Marseille: Things to do on your next vacation in the Mediterranean city

In July 1792, when France was at war, the Marseille battalion entered Paris singing a song to lift the morale of the citizens. This song eventually became the French national anthem. Want to know some of the top things to do in Marseille, the city where the French anthem comes from? If you are looking to explore Marseille, NH Hotels offers two fine options to stay in this stunning city. 

NH Collection Marseille is strategically located in Boulevard Des Dames, so you will be able to easily walk around the most interesting attractions of the city. nhow Marseille, in Corniche J F Kennedy, gives you an interesting insight of the maritime spirit with refreshing views of the Mediterranean Sea. No matter where you are staying at, both hotels will provide you a great starting point for exploring the city. Read on to discover some of our favorite options for what to do in Marseille.

1. Visit Marseille’s many monuments and attractions

Located in the southeast of France and bathed by the Mediterranean, Marseille is the second most populous city in the country. One of the top things to do in Marseille is visiting its many major landmarks. Here are some of its most famous ones:

• Notre-Dame de la Garde. This basilica, commonly known by its nickname Bonne Mere (Good Mother), is located on the hill of Notre Dame de la Garde and is the main symbol of the city. The walls are made of marble, and the bell tower is crowned by a large sculpture covered in gold leaf. We recommend getting here on the tourist train because you have to climb a winding road that can be tiring to do on foot.La Garde, as it’s commonly known, is the most popular of Marseille’s attractions and sits at the highest point of the city. With an evolving history that began in the 13th century, the basilica, chapel and fort are striking examples of local architecture across the ages, while eye-catching murals and mosaics will stop you in your tracks.
• Vieux-Port. Throughout history, the coast of Marseille has been a strategic point in the Mediterranean Sea. Today, the Old Port is the focal point of the city. Here you’ll find fishermen selling fresh fish, and you can ride a Ferris wheel, take a ferry ride or photograph the pavilion designed by Norman Foster, which contrasts with the two forts that protect the harbor.
• Cathédrale de la Major. With the intention of demonstrating the city’s strength during the 19th century by being strikingly visible from passing ships, the cathedral can accommodate 3,000 people within its huge structure. It took over 40 years to complete, and actually incorporates two separate churches, with some relics from the 4th and 5th century still present.
• Paniere. Behind city hall we find the historic center. The Maison Diamantée or the Palais Justice are some of the stately buildings that will amaze you in this neighborhood. It is recommended to join one of the free tours organized daily to learn the secrets of this place.
• Cathédrale Sainte Marie Majeure (Marseille Cathedral) Take the subway or tram line 2 and get off at the Joliette stop, or walk 15 minutes from the port to reach the cathedral. This Byzantine-inspired cathedral it is the only one of its kind in France.

2. Dining in Marseille

Are you thinking about what to eat in Marseille? If you are going to travel to this city for several years, keep these recommendations in mind:

Bouillabaisse – a fish-based stew – is a traditional dish of this city and trying it is one of the main things to do in Marseille. However, the city’s dining offers include pretty much anything you may be in the mood for, with gastronomic influences coming from far and wide. Unsurprisingly, given your surroundings, seafood is a common thread on the menus, and often it is straight out of the water and onto your plate.

A morning boost: it would be remiss of us not to mention the breakfast selection available to you in the NH Collection Marseille.

However, if you are already exploring the port area and need something to kick start the early part of the day, pop into O’Clock Coffee on 124 Boulevard de la Corderie, which is near Parc Pierre Puget. They have a delicious choice of healthy dishes, with fresh bagels often being our morning pick. Preparing for the pm: Marseille prides itself on its quality and selection of pizza restaurants. La Cantinette, on the north side of the dock, is one such establishment that ticks all the boxes you are looking for: good service, impressive pizza choices, and reasonable prices. And if you need to stretch the legs before having dessert, wander across to Patisserie Sylvain Depuichaffray for the most delectable sweet treats imaginable. No one ever regrets adding on a few calories when they are this tasty.

Dinner and relax: a little inland, next to Place Jean Jaurès, you will find an absolute delightful setting for an evening meal. Lacaille offers French Mediterranean dishes, all beautifully presented with a taste to match, and their warm welcoming team will make you feel right at home. An ideal venue to get the team together in style. Chez Fonfon is another option, at the higher end of the pricing scale, with their own version of the aforementioned bouillabaisse getting a particular mention.

Evening formality calls: of course, from time to time an occasion pops up that requires at least one Michelin star. If that moment arrives when you’re in Marseille then look no further than L’Epuisette. Immaculately prepared fresh fish dishes highlight the tasting menu, as you gaze out at the sun setting over the sea. Speak to our hotel team in advance if you’d like a reservation made at this, or one of the other Michelin starred restaurants in the city.

3.Marseille’s nightlife

If your batteries have not yet reached empty and are wondering what to do in Marseille, the city’s nightlife awaits.

With much of our focus centered on the port area you’ll not be left wanting by simply taking a wander around these streets and finding a place that carries the vibe you’re looking for. That said, for a little more style and panache, try Rue Sainte et Rue d’Endoume and join the hip kids for a night of revelry. For something a little different, why not board a night cruise around the bay, seeing the city lit up as you float by.

La Dame du Mont is an interesting place to unwind in the evening, offering an eclectic mix of music genres to fill the always-lively room, while you get to choose from a selection of craft beers, wines, spirits, and house cocktails.

If you feel the need to get your toes tapping even more, however, try out U.percut for an experience to remember before heading back to your pillow. The live music or DJing will likely keep the night going for as long as your energy levels allow.

4. More things to do in Marseille

Here are our recommendations for some additional cultural activities to do after a day of making the rounds of Marseille.

• Frioul Islands. Have you read The Count of Montecristo? Its plot takes place on these four small islands located a few kilometers from the coast of Marseille. An archipelago recommended for nature lovers.
• Soap factories: If you want to take a pleasant and fragrant memory of the city with you, visit Le Sérail factory, where they continue to make Marseille soap the traditional way.

Whatever the reason for you ending up in the city, there is no shortage of things to do in Marseille. As with any Mediterranean city, any time of the year is great for planning a trip. Now that you know what to see in Marseille, book in one of our hotels in Marseille!

As with any Mediterranean city, any time of the year is great for planning a trip. Now that you know what to see in Marseille come head to this city!