Marseille is where Mediterranean charm meets urban cool. Stunning beaches, buzzing streets, mouth-watering food, and a vibe that’s uniquely French—it’s a city you’ll fall for instantly.
Marseille, France’s oldest city, is a cultural melting pot. Greek, Italian, North African, and French influences have shaped its food, music, and style. The port town vibe mixes perfectly with cutting-edge architecture, vibrant street art, and breathtaking coastal views. From sun-soaked beaches to limestone cliffs, Marseille is a holiday that never gets boring.
Fast Facts for Easy Travel
Flying to Marseille from the UK is easy – most flights land at Marseille Provence Airport in just under 2 hours. From there, it’s around a 30-minute transfer to the city centre.
When it comes to booking, you’ve got options. easyJet offers full package deals with flights, hotels, and transfers all sorted, no stress. On The Beach is perfect for flexible payments and a huge range of hotels. Whichever you choose, it’s stress-free with plenty of options!
Memories in the Making
The heart of Marseille is Vieux-Port (Old Port). Cafés, seafood restaurants, and gorgeous sea views make it the perfect spot for a morning coffee or evening meal.
Nature lovers will adore Calanques National Park. Dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden beaches, and crystal-clear waters make hiking, kayaking, or cliff-jumping an absolute must.
You can’t miss Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, perched high on a hill with panoramic city and Mediterranean views. Sunset here is next-level magic.
Foodies will want to try Bouillabaisse, Marseille’s famous seafood stew, ideally with garlicky rouille. Markets like Marché des Capucins are packed with olives, cheeses, and spices, while Michelin-starred restaurants like Le Petit Nice elevate seafood to art. For a quick snack, grab a panisse (chickpea fries) or navette (orange blossom biscuit). Don’t forget some pastis on a terrace with sea views.
Le Panier is the artsy district you’ll want to wander. Street art, galleries, and cafés make it a colourful, Instagram-ready stroll.
Beaches & Hidden Gems
Marseille’s beaches suit all vibes. Plage Escale Borely is great for sailing and windsurfing. Families can enjoy the safe, shallow beaches at Cassis, while adventurers can hike to d’En Vau and leap into turquoise waters.
Hidden spots like small coves in the Calanques give peace, quiet, and seriously photo-worthy views. For sunset, the Capellans Beach viewpoint is unbeatable.
If you can tear yourself away from the Old Port or the beach, Marseille has plenty of adventures:
Take a boat to the Calanques for swimming, kayaking, or just chilling on hidden beaches. A day trip to Cassis offers vineyards, coastal views, and charming streets for wine lovers.
For history buffs, Château d’If is a must-see. Famous from The Count of Monte Cristo, it’s a fun boat ride and adventure for all ages.
Love animals? La Barben Zoo has 700+ creatures and a great day out for families, only a 45 minute drive. Parc Borély is perfect for picnics, cycling, or renting pedal boats.
Groups and friends can try hiking in the Calanques, pastis tasting tours, or a football game at Stade Vélodrome. At night, Cours Julien is buzzing with bars, live music, and DJ sets, or head to a beach club for cocktails with a sea view.
For something unforgettable, take a full-day Provence tour from Marseille. You’ll explore Avignon (the ‘City of Popes’), pop into the Popes’ Palace, sample wines in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and admire medieval villages like Les Baux de Provence. It even includes a stop at the UNESCO-listed Pont du Gard.
Foodies can dive straight into a Marseille Old Town food tour, with 7 Provençal tastings and lunch in a historic sailor’s hangout. Think cobbled streets, sizzling aromas, and culture mixed with flavour. Got a sweet tooth? Try the Pastry & Chocolate Food Tour, a guided stroll from the Old Port to Le Panier with 6+ tastings—navettes, artisan chocolates, flaky pastries, and a few secret bites your guide will surprise you with.
Want something more adventurous? Hop on a Frioul Islands boat trip from the Old Port. In just two hours you’ll cruise along the coast, stop to swim in clear waters, and explore the Frioul Archipelago with views of Château d’If.
For an exclusive day out, book the Underwater Scooter Adventure. You’ll sail privately to hidden coves like Ratonneau and Morgiret, then glide underwater with an electric sea scooter—a silent, eco-friendly way to explore Marseille’s marine life. It’s pure magic and only offered in very small groups.
Or, if you’d rather see the city itself, take a half-day Marseille highlights tour. You’ll cover all the big names: Major Cathedral, Mucem, Le Panier, Longchamp Palace, Vieux Port, Abbaye Saint Victor, and finish with panoramic views at Notre-Dame de la Garde.
Nightlife & Food
Marseille’s nightlife is lively year-round. Summer is outdoors with terraces and bars spilling into streets, while winter is all about cozy indoor venues. International DJs love the city, and beach clubs keep the party going.
Food-wise, Marseille is a dream. From fresh seafood and Bouillabaisse to street treats like panisse and navettes, you’ll be spoiled. Sip pastis, eat at a Michelin-starred restaurant, or enjoy casual tapas by the Old Port.
Handy Hints & Local Tricks
Bring water shoes for pebbly coves.
Book boat trips to Calanques in advance.
Stay hydrated—pastis is tasty but not a substitute for water.
Some shops close for Sunday siesta; bars stay open.
Learn a few French phrases—locals love a “merci.”
Suncream, hats, and cold drinks are essential for coastal walks.
ATMs in tourist areas have high fees—plan ahead.
Getting Around
🚌 Buses – Cheap, reliable, and air-conditioned for trips around Marseille.
🚋 Trams & Metro – Quick access across the city.
🚖 Taxis & Uber – Easy to find; agree on price or check the meter.
🚶 Walking – Best for Old Port and Le Panier.
🚲 Bikes & Boat Tours – Ideal for exploring Calanques.
Marseille is the full package: beaches, culture, food, and adventure all in one. Whether you’re after lazy beach days, foodie exploration, or adrenaline-fuelled adventures, Marseille has it all. Book it, pack your sunnies, and get ready for a holiday you won’t forget.
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