Marseille

Old-port mornings, calanque hikes & multiethnic markets

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Marseille is one of the most rewarding places to explore, and this local guide brings together the best things to do, where to eat and where to stay in one place. Highlights include Le Marche des Capucins (Noailles), Notre-Dame de la Garde and Vieux-Port. Food lovers should not miss Chez Fonfon and Chez Etienne. Below you will find 12 hand-picked local recommendations across sights, restaurants, hotels and tours, which you can filter by category and budget to plan the perfect trip, whether you have a weekend or a week.

Marseille at a glance

Ideal stay: 2 to 3 days
Best time to visit: spring and autumn
Highlights: Le Marche des Capucins (Noailles) and Notre-Dame de la Garde
Where to stay: Vieux-Port and Le Panier
Local picks: 12 hand-chosen recommendations
Getting around: walkable, plus easy public transport

Local tips for Marseille

Stories and neighbourhood know-how from our local guides.

Local tipsBest Things to Do in Marseille: A Local’s GuideThe best things to do in Marseille, chosen by locals: top sights, where to eat, where to stay and the…

Where to stay in Marseille

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Vieux-Port

Calanques Boat Tour

A boat cruise along the dramatic cliffs and coves of the Calanques.

★ 4.7

Calanques

Calanques National Park

Turquoise coves cut into white limestone cliffs south of the city.

★ 4.8

Bay

Chateau d If

The island fortress-prison of Monte Cristo fame, out in the bay.

★ 4.5

Le Panier

Chez Etienne

A legendary, cash-only Panier spot for wood-fired pizza and grilled meats.

★ 4.5

Vallon des Auffes

Chez Fonfon

A tucked-away harbour institution for classic Marseille bouillabaisse.

★ 4.5

$$$

Vieux-Port

InterContinental Marseille

A grand luxury hotel in the former Hotel-Dieu above the old port.

★ 4.6

$$$

Noailles

Le Marche des Capucins (Noailles)

Also known as the Noailles market, this is the most colourful – and cheapest – market in Marseille, where you can stock a week of fruit and veg for a handful of euros. The surrounding streets spill over with the scent of spices, pastries and North African specialities; don’t leave without trying a mahjouba, a tuna brick or a fricasse.

★ 4.4

Le Panier

The oldest quarter of Marseille, a tumble of ochre lanes and street art.

★ 4.5

Noailles

Marche des Capucins

The buzzing daily market of Noailles, the citys aromatic belly.

★ 4.4

Vieux-Port

MuCEM

A striking waterfront museum of Mediterranean civilisations.

★ 4.6

Garde Hill

Notre-Dame de la Garde

The golden-crowned basilica watching over the city from its highest hill.

★ 4.8

Vieux-Port

The ancient old port where fishing boats still land the mornings catch.

★ 4.6

Before you go

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Marseille travel FAQ

How many days do you need in Marseille?

Two to three days is enough to enjoy the highlights of Marseille at a relaxed pace.

Where is the best area to stay in Marseille?

Stay central and walkable to the main sights for a first visit.

What are the best things to do in Marseille?

Browse the local picks above, from top sights and museums to where to eat and stay. Or read our best things to do in Marseille guide.

What is the best time to visit Marseille?

Spring and autumn usually bring the most comfortable weather and thinner crowds, though Marseille is worth visiting year-round.