Marseille, France-6-day-itinerary
Marseille Itinerary: 6 Days of French Riviera Charm
Day 1: Arrival and Old Town Exploration
- Morning: Arrive at Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) and take the shuttle bus or taxi to your accommodation.
- Accommodation: Stay in the heart of the old town at Hotel La Residence du Vieux Port or a budget-friendly option like Les Appartements de la Canebière.
- Lunch: Head to Café des Épices for a delicious Provençal lunch.
- Afternoon: Explore the old town, starting from the Vieux Port (Old Harbour) and wandering through the narrow streets to discover historic landmarks like the Cathedral of La Major and the Town Hall.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at Le Comptoir du Relais and take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront.
Day 2: Beaches and Coastal Views
- Morning: Start with breakfast at Café Plage des Catalans, overlooking the beach.
- Beach Time: Relax on the popular Plage des Catalans or head to the more secluded Plage du Prado.
- Lunch: Savor fresh seafood at La Boîte à Fruits de Mer.
- Afternoon: Take a scenic coastal walk from the beach to the Corniche, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.
- Evening: Enjoy a drink at Bar de la Marine and watch the sunset.
Day 3: Island Hopping and Snorkeling
- Morning: Take a ferry from the Vieux Port to the Île de Frioul, a protected nature reserve.
- Snorkeling: Explore the island’s crystal-clear waters and discover marine life at the Calanque de l’Évêque.
- Lunch: Picnic on the beach or grab a bite at Le Comptoir de la Marine.
- Afternoon: Visit the Château d’If, made famous by Alexandre Dumas’ novel “The Count of Monte Cristo”.
- Evening: Return to Marseille and dine at La Kahena, serving modern Provençal cuisine.
Day 4: Culture and History
- Morning: Visit the iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica, offering panoramic views of the city.
- Lunch: Grab a baguette at Boulangerie des Réformés and enjoy it in the nearby Parc Longchamp.
- Afternoon: Explore the Musée d’Histoire de Marseille, showcasing the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
- Evening: Enjoy a classical concert or opera performance at the Opéra de Marseille.
Day 5: Markets and Local Life
- Morning: Visit the bustling Marché Noailles, a North African-inspired market offering exotic spices, fabrics, and souvenirs.
- Lunch: Taste authentic Marseillais cuisine at Chez Toinou.
- Afternoon: Explore the trendy Cours Julien neighborhood, known for its street art, independent boutiques, and laid-back atmosphere.
- Evening: Join the locals at a traditional Provençal dinner at La Vieille Étape.
Day 6: Wine Tasting and Departure
- Morning: Visit the nearby town of Cassis, famous for its white wines. Take a wine tour and tasting at Domaine du Paternel.
- Lunch: Enjoy seafood at one of Cassis’ many waterfront restaurants.
- Afternoon: Return to Marseille and spend some time shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local neighborhood.
- Evening: Depart from Marseille Provence Airport, bringing back memories of your French Riviera adventure.
Transportation
- Airport Shuttle: Le Bus (€8.20) or Taxi (approximately €50)
- Public Transport: Use the Marseille Métropole bus and tram network to get around the city.
- Walking: Marseille is a walkable city, and exploring on foot is highly recommended.
Tips and Essentials
- Language: While many Marseillais speak some English, it’s always helpful to learn basic French phrases.
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Weather: Marseille enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters. Be prepared for sunny days and occasional rain showers.
- Safety: As with any city, be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
Other Interests
- Outdoor Activities: Hike in the Calanques National Park or take a boat tour to explore the Mediterranean coastline.
- Sports: Catch a football match at the Stade Vélodrome, home of Olympique de Marseille.
- Festivals and Events: Check the city’s event calendar for festivals like the Fête du Panier ( Basket Festival) or the Fiesta des Suds (World Music Festival).
Bon voyage et à bientôt à Marseille!