France is a unique place of beauty in the world. Marseille is the oldest city in France. There are a lot of things to do in Marseille France. Going to this city, I got to see the mixed forms of history and tradition.
In my travel period, I have spent a lot of time in Marseille. The city of Marseille has been carrying the identity of history in the midst of the true beauty of France. A lot of things to do in Marseille for tourist satisfaction. Marseille stands on the France Marse a city rich in antiquity.
Today I will discuss this historical city of France with a full mix of my travel experience. In addition, I will highlight the five most popular tourist spots in the city and also mention a lot of things to do in Marseille France.
Table of Contents
ToggleMarseille France Map
Marseille is one of the most important cities in France. To the ancient Greeks and Romans, the city was Messalina. At that time, the city was one of the most important places in the region. The geographical challenges are very suitable to the nature in Marseille France map.
It was then the most important commercial area and the main commercial port of the French Republic. It is now the largest city in France on the Mediterranean coast and one of the largest ports for merchant cargo and cruise ships.
The city of Marseille is located in the south of France. It is located on the banks of the Rhone River. The locals are called Marseilles.
The total area of the city is about 240.62 square kilometres. More than 2 million people live in the city. It is the third most populous city in France.
It is believed that the city was founded in 600 BC. It is the oldest city in France as well as one of the oldest continuous settlements in Europe. Marseille France map is therefore known worldwide since ancient times.
After various colonial regimes, it became a thriving industrial and commercial city in the 19th century. The famous soap manufacturer brand “Marseille Soap” started its journey almost six centuries ago.
One of its ports, Maritime de Marseille, is still the national backbone of France’s maritime economy today. It remains the first French port and the fifth European port. Through this, cultural and economic exchanges with the woefully silent Middle East, North Africa and Asia have attained unique dimensions.
This city is called by many as the cosmopolitan city. The city has the third largest Jewish community in Europe, after London and Paris.
Since the early 20th century, various developmental projects have been launched here, further advancing the economic status of the city. Here are some types of luxury hotels that are recognized worldwide.
There are various world famous museums here. Where various important signs of ancient France are located. After Paris, the city of Marseille now has the largest number of museums in France. The city was named the European Capital of Culture in 2013 and the European Capital of Sports in 2017.
The city of Marseille is well known in the world of football. The city has a self-proud club. In the 1998 World Cup all the matches were organized in the month. The 1998 World Cup was a very glorious one for France in the pages of history. It is home to several higher institutions in the region, including the University of Aix-Marseille.
Top 5 places in Marseille France
1. The Old Port (Le Vieux-Port)
This port is located in the heart of Marseille on the main road and at the end of Canebière. It has been the main natural harbour of the city of Mars since ancient times and is now the main popular place of this ancient city. The location on Marseille France map is a very popular pedestrian area for tourists.
Now you may have questions about what things to do in Marseille old port? First of all you will get an idea of the importance of ancient European seaports here.
You will see the infrastructural sweetness of the country with the natural resources of the old port in Marseille France. In my personal travel experience I have experienced a very beautiful and charming environment. The place has a different vibe that will make your day even more beautiful.
2. Notre-Dame de la Garde
In English the place is known as Our Lady of the Guard. Also la bonne to the locals Mere is French for The Good Mother. It is a Catholic basilica in the city of Marseille. It is one of the most famous tourist spots in the city. According to various sites it is the most visited place in Marseille.
It stands like a fortress on the natural summit of the city of Marse. It is basically a 149m limestone cliff to the south of the Old Port. There are a lot of things to do in the basilica in Marseille France.
Construction of the basilica began in 1853 and its construction continued for more than 40 years. It has undergone many transformations over time which is noteworthy. The main planner of the massacre was Henri-Jacques Esporandeau. Its construction was completed in 1864.
I have rarely seen such a beautiful fort in my travel experience. In my opinion this fort is one of the best construction works in the world. Surrounded by trees and hills, the fort is another truly fascinating place for tourists. I really enjoyed visiting this place during my travel time in Marseille France.
3. Calanques National Park
Calanques National Park is a French national park located on the Mediterranean coast of Bouches-du-Ren in southern France. This picturesque park was established in 2012. It is one of the most important places in the city of Marseille.
It is spread over an area of 520 square kilometres of which 85 square kilometres is land and the rest is a marine area. Among the park’s best-known features are the Calanque de Somireau, the Calanque de Morgue, the Calanque de Port-Meau, the Calanque de Sugiton, the Calanqued’enVau and the Caves of Coscar.
This Seaside place is my favourite place. there are so many things to do in this place in Marseille France The mountains around with the clear sea water create fascination. Tourists can go hiking here. You can also swim in the enchanted mind.
4. Le Panier
It originally designated the district located in the arrondissement. It is divided into three administrative districts – Hôtel-de-Ville, Les Grands-Carmes and La Joliette.
This district is the oldest part of the historical settlement of the Greek colony Messalina. It’s destroyed buildings and alleyways have been revitalized and are now very popular tourist spots. Since the second half of the 19th century, it has become the gateway to various neighbourhoods and towns. In recent years, the tourism role of this place has increased significantly due to renovations and the establishment of cultural sites.
Very beautiful and traditional according to my world experience. There are a lot of things to do in this place in Marseille France. A tour of the place will give you an idea of the history of the area. Here is a composite mix of several townships. Hence, it is a must-visit place for travel-hungry tourists.
5. MuCEM( Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations)
It is a national museum located in Marseille. This important museum was inaugurated on 7 June 2013 as part of Marseille-Provence 2013. In 2015 it won the Council of Europe Museum Award.
Even a decade ago, it managed to receive a large number of tourists between 2013 and 2016. There are exhibitions on different important things at different times of the year. This museum is presented as an instrument of attraction of the metropolitan area of Aix-Marseille-Provence.
Tips for Things To Do in Marseille France
First thing I will say from my experience is the best time to visit. Mainly during Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October), the weather is very favourable and the crowd is less.
For which you can take advantage of metro or bus system. For more benefits you can purchase a transport pass for multiple days.
There are a lot of things to do in Marseille France. Food is one of them. You can try local sea food especially bouillabaisse. The dish you absolutely should not miss is calissons, a traditional Marseille sweet.
In old port, for a unique perspective, take a boat tour around the sea and admire the beautiful and traditional City and also the Skyline.
In case of visiting the Basilica of Marseille, please visit during sunset for a magical experience and capture standing photos.
In Le Panier, there are a lot of things to do. Clear all your safety issues in hiking and boating. Then also a thing that you can try some cuisines at a traditional restaurant.
In the MuCEM, your visit with a stroll along the waterfront promenade for a perfect afternoon. Buying museum tickets in advance can make your trip more enjoyable.
Today all of my conversations are about things to do in Marseille France. Then I try to discuss all things related to visiting this city. I hope this will help you to spend quality time in Marseille France. Marseille has been one of the tourist destinations on the France map since ancient times. By following my tips you can definitely make the most of your travel experience. Have a good trip to Marseille.