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How To Spend 24 Hours In Marseille

TLDR: Experience a day in Marseille, a city that combines historical depth with a dynamic urban scene. Ideal for solo travelers, Marseille offers a mix of Mediterranean charm, diverse neighborhoods, and historical landmarks like the Old Port and Notre-Dame de la Garde.

Highlight

• Visit the Old Port (Vieux Port), the historic heart of Marseille, and enjoy the lively atmosphere and seafood restaurants.
• Explore Notre-Dame de la Garde, a basilica offering panoramic views of the city and the sea.
• Wander through Le Panier, the oldest quarter in Marseille, with its narrow streets and colorful buildings.
• Sample the local Bouillabaisse, a traditional Provençal fish stew, in one of the city’s many restaurants.

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1 Night

48 Hours

3 Days

About Marseille

Marseille, located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, is the second-largest city in France with a population of about 870,000. It is one of Europe’s oldest cities, founded by the Greeks in 600 BC. The city has a diverse population, influenced by waves of immigration, which contributes to its unique character.

Marseille’s history is evident in its architecture, from the ancient Abbey of Saint-Victor to the modernist architecture of Le Corbusier’s Cité Radieuse. The city’s port is one of the busiest in the Mediterranean and has been a crucial trade center throughout its history.

For solo travelers, Marseille offers a blend of historical exploration and contemporary urban life. Its location along the Mediterranean coast provides opportunities for beach activities and coastal walks. The city is also a gateway to the Calanques National Park, known for its stunning limestone cliffs and turquoise waters.

Spending a day in Marseille allows travelers to delve into a city with a unique mix of historical influences, a lively waterfront, and a distinct Mediterranean atmosphere. It’s an ideal destination for those looking to explore a multifaceted French city with a strong sense of identity.

Where to Sleep In Marseille

Marseille, a city with a unique maritime charm and lively atmosphere, offers a range of accommodation options. Budget travelers can enjoy hostels like Vertigo Vieux-Port, situated close to the iconic Old Port and offering a friendly, communal setting. For those seeking more comfort, hotels in the La Joliette district, such as the NH Collection Marseille, provide modern amenities and easy access to attractions like the MuCEM and the Cathedral La Major.

Getting to and From Marseille

Marseille is served by Marseille Provence Airport, connecting the city with various international and domestic destinations. Marseille Saint-Charles railway station is a major hub for high-speed trains, linking the city to other parts of France and Europe.

Travel Tip: Exploring Marseille’s diverse neighbourhoods is best done using the city’s extensive bus and metro system. The Old Port area is particularly enjoyable to explore on foot, allowing visitors to experience the historic charm and bustling waterfront.

Budgeting for 24 hours in Marseille

Enjoying Marseille’s mix of Mediterranean culture and urban energy can be done on various budgets. Here’s a breakdown:

• Accommodation: Hostels like Vertigo Vieux-Port offer beds from €20 to €40. Hotels in the city center or near the port range from €70 to €140.
• Hostel Recommendations:
  • Vertigo Vieux-Port Hostel: Located near the Old Port, it’s known for its cozy atmosphere. Prices range from €25-€50 per night.
  • The People Hostel – Marseille: Offers modern facilities and a central location. Similar pricing to Vertigo Vieux-Port.
• Transportation: A day pass for public transport costs around €5, practical for navigating the city.
• Food and Drink: Start with a simple French breakfast at a local café for €4 to €8. Marseille is famous for its seafood, with dishes like bouillabaisse available in restaurants for €20 to €40.
• Attractions / Entertainment: Visit landmarks such as the Notre-Dame de la Garde and Le Panier district. For nightlife, the Cours Julien and La Plaine areas are known for their bars and clubs, like Le Chapiteau and Espace Julien, offering a dynamic experience.
• Miscellaneous: Allocate €20 to €50 for additional expenses like local souvenirs or a Calanques boat tour.

Total Estimated Budget: A day in Marseille typically ranges from €65 to €160, allowing visitors to explore its historical sites, savor Mediterranean flavours, and partake in the energetic nightlife.

1 Day In Marseille Itinerary

Morning

Begin your morning in Marseille with a visit to the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations (MuCEM). This modern museum, located next to the 17th-century Fort Saint-Jean, offers insightful exhibitions on Mediterranean history and culture. After the museum, explore the vibrant Vieux Port, a lively area filled with cafes and historic sights, including the Old Roman Road and Ancient Greek Walls at the Port Antique Park.

• Start at the Old Port (Vieux Port), a scenic spot perfect for an early stroll. Free to explore.
• For breakfast, head to La Caravelle, a café with a view of the port. Vegetarian options available. Budget: €10-€15.

Lunch

For lunch, experience Marseille’s diverse culinary scene. The city, influenced by French, Italian, Spanish, and North African cuisines, is particularly famous for its Bouillabaisse. A great place to try this traditional fish soup is Chez Fonfon. Alternatively, explore the Noailles area for a range of street foods, including kebabs, in its lively market atmosphere.

• For a cheap yet delicious lunch, try Chez Etienne for their pizza. It’s a local favorite. Average cost: €5-€10.
• Spend your afternoon exploring the iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica. Entry: Free, but a donation is appreciated.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon at the Vallon des Auffes, a picturesque small port with fishing huts and boats. It’s an authentic and peaceful spot away from the city center, offering excellent traditional cuisine at local restaurants. For a scenic walk, head to the Corniche JF Kennedy promenade, which offers beautiful views of the sea and islands.

• Visit the MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations). Entry fee: €9.50.
• For a light snack, enjoy a pastry from a local boulangerie. Budget: €3-€6.

Evening

In the evening, visit Palais Longchamp, one of the city’s most beautiful monuments. Built in 1862, its architecture is impressive, and it houses the Natural History Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts. The surrounding Longchamp Park is perfect for an evening stroll. For dinner, explore local eateries near the Old Port or in the city center to enjoy Marseille’s vibrant dining scene.

• For dinner, head to Le Miramar to try their renowned Bouillabaisse. Dinner budget: €30-€50 per person.
• After dinner, walk along the Corniche for stunning views of the Mediterranean.

Night

Marseille’s nightlife offers a variety of bars, clubs, and cultural events. You can start with drinks at local bars and jazz clubs, or enjoy a performance at one of the theaters or cabarets in the city. If you prefer dancing, there are several dance clubs and discos where you can enjoy music and drinks until late.

• Start with drinks at Polikarpov Bar, known for its wide selection of cocktails. Prices: €8-€12 per cocktail.
• For clubbing, try Baby Club near the Old Port, offering various music genres. Entry fee: €10-€15.

Departure Morning

On your departure morning in Marseille, enjoy a relaxed start.

• Have breakfast at a café in the Panier district, the city’s oldest neighborhood. Budget: €5-€10.
• If time allows, take a final stroll through the bustling La Plaine market area.

Depart from Marseille with memories of its historic port, delightful cuisine, and dynamic nightlife.

Where Next?

After exploring Marseille’s unique mix of maritime history and Mediterranean charm, evidenced in the Old Port and the Notre-Dame de la Garde, there’s much more to discover in the region. A journey to the Calanques National Park offers breathtaking natural landscapes and opportunities for hiking and boating. Alternatively, the city of Aix-en-Provence, with its historic Cours Mirabeau and numerous fountains, provides a tranquil yet historically significant experience. Each destination near Marseille highlights the diverse character and scenic beauty of the Provence region. For further exploration of France’s southern coast and inland, consider our ’24-hour guides’ series, or find additional travel ideas on the Hostelworld app, your guide to the captivating regions of Southern France.

Sources

Marseille Tourist Office: https://www.marseille-tourisme.com/en/

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