Marseille's 10 must-see places
 

Let yourself be carried away across the most beautiful and authentic corners of this Mediterranean city, from the promenade to the picturesque Estaque district, passing through old Massalia. Hop on our AVE (high-speed) France trains, AVE (high-speed) International travelling between Spain and France and discover the extraordinary views of the sea from Calanques National Park, only 5 hours away from Barcelona. Marsella opens its doors to present the 10 places you must visit!

1. Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde

The Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde, a watchtower and place of worship of a Roman-Byzantine style, is a symbol for the people of Marseille. Inaugurated in 1864, the basilica, popularly known as "la Bonne Mère", is crowned by a golden effigy of the Virgin Mary. What is most impressive are the panoramic views of Marseille, which can be seen from the top of the hill.

 

Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde
 

2. The Old Port

In the heart of the city, the Old Port was the city's economic centre in ancient times, open to sea trade from the Mediterranean. Nowadays, the historic district has become a tourist port, meeting point and one of the city's main symbols. You can find historical monuments, old workshops and the Lighthouse at the port.

3. La Cité Radieuse - Le Corbusier​

The work of art of one of the most famous architects of our time, the "Cité Radieuse" is a unique place where you can admire the boundless imagination of Le Corbusier. Popularly known as "Maison du Fada" (The Madman's House), this building is part of a concept of homes of the modern movement. You can find other similar housing complexes designed by Le Corbusier across Europe.

4. Musée des Civilisations de l'Europe et de la Méditerranée (MUCEM)

As a symbol of new Marseille, this designer museum, opened in June 2013, is dedicated to the discovery of the greatest stages of Mediterranean civilisations. Exhibitions are held throughout the entire year. And you can't miss the impressive views to the sea of this place! 

5. Le Panier district

Discover one of the city's oldest neighbourhoods. With its narrow streets and colourful facades, stroll through this typical Mediterranean neighbourhood and let yourself be tempted by a glass of "pastis" and a game of "pétanque" in its charming squares. One of the nicest and most charming neighbourhoods in Marseille!

 

Street in Marseille's Le Panier district
 

6. La Canebière

One of Marseille's most symbolic avenues, this 1,000 metre long avenue will take you to the Old Port, heart of the city. This is the perfect place to enjoy an evening of relaxing shopping. Rue Canebière is popularly known as the "Champs Élysées" of Marseille.

7. L'Estaque district

At the foot of the Nerth massif, you will find the picturesque district of L'Estaque, which borders the small port. With its bastides, its houses by the sea and its small traditional houses, you can enjoy its unique charm. It has been source of inspiration for many painters!

8. Calanques National Park

These beautiful coves on the outskirts of Marseille, known as "calanques", were declared a National Park. This natural park reaches three cities on the Côte d'Azur: Marseille, Cassis and La Ciotat, offering idyllic coves of an intense sea blue colour. A paradisiacal place that you can't miss if you visit Marseille!

 

Views of Marseille's Calanques
 

9. Palais Longchamp

Discover one of Marseille's most important monuments! This building was inaugurated in 1869 and is one of the symbols of power of nineteenth century Marseille with its impressive fountain. This building also hosts the Museum of Fine Arts, the Natural History Museum, the botanical park and the zoo.

10. Frioul archipelago

Come and discover Frioul archipelago on the coast of Marseille, made up of four islands: Pomègues and Ratonneau, the largest; If, with its famous castle, and Tiboulen. Unique and historical places that you can visit from Marseille's Old Port. Don't miss this tour of the archipelago to discover the natural wonders of the Mediterranean!

Travel to Marseille by train

Are you ready for your next trip? Hop on our AVE (high-speed) International travelling between Spain and France and forget about everything else, simply pack your bags. ​​

In addition to the breath-taking views of Marseillaise, we recommend you visit other cities connected by AVE (high-speed) France trains, such as, for example Lyon. There are daily trains running to Lyon, which will take you from city centre to city centre in less than 5 hours. Discover all of the interesting facts about Lyon.

Choose how you want to travel, we will provide you with the destinations and means of transport. Have you checked out our discounts? Benefit from our discounts and get the best price for you.