Marseille, France’s second-largest city, offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy. Known as the gateway to Provence, Marseille captivates visitors with its stunning seaside views, rich history dating back to its founding by Greek settlers over 2,600 years ago, and a thriving multicultural atmosphere that sets it apart from other French cities.
Not only is this city enchanting, in July and August of 2024, Marseille shined on the global stage as it hosted sailing and football events for the Paris Summer Olympics and Paralympic Games. Its natural harbors and state-of-the-art stadiums made it the perfect destination for showcasing athletic excellence against a backdrop of Mediterranean beauty.
From the bustling Vieux-Port (Old Port) to the serene calanques with their turquoise waters, Marseille is a city of contrasts and surprises, perfect for a once in a lifetime trip.
Where is Marseille?
Located at the junction of the Mediterranean Sea and the Rhone River, Marseille sits roughly 775 kilometers (480 miles) southeast of Paris and just 200 kilometers (125 miles) from the Italian border. The city enjoys a prime coastal position, making it a key port and gateway to Europe for centuries. Marseille’s location also provides easy access to the picturesque Provençal countryside, nearby cities like Aix-en-Provence, and the stunning Calanques National Park.
Marseille was founded by the Greeks in about 600 B.C. It soon turned into a major trading port and continues to fulfill a similar role today. It recently emerged as an international tourist destination and its neighboring villages provide travelers with countless places to explore and activities to experience.
What to Do in Marseille
It makes sense to start your tour of Marseille in the Vieux Port –full of old charm and steeped in its history as an ancient trading port. Nowadays the Old Port still lies at the heart of the city, where the manufacture of Marseille soap began some six centuries ago. You can also where you can find lots of wonderful cafes and restaurants.
The Vieux-Port is also home to Mucem, a museum of culture and civilizations that explains the history surrounding the Mediterranean.
Wander around the Le Panier district – a cool funky artsy area that is also one of the oldest neighborhoods in . You will find plenty of café-filled squares, bistros and unique boutiques.
Stretch you legs while making the climb up to the Basilica of Notre Dame de la Garde, which has been a long-standing symbol of the city as she presides high upon the hill overlooking the ancient city.
Where to Stay in Marseille
We recommend staying central, both in the Vieux Port area, La Canebière (a historic high street in the old quarter ), or Le Painer where, colorful murals adorn the narrow, hilly streets.
Our two favorite hotels:
Maison Montgrand
A charming concept boutique hotel in the heart of Marseille’s historic city center
Hotel Dieux, IHG Hotel – 5 star
set in a superb 18th century building in the historic quarter of Marseille, 350 metres from the Old Port
Where to Eat in Marseille
Since Marseille is a port city, seafood will be the name of the game. The most famous dish to eat is Bouillabaisse- a steaming bowl of fish soup with hints of saffron, garlic and fennel.
Café Simon: A great spot for local seafood with welcoming service.
Chez Loury: A well-known option for sampling the famous bouillabaisse.
La Boite a Sardines: Le Panier
Even if you don’t love sardines, this is an iconic spot in a trendy area. Don’t worry there are more options on the menu 🙂
Paris 2024 Olympic Events That Took Place in Marseille
In the summer of 2024, Paris hosted many Olympic events with a vast array of different sports, while Marseille hosted both sailing and football.
Olympic Sailing and Football in Marseille
Marseille hosted the Olympic sailing events and 10 matches of the Olympic football tournament. Marseille was the host of 12 days of sailing competition – from July 28 to August 8, 2024 – bringing together 330 athletes from 40 different nations. The football matches took place in seven of the largest stadiums in France including Paris, Marseille &, Nice (Jul 24-August 6th).
Travel directly to Provence for events in Marseille or do a combination Paris to Provence trip to get the full experience of what the 2024 Olympics had to offer!
Rent a Luxury Villa in Marseille
As the luxury property rental market has exploded worldwide, renting a villa has become the preferred choice for accommodations in Provence. Only Provence has the largest selection of luxury properties in the region.
Benefits of Luxury Villa Rentals
One of the many benefits of renting a villa is having a genuinely private yet authentic experience in Provence, complete with in-home chef services. Many of Only Provence’s villas are within walking distance from the best villages in the region.
Below are some of the few great benefits of a luxury villa over other traditional accommodation options:
- Personalized experiences such as private chefs and organized tours and activities
- Privacy and exclusivity
- A dedicated villa manager and staff
- A sense of feeling at home while staying in a private luxury villa
- Private luxury villas are ideal for groups of families or friends traveling together.
Other Inland Provence-Hilltop Villages, Lavender and Wine…
After a few days adventuring in Marseille, you will be ready to unwind in the peace and quiet of the countryside. Book a villa for a week (or two!) and enjoy all this beautiful region has to offer. There are two main areas to choose from when staying in inland Provence– either the Luberon (where you will find most of the hilltop villages) or the Alpilles which is as rich in history and offers unspoiled nature, pine forests, lavender fields and limestone mountains. The regions are about 45 mins from one another so easy to get from one to the other. Both are surrounded by vineyards and olive groves and have equal numbers of charming cafes, boutiques and restaurants.
Visiting Marseille is an unforgettable journey into a city where history, culture, and the sparkling Mediterranean converge. Whether you’re exploring its ancient streets, savoring its iconic cuisine, or soaking up its vibrant Olympic energy, Marseille offers something truly special for every traveler. Take the first step in your adventure and book a villa with Only Provence today!
