our guide
Marseille is France's largest port and one of its oldest cities, yet it often goes unnoticed and unvisited by travelers who instead spend their time in Paris or along the sunny beaches of St. Tropez, Cannes and Nice. They are missing out on one of France's most diverse cities, both in terms of people and activities. Marseille has a long history and many historical attractions, not the least of which is the Vieux Port (old port), which has been in use since about 600 BC when Greeks and Phoenicians began to arrive to this area of the sunny Mediterranean coast.
Marseille has become increasingly diverse, thanks in part to a large number of North African immigrants, who make up about one quarter of the city's population now. Although it has the challenges of any large city, Marseille has begun to embrace its newfound diversity and is eager to put its best foot forward to attract a piece of the ever-growing tourism industry. Visitors will find historic forts, a magnificent cathedral, islands just off shore that offer bird watching and hiking, beaches and thoroughfares hugging the Mediterranean Sea that offer sweeping views and photo ops.
“With a revitalized waterfront, loads of history, unique shopping, and famed dining, it's easy to say oui to Marseille. "
“If you only visit one museum, make it the newly redone History museum, built on the site of the original Greek and Roman cities. Ancient vestiges (discovered while building a shopping center) are on view in the gardens, including a Greek necropolis and ramparts, and a Roman road and quayside.”
