Marseille-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Explore the Old Port and Surroundings

Morning

  • Start your day at the Vieux-Port (Old Port), a bustling harbor filled with fishing boats, yachts, and restaurants.
  • Visit the Marseille Cathedral (La Major), a beautiful Catholic cathedral that offers stunning views of the city.

Afternoon

  • Head to the MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations), a modern museum that showcases the history and culture of the Mediterranean region.
  • Take a stroll along the Corniche, a scenic coastal road that offers breathtaking views of the sea.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Le Comptoir du Relais, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Provençal cuisine.
  • Stay overnight at Hotel La Residence du Vieux Port, a charming hotel located in the heart of the old port.

Tips and Insights

  • Be sure to try some fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants around the Old Port.
  • Take a guided tour of the MuCEM to get the most out of your visit.

Transportation

  • The Old Port is easily accessible on foot or by bus (lines 60, 80, or 82).
  • You can also take a taxi or ride-hailing service from the city center.

Day 2: Discover Marseille’s History and Culture

Morning

  • Visit the Château d’If, a historic fortress turned prison that inspired Alexandre Dumas’ novel “The Count of Monte Cristo”.
  • Take a short ferry ride to the Frioul Islands, a group of small islands with stunning beaches and clear waters.

Afternoon

  • Explore the Panier District, a charming neighborhood filled with narrow streets, quaint shops, and historic buildings.
  • Visit the Museum of Mediterranean Archaeology, which features an impressive collection of artifacts from the Mediterranean region.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at La Kahena, a trendy restaurant serving modern French cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
  • Stay overnight at Hotel Le Ryad, a stylish hotel located in the heart of the Panier District.

Tips and Insights

  • Be sure to book your ferry tickets to the Frioul Islands in advance, especially during peak season.
  • The Panier District is a great place to find unique souvenirs and local handicrafts.

Transportation

  • Take bus line 82 or 83 from the Old Port to the Château d’If.
  • From the Panier District, you can walk to most attractions or take a short taxi ride.

Day 3: Explore the Calanques

Morning

  • Take a guided hike in the Calanques, a series of narrow inlets and fjord-like bays that offer breathtaking views of the sea.
  • Stop at the Callelongue Beach, a secluded beach with crystal-clear waters.

Afternoon

  • Visit the Sormiou Calanque, one of the most picturesque calanques in the area.
  • Enjoy lunch at Le Cabanon du Sormiou, a rustic restaurant serving fresh seafood and local specialties.

Evening

  • Return to Marseille and enjoy dinner at L’Epuisette, a cozy restaurant serving Provençal cuisine with a focus on organic ingredients.
  • Stay overnight at Hotel 96, a modern hotel located near the Calanques.

Tips and Insights

  • Be sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring sunscreen, water, and snacks for your hike in the Calanques.
  • The Calanques can be crowded during peak season, so consider visiting early in the morning or later in the evening.

Transportation

  • Take bus line 40 from Marseille to the Calanques (get off at the Cassis or Sormiou stops).
  • You can also take a taxi or ride-hailing service from Marseille to the Calanques.

Day 4: Visit Nearby Aix-en-Provence

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Aix-en-Provence, a charming town known for its thermal waters, historic architecture, and cultural attractions.
  • Visit the Cours Mirabeau, a picturesque boulevard lined with cafes, shops, and historic buildings.

Afternoon

  • Explore the Mazarin Quarter, a historic neighborhood filled with narrow streets, beautiful fountains, and ornate doorways.
  • Visit the Atelier Cézanne, a museum dedicated to the life and work of Paul Cézanne, one of Aix’s most famous sons.

Evening

  • Return to Marseille and enjoy dinner at Le Bistrot de la Marine, a cozy restaurant serving Provençal cuisine with a focus on seafood.
  • Stay overnight at Hotel La Residence du Vieux Port (again!).

Tips and Insights

  • Be sure to book your train tickets from Marseille to Aix-en-Provence in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Take your time exploring Aix’s charming streets and alleys - it’s a great place to get lost!

Transportation

  • Take the train from Marseille Saint-Charles station to Aix-en-Provence station (approximately 30 minutes).
  • You can also take a bus or taxi from Marseille to Aix-en-Provence.

Other Tips and Insights

  • Marseille is a city with a rich history and culture, so be sure to take your time exploring its many museums, historic sites, and cultural attractions.
  • Don’t forget to try some of the local specialties, such as bouillabaisse (a hearty fish stew), tarte provençale (a savory tart), or navettes (small, sweet biscuits).
  • Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular tourist attractions, especially during peak season.