Travel Guide: Marseille

Melanie Colwell
July 06, 2023

France's second most populous city is shaking off the shackles of its shady past to become a must-visit European destination.

Sure, Marseille’s reputation hasn’t always been the best, but the tide is certainly turning. Visitors are flocking to the Mediterranean port city to experience its culturally diverse food scene, charming neighbourhoods and historic sights.

It’s also a great base from which to visit some of France’s most stunning natural regions — namely, the Calanques National Park and the lavender- and vine-filled landscapes of Provence. And, of course, the upcoming Rugby World Cup will see an uptick in interest to the city.

In partnership with HSBC, we’ve put together this helpful starter guide to the city, so you can start planning your itinerary.

France's second most populous city is shaking off the shackles of its shady past to become a must-visit European destination.

PLANNING AHEAD

Before you launch into weeks (or months) of responsibility-free fun in Europe, you’ll need to get some adult stuff out of the way first. Organise a pet (or plant) sitter, hand all your unfinished work over to your poor colleagues and, most importantly, sort out your payment plan. With an HSBC Everyday Global Account, you can have up to ten currencies (including EUR) preloaded so you can use your Visa Debit Card for all purchases and ATM withdrawals. The best part? You won’t be stung with international transaction fees.

GETTING AROUND

It may be France’s third-largest city but Marseille is fairly easy to navigate by foot, particularly the city centre. This is the best option to truly get a feel for the different neighbourhoods, as long as you stay hydrated — Marseille can get pretty steamy in summer. Alternatively, you can nab a Marseille City Pass for 24, 48 or 72 hours, which gives you unlimited access to public transport, plus discounted museum entry and more.

LOCALS LOVE

Every city in France has several culinary specialties — one of Marseille’s is the navette, a hard biscuit made with wheat flour, sugar, eggs and orange blossom water, best enjoyed when dipped in tea or coffee. Its unique shape is said to represent the boat that brought Lazarus and the Holy Marys to the coast of Provence. The best place to try them is Four des Navettes, which has been operating since 1781.

DON’T MISS

A trip to Marseille is incomplete without spending time in its oldest neighbourhood, le Panier. The district is a labyrinth of narrow alleyways covered in colourful street art and plants. Spend a few hours exploring the retail stores, historic architecture and museums that populate le Panier, then revive in one of the buzzing bistros or bars. This audio-guided walking tour will lead you to the best bits for just AUD$15.

Five of the Best

Tick these must-visit haunts off your bucket list.

Cultural Sites

As the oldest city in France, Marseille is chock-full of cultural and architectural gems.

1. Notre-Dame Basilica de la Garde

This majestic basilica, renowned for its stunning architecture, was seen as a symbol of protection for sailors and the city itself.

2. MUCEM

A multidisciplinary museum showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Mediterranean.

3. Le Vieux Port

The Old Port of Marseille is a bustling waterfront promenade that exudes charm and history.

4. Fort Saint Jean

A historic fortress perched at the entrance of Marseille's Old Port.

5. Cours Julien

Marseille's vibrant and artistic district is home to street art, trendy cafes, boutiques and lively markets.

Shopping

Marseille has something from every type of shopper, from luxury labels to flea and farmers markets.

1. Maison Empereur

A family general store turned local institution with close to 200 years of history.

2. Librairie Maupetit

The oldest book store in Marseille.

3. Marché des Capucins

Find fresh fruit and vegetables from Provence, plus spices, herbs, pastries and more at this daily farmers market.

4. Savonnerie Marseillaise de la Licorne

Visit the master soap makers of Marseilles, with a century of craftsmanship behind them.

5. Vanille Noire

Swing past this popular ice cream parlour for a scoop of its eponymous flavour: black vanilla.

Bars

Here's where to enjoy a tipple or two in Marseille, from beachside hangouts to cosy dive bars.

1. Friche la Belle de Mai

A former tobacco factory has been transformed into a vibrant cultural space for exhibitions, concerts, workshops and a summer pop-up bar.

2. Le Petit Pavillon

Established in 1848, this seaside diner is the perfect spot to enjoy fresh oysters and champagne.

3. La Cabane Des Amis

A beachside hangout with live music, pizza and stunning sunset views.

4. La Caravelle

Visit this old-school bar for live jazz and Mediterranean share plates.

5. Carry Nation

A cosy speakeasy serving up some delicious cocktails.

Restaurants

Owing to its port roots, Marseille's culinary scene is largely seafood driven. But there is more to try than its famous bouillabaisse.

1. Restaurant La Baie des Singes

A cliffside seafood restaurant on the outskirts of the city with its own private beach.

2. Le Petit Nice Passedat

A three Michelin-starred restaurant with sweeping ocean views and exceptional seafood.

3. Splendido

An energetic Italian trattoria serving delicious food and whimsical charm.

4. La Mercerie

A relaxed venue showcasing exceptional local seasonal ingredients with funky wine pairings.

5. La Boîte à Sardine

A lively local seafood joint.

The Great Outdoors

With turquoise waters, stunning parkland and quaint coastal villages, this is a charming introduction to the French Riviera.

1. Calanques National Park

A pristine national park featuring dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear turquoise waters and hidden coves.

2. Catalans Beach

A picturesque sandy beach known for its tranquil atmosphere and azure waters.

3. Palais Longchamp

An ornate palace surrounded by serene gardens and majestic fountains.

4. Vallon des Auffes

A charming and picturesque fishing village, known for its colourful boats and traditional waterfront houses.

5. Prado Beach

Soak up the French Riviera vibes at Marseille's largest beach.

Accommodation

Would you prefer sweeping Mediterranean Sea views or a prime city centre location? Take your pick from these chic spots.

Five of the Best

Tick these must-visit haunts off your bucket list.

Further Afield

If you've got a little extra time, here are five day trips you should plan from Marseille.

Cassis and Aix-en-Provence

If you want to explore some of the other coastal towns in the French Riveria, hop aboard this full-day cruise. You'll visit Aix-en-Provence (birthplace of Cézanne) and old fishing village Cassis. Book now from AUD$204 per person.
Sault

A small commune based on a rocky outcrop, Sault is considered the lavender capital of France. You can visit this quaint town and the blooming lavender fields, plus two more Provencal towns, on a full-day tour. Book now with your HSBC Everyday Global Account Visa Debit Card for AUD$213 per person.
Arles

Tick another UNESCO World Heritage Site off your bucket list with a visit to the ancient city of Arles. This small-group tour will take you there, plus medieval village Les Baux-des-Provence and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. Book now from AUD$211 per person.
The Luberon

The rolling hills, lavender fields, vineyards and charming villages of the Luberon are about as quintessentially Provencal as you'll find. Visit an 11th-century chateau, antique shops, farmers markets and more on a full-day tour. Book now from AUD$513 per person.
Frioul Islands

Approximately four kilometres off the coast is an archipelago made up of four islands, known as Îles du Frioul. Here, you'll find the Château d'Ilf fortress, a number of beaches and the remains of a 19th-century quarantine hospital.

Get Started

Ready to start planning? We've found four experiences you can book right now, fee free, using your HSBC Everyday Global Account Visa Debit Card.

Snorkelling and Guided Dive in the Calanques National Park

The Calanques National Park is a marine-protected area resulting in some top-quality snorkelling and scuba diving locales. On this full-day tour, you'll be able to explore the sea floor and spot various flora and fauna. Book now from AUD$380 per person.
Pétanque

Pétanque is a much-loved Provencal pastime. On this two-hour tour, you'll learn the origins of 'jeu des pieds tanqués' (the game of the tanned feet). Then you'll have an hour of intense play before wrapping up with a well-deserved aperitif. Book now from AUD$55 per person.
Evening Cruise at Sunset

Spend an evening marvelling Marseille and the Calanques from the water. You'll set sail from the Old Port, take a quick dip in the Frioul Archipelago and enjoy a cocktail dinner as the sun sets. Book now from AUD$114 per person.
Noailles

Noailles is one of Marseille's most culturally diverse neighbourhoods, best known for its bustling daily produce market. Take a tour of the area led by a local guide and learn all about its storied past. Book now from AUD$31 per person.