Marseille is the second-largest city in France and one of the oldest cities in the world. It is the largest port city in France and the Mediterranean Sea and is known for its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and captivating scenery. From its stunning waterfront to its hilltop churches and ancient monuments, Marseille is one of the most popular tourist destinations in France. Here are the top 20 places to see in Marseille.
1. Notre-Dame de la Garde: This iconic basilica is the most visited site in Marseille and is located on the highest point of the city. It was built in the 19th century and is known for its stunning neo-Byzantine architecture. Visitors can take in the breathtaking views of the city from the top of the basilica.
2. Vieux Port: The old port of Marseille is the city’s most famous landmark and is the heart of the city. It is lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops and is the perfect place to spend an afternoon.
3. Château d'If: This 16th-century fortress is located on an island off the coast of Marseille and is best known as the setting of Alexandre Dumas’ novel “The Count of Monte Cristo”. Visitors can take a ferry to the island and explore the fortress and its grounds.
4. Musée des Beaux-Arts: This museum is home to an impressive collection of artwork from the 16th to the 20th centuries. It also features a large collection of ancient Greek and Roman artifacts.
5. Calanques National Park: This national park is home to some of the most stunning scenery in France. It is an area of limestone cliffs, coves, and beaches along the Mediterranean Sea and is a popular spot for hiking and climbing.
6. La Canebière: This is the main thoroughfare of Marseille and is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops. It is the perfect place to take a stroll and soak up the atmosphere of the city.
7. La Major: This is a large Romanesque church located in the Old Port of Marseille. It is known for its impressive architecture and is a popular spot for tourists.
8. Palais Longchamp: This is a large park located in the center of Marseille. It is home to the Natural History Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Museum of Science.
9. Quartier du Panier: This is the oldest district in Marseille and is known for its narrow streets, winding alleyways, and colorful buildings. It is a great place to explore and take in the culture of the city.
10. La Vieille Charité: This is a large baroque building that was once a hospice for the poor. It now houses a museum and is a popular spot for visitors to explore.
11. Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde: This is a large basilica located in the center of Marseille. It is known for its impressive architecture and is a popular spot for visitors to explore.
12. MuCEM: This is a museum dedicated to the history and culture of Marseille. It is located in the Old Port and is a great place to explore the city’s past.
13. La Cité Radieuse: This is a large housing complex designed by famed architect Le Corbusier. It is a great place to explore and take in the modern architecture of the city.
14. La Corniche: This is a scenic drive along the Mediterranean Sea. It is the perfect spot to take in the stunning views of the city and the sea.
15. La Plage des Catalans: This is a popular beach in Marseille. It is a great spot to relax and take in the sun and the sea.
16. La Friche La Belle de Mai: This is a former factory that has been converted into an arts center. It is a great place to explore the city’s vibrant culture and art scene.
17. Parc Borély: This is a large park located in the south of the city. It is a great spot to take a stroll and relax in the sun.
18. Basilique Saint-Victor: This is a large basilica located in the Old Port. It is known for its impressive architecture and is a popular spot for visitors to explore.
19. La Vieille Charité: This is a large baroque building that was once a hospice for the poor. It now houses a museum and is a popular spot for visitors to explore.
20. La Plaine: This is a large park located in the south of the city. It is a great spot to take a stroll and relax in the sun.