Sun, sea and city? Look no further than Marseille, a port city on the Mediterranean. The second largest city in France, Marseille little resembles the country’s capital but rather walks to the beat of its own drum. From its turquoise Mediterranean waves to its many days of sunshine, Marseille carries an ambience of vacation. But this bustling metropolis also offers the conveniences of a large city: nightlife, gastronomy and accessibility to the airport and trains. You’ll quickly realize that Marseille boasts a charm of its own, and we’re certain that its sea views, exquisite meals and bubbly attitude will entice you. Provence Tour is sharing how to spend a weekend in Marseille.
Visit Notre Dame de la Garde
Typically, when you visit a city for the first time, you need a map to find its landmarks. But in Marseille, you can see Notre Dame de la Garde from just about anywhere downtown. With its history dating back to the 1200s, this basilica boasts the highest point in the city and therefore the best views. Prepare yourself for the trek up to la Bonne Mère, as it calls for lots of steps. Or, if you’d rather, our driver can take you directly up to the church so you can indulge in the views even quicker.
And during the summer, the grounds are transformed into une guinguette, or an open-air bar, with a backdrop of divinely painted sunsets. We guarantee that a glass of wine during golden hour just hits differently from Notre Dame.
Take a private boat tour on the Mediterranean
Dreaming of basking in the sunlight while seaside? Take a private boat tour of the Mediterranean and ride the waves instead of experiencing them from the shore. Your skipper will guide you wherever your heart may desire, whether it’s through the Calanques or the Côte Bleue. Your skipper will show you the postcard-worthy creeks and cliffs for which Marseille is known. Docked in a secluded area, the boat will be the perfect spot to dive into the cool waves. Linger and take your time; we’ll take care of the meal. We’ll organize a gourmet meal for you to enjoy right on the boat.
Stay at Les Bords de Mer
Nestled on the Corniche, or the city’s street lining the coast, Les Bords de Mer couldn’t have a better location. This modern 19-room hotel will amaze you with its wall-to-wall windows overlooking the beach. Best of all, no need to pay extra for a room with a sea view because every room promises the Mediterranean’s striking blue water.
We can book you a stay in its Deluxe Mer room, where you’ll enjoy the sunset and the Frioul islands from its balcony over a glass of wine. You can even bring your pooch along with you! If you’re weary from a long day of exploration and prefer to order in, we beg you to reconsider. On the ground level of Les Bords de Mer, you can indulge in chef Camille Gandolfo’s grilled octopus or pork belly. Or perhaps you’d like to wander to its rooftop bar and sip on a fruity cocktail with a view. You can’t go wrong with either choice, or perhaps both.
Dine at l’Epuisette
With Michelin accolades and its position on the port of Vallon des Auffes, l’Epuisette is a no-brainer for your weekend in Marseille. For nearly a quarter of a century, chef Guillaume Sourrieu has been crafting regional dishes at this restaurant. We recommend ordering his Menu Marius, which features Marseille’s famed dish of bouillabaisse. This rocky fish soup is accompanied by crackers and rouille, a Provençal take on mayonnaise. Finish your meal with a refined assortment of cheeses and anise sorbet.
From its renowned cuisines to its stunning sea views, Marseille does not disappoint. The bustling yet unhurried city promises plenty of activities for the adventurous as well as ample opportunities to unwind for the pleasure seekers. And these ideas are only the beginning; Provence Tour can personalize and perfect your weekend in Marseille comme tu veux.
Provence Tour offers unique and glamorous experiences as we showcase magnificent and rare highlights of the charming region of Provence.
Our private drivers have expert knowledge of the region and will happily guide you and answer any questions you may have about the area. Indulge in an authentic and customized guided day tour with an opportunity to see Provence’s hidden treasures, such as the lavish lavender fields, various picturesque villages, and significant historical sites.
