Marseille in 3 days

You have 3 days to visit Marseille? Because it's not always easy to define an itinerary, Marseille Tourism offers you some paths to explore. Alternating walks inland and boat trips, discover Marseille's heritage. The archipelagos off the coast offer sumptuous landscapes as well as numerous forts and castles for history enthusiasts. Inland, discover Marseille's culture by visiting its most famous places. From the Bonne-Mère to the Old Port, passing through the Prado beach, visit Marseille in 3 days thanks to our advice and travel itineraries.
"Visiting Marseille for 3 days and looking for iconic places to visit to enjoy a true extended weekend à la marseillaise? Here are some ideas on places not to miss for an unforgettable stay!
THREE-DAY WALK IN MARSEILLE: Tranquil Circuit
You finally have a long weekend free and don't know what to do with it? Marseille is the perfect place to enjoy the Provencal way of life. But what are the timeless places in Marseille, those anchored in the heart of the locals, those you can't ignore?
Among the must-sees:
- Fort Saint-Jean and the MUCEM : Between architecture from a bygone era, design, and modernity, these two monsters of stone and steel that overlook the Old Port cannot be ignored and are sure to charm you.
- The Orange Vélodrome Stadium : What would a visit to the Phocaean City be without a detour to its heart, where the fervor of a whole people is expressed in victory as well as defeat? The Vélodrome Stadium is a must-visit during your extended weekend in Marseille!
- The new Prado Shopping Center : Looking for a shopping break? Why not discover the brand new Prado commercial complex? Recently inaugurated, it houses many shops that will delight young and old alike!
- The Marseille Opera House is one of the oldest in France. Destroyed by a fire, it was rebuilt in 1920. It's a true architectural gem.
- The Augustins Church in Marseille is located on the Old Port. Easily recognizable by its immaculate white facade, it dates back to the 13th century.
- Place Castellane is one of Marseille's symbols. Gateway to the southern neighborhoods, a strategic crossroads, and a village-like neighborhood, the fountain proves to be a work of art and a true strategic point of the Phocaean city."
First day in Marseille
For the first day, why not enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Old Port? You've heard about it everywhere; Marseille is often associated with its Old Port, from which you can then wander down the famous Canebière! Roam among the Marseille cafés, restaurants with the sweet scents of Provence, or the typical shops of the neighborhood. It's enough to make you feel like a true Marseillais for a day!
Second day of a tranquil stay
How about a trip out to sea? Because yes, Marseille is not just its city center. Beyond its main thoroughfares, Marseille is full of more or less secret places to enjoy the Phocaean city in its natural state. Prado Beaches, Pointe Rouge Beach, or a trip to the Calanques, we guarantee you exceptional views and unforgettable memories.
What you'll see:
- The Statue of David
- The En Vau Calanque
- The Morgiou Calanque
Third day, relaxed itinerary
Already time to say goodbye? Nonetheless, we suggest making the most of your last day in Marseille by visiting these iconic places:
- Notre Dame de la Garde : The basilica overlooks the entire city. From its highest point, you can enjoy a breathtaking 360° view of Marseille. The interior of the Basilica of Notre Dame de la Garde is uniquely beautiful and atypical. You cannot end your stay without visiting this exceptional place.
- Parc du 26th Centenaire : An artificial lake, paths for strolling through a well-maintained garden where all kinds of plants coexist. Parc du 26th Centenaire is one of the newest parks in the Phocaean City.
- MUCEM: Between temporary and permanent exhibitions, the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations will delight even the greatest art enthusiasts, no matter how diverse their tastes. The steel giant will also convince and charm you with its original structure, and its terrace, from where the Marseille sunset has never been more beautiful.
Visiting Marseille in 3 days with family
Discover all the places perfect for family outings.
- Peyrolles Lake : It's a superb natural space of 85 hectares in the heart of Pays d'Aix where outdoor activities abound. Your children will be overjoyed with the facilities available: playgrounds, supervised and equipped beach, paddling pool, beach volleyball, beach soccer, and a trail for a 4 km walk around the park. The park has also been set up for wakeboarding and water skiing :-D
- Le Pharo : A stroll in the Pharo garden will introduce you to the magnificent Palace overlooking the Old Port. You'll enjoy the view and the constant ballet of boats entering and leaving the Old Port of Marseille. It's indeed one of the most beautiful gardens in Marseille.
- Calanques National Park : Remarkable heritage awaits you here. Between coves and hikes, everything is there to fully enjoy nature in all its splendor. The calanques of Marseille also offer magnificent diving spots.
- St. Victor : The Abbey of Saint Victor in Marseille was founded in the 5th century by Jean Cassien. The Abbey is one of the Monuments of Marseille that you absolutely must see!
First day family stay
First Day
For the first day, we recommend a stroll along the Marseille coast.
Notable Places:
- Old Port : To start, you'll walk along the Old Port passing by the Fort Saint Jean, the City Hall, and the Canebière. If you're looking for restaurants in Marseille, you're in the right place! And if you have time, we recommend taking a ride on the Petit Train de Marseille, which offers a guided tour of the city particularly enjoyed by the younger ones.
- Catalan Beach : The Catalans beach is one of the most popular beaches in the Phocaean City. The perfect place to cool off before continuing your visit to Marseille.
- Anse de la Vieille Chapelle : After the Catalans beach, you can walk along the Corniche Kennedy and enjoy the magnificent view of the Frioul Islands.
- Les Goudes : Considered the end of the world by the people of Marseille, Les Goudes is the last district before the start of the Calanques National Park. It's also the starting point for many hikes. Its picturesque setting and small cabins make it the perfect place to have a drink while watching the sunset.
Second day family outing
For the second day, why not take a stroll through the heart of downtown to discover the most beautiful monuments.
Notable Places:
- The Fountain of the Danaids : Starting from Parc Longchamp, head towards the Canebière. Among other things, you'll come across the fountain, which rises magnificently, just steps away from the Église des Réformés.
- The Marseillaise Memorial : Who doesn't know Marseille? Dive into the era of the French Revolution and discover our National Anthem and its history.
Third day with children in Marseille
Finally, for your last day, what could be better than a stroll by the sea?
Notable Places:
- Anse de Maldorme : This small pebble beach is very popular among the people of Marseille. You'll have a view of the islands of Endoume and Gaby.
- Anse de la Fausse Monnaie : The Anse de la Fausse Monnaie has a small typical Provençal fishing port. You can stop there for a few moments to take beautiful photos.
- Prado Beaches: The Prado beaches are among the most popular in Marseille. Indeed, they are quite large and easy to access.
- Château Borély : As you head back towards Parc Borély, why not stop for a moment to admire the castle housing the Museum of Decorative Arts, Faience, and Fashion.
- Parc du 26ème Centenaire : Finally, you'll arrive at Parc du 26ème Centenaire. This true haven of peace is perfect for families. It offers shaded play areas, a lake, and the beauty of its plants and flowers will enchant you.
Marseille in 3 days with friends
Marseille tourism offers you must-visit places if you're spending a few days in Marseille.
- Palais de la Bourse : Located on the Canebière, the Palais de la Bourse is one of Marseille's must-see landmarks.
- L’Estaque : Located in the 16th arrondissement, welcome to a well-known maritime port. A neighborhood that has retained its Provencal aura for a peaceful stroll.
- La Route des Crêtes : It connects Cassis to La Ciotat, offering magnificent viewpoints for stunning photos!
- Aix-en-Provence : The trendiest Provencal town in the Bouches-du-Rhône. Aix will delight both families and partygoers alike!
First day of Marseille stay with friends
Notable places:
- Cours Belsunce : This popular district is a playground for shopping enthusiasts.
- Canebière : The famous avenue needs no introduction! While it's a must-see, you'll only pass through.
- Quai de Rive Neuve : Along the left bank of the Old Port, you'll pass by numerous restaurants and shops typical of Marseille.
- Escale Borély : Facing the sea, Escale Borély offers beaches and restaurants with superb views of the Frioul Islands.
Second day with friends in the Phocaean city
Notable places:
- Rue de Rome : Shopping enthusiasts will appreciate this street for its many fashionable stores.
- Castellane : A meeting point for the people of Marseille, the fountain stands at the roundabout of the same name. Dating back to the time of Louis XIV, this fountain has retained all its splendor.
Third day of stay in Marseille
For your last day, you can take a stroll along the seaside.
Notable places:
- MuCem : An emblematic place in Marseille, the MuCem is itself an architectural curiosity. It also offers a breathtaking view of the port.
- Vieux Port : A lively neighborhood, it is the historical heart of the city. You can see many monuments there and enjoy the numerous restaurants and shops nearby.
- Notre Dame de la Garde : Why not take the Petit Train that will take you to the Basilica of Notre Dame de la Garde? Both young and old will enjoy the ride as well as the view from the terrace of this symbol of Marseille.