Marseille: The Pearl of the French Coast

 Marseille is the second largest and oldest city in France, offering visitors a rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural scenery. Marseille is also the largest Mediterranean port in France, an important commercial and tourist hub. If you're looking for an interesting vacation spot, Marseille will not disappoint.

Where is Marseille Located?

Marseille is located in the south of France on the Mediterranean coast. The city is part of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region and the Bouches-du-Rhône department. Marseille enjoys a strategic position between the Alps and the Pyrenees, giving it a mild and sunny climate all year round. It is also close to other attractive destinations such as Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, and Nice.

History of Marseille

Marseille is the oldest city in France with a history spanning over 2,600 years. Its fate has always been closely linked to the sea and various civilizations that have settled here. This section will look at the main stages of its development from antiquity to the present.

Antiquity

Marseille was founded as the Greek colony Massalia (Latin: Massilia) by settlers from Phocaea (modern-day Foça in Turkey) around 600 BC. It was the first Greek city in France and the most important Greek polis in the Hellenized region of southern Gaul. Massalia developed trade and cultural relations with Rome, Carthage, and other Mediterranean nations. It was also a center of learning and philosophy, with notable figures such as Pytheas and Protarchos. Massalia maintained its independence even during the Second Punic War (218–201 BC), siding with Rome against Carthage.

Massalia lost its independence after being besieged by the Romans during Caesar's Civil War, where it sided with Pompey's exiles against Julius Caesar. Massalia was captured, plundered, and stripped of its territory and privileges. Marseille prospered as a Roman city under the name Massilia and became an early center of Christianity in the Western Roman Empire. It was the seat of a bishop and hosted several church councils.

Middle Ages

Marseille declined under the pressure of barbarian invasions that plagued the Roman Empire. It was successively ruled by the Visigoths, Ostrogoths, Franks, Saracens, and Burgundians. Marseille was rebuilt and strengthened under the rule of the Provençal viscounts, who granted it considerable autonomy and supported its commercial activities. Marseille became one of the wealthiest and most populous cities in Europe, establishing contacts with the Orient, Africa, and England.

Modern Era

Marseille became part of the French Kingdom after the annexation of Provence in 1481. However, it retained its self-governance and often rebelled against kings or governments that threatened its freedoms. Marseille played an important role in French history, especially during the French Revolution, when the famous song "La Marseillaise" was born here and became the French national anthem. The Industrial Revolution and the establishment of the French Empire in the 19th century further developed the city, although it was occupied and heavily damaged by Nazi Germany during World War II. Marseille was bombed by German and Italian forces in 1940, occupied by Germans from November 1942 to August 1944, and saw over 4,000 Jews arrested during the "Tiger" action on January 22, 1943. The Old Quarter, Le Panier, was destroyed by Nazis as retribution for resistance activities in 1943. In 1944, the city was liberated by Allied forces and the French resistance.

Present Day

Marseille is now the second-largest city in France and one of the most important ports in the Mediterranean. It is also a city of contrasts, where old meets new, wealth meets poverty, and various cultures and religions blend. The city faces challenges such as crime, unemployment, social inequality, and immigrant integration. Nevertheless, Marseille strives to overcome these difficulties and showcase its dynamism, creativity, and vitality.

In 2013, Marseille was named the European Capital of Culture and hosted many cultural events and festivals. The city is also an important center for art, music, film, and sports, home to several museums, galleries, theaters, and opera houses. Notable ones include MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations), the Museum of the History of Marseille, the Museum of Arts and Crafts (MAC), the Museum of Modern Art (MAMO), and the Museum of Natural History. Marseille is also home to the famous football club Olympique de Marseille, which plays at the Orange Vélodrome stadium.

In recent years, the city has undergone several major urban renewal and expansion projects. Among them is the Euroméditerranée project, aiming to create a new business and residential area on the seafront, including new buildings, parks, bridges, hotels, and cultural facilities. Other projects include the renovation of the Old Port (Vieux Port), the construction of the new Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations (MuCEM), and the expansion of the metro and tram network.

The city has strong ties with many countries and regions, especially those on the Mediterranean coast. It is a member of several international networks and organizations such as the Union of Mediterranean Cities (MedCities), Eurocities, and the International Association of Francophone Mayors (AIMF). Marseille also hosts several international events and meetings annually, such as the World Water Forum (2008), the World Forum for Democracy (2013), and the World Congress of Ports (2019).

Tourist Attractions

Marseille is a city full of interesting and diverse places worth visiting. Here is our selection of the top 10 tourist attractions in Marseille:

• Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde: This imposing church is the symbol of the city and offers breathtaking views of the port and the sea. The basilica was built in the 19th century in the Neo-Byzantine style and is adorned with golden mosaics and marble columns. A giant gilded statue of the Virgin Mary stands atop the tower, considered the city's guardian.
• Old Port (Vieux Port): The historic and cultural heart of the city, home to a traditional fish market, colorful boats, restaurants, cafes, and markets. The Old Port is also the starting point for boat trips to the Frioul Islands or the Château d'If, where the famous Count of Monte Cristo was imprisoned.
• Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations (MuCEM): One of the most modern and visited museums in France, focusing on the cultural heritage of the Mediterranean. The museum consists of three buildings: J4, a futuristic concrete and glass structure; Fort Saint-Jean, a historic 17th-century fortress; and Villa Méditerranée, a cultural center hosting exhibitions and conferences.
• La Vieille Charité: An architectural complex and one of the most beautiful buildings in Marseille. It was built in the 17th century as a shelter for the poor and beggars. It consists of four wings around a courtyard with a chapel topped by a large dome. Today, La Vieille Charité houses several museums, including the Museum of African, Oceanian, and American Arts; the Museum of Mediterranean Archaeology; and the Museum of the History of Marseille.
• Le Panier: The old quarter of Marseille located on a hill above the Old Port. It is one of the most picturesque and authentic parts of the city, with narrow streets, colorful houses, small shops, and workshops. Le Panier also boasts a vibrant cultural and artistic scene, with many galleries, studios, and graffiti.
• Cathedral of Sainte-Marie-Majeure: One of the most important religious buildings in Marseille. Built between the 19th and 20th centuries in the Romanesque-Byzantine style, the cathedral features an impressive facade of white and green marble, two massive towers, and a dome. The interior is adorned with mosaics, stained glass windows, sculptures, and paintings. The cathedral is also the resting place of several saints and bishops of Marseille.
• Calanques National Park: One of the most beautiful and interesting natural sites in Marseille. It includes a coastal area with narrow bays, rocky cliffs, turquoise sea, and Mediterranean vegetation. The park is ideal for hiking, cycling, kayaking, or swimming. The most famous calanques are Calanque de Sormiou, Calanque de Morgiou, and Calanque d’En-Vau.
• La Corniche: A coastal road that runs from Marseille to Cassis, offering stunning views of the sea, islands, and beaches. La Corniche is also a popular spot for walks, bike rides, or picnics. Along the way, there are several interesting landmarks such as Villa Valmer, Palais du Pharo, and Château d’If.
• La Canebière: The main street of Marseille, connecting the Old Port with Réformés Square. It is a lively and bustling street with many shops, restaurants, cafes, and hotels. La Canebière is also a historic and cultural axis of the city, home to several landmarks such as the Opera House, the Stock Exchange Palace, and the Noailles Market.
• Museum of Arts and Crafts (MAC): One of the most modern and original museums in Marseille, located on the roof of the Corbusier building, an architectural work by Le Corbusier from the 20th century. The museum presents a collection of contemporary art from the 1960s to the present. The exhibits include paintings, sculptures, photographs, and installations by artists such as Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, and Yoko Ono.

Safety and Crime in Marseille

Marseille is a port city that has a reputation for being a dangerous place in southern France. The crime index ranges from moderate to high. The main issues are corruption, bribery, vandalism, drug trafficking, robbery, and car theft. However, Marseille is not much more dangerous than New York or Paris, and if you follow some basic rules, you can enjoy a safe and pleasant vacation.

Tourists should be aware of the following:

• Avoid dangerous neighborhoods such as the northern suburbs (Les Quartiers Nord), La Castellane, or La Belle de Mai. These areas are known for high poverty, violence, and gang activity.
• Be cautious of pickpockets and thieves who often operate in the city center, especially at the Old Port (Vieux Port), squares (Place de Lenche, Place Thiars), in the metro, or at Saint Charles train station. Keep your valuables close and avoid engaging in conversations with suspicious individuals.
• Don't openly display that you are a tourist. Avoid speaking loudly in English, wearing flashy clothing and expensive accessories, and showing obvious signs of being a tourist. This could make you an easy target for scammers or attackers.
• Do not leave your passport or wallet unattended in your car. Also, avoid leaving bags visible in the car, as they may attract potential thieves.
• Use only official taxi services and avoid fraudulent taxi drivers who increase the fare during the ride. You can order a taxi via an app or by phone.

If you are traveling to Marseille with a camper, you should also follow these tips:

• Park your camper only at official campsites or parking lots with lighting and security. Avoid parking in remote or dark places.
• Lock your camper and do not leave any valuables or documents inside.
• Avoid driving on the A7 and A55 highways during rush hours (morning and evening), as they are often congested and dangerous. Prefer alternative routes or travel outside peak hours.
• Avoid driving into the city center with a camper, as the streets are narrow and full of traffic. Instead, leave your camper at a parking lot or campsite and use public transport or taxis.

Festivals and Celebrations in Marseille

Marseille is also a city of festivals and celebrations, reflecting its diversity and vitality. Some of the most notable include:

• Marseille Jazz des Cinq Continents: A jazz music festival held annually in July at various locations in the city, such as Palais Longchamp and La Vieille Charité. The festival brings renowned jazz artists from around the world.
• Marsatac: A festival of electronic and hip-hop music held annually in August at Borély Park. The festival features over 50 concerts on three stages.
• Delta Festival: A festival of sports, culture, and entertainment held annually at the beginning of summer on the Prado beaches. The festival brings together over 150 artists, six villages dedicated to sports, entertainment, art, and gastronomy, and three music stages.
• Festival de Marseille: A festival of dance, theater, concerts, performances, films, and meetings held annually from late June to early July at various locations in the city. The festival presents works by committed artists from different fields.
• Fiesta des Suds: A festival focusing on world music and cultural diversity, held annually in October on the Esplanade du J4. The festival features over 30 concerts on four stages, as well as workshops, exhibitions, and markets.

Tips for Good Bistros and Restaurants in Marseille

Marseille is also a city of gastronomy, reflecting its Mediterranean and multicultural character. Typical specialties include bouillabaisse (fish soup), aioli (garlic sauce), tapenade (olive and caper paste), and pastis (anise-flavored liqueur). If you want to try these and other delicacies, we recommend the following bistros and restaurants:

• Fuxia: An Italian bistro on Thiars Square, where you can enjoy excellent pizza, pasta, salads, and burgers at reasonable prices.
• L’Hippocampe: A French restaurant on the Old Port waterfront, where you can order traditional bouillabaisse, fresh fish, and mussels at relatively affordable prices.
• Chez Ida: A Mediterranean restaurant on Sainte Street, where you can savor Lebanese, Moroccan, and Tunisian specialties.

Hotels in Marseille

Marseille has a wide range of hotels for different budgets and preferences. Some of the best-rated hotels include:

• NH Collection Marseille: A four-star hotel in a modern building in the city center, close to the Old Port and MuCEM. The hotel offers elegant rooms and suites with city views, a restaurant serving French and Mediterranean cuisine, a cocktail bar, a garden, and a fitness center.
• La Résidence du Vieux Port: A four-star hotel on the Old Port waterfront with panoramic views of Notre-Dame de la Garde. The hotel offers spacious and colorful rooms and suites with balconies, a restaurant serving traditional cuisine, a bar with a terrace, and lounges for private events.
• Holiday Inn Express Marseille Saint Charles: A three-star hotel opposite Saint Charles train station and a 10-minute walk from the Old Port. The hotel offers comfortable rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi, a free breakfast, a bar with a terrace, and parking.

Interesting Places Near Marseille

If you have time and the desire to explore more than just Marseille, you can take a trip to one of the following places, all within an hour's drive from the city:

• Cassis: A picturesque seaside town with sandy beaches, colorful houses, and a harbor full of boats. Cassis is also known for its wineries and the Calanques National Park, with its stunning bays of turquoise water and limestone cliffs.
• Aix-en-Provence: An elegant and cultural city with rich history and architecture. Aix-en-Provence is the birthplace of painter Paul Cézanne and offers many museums, galleries, churches, and fountains. You can also stroll along the famous Cours Mirabeau street with its plane trees, cafes, and shops.
• Arles: An ancient city with Roman monuments such as an amphitheater, theater, and thermal baths. Arles also inspired Vincent van Gogh, who painted some of his most famous works here. You can visit the Van Gogh Museum or walk the same streets where he painted.

Marseille is a fascinating city with something to offer every traveler. Whether you seek history, culture, nature, or entertainment, Marseille will captivate you. Marseille is also an ideal starting point for exploring the other beauties of Provence and the Mediterranean. You'll see that you will fall in love with this city.