Marseille

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General Guide
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Marseille

Marseille is a port city in southern France and has been a vital transit and trade hub since its founding by the Greeks around 600 BCE. The heart of the city is the Old Port, where fresh fish is sold on the bustling boat docks. From the Roman-Byzantine-style basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Marseille.

Expert tips

Visa and Documentation
For EU citizens, no visa is required; just bring your national ID card or passport.
Travelers from many non-EU countries (e.g., the U.S., Canada, Australia) can visit France visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.
Non-EU travelers should check the Schengen visa requirements if a visa is necessary.
How to Get There
By Airplane: Marseille Provence Airport is 27 km from the city, with shuttle buses connecting to the city center.
By Train: Marseille is accessible via TGV trains from Paris (3 hours) and other major cities.
By Boat: Marseille serves as a ferry port with connections to Corsica, Algeria, and Tunisia.
By Car: Highways A7 and A55 connect Marseille to other cities in southern France.
Budget
Backpackers: €50–€80 per day (hostel, public transport, budget dining).
Mid-range travelers: €120–€180 per day (3-star hotels, casual dining, entry fees).
Luxury travelers: €200+ per day (boutique hotels, guided tours, fine dining).
Getting Around
Metro: Marseille has two metro lines that connect key parts of the city.
Buses and Trams: The RTM network operates buses and trams across the city.
Walking: The Old Port and Le Panier district are best explored on foot.
Boats: Take ferries or boat tours to explore the Calanques and nearby islands.
During Your Visit
Best Time: Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) for mild weather and fewer crowds.
Local Cuisine: Try bouillabaisse, a traditional fish stew, and panisse, a chickpea-based snack.
Shopping: Visit the Old Port for artisanal goods and fresh seafood markets.
Vieux-Port
Historic Old Port of Marseille.
Notre-Dame de la Garde
Hilltop basilica with city views.
Parc Borély
Elegant park with gardens and a lake.
Parc Borély
Stunning coastal cliffs and trails.
MuCEM
Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations.
Opéra de Marseille
Elegant opera house with classic performances.
La Vieille Charité
Cultural center in a historic building.
Corniche Kennedy
Scenic coastal drive and walkways.
Le Petit Nice Passedat
Michelin-starred seafood restaurant.
Chez Fonfon
Classic Marseille bouillabaisse.
Frioul Archipelago
Islands with beaches and history.
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