Experience the best day trips around Marseille

Cassis, a spectacular natural paradise

Our first stop in Cassis, about 26 kilometers from Marseille. This natural paradise allows you to breathe in the fresh air and is full of activities.
The easiest way to get there is by train, which takes 23 minutes. Visit the wineries of Clos Sainte Magdeleine and taste some local wines. We also recommend taking Le Petit Train to enjoy a tour of the town and, if you can, go on a boat ride.
Cassis is also accessible by car. You’ll arrive in little over half an hour and if you want stop along the way to discover the calanques, bays or coves that extend along what is known as the Massif des Calanques in the heart of the Parc National des Calanques.

Aix-en-Provence, historical capital of Provence

Excursions to Cassis are usually for one day. There are even agencies that offer such trips in combination with Aix-en-Provence in a single package. If you’d rather go on your own, there are trains that will take you there in half an hour or you can drive there, it takes about 45 minutes.
Be sure to enjoy the beauty of what was once the capital of the old Provence region founded in 122 BC under the name Aquae Sextiae. It is part of the metropolitan area of Marseille, its most emblematic places being the Cours Mirabeau, the daily market set up in Place Richelme, Ville Comptale, Place d'Albertas, and Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur.

If you don’t want to go too far outside Marseille you can visit Notre-Dame de la Garde, a Catholic basilica also known as the Bonne Mère or Good Mother. Situated on top of a limestone peak, it offers breathtaking views of the city.

Valensole and Avignon, two essential visits

Valensole and Avignon are two other trips worth planning out. Valensole is reached by road and it is about 100 kilometers away. Appreciating the beauty of its lavender fields is well worth your time.
Avignon is another of the most historical cities in Provence. We recommend you go by train, which takes around 75 minutes. Highlights include seeing the Palace of the Popes, the ruins of the 12th century bridge, Cathédrale Notre Dame des Doms and the Petit Palais.

These visits to the surroundings of Marseille will be the icing on the cake to an exciting trip. Also, don’t forget to sample the food and wine while you’re there. Savor the exquisite wines of the region and try delicacies such as Gardianne de taureau, Zarzuela and Cassoulet. What are you waiting for?