroll along the port and visit the MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations). The museum is a modern architectural marvel overlooking the sea.

  • Evening:

    • Visit Les Calanques, a series of limestone inlets with crystal-clear water. You can take a boat tour or hike if you prefer.
    • Have dinner at Le Chantecler located inside the beautiful Château Borély. It offers a fine dining experience with views of the park and pond.

Day 2: Discover Modern Marseille

  • Morning:

    • Start your day with breakfast at your accommodation or try La Mère Brazier, one of the best restaurants in Marseille.
    • Visit the Centre Bourse, a beautiful Art Deco building housing shops and cafes.
    • Explore the Palais Longchamp and its surrounding park, home to two museums: the Museum of Natural History and the Decorative Arts Museum.

  • Afternoon:

    • Have lunch at Le Petit Nice Passedat, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering a delicious seafood menu.
    • Visit the Cantinière, a contemporary art museum, or the Musée des Beaux-Arts.
    • Relax at Plage de la Baguette, one of the city’s best urban beaches.

  • Evening:

    • Explore the trendy La Joliette neighborhood and have dinner at Le Petit Nice Passedat (if you didn’t for lunch). Alternatively, try L’Effet Papillon.
    • End your day with a drink at Le Corner, known for its rooftop views of the city.

Day 3: Day Trip to Aix-en-Provence

  • Morning:

    • Take a train from Marseille St Charles Station to Aix-en-Provence (approximately 30 minutes).
    • Explore the historic center of Aix-en-Provence, including the Place de l’Hotel de Ville and the Cours Mirabeau.
    • Visit the Musée Granet, which houses a collection of French Impressionist art.

  • Afternoon:

    • Have lunch at Les Deux Garçons, a historic restaurant that has been frequented by artists and intellectuals for centuries.
    • Take a stroll through the charming streets, visit the Fontaine de la Rotonde and the Eglise St-Jean-de-Malte.

  • Evening:

    • Return to Marseille and have dinner at La Cave du Vieux-Port, offering a variety of dishes in a cozy setting.
    • End your trip with a walk along the Vieux Port, enjoying the city lights and perhaps some live music.

Things to Know:

  • Marseille is a large city, so consider using the tram or bus system for getting around. You can purchase a Ticket Mobility pass for unlimited travel.
  • French is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • Tips are generally included in the bill at restaurants, but it’s customary to leave small change.
  • Marseille can be quite hilly, so comfortable shoes are recommended.