The district of “Le Panier”
Lose yourself in the Panier district, Marseille's oldest neighborhood, where the city's history began. Take the time to stroll through the narrow streets and admire the colors of Provence, but don't miss out on Marseille's emblematic Old Port, the city's liveliest landmark. Stroll along the harbor's large cobblestone quays and relax with a coffee on the terrace. You can also admire the ombrière, Norman Foster's mirror, a unique creation.
Cosmopolitan and authentic, Marseille is well worth a visit.
- How to get to The Panier District : By Tramway (Tram T2-T3) Station Place Sadi Carnot
The Abbey of Saint Victor
A visit to the Abbaye Saint-Victor and its crypts will immerse you in the city's religious heritage, and will offer you a breathtaking view of the Vieux-Port. As a matter of fact, its tower has been a landmark in the landscape for many Marseillais.
Not only can you enjoy the magnificent panorama, but you can also visit this monument that has shaped the history of Marseille, which is a veritable showcase of Paleo-Christian art. With its crypts, chapels and sarcophagi, you're sure to enjoy your visit.
- Address : Place Saint-Victor, 13007 Marseille
- Opening hours : The Basilica is open daily from 9am to 7pm, summer and winter. The crypts are open at the same times
- Rates : The visit of the Abbaye Saint Victor is free of charge. Crypt admission 2€, 1€ for groups of 10 or more
- How to get to Saint-Victor Abbey : By bus Saint-Victor stop (lines 54 and 81)
« Notre Dame de la Garde » basilica
An emblematic figure of the city of Marseille, she watches over sailors, fishermen and all Marseillais. During your stay in Marseille, pay a visit to the "Good Mother", as she is known in the city, and admire the panoramic view from the top of the hill. It can be seen from all four corners of the city, and faces the Mediterranean Sea in all its grandeur.
Thanks to its architectural beauty both inside and out, as well as its magnificent 360-degree view over the entire city, it is the most visited monument in Marseille. Accessible on foot or by tourist train, don't miss this must-see Marseille landmark!
*Proper attire is essential inside the Sanctuary.
For more information, please click here : « Notre-Dame de la Garde » Basilica.
- Address : Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde Rue Fort du Sanctuaire, 13006 Marseille
- Opening hours : The Sanctuary is open every day from 7am to 6pm
- Rates : Access to the sanctuary, buildings and terraces is free. Trunks are available in several places to receive any offerings you may wish to make, or you can leave them at the reception desk
- How to get to the Basilique : By bus no. 60 to the foot of the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde For timetables, visit www.rtm.fr, under "Getting around". By Le Petit Train: The "Notre-Dame de la Garde" Little Train takes you on a picturesque journey to the foot of the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde. Click here for details.
The « Vieux Port » (Old Port)
Enjoy an early-morning stroll to take in the first rays of sunshine reflected on the boats, the market with its many fishmongers, and the panoramic view of the port.
You can also enjoy the festive atmosphere of the Vieux-Port in the evening, famous for its fish market, boats, period houses in the background, and countless restaurants and cafés lining the quays.
- Address : Quai des Belges, 13001 Marseille
- How to get to the Vieux Port : By metro: Line 1, stop at Vieux-Port (Hôtel De Ville). It's an 8-minute walk / By bus : Line 41, 49, 82S, 83, 97, stop at Hôtel De Ville. It's a 4-minute walk / By ferry : The nearest ferry stop is Mairie. It's a 9-minute walk.
« Palais Longchamp »
The park has long been the ideal place for a quiet, relaxing stroll. It's not just a park, it was once a zoo, and this place is full of history.
You may not know it, but this historic monument houses a museum, an imposing waterfall with gargoyles and a field of flowers, as well as a go-karting area for children, puppet shows and pony rides.
The islands of Frioul and “Chateau d’If” (If Castle)
Take a boat trip to the islands of Frioul or If Castle, and discover the local flora and fauna, as well as a piece of the city's history, all perched on a rock. Take to the open seas for a real moment of escape, where you can see the crystal-clear waters, appreciate the seabed and explore the many relics of this archipelago.
Located in the Calanques National Park, they are now considered a Natura 2000 area by the European Union.
For more information, please click here : Frioul Islands & If castle
- Rates : The price is between 15€ and 40€
- How to get to the Island of Frioul and the If Castle : Careful: the ‘Château d’If’ is closed on Mondays. Ferry crossings provide seven days a week service to the Frioul archipelago. Regular departure from ‘Vieux Port’. Weather dependant. Click here for details.