Travel

With a population of 1,604,000 as of 2007, Marseille is the second-largest city in France and number one port. Marseille takes pride in its uniqueness and diversity.

Indeed it is not like the rest of France; being the major gateway from Africa, it has a Mediterranean flavour that may remind you more of Africa than Europe. Marseille is by far the oldest city in France, dating back 2500 years. Its rough and tumble history is still evident today. Many travellers may consider Marseille to be a bit of a dirty and rough place, but at the same time it may also be seen as a colourful, exciting city. Marseille has recently been upgrading and smartening its image after decades of decay and decline. A newly completed train link to Paris is a big boost for the city, and many buildings are being renovated.

The top five attractions of Marseille, France.

Number 5 – Calanques. Tall cliffs by the Mediterranean Sea, make this a spectacular outdoor attraction.
Number 4 – Marseille Cathedral, a massive Roman Catholic cathedral that was built in the 19th century. It was also a National Monument of France.
Number 3 – Chateau d’lf. Famous for being one of the settings in the novel, The Count of Monte Cristo, it was constructed initially as a fortress and then later turned into a prison.
Number 2 – Notre Dame de la Garde, an iconic landmark, overlooking the city from its highest point. The interiors are particularly ornate and memorable.
Number 1 – Vieux Port. It’s hard to imagine this city without the old port. Popular among locals as well as visitors, it is definitely a must see during your trip.

The Old Port is the main harbour and marina of the city. Fort St. Nicholas and Fort St. Jean are two massive forts that guard this section of the city. At the end of the harbour is the site of the daily fish market. Also lining the waterfront are dozens of cafés and restaurants, as this area is one of the main places to eat in the city.
The Central Bourse and the adjacent Rue St. Ferreol District is the main shopping district in Marseille. Also in the Central Bourse is the Marseille Historical Museum, which contains a preserved hull of a sixth century boat as well as Greek and Roman historical artifacts and records. Other noteworthy museums include The Musee Cantini, which features art work associated with Marseille as well as modern Art and includes some Picassos. The Musee de la Mode is a modern fashion museum featuring over 2000 designs covering the past 30 years or so.
Marseille’s best known landmark is the Basilica of Notre Dame de la Garde, which stands on a hill high above the city to the south of the port. It is famous for the massive gilded statue of the Madonna and Child which can be seen for miles out to sea.
Also worth visiting is the Le Painer section, which features narrow stone streets and stairways. This area was dynamited heavily by the Nazis seeking to rid the area of resistance fighters and Jews. Much of the spirit and energy of the region has survived however, including the beautiful 17th-century Hotel De Ville.
There are countless beautiful old buildings to be admired in Marseille. Some of the more notable ones are the Abbey of St. Victor, La Vielle Charite and the Opera House.