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Known as the "Athens of the Gauls", Massalia or the "Phocaean City", Marseille is always a good idea for a sunny stay. Located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, this unmissable city is sure to dazzle you with the beauty of its heritage.
The oldest city in France, Marseille is undeniably marked by History, with a "big H". Rich of many traditions and a strong culture, its origins go back to more than 2600 years ago. Ancient and yet so modern, this city full of contrasts excels in the delicate art of making the hearts capsize. Here, the sky and the sea are bright blue, the pastis is yellow and the cuisine is colorful, tasty and generous, evoking with each bite the characteristic singing accent of the Marseillais. To feel the pulse of this mythical city, the first thing to do is to head for its Old Port: emblematic, nicknamed the "heart of Marseille", it is the ideal place to have a drink in the sun, stroll along the quays, taste a delicious bouillabaisse, or come and buy freshly caught fish at the traditional fish market. It is here that the famous Marcel Pagnol is said to have written some of his most beautiful works, and to tell the truth, it is easy to understand why when you see this inspiring and amazing site. As far as visits are concerned, the MUCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations) located next to Fort Saint-Jean, at the entrance to the Old Port, is highly recommended: a real jewel on the Mediterranean, it is worth the detour for the splendor of its exhibits as well as for the astonishing beauty of its modern architecture.
Another must-see is the magnificent Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde. The very symbol of Marseille, this tourist mecca stands at an altitude of 162 meters, on the highest point of the city. Affectionately called the "Good Mother" (pronounced with an accent, it's better) by the Marseillais since its construction in 1869, this basilica which according to the legend would protect the whole city with its aura offers from its square one of the most beautiful panoramas of all Marseille, on the city and on the sea.
Take the time to get lost in the different districts of Marseille, like the irreplaceable "Panier": the oldest district of the city, old-fashioned but so endearing, it is the very postcard of authentic Marseille, with its narrow streets, its endless staircases, its linen dancing poetically on the windows and balconies, its colored walls and its famous cobblestones. A real open-air museum, it will dazzle you with its picturesque side and its dynamism, breathed by splendid street-art frescos. But the visit of Marseille does not stop there, the city abounds in things to do, to see, to eat and to breathe. Take a break and eat panisses at the Vallon des Auffres harbor, as if embedded in the city, for a surprising and historical interlude. Take a walk in the Estaque district, well known for its authentic port which inspired Dufy, Monticelli, Cézanne, Renoir or Braque... Stroll along the Canebière to the Palais Longchamp, on the Corniche to admire the Palais du Pharo, visit the Saint-Victor abbey, or the Vieille Charité and its warm colored walls, the Docks as well as the very photogenic and colorful Cité Radieuse, without forgetting the magnificent cathedral of the Major (located on the square of the same name) and the Cours Saint-Julien, temple of Marseille's street-art. The Velodrome for soccer fans, the Prado beaches for sunbathers and water sports enthusiasts, the Frioul islands and the Château d'If for boat trips and authentic landscapes... And the Calanques. Ah, the famous Calanques of Marseille! Green lung of the Phocaean city, these creeks watered by the Big Blue are almost unreal so much they are extraordinary. In the heart of this surprising mineral chaos which cuts the Mediterranean Sea, swimmers, hikers, climbers, photographers and boaters like to stroll, and to take a few swims in a splendid turquoise water. Oh, beautiful Marseille... Here is a visit which, it is likely, will be difficult to forget.
Marseille 08 La Pointe Rouge Bonneveine
Daniel
25/08/2019
To visit: the city's history museum and the MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations) which are fascinating.
The Old Port
Symbol of the Phocaean City, find on the Canebière the fish market and the sets of Pagnol's films.
Notre Dame de la Garde
The basilica offers a breathtaking panoramic view and its beauty amazes with its Roman-Byzantine style.
The Frioul Islands and the Chateau d'If - 20 min
20 minutes from the coast of Marseilles, discover these magnificent islands and their castle, classified as a historical monument.
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Terrace
This studio, located in Marseille, is ideal for 4 vacationers. It offers a furnished terrace and WiFi. It is perfect for unwinding after a day in the...
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