9 SURPRISING AND STUNNING ATTRACTIONS TO VISIT IN MARSEILLE, FRANCE
- Mar 3
- 8 min read
Marseille, France
Marseille wasn't exactly on my radar — until it suddenly was. When planning a summer trip to the south of France, I was drawn to somewhere new, somewhere I'd never been. Marseille checked every box: a city on the water, a short train ride from Provence, and a name I couldn't resist. As an American, just hearing the word 'Marseille' sounded luxurious- conjuring images of sun-drenched coastlines, fresh seafood, and effortless French glamour.
When I told friends I was heading there, the reaction was… well, let's just say... unexpected. Drugs, gangs, violence — not exactly the glowing endorsement I was hoping for. What I had imagined as an idyllic South of France escape was being painted as something far less romantic. Perhaps I should have done some more research first, but with nonrefundable plans already made, I was going regardless! And I was determined to make the most of it. I've always believed that every place on Earth has redeeming qualities, so I made it my mission to find the best of Marseille. And as it turned out, there was plenty to find!
But before we dive in, a little history. Yes, Marseille has a checkered past, that part is true. But in 2013, it was awarded the European Capital of Culture, an honor the EU bestows on cities with the potential for revitalization and growth. The designation comes with a substantial monetary grant, and Marseille used it boldly: the entire Old Port was redesigned in partnership with the renowned London-based architecture firm Foster + Partners, in collaboration with landscape architect Michel Desvigne, transforming it into a pedestrian-friendly hub filled with striking modern art and architecture. Over the past decade, that transformation has rippled outward — neighborhoods have flourished, attractions have emerged, and the city's grittier reputation has slowly given way to something far more inviting. Current Marseille is a genuinely lovely place to visit, with wonderful- even luxurious attractions - and I'm here to show you exactly why.
Here are 9 destinations I discovered that are definitely worth a trip to see in this Southern French city ...
1 - WITNESS THE SUNSET AT SOFITEL MARSEILLE VIEUX PORT
Not to be missed is a visit to Hotel Sofitel Marseille Vieux Port; both Les Tres Forts for dining and The Le Dantès Skylounge for cocktails boast the most perfect outdoor terraces to enjoy a breathtakingly spectacular sunset view of Marseille. The hotel is located with a direct line to the most iconic sights – including the Port, the Old Fort, and the church Notre-Dame de la Garde. Guests and non-guests can visit the terrace and enjoy a most memorable sunset Reservations are recommended though as it tends to get full at the best hours.
Address: 36 Bd Charles Livon, 13007 Marseille, France
2 - VISIT A CULTURAL LANDMARK AT THE INTERCONTINENTAL MARSEILLE HOTEL DIEU
Situated in the historic Panier district of Marseille, the first aspect you'll observe about The Intercontinental Marseille Hotel Dieu is its breathtaking architecture, reminiscent of a grand castle perched on a hill with a view of the port. Not only is it the sole five-star hotel in the 2nd arrondissement, but it is also designated as a National Monument. Originally built in 1188 as the Saint-Esprit Hospital, the premiere hospital at the time, the next six centuries saw the hospital undergo considerable expansion, and gain recognition for its medical advances. Finally, in 1993, the city built a newer, more modern hospital, and Saint-Esprit finally saw its last patients and closed its doors. In 2013, when the city aimed to revitalize Marseille for tourism, thanks to the European Capital of Culture Award, the property was sold to the Intercontinental Group for redevelopment, and it was remodeled into a beautiful hotel that opened in the same year.
But enough about the historic aspect! The expansive 750 sq meter / 8000+ sq ft outside terrace here is a luxurious place to relax and enjoy an amazing meal at Les Fenêtres Brasserie (in the Michelin Guide) or cocktails and snacks at The Capian Bar, with plenty of comfortable seating, and a direct view of Notre-Dame de la Garde. Enjoy a glass of the famed French champagne and nibble on a charcuterie board, and listen to some talented live musicians performing on Thursday to Saturday nights.
Address: 1 Pl. Daviel, 13002 Marseille, France
3 - BE IMPRESSED BY THE INCREDIBLE FOUNTAINS AT PALAIS LONGCHAMP
There are fountains and then there is the Palais Longchamp. The Wow factor here is off the charts. Located in the 4th arrondissement, it was created to commemorate the construction of the Canal de Marseille which was built to combat the water shortage Marseille faced with its growing population. After a cholera outbreak from 1832-1835, when over 100,000 Marseille residents lost their lives, the city embarked on a grand plan to find a new way of providing clean water to the city. The monument took 30 years to complete. Behind the monument is Longchamp Park is listed by the French Ministry of Culture as one of the Notable Gardens of France.
Address: Bd Jard. Zoologique, 13004 Marseille, France
4 - PAY A VISIT TO THE ENORMOUS MARSEILLE CATHEDRAL
Cathédrale La Major is a vast Roman Catholic Cathedral and a National Monument of France. Meant to showcase Marseille as the second largest city in France, it was constructed to rival St. Paul's Cathedral in Rome in terms of size, with the bold design of the cathedral from the Byzantine and Roman Revival styles. The inside is also magnificent- there is a towering 70 meter (231 ft) high nave and a capacity for 3000 seats, making it one of the biggest cathedrals in all of France. Nicknamed the “New” Cathedral because it was built in the same place as the old one, whose partial remnants were integrated into the newer building. It currently serves as the seat of the Archdiocese of Marseille. Situated not too far from the Vieux Port, and just a short walk from the MUCEM, it is certainly worth a visit.
Address: Pl. de la Major, 13002 Marseille, France
5 - EXPLORE SHADOW DISPLAYS AT THE ROOFTOP CAFÉ AT THE MUCEM
The Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations (MUCEM) is the first French national museum to be located outside Paris. Although it had been renovated for years, the funding the city received from the grant from the European Capital of Culture Award in 2013 was put towards finishing it and turning it into a visually alluring and modern museum.
Designed by the architect Rudy Ricciotti in collaboration with the architect Roland Carta, The most impressive feature is the metal latticework that encircles the rooftop café, creating an artistic and unique frame unlike anything you've likely encountered before. The lattice casts intricate shadows that are their own art, and provides a creative perspective to see the panoramic views of the city. It is accessible via a bridge from the Fort Saint-Jean, and without paying admission to the MUCEM, although the museum itself is also highly rated.
Address: 1 Esp. J4, 13002 Marseille, France
6 - EXPLORE THE FORTS FOR THEIR HISTORY AND AMAZING VIEWS
There are two forts in Marseille, Fort Saint-Jean and Fort Saint Nicolas, one on each side of the Port of Marseilles. Fort Saint Nicolas is not open to the public except by advance appointment, but Fort Saint-Jean can be easily accessed and has an incredible panorama view not to be missed- and also connects with the MUCEM on a footbridge to the rooftop café, so it is wise to plan to do both at the same time. Visitng the Fort first allows you to walk towards the museum on the footbridge, where the shapes from the metal latticework atop the MUCEM form a completely unique perspective of the city. Interestingly, these forts were built by Louis XIV to prevent the people of Marseille from revolting against France. As a result, the cannons were aimed at the city rather than any external threats!
Address: Prom. Robert Laffont, 13002 Marseille, France
7 - CHECK OUT THE COLORFUL MURALS AND GRAFFITI IN COURS JULIAN
Cours Julien is what you might describe as the revitalized hipster neighborhood of Marseille. It is lively, it is fun, and almost every inch is covered in graffiti! This is the place to go for the most unique local goods- as the streets are filled with independent shops selling all kinds of products- from vintage records to old books, to new handmade items. Restaurants are just as eclectic, offering a variety of cuisines. It’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and finishing with an apéritif (a drink and a small bite to eat) at one of the many sidewalk cafés, before heading back to your hotel.
Address: Cours Julien, 13006 Marseille
8 - ENJOY THE PRIVATE BEACH WHILE DINING AT LA BAIE DES SINGES
True there are some lovely beaches in Marseille, but if you put in the effort to cruise down to Cap Croisette- a small peninsula jutting out from the mainland and about an hour south of the main port, you can relax on some beautiful lounges on the private beach of La Baie des Singes. This beachside restaurant known for its delicious freshly caught seafood, also boats an incredible view – the picturesque white rock typical of the Calanques envelopes the azure blue water and various rock formations. You can dine at the restaurant or indulge a little more by setting yourself up in one of its cushioned lounges for a luxurious and relaxing seaside day. Reservations recommended.
Address: Cap Croisette, 13008 Marseille, Tel. 04 91 73 68 87
9 - TAKE A DAY TRIP TO CASSIS TO SEE THE CALANQUES
Just a short 1.5 hr train ride away from Marsilles lies the picturesque town of Cassis, located on the coast of the Mediterranean in Southern France. Also a port city, albeit much smaller, the colorful boats and buildings provide a refreshing backdrop away from the hustle and bustle of the larger city. Outdoor cafes line the port where you’ll find people relaxing over a bite to eat, or maybe a taste of the local liquor. Crème de Cassis originates from here, as do the famous AOC Cassis white wines. You can also get lost in the winding streets, decorated with flowers and vines. People also come to Cassis to visit the Calanques National Park – a series of inlets from rock formations that are reached by boat tours, or hiking. There are a number of tour options available at various times throughout the day.
Address: Cassis, France.
10 - TAKE A BOAT CRUISE ON THE MEDITERRANEAN COASTLINE
Marseilles is a port city so why not get on a boat and enjoy a sunny afternoon at sea? There are various tours you can book either through Viator or GetYourGuide, or directly down at the port. Feeling a little more splurgy for your summer vacay and you can rent also do a private charter. Whatever you choose, cruising along the beautiful coastline of the Mediterranean is a must. Bring some French wine and charcuterie and enjoy the luxury of one of the best attributes of the South of France.
Address: Vieux Port, Marseilles
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