Marseille, France’s vibrant port city, offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you have three days or five, here's a thoughtfully curated itinerary to help you explore the best of Marseille.
3-Day Marseille Itinerary
Day 1: Historical Heart & Old Port
Morning: Start your day at the Vieux-Port (Old Port), the heart of Marseille. Walk around the harbor, enjoy the atmosphere, and have a coffee at one of the local cafés. Visit the Musée des Civilisations de l'Europe et de la Méditerranée (MuCEM) and explore the exhibits on Mediterranean civilizations. Also, check out Fort Saint-Jean for panoramic views of the port.
Afternoon: Head to the Le Panier district, known for its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and street art. It's the oldest neighborhood in Marseille, and walking through it feels like stepping back in time. Visit La Vieille Charité, a historical monument now housing museums and cultural spaces.
Evening: Take a trip to Notre-Dame de la Garde, a basilica offering sweeping views of the city and the sea. Afterward, enjoy dinner in the Old Port area, where you can try traditional seafood dishes like bouillabaisse.
Day 2: Nature & Seaside
Morning: Take a boat trip to Château d’If, a fortress and former prison, made famous by the novel "The Count of Monte Cristo." Enjoy exploring the island and the stunning views.
Afternoon: Spend the rest of the day at Parc National des Calanques. You can either hike to Calanque de Sugiton or take a boat tour to admire the limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters.
Evening: Unwind at Plage des Catalans, a beach close to the city center. It’s a great place for a swim or just to relax by the sea.
Day 3: Culture & Relaxation
Morning: Start with a visit to Palais Longchamp, an architectural masterpiece that houses both the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the Natural History Museum. Spend some time in the park, enjoying the fountains and gardens.
Afternoon: Explore the Cours Julien neighborhood, known for its lively atmosphere and vibrant street art. It’s also home to many quirky boutiques, cafés, and galleries.
Evening: Take a walk along La Corniche Kennedy, a coastal road with scenic views of the Mediterranean. Have a relaxing dinner at one of the seaside restaurants.
5-Day Marseille Itinerary
Day 4: Day Trip to Cassis
Morning: Take a day trip to Cassis, a charming seaside town about 30 minutes from Marseille. Explore its picturesque harbor and enjoy the local atmosphere.
Afternoon: You can either take a boat tour of the Calanques de Cassis, which will give you a chance to see some beautiful rocky inlets, or hike up to Cap Canaille, one of the highest cliffs in the region, offering stunning views of the coastline.
Evening: Return to Marseille and enjoy dinner at a local bistro, reflecting on your day trip.
Day 5: More of Marseille
Morning: Visit the Cité Radieuse, a UNESCO World Heritage site designed by the famous architect Le Corbusier. It’s a striking example of modernist architecture and offers insight into the city’s urban development.
Afternoon: Head to the Orange Vélodrome, home to the Olympique de Marseille football team. You can take a guided tour of the stadium and learn about its history.
Evening: End your trip with a leisurely dinner at one of the restaurants overlooking the Old Port, where you can savor local dishes and enjoy the views.
Whether you’re here for three days or five, Marseille offers a blend of history, culture, nature, and relaxation that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
