Take a three-hour train ride south from Paris, and you’ll find the seaside city of Marseille. As the second largest city in France, Marseille offers a blend of historical sites, museums, and outdoor activities. The city may be most famous as the home of Bouillabase, a seafood stew made from the riches of the Mediterranean Sea.
You could spend a week here, exploring the city’s cultural giants, quaint streets, and gorgeous neighboring cities like Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, a Provençal town that is straight from a fairy tale. For a quick taste of Marseille, plan to spend three days as an extension to your next Parisian jaunt. Here are six activities in Marseille to maximize your stay in this Mediterranean gem.
Visit Notre-Dame de la Garde

Notre-Dame de la Garde is a basilica that is stunningly perched atop the city’s highest hill and one of Marseille’s most iconic landmarks. It was built in 1864 on the site of a former chapel and is considered a Neo-Byzantine masterpiece. Its features include intricate mosaics, marble columns, and a golden Virgin Mary statue that serves as a beacon of protection for sailors. Enjoy unparalleled 360-degree views of Marseille from the outdoor terrace.
You can access Notre Dame de la Garde in multiple ways. For the adventurous, wear comfortable shoes and hike up to the top. Those who like to “travel like locals” can take the bus. For everyone else, I highly recommend the tourist train departing from the Old Port!
The tourist train provides a scenic, leisurely route up the hill to Notre-Dame de la Garde. Plus, a guide offers commentary on the city’s history and landmarks while you ride. The train is an excellent option for families and those with limited mobility. Its round-trip service makes it easy to return to the Old Port where you started.
Discover Le Panier
Visit Le Panier, Marseille’s oldest neighborhood, founded around the 6th century BCE. Today, it’s a vibrant cultural hub with colorful facades, narrow streets, and artisan shops.
- La Vieille Charité: A 17th-century Baroque building now home to museums and galleries. Here, you’ll find the Museum of Mediterranean Archaeology, featuring artifacts from Ancient Egypt, Greece, and the Roman Empire. If you’re more interested in art, visit the Museum of African, Oceanic, and Amerindian Art, showcasing vibrant cultural treasures from around the globe. Afterward, enjoy a coffee at the on-site café in a peaceful courtyard.
- Place des Pistoles: This lively square is perfect for people-watching. Grab a snack or drink from a nearby café, like Café Pistoles, and enjoy street performers and local musicians. Shop local handcrafted goods in artisan shops, which always make great gifts or mementos of your trip.
- Place des Moulins: A quiet spot steeped in history. Once the site of numerous windmills that gave the square its name, it now offers a serene atmosphere with leafy surroundings, making it a great spot to take a break from exploring and relaxing.
- Rue de Petit Puits: If you’re interested in some amazing street art – don’t miss Rue de Petit Puits! The entire area is like an open-air gallery. It’s full of art that reflects the multicultural heritage and history Marseille is known for.
Day trip to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence: Walk in Van Gogh’s Footsteps

A day trip to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of Vincent van Gogh. This picturesque town was where the artist spent a year in the Saint-Paul-de-Mausole mental institution, creating some of his most famous works, including Starry Night. The institution is now a museum that allows visitors to walk in Van Gogh’s footsteps, exploring the peaceful gardens and the countryside that inspired his art.
Visiting Saint-Paul-de-Mausole is at once serene and haunting. Stepping inside the room where Van Gogh spent his final descent into madness and strolling the gardens with herbs de Provence, which he had grown freely, is a unique and unmissable experience. While there, you can view and buy art from current patients at the facility. I was particularly struck by a few pieces while there, and I wished I had brought a bigger suitcase!
Just down the road is the town of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, a perfect blend of art, history, and Provençal charm. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the town’s many cafés and browse local shops for artisanal products. Stop by Maison Bergese for out-of-this-world eclairs (chocolate is my personal favorite) and sit in the open courtyard enjoying a coffee as the scent of local lavender washes over you.
Explore the Calanques

The Calanques consist of coves and limestone cliffs stretching between Marseille and Cassis. This area is a protected national park frequented by adventurers and nature lovers. The Calanques are best enjoyed in spring (April-May) and early fall (September-October) for pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and more comfortable hiking conditions.
Calanque d’En-Vau is a favorite among hikers and kayakers who enjoy the towering cliffs and secluded beaches. Visit Calanque de Morgiou for a glimpse into traditional coastal life.
- Hiking: The rugged trails of the Calanques offer panoramic views and encounters with unique flora and fauna. Hike the trail to Calanque d’En-Vau to experience its secluded beach and dramatic cliffs. Guided hikes are also available through local companies that will curate the tour to suit your fitness level.
- Boat Tours: Book a boat tour if you’d prefer to enjoy the Calanques from the water. They often depart from the Old Port and allow access to hidden coves. You’ll learn about the park’s geology and cultural significance at a leisurely pace accessible to everyone.
Visit Château d’If
Located on the Frioul archipelago, Château d’If is a former fortress turned prison built in 1524. Its strategic location made it a key defense point, although it eventually became infamous as a prison where dissenters and political prisoners were held.
The Château d’If is perhaps best known as the setting for Alexandre Dumas’ The Count of Monte Cristo. Explore the cells, including the fictional cell of Edmond Dantès, and view informative exhibits detailing the lives of those once imprisoned there. The fortress also offers some panoramic views of the Mediterranean from its terraces.
Ferries to Château d’If depart regularly from the Old Port. If you have the time, a great day trip should continue by going to the nearby Frioul Islands, where you can enjoy hiking, pristine beaches, and fresh local seafood. This combination of history, nature, and relaxation makes for an unforgettable day trip.
Shop and Dine at Les Docks Village
Les Docks Village is a shopping and dining destination near the waterfront. Initially built in the 19th century as a shipping warehouse, it was revitalized in 2015 into a stylish complex featuring boutiques, restaurants, and art installations. Shops sell locally made crafts, clothing, and gourmet treats. Try Les Halles de la Major, known for its fresh and diverse culinary offerings.
The art installations range from sculptures to murals. Art-inclined travelers will be interested in the architecture’s symbolism, which includes 365 windows, 52 doors, and seven atriums that symbolize days, weeks, and months. Here, you’ll also find regular cultural events and pop-up markets.
Conclusion
The city of Marseille will effortlessly charm you into wanting to extend your stay. The mix of old and new here in Southern France is what draws so many people for unforgettable experiences and some lovely memories to take home with you.