The second-largest city in France, Marseille is also the oldest one and thanks to its location on the Gulf de Lyon, it is the ideal combination of French and African culture. The city is called the bridge between Europe and North Africa and it will charm you with its historic old town and gorgeous blue waters. You will not have a shortage of things to do when traveling to Marseille and some of the best places to visit are:
Old Port
For 2,600 years, the huge rectangular port in Marseille has been engaged in trading and it is an entire district, rather than just one sight. There are quays on three sides that have warehouses dating back to the 18th century. Almost all of them have a bar, fish restaurant or café on the ground floor and outdoor seating is offered, so you can enjoy the view.
La Panier
The Greek colony of Massalia was established here and the site has been inhabited as far back as 600 BC. As Marseille evolved, this part is where the immigrants opted to settle and you will find a large Corsican and Maghreb population even today. The district has stone stairways, ochre-colored walls and corridor-like, long streets. Once it was the poorest part of the city, but it has now become the trendiest with craft shops, cafes, boutiques and beautiful street art.
Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde
Just south of the Old Port, you will certainly not miss this monument that rises above the skyline. This church is located about 150 meters above water and can be traced as far as the 19th century. The neo-Byzantine structure boasts a statue of the Virgin and the Child. You can climb to the top and enjoy some jaw-dropping views.
MuCEM
Launched in 2013, this cutting-edge museum has breathtaking architecture and revived some of the waterfront in Marseille. As far as the contents within are concerned, they can be a bit hard to describe because MuCEM gives an overview of Mediterranean culture, which includes historic artefacts, photography exhibitions and art.
La Plaine and Noailles
If you want to experience the day-to-day life in the city of Marseilles, these are the two neighborhoods to visit. Noailles is where Africans came to settle and it is a chaotic and scruffy market that offers you delicious food. La Plaine, on the other hand, is a bit trendier and you will find bars and stylish boutiques to explore.
Ready to visit Marseille? You can find good packages at VACATIONING EUROPE to plan your trip to this wondrous city.