Visit Marseille: 10 Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip

Are you planning a trip to Marseille, France? You’ve come to the right place! With its vibrant culture and stunning views, it’s easy to get lost in the beauty of this city. To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 things you need to know before traveling to Marseille. 

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1) Check the Weather – Visit Marseille

Before you plan your trip to Marseille, it’s important to know the weather. Marseille is a coastal city and is known for its mild Mediterranean climate. In the summer, temperatures can be quite hot with temperatures reaching up to 40°C (104°F). While in the winter, temperatures are mild and rarely drop below 10°C (50°F). It’s important to check the weather ahead of time to make sure you pack the right clothing and to make sure you don’t get caught off guard by any unexpected rain or thunderstorms. It’s also helpful to keep an eye on the forecast so you know when it’s best to spend the day sightseeing and when it’s better to enjoy the indoors.

2) Choose Your Accommodation Wisely

When planning a trip to Marseille, it’s important to choose the right accommodation for your needs. There is a wide range of options available to suit different budgets and preferences, from luxury hotels and boutique apartments to budget hostels. 

If you’re looking for a luxurious stay, Marseille has several 5-star hotels, many of which offer spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea. For a more intimate experience, there are also plenty of chic and modern boutique hotels that provide all the amenities you need, plus convenient locations in the city center. 

For those on a tighter budget, there are plenty of budget-friendly accommodations available too. From hostels to Airbnb rentals, you can find great deals on accommodation in Marseille. When selecting your accommodation, make sure to read reviews carefully and check out photos to get an idea of what it looks like in person.

Finally, it’s worth noting that Marseille is not a huge city and most of the sights can be accessed on foot. This means that choosing a central location for your accommodation will make it much easier for you to get around during your visit.

3) Get a Good Map – Visit Marseille

If you want to get the most out of your trip to Marseille, you must get a good map. There are several options available to you when it comes to maps, so make sure to do your research and choose the best one for your needs. 

Marseille is divided into 16 districts, each with its distinct character and attractions. To make sure you don’t miss any of the great things this city has to offer, having a detailed map of the city is essential. You can purchase physical maps at various tourist offices, bookstores, and even some pharmacies. If you’re looking for something more detailed or up-to-date, you can find digital maps online as well. 

A good map will provide you with an overview of the city and its districts, as well as points of interest like restaurants, monuments, parks, and other attractions. It will also provide you with information on public transportation routes and schedules, so you can easily get around without getting lost. 

Having a good map will allow you to maximize your time in Marseille and get the most out of your trip. Make sure to do your research and find the best map for your needs before setting off on your journey!

4) Learn Some French

Marseille is located in the south of France, so you’ll need to brush up on your French before visiting. It’s always a good idea to learn a few basic words and phrases, such as “hello”, “thank you”, and “where is the restroom?”. This way, you can better understand what locals are saying and they will appreciate your effort. Knowing some French will also help you navigate your way around the city and find what you are looking for. Plus, it’s always nice to be able to order a meal at a restaurant without relying on English translations. If you don’t have much time to learn French before your trip, try downloading a language app or asking someone who speaks French to teach you the basics. With a little effort, you can make the most of your trip to Marseille.

5) Find out What’s Going on in the City – Visit Marseille

When visiting Marseille, it’s important to find out what events and attractions are going on during your stay. Whether you want to explore the city’s amazing cultural offerings or take part in some of its popular nightlife activities, there’s something for everyone in Marseille.

To start, there are plenty of festivals and events that happen throughout the year, from the famous “Fête de la Musique” in June to the International Jazz Festival in July. If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, the city is also home to countless galleries, museums, and other attractions such as the Frioul Archipelago – a group of four islands located just off the coast.

Of course, no visit to Marseille would be complete without exploring some of its iconic monuments such as the Cathédrale de la Major and the Château d’If. There are also plenty of great parks, beaches, and restaurants that you won’t want to miss out on. For example, Les Goudes is an excellent spot for seafood, while Place Jean Jaurès is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike.

No matter what you choose to do during your stay in Marseille, you’ll be sure to find plenty of exciting and interesting things to do and see. So don’t forget to research before you go and make sure you make the most of your time in this beautiful French city.

6) Try the Local Foods

When you’re in Marseille, France, it would be a sin to miss out on the incredible cuisine. Marseille is known for its fresh seafood, the famous Bouillabaisse stew, the exquisite Provencal dishes, and of course, their classic Ratatouille.

Start your day with a traditional breakfast of Socca (a savory chickpea pancake), accompanied by a bowl of Pastis de Marius (a sweet pastry filled with creamy custard). For lunch or dinner, try some of Marseille’s famous Bouillabaisse stew made from fresh fish and seafood. Or you can opt for one of the classic Provencal dishes such as a Nicoise salad or Pan Bagnat (a sandwich filled with tuna, eggs, and olives). 

Marseille also has its regional cheese, Calisson d’Aix-en-Provence. This delicious sweet cheese is made from candied fruit and almonds. And don’t forget to try the world-famous Ratatouille dish. A combination of diced vegetables cooked in tomato sauce, it is an absolute must-try when you visit Marseille. 

The city also boasts some of the best bakeries and cafes. Try some of their delicious croissants or pastries for a sweet treat. There are plenty of eateries throughout Marseille serving all types of food, so whatever type of cuisine you’re in the mood for, you’ll be sure to find it here. 

No matter what you choose, you won’t be disappointed with the amazing local cuisine in Marseille!

7) Drink the Local Wine – Visit Marseille

When it comes to drinking the local wine in Marseille, there are plenty of options. The city is known for its Provence-style rosé, but you’ll also find a variety of other whites and reds. From Chateauneuf-du-Pape to Cotes de Provence, there’s something for everyone.

If you want to get to know the local wines better, there are many great wine bars in the city where you can try out different types. In addition to wine bars, many restaurants serve local wines as well. If you’re looking for a more traditional experience, you can also check out some of the smaller vineyards located around the city. 

No matter what type of wine you prefer, you’re sure to find something delicious in Marseille. Enjoy a glass or two during your stay and really get a feel for the city’s culture.

8) Take a Day Trip

If you’re planning a visit to Marseille, France, taking a day trip is one of the best ways to experience the sights, sounds, and culture of this beautiful Mediterranean city. Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience, an outdoor adventure, or just a chance to relax and explore the region, there are plenty of day trips from Marseille that will leave you with lifelong memories.

One popular day trip from Marseille is to Aix-en-Provence. This vibrant city is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and a variety of charming shops and cafes. A visit here is sure to delight even the most experienced traveler. Take a stroll through the old town and admire the beautiful fountains and historic churches, or indulge in some of the famous pastries. 

For those looking for something more adventurous, there’s always Calanques National Park. This stunning national park is located just outside of Marseille and is filled with rugged limestone cliffs, crystalline turquoise waters, and unique coves that are perfect for hiking, kayaking, or swimming. There’s also plenty of wildlife to observe and gorgeous views that you won’t find anywhere else.

No matter what type of day trip you choose, visiting Marseille will be filled with unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re looking for culture, adventure, or simply some time to relax and take in the scenery, there are plenty of wonderful options for day trips from Marseille. So grab your camera, grab a map, and get ready to explore!

9) Shop at the Local Markets – Visit Marseille

If you’re looking to explore and find unique souvenirs during your trip to Marseille, look no further than the city’s local markets. Marseille has a variety of street markets where you can find an array of items, ranging from fresh produce and meats to handmade crafts and clothing. Some of the best and most popular markets are Cours Julien, Belsunce, and Place de Lenche.

Cours Julien is an outdoor market that takes place every Sunday in the center of Marseille. This market is filled with vendors selling clothes, jewelry, art, antiques, and more. Visitors also have the chance to sample a variety of food and drinks from the many food stalls in the area.

Belsunce is one of the oldest street markets in Marseille and is held on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Here, you’ll find merchants offering a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as meats, cheeses, fish, olives, and local specialties. You’ll also find some crafts and clothing, so be sure to browse around before making any purchases.

Lastly, Place de Lenche is a small, but bustling market near the Vieux Port. It’s open from Tuesday to Saturday and has vendors selling everything from flowers and spices to vintage clothing and accessories. This is a great place to find unique items for souvenirs or gifts for loved ones back home.

No matter which market you visit in Marseille, you’ll be sure to find something interesting. So take some time to explore each one and shop until you drop!

10) Enjoy the Nightlife

If you’re looking to experience the best of Marseille’s nightlife, then you won’t be disappointed. There are a wide variety of bars, clubs, and venues to choose from, and they range from trendy cocktail bars to lively nightclubs and everything in between. Whether you’re looking for a chilled-out evening in one of the many wine bars or you’re in the mood for a wild night out dancing till the sun comes up, there is something for everyone in Marseille.

A great place to start your night is by checking out one of the many rooftop bars around the city. With stunning views of the harbor and the famous Notre Dame de la Garde church, these bars offer an unparalleled atmosphere and make for a great place to kick-start your evening. Once you’ve enjoyed a few drinks and taken in the views, it’s time to move on to one of the many nightclubs around the city. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed lounge club, a more energetic house, or a techno club, there is something for everyone.

Finally, if you’re looking for a quieter evening, why not try out one of the city’s many jazz clubs or traditional music venues? With such an eclectic selection of bars and clubs, Marseille is sure to provide something for everyone when it comes to its nightlife scene. So whatever your preference, make sure you check out what this vibrant city has to offer after dark!

As you plan your trip to Marseille, France, make sure to keep the above tips in mind. From checking the weather to learning some French phrases and trying the local foods, there are so many things to do and explore in this vibrant city. 

Check out Framey!

Remember to also take advantage of Framey – a travel app designed to make planning trips easier and more enjoyable. With Framey, you can find great places to eat and stay and activities and events to attend. 

No matter how long you stay in Marseille, you’re sure to have a memorable experience!

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