Marseille France 4 Day Itinerary

Marseille, France: A Four-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Old Port (Vieux-Port) and Notre-Dame de la Garde

  • Morning: Start your day with a hearty French breakfast at Cafe des Épices, located near the Vieux-Port.
  • Mid-Morning: Visit the Old Port (Vieux-Port), stroll around the docks, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Don’t forget to visit the Abatteau market for fresh produce and local delicacies.
  • Lunch: Try Bouillabaisse, a traditional Marseille fish soup, at Chez FonFon.
  • Afternoon: Take a guided tour of the Panier district, the city’s oldest neighborhood, to learn about its rich history and culture. Visit the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations (MuCEM).
  • Evening: Climb up to Notre-Dame de la Garde, Marseille’s most iconic landmark, for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Have dinner at Café de la Platte, a charming restaurant with views of the cathedral.

Day 2: Island Hopping and Modern Art

  • Morning: Hop on a ferry from the Old Port to Frioul Islands. Enjoy the beaches, explore the fortifications, and spot the local Chabot seals.
  • Lunch: Have lunch at Le P’tit Grec on the islands or head back to Marseille for a meal at Pastis, known for its Provençal cuisine.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Modern Art Museum (Museum of Contemporary Art, Marseille - MAMCO) and the Foundation Vasarely, showcasing works by Victor Vasarely and other contemporary artists.
  • Evening: Spend your evening at Le Cours Julien, a bohemian district filled with street art, cafes, and bars. Try a cocktail at Café de la Nuit.

Day 3: Aix-en-Provence & Château D’If

  • Morning: Take the train to Aix-en-Provence (approx. 1 hour from Marseille). Stroll through Cours Mirabeau, visit Paul Cézanne’s studio, and explore the city center.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of Aix-en-Provence’s many charming cafes or restaurants.
  • Afternoon: Return to Marseille in the afternoon and head to the Château D’If, made famous by Alexandre Dumas’ novel “The Count of Monte Cristo.” Take a guided tour if available.
  • Dinner: Have dinner at Le Petit Nice, a Michelin-starred restaurant with stunning sea views.

Day 4: Le Corbusier & Exploring the Cité Radieuse

  • Morning: Visit the Canebière, Marseille’s main boulevard, and explore the architecture of Le Corbusier, including the Cité Radieuse and the Unite d’Habitation.
  • Lunch: Have a casual lunch at Le Bistrot de l’Épicerie in the Cité Radieuse or Les Trois Mousquetaires, known for its Provençal dishes.
  • Afternoon: Spend your afternoon exploring Marseille’s lesser-known districts, such as Les Grousses and La Joliette, for a more authentic local experience. Visit the Cathedral of Major de la Marine and enjoy the street art.
  • Dinner: End your trip with a farewell dinner at La Cave des Tanneurs, a cozy wine bar with a wide selection of French wines.

Things to Know:

  1. Marseille’s public transportation system includes trams, buses, and the metro. The city also has an extensive network of bike lanes.
  2. While English is spoken in many tourist areas, it’s always helpful to know a few basic French phrases.
  3. Marseille can be quite hilly, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring.
  4. Remember to tip approximately 10% in restaurants.
  5. The best time to visit Marseille is from May to October when the weather is warm and sunny.

Tips:

  1. Take a boat tour to see Marseille from the water, especially during the golden hour for stunning photos.
  2. Try the local Pastis liqueur, a popular apéritif in Marseille.
  3. Don’t forget to sample Marseille’s delicious socca, a chickpea crepe unique to the region.