Marseille, France-travel-tips

Travel and Cultural Etiquette Tips for Tourists in Marseille, France

Greetings and Basic Phrases

  • Bonjour: Hello (good day)
  • Bonsoir: Good evening
  • Merci: Thank you
  • Au revoir: Goodbye
  • S’il vous plaît: Please
  • Excusez-moi: Excuse me
  • Pouvez-vous m’aider?: Can you help me?

Cultural Norms and Traditions

  • Respect the local pace of life: Marseille is a laid-back city, so don’t rush. Take your time to enjoy the atmosphere and food.
  • Dress modestly: Avoid revealing clothing, especially when visiting churches or mosques.
  • Remove your sunglasses indoors: It’s considered impolite to wear sunglasses inside shops, restaurants, or museums.
  • Keep public displays of affection low-key: While Marseille is a romantic city, excessive PDA (public displays of affection) may be frowned upon.

Food and Drink Etiquette

  • Mealtimes are sacred: Lunch is typically served between 12:00 and 14:00, and dinner between 19:30 and 22:00. Avoid eating on the go or in public areas.
  • Try local specialties: Marseille is famous for its bouillabaisse (fish stew), ratatouille (vegetable dish), and tarte provençale (savory tart).
  • Wine etiquette: When drinking wine, it’s customary to wait for the host to pour the first glass. Look your host in the eye when clinking glasses and say “À votre santé!” (To your health!).
  • Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated: Round up the bill or leave 5-10% in restaurants and cafes.

Interacting with Locals

  • Learn some French phrases: While many Marseillais speak some English, making an effort to communicate in French will be appreciated.
  • Be respectful of local customs: Avoid criticizing or making jokes about the city, its history, or its people.
  • Ask permission before taking photos: Especially when photographing people, markets, or cultural events.

Practical Tips

  • Get familiar with the city’s layout: Marseille is a large city with many hills. Wear comfortable shoes and plan your itinerary accordingly.
  • Use public transportation or walk: The city has an efficient bus and tram network, and walking is a great way to discover hidden gems.
  • Be prepared for crowds and lines: Popular attractions like the Old Port and Notre-Dame de la Garde can get busy.

Additional Tips

  • Respect the environment: Marseille is a coastal city with a rich marine ecosystem. Avoid littering, and choose eco-friendly transportation options when possible.
  • Stay safe: As with any tourist destination, be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas and at night.

By following these travel and cultural etiquette tips, you’ll be well on your way to having a respectful and enjoyable trip to Marseille, France. Bon voyage et bon séjour à Marseille!