Préfecture combines governmental grandeur with cultural richness in the heart of Marseille. This walkable district showcases impressive 19th-century administrative buildings alongside museums and historic architecture. The neighborhood hums with business activity on weekdays while offering peaceful exploration on evenings and weekends.
Stroll tree-lined boulevards to discover the Musée Cantini and Cathédrale de St Nicolas de Myre. Coffee houses and traditional Provençal bistros serve locals and visitors alike. The excellent metro connections make this a convenient base for exploring Marseille's waterfront and other attractions.
Notre-Dame du Mont buzzes with creative energy where colorful street art transforms walls into open-air galleries. This trendy Marseille neighborhood attracts artists with its bohemian vibe and multicultural spirit. Indie boutiques and hip cafés line the streets while diverse restaurants serve everything from Moroccan tagines to Provençal specialties.
Cours Julien forms the vibrant heart of the area's nightlife scene. Visitors can easily explore using the Notre Dame du Mont metro station. The neighborhood rewards those who wander its steep streets with panoramic city views and authentic cultural experiences.
The Old Port of Marseille whispers 2,600 years of history through its ancient streets and sun-kissed harbor. Founded by Greek settlers, this horseshoe-shaped waterfront showcases twin forts guarding the Mediterranean entrance. The daily fish market buzzes with local fishermen selling their fresh catches.
Stroll the pedestrian quays to watch colorful boats bob against the backdrop of limestone buildings with green shutters. Two metro stations make exploring easy while traditional restaurants serve authentic bouillabaisse. The nearby Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde basilica offers stunning panoramic views across this historic maritime neighborhood.
The ample dining options and captivating waterfront views are top of the list for many visitors to Opéra. A stop by La Canebiere or Marseille Opera House might round out your trip.
Belsunce is popular for its captivating waterfront views. Explore top sights like La Canebiere and Memorial De La Marseillaise, and you can get around town on the metro at Vieux-Port Station.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Marseille
Photo by Alma Jiménez Granados
Open Photo by Alma Jiménez Granados
Velodrome Stadium
8.6/10 (685 reviews)
The Orange Vélodrome, France's second-largest stadium, is home to Olympique de Marseille. Experience its wave-like roof and electric atmosphere during a behind-the-scenes tour of player tunnels and locker rooms.
Cassis Beach
8.8/10 (483 reviews)
This charming beach offers a perfect blend of fine sand and pebbles with stunning views of Cassis Castle and limestone cliffs. Swim in the turquoise waters before sampling fresh seafood at nearby Provençal restaurants.
Prado Beach
8.4/10 (421 reviews)
Marseille's Prado Beaches stretch over 3.5 kilometers of man-made coastline from 1970s metro construction. Enjoy sandy and pebbly shores for sunbathing or try windsurfing in this lively Mediterranean spot.
La Ciotat Beach
9.0/10 (60 reviews)
La Ciotat's beaches offer diverse coastal landscapes from sandy shores to secluded pebble coves with crystal-clear waters. Explore family-friendly Grande Plage or discover quieter spots like Arène Cros for snorkeling.
Photo by Pascal Guilbert
Open Photo by Pascal Guilbert
Cassis Harbour
9.0/10 (150 reviews)
The vibrant Cassis Harbour nestles between dramatic cliffs and azure Mediterranean waters, with colorful fishing boats throughout. Enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants as boats depart for Calanques tours.
Plan de Campagne
8.0/10 (227 reviews)
Europe's largest commercial zone offers diverse retail stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities. Visit weekday mornings for relaxed shopping amid international brands and local boutiques.
Catalan Beach
8.6/10 (357 reviews)
This sandy urban escape sits just minutes from Marseille's Old Port with fine sand and clear Mediterranean waters. Enjoy beach volleyball or take a refreshing dip before exploring the nearby city center.
What to do in Marseille
Marseille: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
"The place was comfy and clean with decent ac. However I did not get a room with a view, which is what I paid for and I felt like I was overcharged for what I got."
"Such a cool little hotel across from Marseilles train and metro stations. Great petite dejeuner in a courtyard. Perfect location to explore southern France. Incredibly helpful staff for this old lady."
"We got to Marseille at 1:30 am, this hotel is right by the train/bus station, loved it, super clean, spacious, everyone very helpful, the breakfast everything fresh and straight from the bakery, I wish we could’ve stayed longer, I will definitely come back to this hotel.
Mercí!"
"A great hotel even for solo travelers! It is perfectly situated in the middle of vieux-port, right next to a subway station line. The a/c is strong and the staff is nice and available 24/7. They offer breakfast at an additional cost."
"Staff was very nice and the AC worked great! Room was very clean but the lack of elevator specially if you are on the top floor is a dealbreaker since they are very old and each stair is almost inclined, not suitable at all for someone with disabilities"
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Plan de Campagne offers a vibrant shopping experience with a mix of business and entertainment, perfect for families. For a local flavor, visit Prado Market, known for its city vibes, or explore the unique offerings at the Santons Maryse Di Landro Museum for distinctive souvenirs.
Recreation
At Velodrome Stadium, immerse yourself in the vibrant sports atmosphere while enjoying various wellness activities. Golf Côte Bleue offers a serene outdoor setting for golf enthusiasts to relax and unwind. Meanwhile, La Halle de Martigues provides a lively entertainment vibe, perfect for enhancing your overall wellness experience.
Adventure
Sentier du Lézard offers stunning hiking trails surrounded by breathtaking scenery, perfect for adventure enthusiasts looking to explore Marseille's natural beauty. For water sports lovers, Expenature provides exhilarating activities that immerse you in the vibrant outdoor atmosphere. Lastly, Ecopark Adventures features thrilling zipline and ropes courses for an unforgettable adventure experience.
Nightlife
Marseille's nightlife is vibrant and diverse. Visit La Caravelle for stunning views and cocktails, then head to the lively Le Trolleybus for dancing and DJs. For a more laid-back vibe, try the cozy Bar des 13 Coins, where you can enjoy local wines and a friendly atmosphere.
Find the best attractions in Marseille
Marseille offers an exciting blend of outdoor activities, scenic views, and cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy beautiful beaches, explore historic streets, and admire stunning churches. Key attractions include the vibrant Vieux Port area, perfect for those seeking adventure and culture. Whether you're looking to relax by the sea or immerse yourself in the local heritage, Marseille has something for everyone.
Prado Beach: Experience the lively atmosphere of Prado Beach, where the sun, sand, and sea come together to create a perfect day at the shore. It's an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and beach sports, offering a vibrant coastal vibe that captures the essence of Marseille's seaside culture.
Borely Park: A family-friendly oasis in the city, Borely Park boasts beautifully landscaped gardens, playgrounds, and walking paths. Enjoy outdoor activities with loved ones or simply unwind in nature, all while soaking in the charming city vibes that make this park a beloved local retreat.
Calanque de Port Miou: Discover the breathtaking beauty of Calanque de Port Miou, a stunning inlet perfect for romantic getaways. With its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque scenery, it's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a serene beach experience.
Best time to go to Marseille
The best time to visit Marseille is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is sunny with no rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Marseille
Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Marseille.
Consider traveling to Marseille during the low season (December to February) for more affordable options.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.