Tour
7,3 km
3h00
25 audios
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Care for a pastis and a bit of sunshine? Welcome to Marseille, one of the oldest cities in France! When it comes to aperitifs, Marseille knows its stuff… With an average of 300 sunny days a year, this Mediterranean gem is calling your name. Don’t wait any longer to visit it! Founded in 600 BC as “Massalia”, Marseille boasts a rich history. On this tour, we’ll be exploring its Old Town, nicknamed the Phocaean City. Let the echoes of history guide you through the historic neighborhoods and then head for the iconic Old Port that draws countless visitors every year. Whether you are a fan of the “Olympic de Marseille”, the city’s legendary football club, or a petanque enthusiast, this city has all that and more to offer!
Located on the Canebière Avenue, the Palais de la Bourse, like most of the city's monuments, dates back to the Napoleonic era. It was inaugurated in 1860 in the presence of Napoleon III himself! Its imposing dimensions and spectacular façade hint at the wealth of the Phocaean city. Read more
On your right, there’s the archaeological site of the Ancient Port, home to the remains of the city of Massalia, founded by the Greeks in 600 BC. This exceptional site was unearthed in 1967 during archaeological excavations, Read more
Check out the building on your right! It's actually the oldest house in all of Marseille. They call it the Hôtel de Cabre because it was built by a Marseille merchant of the same name, way back in the 1500s! Read more
This Town Hall stands where the old 13th-century City Council building used to be. It’s one of the few buildings in the district to have survived World War II. Dating back to the 17th century, Read more
You are currently walking in the oldest district of Marseille, and one of the oldest in France! The Greeks settled here as early as 600 BC; you see, they chose this spot for its hilltop location and its proximity to the sea. Read more
This street, full of graffiti of all kinds, is a testament to the importance of street art in the city. It’s right in the Panier district, where you'll find a multitude of artistic works spray-painted on walls, Read more
Tucked away at the very end of the charming Pistoles Square, you’ll find the “Vieille Charité”, the city’s former almshouse. It’s hard to miss; you see, it stands out as one of the city's main historic buildings! Read more
Breathtaking, isn’t it? This magnificent cathedral stands as a symbol of the city’s power. Unlike most French cathedrals, this one was actually built in the 1800s. It's actually a rebuild – there used to be an older cathedral here, known as the the Old Major (La Vieille Major), Read more
This little neighborhood square oozes southern charm, with cafés and restaurants opening onto wide terraces in the summertime! Believe it or not, this was once the heart of the ancient Greek city of Massalia, which stretched out all around what's now known as the Panier district. Read more
Picture this: more than 2,600 years ago, the Phocaeans landed here and founded the city of Massalia, which is now one of the three largest cities in France. The port of Marseille has a history spanning 26 centuries! No wonder it's a favorite hangout for locals and a must-see for visitors from all over the world. Read more
Marseille’s Old Port also offers a breathtaking view of the Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde Basilica. This iconic landmark, nicknamed "the Good Mother" by the locals, stands tall on a hill, watching over the city at a whopping 157 meters high. Read more
You’ve just entered Marseille's 1st arrondissement. From where you’re standing, you can spot the Saint-Ferréol Church right at the corner across the docks. It stands out with its bright white Neo-Baroque façade, all elegant and ethereal by the water. Read more
Who would have thought? A modern marvel right at the heart of one of the oldest neighbourhoods in France! This mirrored sunshade was designed by British architect Norman Foster in 2013, so strollers can rest and escape the scorching heat. Read more
Let's face it, Marseille soap is iconic. In fact, on your left, you’ll find the world-famous Soap Museum, a true emblem of the city. You see, soap has been used in France for many centuries. As far back as Antiquity, the Gauls crafted their own soap, combining animal fat and ashes. Read more
From here, through the fence on your right, you have a great panoramic view of the city and the Old Port. But that's not all! Look further out to the left and you'll see a stunning palace with an orange roof overlooking the sea - that's the Pharo Palace. Read more
The striking building before you is the Saint-Victor Abbey, visible even from the Old Port. Founded back in the 5th century, this historic edifice draws on both Romanesque and Gothic styles. Read more
Forget the sights for a moment! This walk down the Boulevard de la Corderie is the perfect opportunity to talk about the mouthwatering food scene of Marseille and the many delicious specialties that the city has to offer. Read more
If you’re learning French, Marseille’s accent might not be the easiest to start with. Throw in all their unique expressions and slang, and things can get confusing fast! Read more
Here you are on this beautiful pedestrian square, designed by urban planner Charlie Bové and inaugurated in 1989. It’s named after World War II hero Honoré d'Estienne d'Orves, a French navy officer and Resistance martyr. Read more
Located in the 1st arrondissement, the Marseille Opera House was built between 1786 and 1787 in a classical architectural style. Monsieur de la Tour, Intendant of Provence, laid the foundation stone and sent his very own troupe to perform Read more
You're now entering the city's most colorful district. Cours Ju, as the locals call it, doesn't boast any historic monuments or pretty views over the city. Yet it’s a street bursting with colour, with murals on practically every wall. Read more
Introducing the Palais des Arts, the work of architect Henri Esperandieu, who also designed the Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde Basilica. The building now hosts concerts and exhibitions, having long housed the municipal library and the School of Fine Arts. Read more
Welcome to the Capuchins’ Marketplace Square, located at the heart of the Noailles district. As its name suggests, it’s home to a farmers' market where some twenty producers sell their fruits and vegetables at unbeatable prices. Read more
Can't talk about Marseille without mentioning the Canebière, right? I’m sure the word rings a bell, for most of you at least. For those not in the know, it's a very famous avenue. Its name comes from the Provençal word "canebe", meaning industrial hemp, Read more
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Et la célèbre Basilique Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde, me direz-vous ? Bien qu’elle ne fasse pas partie de cette visite à cause de son emplacement éloigné, elle reste un immanquable de la ville de Marseille, je vous conseille vivement d’aller la visiter. Située un peu plus au sud du Vieux-Port, elle reste accessible en une trentaine de minutes à pied et vaut le détour ! Vous découvrirez un monument à l’architecture magnifique, à l’histoire chargée et qui offre une vue spectaculaire sur Marseille. L’entrée dans la basilique est gratuite. Vérifiez bien les horaires d’ouverture avant d’y monter.
On l’aperçoit depuis le Vieux-Port, le palais du Pharo est un somptueux bâtiment construit à la demande de Napoléon III, qui souhaitait en faire la résidence de son épouse, l’impératrice Eugénie. Mais Napoléon ne verra jamais la fin des travaux, car il est achevé en 1871, juste après la chute de l’Empire. Transmis à la ville, il devient alors l’école de Médecine, puis le siège de l’université d’Aix-Marseille. Il sert aujourd’hui d’espace de réception pour la ville. Le bâtiment ne se visite pas, mais vous pouvez accéder à ses jardins pour profiter de la splendide vue qu’il offre sur le Vieux-Port.
Après cette jolie balade le long du Vieux-Port et le quartier du Panier, je vous conseille d’aller faire un tour au grand parc balnéaire du Prado, où vous attendent plages et espaces verts pour un après-midi de détente et de baignade. De nombreuses activités sont également possibles sur place : sports nautiques, skateparc, ou encore volley et foot. Si vous cherchez une plage plus proche du centre-ville, vous pouvez vous rendre à la plage des Catalans, qui n’est pas très grande, mais pratique pour se baigner à deux pas du Vieux-Port.
Pour ceux qui recherchent plutôt un espace vert, direction le parc Borély. Vous découvrirez un très beau jardin botanique et une bastide du XVIIIe siècle, le château Borély, qui abrite le musée des Arts décoratifs, de la Faïence et de la Mode. Un très bel espace de 17 hectares, idéal pour se balader après une journée de visite !
S’il vous reste un peu de temps sur place, je vous conseille d’aller admirer le somptueux Palais Longchamps et son architecture unique, situés à une trentaine de minutes à pied du Vieux-Port, ou de visiter le Musée des Civilisations de l’Europe et de la Méditerranée, premier musée national consacré à la Méditerranée. Amoureux du sport, n’hésitez pas à aller visiter le fameux stade Orange Vélodrome et découvrir son concept moderne et avant-gardiste. Pour ceux qui préfèrent l’architecture, n’oubliez pas de passer devant la Cité Radieuse Le Corbusier, bâtiment surprenant au concept architectural unique et ultramoderne !
S’il vous prend une envie de naviguer sur la mer, montez dans une navette maritime qui vous mènera jusqu’aux superbes îles du Frioul et au château d’If, pour une visite historique au cœur des eaux méditerranéennes ! Et bien évidemment, ne manquez pas les incroyables calanques, qui se situent plus au sud du centre historique et dévoilent des paysages uniques ! Profitez-en pour découvrir Cassis et son charmant port.
Pour une virée spectaculaire, rendez-vous sur la route des Crêtes, qui relie Cassis à La Ciotat sur 17 km de points de vue à couper le souffle sur la mer. Elle fait partie du Parc national des Calanques, et vous mènera à de nombreux belvédères incontournables de la région. Le Cap Canaille fait partie des plus beaux. Comptez environ 45 min de route pour y accéder. De nombreuses randonnées sont aussi possibles.
Amoureux de randonnées, vous avez de quoi faire autour de Marseille. Vous avez le choix entre la montagne Sainte-Victoire, située à 50 min en voiture, le massif de la Sainte-Baume à 1h, ou encore la Vallée de Saint-Pons à 35 min. Plus proche encore, profitez du Sentier des Douaniers qui relie Niolon à Méjean au gré de magnifiques paysages donnant sur la mer. Cette randonnée est accessible à tous et vous pouvez partir en train pour la journée depuis Marseille. Pour ceux qui ont le temps, prenez votre voiture et allez visiter le surprenant Colorado Provençal, au cœur du Lubéron, pour un dépaysement total et une magnifique balade, digne du Far West. Il vous faudra 1h40 pour y aller, mais le déplacement vaut le détour !
Si vous souhaitez explorer l’un des Plus beaux villages de France, vous pouvez faire un saut aux Baux-de-Provence, qui domine le Parc naturel des Alpilles. Perché sur son éperon rocheux, ce village est remarquable et dévoile de magnifiques vues sur les environs, en plus de ruelles chargées d’histoire. Comptez 1h15 de route depuis Marseille.
Marseille is full of natural, historical, and cultural treasures. Here is our selection!
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Direction the quays of the Old Port of Marseille to step into this historic museum with a refreshing scent.
Set up in the former galley arsenal from the time of Louis XIV, your workshop will take on a whole new dimension. You’ll quickly learn the secrets of France’s most famous soap. The antique machines, vintage advertisements, and other unusual objects will surely surprise you.
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Good to know (optional extra tip): Psst… Even if you don’t join the hands-on workshops, simply visiting the Marseille Soap Museum will earn you a little 100g piece of Provence as a gift!
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Located at the entrance of La Canebière, right next to the Old Port, it’s safe to say that the location is simply unbeatable…
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Location: 5, La Canebière, 13001 Marseille, France
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Marseille is a city full of discoveries. Among the must-sees, we recommend heading to the Old Port, the city’s central and iconic spot, going to the beach, exploring the Panier district, or visiting the Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica, which offers a stunning panorama of the city and the surrounding islands. If you’re in the mood for shopping, Saint-Ferréol Street is the main pedestrian shopping street, where you’ll find many popular stores.
For those who want to go further, you can walk along the Kennedy Corniche, cycle or drive along it, plan a hike in the Calanques National Park, or take a boat trip to admire the city from the sea, discovering the Marseille Calanques or the Frioul Islands.
There are several options to explore Marseille after dark. If you enjoy a more scenic and nature-focused experience, head to Prado Beach for an unbeatable sea view. A park and green spaces nearby offer a peaceful retreat from the city center while still being close to bars and restaurants. If you’re looking for a more trendy and lively atmosphere, visit Cours Julien, where bars, restaurants, and an artistic ambiance await—this is Marseille’s street art district. Culture lovers should check out La Friche Belle de Mai, a vibrant cultural center that regularly hosts artistic and cultural events. Its rooftop is a great spot for music enthusiasts who can enjoy both great tunes and delicious drinks.
Marseille is a very walkable city for tourists, allowing you to explore at your own pace. For a rich experience, we recommend discovering the city with the guided tour available in our app. This will take you through the main points of interest, neighborhoods, and monuments, with audio guides providing historical insights into the Phocean City. You’ll see City Hall, street art, La Major Cathedral, the Old Port, the Mucem, and many other landmarks that make Marseille such a culturally and naturally rich city.
Check out Navaway’s Top 6 best activities in Marseille at this link: https://navaway.fr/activites-marseille-et-alentours/
Walking through the city is also highly recommended to explore its neighborhoods, sea views, charming alleys, and local boutiques. Enjoy a coffee on a terrace at the Old Port, savor a delicious bouillabaisse (Marseille’s iconic dish), or relax on Catalans Beach, just a stone’s throw from the Old Port. You could also opt for Prado Beach, which offers various water and sports activities. Whatever you choose, Marseille promises wonderful discoveries, scenic walks, and activities for everyone!
If you’re visiting Marseille without a car, we recommend exploring the city and its tourist districts on foot, enjoying the Old Port, and visiting its beaches and key museums and monuments. Public transport will make it easy to reach places like Notre-Dame de la Garde. However, if you want to explore the surrounding areas, such as the Calanques, small villages, or hidden coves near Marseille, you will need a car.
If you’re arriving in Marseille by car, don’t miss the famous Calanques. Slightly outside the city center, they offer stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque coves. Sormiou is the closest calanque to the city, followed by Morgiou, with others stretching towards Cassis.
However, we strongly advise against using a car in the city center, as traffic is very congested. It’s best to park your car and explore the city on foot, by bike, or using public transport.
The Panier district is one of Marseille’s most charming and authentic neighborhoods. Wander through its narrow, winding streets, typical of the old town, and discover historical landmarks, art galleries, craft shops, and cozy restaurants.
The Old Port district is another must-see, known for its lively atmosphere, numerous bars and restaurants, and access to various excursions. Key landmarks such as La Major Cathedral and Fort Saint-Jean are located here.
If the cultural and historic sites aren’t enough and you’re looking for nature, don’t forget about Marseille’s beaches!
There are several paid parking lots in the city center near the Old Port, the Orange Vélodrome Stadium, and Saint-Charles and Blancarde train stations, as well as near the beaches.
Alternatively, free park-and-ride lots are available where you can leave your car if you use public transport. Your transport ticket allows you to use these parking facilities.
With its ideal seaside location, Marseille offers breathtaking sunsets!
Head to J4 Esplanade for a stunning waterfront view, Fort Saint-Jean’s panoramic walkway, or the gardens of Palais du Pharo for a romantic sunset. For a 360° panoramic view of the sea, the city, and the surrounding hills, Notre-Dame de la Garde is the best spot. The Kennedy Corniche helix offers a great elevated viewpoint, while Prado Beach lets you enjoy the sunset with your feet in the sand.
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