Marseille, France-7-day-itinerary

Marseille 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

• Morning: Arrive in Marseille and check-in at Hotel Le Ryad or Airbnb apartments in the city center.
• Afternoon: Visit the Old Port (Vieux-Port), a historic harbor with beautiful views. Explore the surrounding streets and alleys, discovering local shops and cafes.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at Le Comptoir des Voyageurs, serving Provençal cuisine.

Day 2: History and Culture

• Morning: Visit the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations (MuCEM), a modern museum showcasing Mediterranean history and culture.
• Afternoon: Explore the Cathedral La Major, a beautiful Catholic cathedral with stunning architecture.
• Evening: Relax at Bar de la Marine, a cozy bar with live music and sea views.

Day 3: Beaches and Coastal Walks

• Morning: Head to Plage des Catalans, a popular beach with clear waters.
• Afternoon: Take a scenic coastal walk from the beach to the Calanque de Morgiou, a picturesque cove.
• Evening: Enjoy seafood at La Poissonnerie, a restaurant with fresh fish and stunning views.

Day 4: Markets and Shopping

• Morning: Visit the bustling Noailles Market, where you can find local produce, spices, and souvenirs.
• Afternoon: Explore the trendy Cours Julien neighborhood, known for its boutiques, art galleries, and street food.
• Evening: Dine at L’Escapade, a restaurant serving modern French cuisine.

Day 5: Château d’If and Frioul Islands

• Morning: Take a ferry to the Frioul Islands, a natural reserve with crystal-clear waters.
• Afternoon: Visit the Château d’If, a historic castle and former prison made famous by Alexandre Dumas’ novel “The Count of Monte Cristo”.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at La Villa des Oliviers, a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine.

Day 6: Outdoor Activities

• Morning: Go hiking in the Calanques National Park, a protected area with stunning landscapes.
• Afternoon: Rent a bike and ride along the coastal path, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
• Evening: Relax at Bar du Théâtre, a trendy bar with live music.

Day 7: Departure

• Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions.
• Afternoon: Depart from Marseille, bringing back memories of this beautiful Mediterranean city.

Things to Know

• Marseille is a hilly city, so be prepared for walking and taking public transportation.
• The city has a rich cultural heritage, with many museums, historical landmarks, and festivals throughout the year.
• Don’t forget to try some local specialties like bouillabaisse (fish stew), tarte provençale (a savory tart), and pastis (an anise-flavored spirit).

Transportation

• Marseille has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metro lines.
• You can buy a City Pass for unlimited access to public transportation and discounts on attractions.

Tips

• Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
• Learn some basic French phrases, such as “bonjour” (hello), “merci” (thank you), and “s’il vous plaît” (please).
• Don’t miss the stunning sunsets over the Mediterranean Sea.

Other Things to Do

• Take a cooking class to learn about Provençal cuisine.
• Visit the Marseille Soap Museum, dedicated to the city’s famous soap-making tradition.
• Explore the vibrant street art scene in the Cours Julien neighborhood.