Arriving in a novel city can seem daunting. You crave to see all the ‘top spots’, yet also desire to find some secret places that give a distinct feel for the locale. We’ve got you covered: think of this as a spark for your day in Marseille and some nearby French southern towns – important stops and tucked-away treasures included.
1. Explore the port's past
The Vieux Port’s historical roots are too enticing to skip when visiting this prominent Mediterranean port.
This iconic port, 2,600 years old, is a visual treat in Marseille with busy fish markets in the morning, cute little eateries, and swaying boats. You can dive deeper into its vast history at the Marseille History Museum. They showcase 4,000 exhibits, amongst them, ancient Roman and Greek ships.
La Caravelle, one of the oldest bars in the port, provides a vintage ambience along with fresh fish delicacies and live jazz. Over the years, notable enhancements like a mirror canopy by Norman Foster have been added to the area, perfect for snapping selfies. The newest addition is Mucem, a modern structure committed to sharing the Mediterranean history.
2. Go on a spooky adventure to d'If
Take a short 20-minute ride on the ferry from the Old Port, and you’ll reach the deserted island of If. Once a mighty fortress, Château d’If guarded the shores. Later, it served as a prison until 1871. Alexandre Dumas picked this mysterious place as the backdrop for The Count Of Monte Cristo, his book from 1844. Today, you can hike up to the roof to take in a different sight – breathtaking views of Marseille.
3. Embrace the colours of Provence
Marseille, the door to Provence, is not far from attractive towns like Arles, just an hour’s ride away. The town inspired Van Gogh – he created hundreds of art pieces there.
Famous designer Christian Lacroix was born there. Arles still holds its old-time charm with sunny squares, stone-paved roads, and honey-toned buildings. If you go there on Saturday, you’ll witness a bustling market loaded with local goods.
4. Find flavour in Avignon
Avignon, an old town just a bit north-west of Marseille, is renowned for its UNESCO-protected buildings such as Avignon Cathedral. However, it’s equally praised for its food scene. There’s a restaurant called La Cuisine du Dimanche. It’s cozy like a bistro, yet it carries a touch of elegance.
The chefs, Pauline and Mathieu Catry, strictly use local market ingredients. The menu changes with the seasons – offering dishes like truffle risotto or pistachio-laced duck.
5. Fill up your glass in Cassis
Nestled between Marseille and St. Tropez, the quaint fishing town of Cassis is great. It’s not only for soaking up the Provencal environment, but it’s also perfect for exploring the region’s renowned wine route.
Numerous historical vineyards are available for visits, including Domaine du Bagnol. Established in 1857 by the Marquis de Fesques, you can take a tour of the vineyards and savor a tasting in the cellars. Their annual production includes approximately 45,000 bottles of white wines, such as Marsanne and Clairette, and 41,000 bottles of rosé, like Grenache and Cinsault. Plenty for everyone’s taste.
6. See the sea in Calanques
If you love water, the Calanques are the place to go. Between Marseille and Cassis, these narrow inlets and rocky bays form a national park. One of the most beautiful, Calanque d’En-Vau, boasts a sparkling emerald sea and secluded beach. You can only get there by walking a coastal path from Port-Miou. The 45-minute hike? Absolutely worth it.
7. Get to the heart of Provence
L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, often dubbed the ‘Venice of Provence’, features some of the area’s most awe-inspiring sights due to its lovely canals and waterways.
Taking a Lourmarin and L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue tour with Princess Cruises will allow you to delve into the heart of this picturesque town. From antique shopping to enjoying a traditional Provence lunch at the weekly market, the town is sure to captivate you. Don’t miss visiting Lourmarin, a village known as one of France’s finest, famously depicted in Peter Mayle’s book A Year In Provence. It’s truly a reality that beats fantasy.