Everyone knows Marseille, its old port, its mythical soccer club…But have you ever wondered why Marseille is so famous and so dear to the hearts of the French? First of all, you should know that Marseille is the oldest city in France! The very first French city to be built has a rich history, and this is undeniably what gives it its charm. Follow us on a stroll through its charming streets and creeks for a 100% free visit!
1/ Nature walk at the Calanques National Park
How about a walk in the middle of nature? Head to the Parc national des Calanques! Created in 2012, it is the first peri-urban national park in Europe, both on land and sea. Whether you want to spend an afternoon sunbathing, take a dip in the sparkling waters, or hike along the famous GR 98-51 trail, the possibilities for enjoying the Calanques are endless!
2/ Photoshot on the Vieux Port
What would Marseille be without its Old Port, packed with boats perfectly aligned on each souvenir photo? This place is not to be missed under any pretext. You can walk along the quay and watch the incessant sweep of the fishermen. If there is no specific time to admire this iconic place, we advise you to take advantage of the sunset to take beautiful pictures!
3/ Gourmet stroll at the Prado farmer’s market
Here at Nannybag, we like to think that every trip is, above all, a culinary adventure. Believe in our experience, Marseille is no exception to this principle! A local institution, the Prado market enlivens the Avenue du Prado every week from Monday to Saturday. Whether it’s with fruit, vegetables, fish, meat, fabrics, flowers, or local crafts… Come and discover Marseille through your senses!
4/ Time off at Terrasses du Port
Need an indoor break while walking around Marseille? A sudden urge to shop with a view of the sea? Les Terrasses du Port shopping center is the right spot for you! You’ll find a large number of restaurants and stores, as well as a walking area to enjoy your free time! Don’t forget to recharge your batteries with a refreshing drink!
5/ Sightseeing at Notre-Dame de la Garde
Ever wondered what Marseille looks like from above? The answer is at the top of the iconic Notre Dame de la Garde Basilica, the highest point in the city. It lies 150 meters above sea level, and you can see almost every point of Marseille from up there. Needless to say, the view from up there is breathtaking!
6/ Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations
The MUCEM, the Museum of European Civilization, is a cultural highlight in Marseille with a unique architecture. Located on the waterfront, the two buildings that make it up house a magnificent gallery and regularly renewed exhibitions. Access to the outdoor spaces is free and entrance fees vary depending on the age of the visitors. Another asset of the MUCEM is that it is located a stone’s throw from Fort Saint-Jean, built on the site of the ancient city and classified as a historical monument since 1964.
7/ Stairs of Cours Julien
Cours Julien is the ultimate street art district in Marseille. Littered with small squares and colorful streets, there are also many bars, restaurants and even live music in the street. Spending the afternoon or evening there is guaranteed to be a festive moment! Ready for an artistic adventure?
8/ Le Panier
As you have surely noticed…Marseille is full of anecdotes. What if we took you to discover the oldest district of the oldest city in France? Le Panier perfectly illustrates the soul of Marseille, that’s why we invite you to take a very relaxing walk in the district. One thing is for sure, you will remember the cultural and historical heart of Marseille and its charming narrow streets.
9/ La corniche
The corniche of Marseille is simply put a landscape worthy of a master painting! It stretches from the Catalan beach to the Prado. Let’s not be afraid of words: on the spot, you will enjoy one of the most beautiful landscapes of the Mediterranean cost from this spot.
10/ Château d’If
Looking for a visit combining history and culture in Marseille? Go to the Château d’If! This castle is located on the small island of If, in the heart of the Frioul archipelago. It is close to the islands of Ratonneau and Pomègues, in the harbor of Marseille.
11/ Vallon des Auffes
What is next on your Marseille adventure? We highly suggest a little trip to the Vallon des Auffes! It’s a harbor with a very particular charm and one of the most outstanding sites of the Corniche in Marseille! It’s also ideal to take pictures worthy of the prettiest postcards! Ready to strike a pose?
12/ Noailles Farmer’s market
What tdo you say we show you another farmer’s market? Also called the Capucins market, Noailles market is worth a visit! The products you will find there will make you travel to the four corners of the world… In other words, it’s a little world tour that you can enjoy without leaving the city of Marseille!
13/ L’Estaque
Your stay in Marseille would not be complete without a few moments of nature and relaxation!his is precisely what you will find in l’Estaque. A fascinating combination of social, architectural and landscape contrasts, l’Estaque is a unique neighborhood, a little piece of paradise whose intricacies you will only understand once you get there.
14/ Plage du Prophète
Fun fact: this beach takes its name from a ship that was called the “prophet” and used to sail regularly between Marseille and Algeria. Why go to the beach of the prophet? Simply because it is charming and one of the oldest beaches in Marseille. Another argument in its favor, it is very close to the Old Port!
15/ Quartier des créateurs
Last stop on our list: the creators’ district, the most bohemian place in Marseille! What is there to see in this area? Many things, but our favorite is without a doubt the many vintage stores in the area.