Préfecture combines governmental grandeur with cultural richness in the heart of Marseille. This walkable district showcases impressive 19th-century administrative buildings alongside museums and historic architecture. The area hums with business activity on weekdays while offering peaceful exploration on evenings and weekends. Stroll tree-lined boulevards to discover the Musée Cantini and Cathédrale de St Nicolas de Myre. Coffee houses and traditional Provençal bistros serve locals and visitors alike. The excellent metro connections make this a convenient base for exploring Marseille's waterfront and other attractions.
Notre-Dame du Mont buzzes with creative energy where colourful street art transforms walls into open-air galleries. This trendy Marseille area attracts artists with its bohemian vibe and multicultural spirit. Indie boutiques and hip cafés line the streets while diverse restaurants serve everything from Moroccan tagines to Provençal specialities. Cours Julien forms the vibrant heart of the area's nightlife scene. Visitors can easily explore using the Notre Dame du Mont metro station. The area rewards those who wander its steep streets with panoramic city views and authentic cultural experiences.
The Old Port of Marseille whispers 2,600 years of history through its ancient streets and sun-kissed harbour. Founded by Greek settlers, this horseshoe-shaped waterfront showcases twin forts guarding the Mediterranean entrance. The daily fish market buzzes with local fishermen selling their fresh catches. Stroll the pedestrian quays to watch colourful boats bob against the backdrop of limestone buildings with green shutters. Two metro stations make exploring easy while traditional restaurants serve authentic bouillabaisse. The nearby Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde basilica offers stunning panoramic views across this historic maritime area.
The ample dining options and captivating waterfront views are top of the list for many visitors to Opéra. A stop by La Canebiere or Marseille Opera House might round out your trip.
Visitors to Belsunce love its captivating waterfront views, and you can check out La Canebiere and Memorial De La Marseillaise. If you want to see more in the area, you can get around town on the metro at Vieux-Port Station.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Marseille
Prado Beach
8.4/10 (421 reviews)
Marseille's Prado Beaches stretch over 3.5 kilometres of man-made coastline from 1970s metro construction. Enjoy sandy and pebbly shores for sunbathing or try windsurfing in this lively Mediterranean spot.
Cassis Beach
8.8/10 (483 reviews)
This charming beach offers a perfect blend of fine sand and pebbles with stunning views of Cassis Castle and limestone cliffs. Swim in the turquoise waters before sampling fresh seafood at nearby Provençal restaurants.
Photo by Alma Jiménez Granados
Open Photo by Alma Jiménez Granados
Velodrome Stadium
8.6/10 (685 reviews)
The Orange Vélodrome, France's second-largest stadium, is home to Olympique de Marseille. Experience its wave-like roof and electric atmosphere during a behind-the-scenes tour of player tunnels and locker rooms.
La Ciotat Beach
9.0/10 (60 reviews)
La Ciotat's beaches offer diverse coastal landscapes from sandy shores to secluded pebble coves with crystal-clear waters. Explore family-friendly Grande Plage or discover quieter spots like Arène Cros for snorkelling.
Photo by Pascal Guilbert
Open Photo by Pascal Guilbert
Cassis Harbour
9.0/10 (150 reviews)
The vibrant Cassis Harbour nestles between dramatic cliffs and azure Mediterranean waters, with colourful fishing boats throughout. Enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants as boats depart for Calanques tours.
Plan de Campagne
8.0/10 (227 reviews)
Europe's largest commercial zone offers diverse retail stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities. Visit weekday mornings for relaxed shopping amid international brands and local boutiques.
Catalan Beach
8.6/10 (357 reviews)
This sandy urban escape sits just minutes from Marseille's Old Port with fine sand and clear Mediterranean waters. Enjoy beach volleyball or take a refreshing dip before exploring the nearby city centre.
What to do in Marseille
Marseille: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
"Excellent location from which to explore Marseille - and stunning views of the vieux port - if you book a sea view. We were on 7th floor in a family suite with two teenagers, their bedroom had no view at all which didn’t matter for us as we had the view at the front (from our bedroom) and for them they had a quiet, comfortable place to sleep. It is a little noisy because of the location but this didn’t bother us as we were out until late and really it’s all quiet by midnight and really worth...
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Offering great value package deals on Expedia, you'll be pleasantly surprised at how much a holiday to Marseille costs! Our packages simplify travel planning and maximise your savings.
What are the cheapest months to go to Marseille?
You're likely to find lower prices and greater availability in December, January and February. Explore our cheap Marseille holiday packages and you could land some great off-season discounts.
How many days is enough for Marseille?
Allow at least 3 days for your Marseille holiday if you're hoping to immerse yourself in everything that makes this destination special. Stroll around key neighbourhoods, including 1st Arrondissement and 2nd Arrondissement. Then check out top attractions such as Pharo Palace and Palais Longchamps. With a clever itinerary, you can keep busy with room for some relaxation too. Want to travel beyond Marseille? Consider fitting in an excursion or two.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Marseille?
Well known for its nature, dining and culture, a Marseille holiday offers something for everyone. Be sure to check out main sights like Velodrome Stadium and Prado Beach, and consider renting a car for day trips to experience even more.
How to find the best Marseille package deals?
Use Expedia's filter tool to find some great Marseille package deals. When you start your search, just set your maximum budget and then sort the results by "Price: low to high." If you're looking to save, plan your trip for midweek, or browse for Marseille package deals in the off-season. Switch up your travel dates and you may land even bigger discounts. As a rule of thumb, it's typically best to book your holiday package as early as possible.
Is it cheaper to book a Marseille holiday as a package?
Expedia holiday packages are designed to help you keep more cash in your pocket. Bundle your car rental, hotel and flight into one great-value price and enjoy significant savings. You'll usually get a better deal than booking each component separately. And you'll still have the freedom to create a customised Marseille holiday by choosing your favourite type of stay, airline and car class.
When to book a holiday package to Marseille?
If you're considering a spontaneous Marseille adventure, browse our last-minute deals that can be booked up to a week before you go. Prefer not to wait until the last minute? You can score awesome deals on your hotels and flights by booking ahead.
How to plan a trip to Marseille?
Pick the right time to travel: Your schedule, preferred season and the type of weather you enjoy can all impact your decision on when to go to Marseille.
Set your budget: Consider expenses like transportation, flights and meals when working out how much to set aside for your trip to Marseille. Then, pick a hotel that fits your budget, whether that's an affordable option or a deluxe getaway.
Determine how many days away: Start by listing all the activities and attractions you'd like to experience in Marseille. Then, estimate how long you'll need for each, along with any travel time.
Bundle your bookings: With your travel dates in place, you can combine your car rental, flights, hotels and more into a tailored Marseille holiday package.
In Marseille, visit Plan de Campagne for a vibrant shopping mall experience, offering a mix of entertainment and family-friendly vibes. Explore the Prado Market for local delicacies and city life. Don’t miss the Santons Maryse Di Landro Museum for unique souvenirs and traditional crafts.
Recreation
Velodrome Stadium offers an energetic atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, where you can engage in various recreational activities. For a leisurely day outdoors, Golf Côte Bleue provides stunning coastal views and a relaxing golfing experience. La Halle de Martigues, a vibrant venue, hosts lively music concerts that uplift the spirit.
Adventure
At Ecopark Adventures, soar through the treetops on thrilling ziplines and navigate challenging rope courses, all immersed in Marseille's great outdoors. Explore the stunning landscapes along the Sentier du Lézard hiking trail, where breathtaking scenery awaits. For water enthusiasts, Expenature offers exciting water sports adventures that make the most of Marseille's beautiful coastline.
Nightlife
Marseille's nightlife buzzes with energy, featuring vibrant bars and clubs. Enjoy a cocktail at Le Bar à Vin, then dance the night away at the lively La Friche. For a more relaxed vibe, visit Les Bords de Mer for stunning waterfront views and laid-back tunes.
Find the best attractions in Marseille
Marseille offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, perfect for any traveller. With its stunning beaches, charming streets, and historic churches, the city caters to those seeking sun-soaked relaxation and enriching exploration. From coastal scenery to vibrant local culture, Marseille and its surroundings promise an unforgettable holiday for Kiwis looking to immerse themselves in a unique French atmosphere.
Prado Beach: Experience the vibrant beach vibes at Prado Beach, where golden sands meet the azure waters of the Mediterranean. Ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and beach sports, this popular spot is perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying a lively atmosphere.
Borely Park: A serene urban park, Borely Park offers family-friendly activities amidst lush greenery. Stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens, enjoy a picnic, or engage in outdoor sports while soaking in the city vibes that make it a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle.
Calanque Sormiou: Discover the stunning natural beauty of Calanque Sormiou, a picturesque bay surrounded by dramatic cliffs. Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and swimming in crystal-clear waters, all while taking in the breathtaking scenery that makes this spot truly unique.
Best time to go to Marseille
The best time to visit Marseille is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is sunny with no rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Marseille
Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically December to February) for more affordable package holidays to Marseille.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.