Marseille, France

I spent a total of 4 days in Marseille and it was so fun! I will be frank, it is definitely a bit rough around the edges, if you know what I mean. The homeless population is a bit high and there was a lot of warnings for pit pocketer’s and crime so I highly recommend walking with someone at all times and avoid sketchy areas. My best advice is to not walk around with flashy or fancy jewelry and clothes. Try to be as much of a minimalist as you can. I didn’t experience any issues but that’s also because I was taking precaution. Be smart and safe.

Now with that disclaimer out of the way, I really want to highlight the positives of this cute city because truly I had a blast and ate such great food (I mean are we really even shocked?)

How to get there:

I arrived to Marseille by train. Depending on where you’re coming from, you can either drive, take a train, or a plane. I was traveling from Geneva, Switzerland so it was pretty easy for me to get a train to Marseille since it’s only a couple hours away. It took around 5 hours to get there.

I ended up staying at an Airbnb with a couple friends near the Old Port. I liked this area as it was very walkable and a lot of restaurants, stores, shops and markets are nearby as well as the Old Port of Marseille which is cool to see.

Sightseeing/Activities:

  • Rent a boat to have a sunset swim in the ocean - Book here

  • Hang out in Old Port (great area for markets, restaurants, shops etc.)

  • Beach it at Plage Du Prophete

  • Visit Calanques National Park

  • Basilica of Notre Dame of La Garde

  • The Palais Longchamp

  • Abbaye Saint Victor

  • Parc Borely

  • Hang out in Friche la Belle de Mai

  • Take a stroll in La Panier

  • Visit Unité d'Habitation

Food:

  • Amorino - Best gelato in Marseille!

  • Glacier Vanille Noire - Another great gelateria. Order the classic Vanille Noir flavor. It’s incredible.

  • La Fiancee Marseille - Great spot for brunch!

  • Caffe Lauca - Wonderful coffee shop

  • Libala - Local x Tropical fusion. Truly fantastic. You can come either for lunch and dinner.

  • La Mercerie - If you love French cuisine, this is where to go.

  • Patisserie Sylvain Depuichaffray - Fantastic bakery! So many desserts, I was in heaven.

Danielle Giordano