An idyllic port city on the south coast of France, steeped in history, charm and culture – here are the best places to visit, eat, drink and swim in Marseille.
When someone asks you about France, what comes to mind? Many imagine boulevards in the capital of fashion, musky Parisian bakeries, art deco bistros and stylish bookstores. After all, Paris is, for many, the cultural capital of the world.
But Paris, though painstakingly beautiful, represents only a slice of the country and its vibrant culture. Less than four hours by train is Marseille, an idyllic port city on the coast of southern France, brimming with flavor, history, charm and culture.
From the ancient Greeks to the modern artisans, Marseille has always been home to a diverse range of cultures and influences that have shaped its eccentric, authentic character.
Surrounded by stunning beaches, turquoise waters, independent boutiques and vibrant cuisines. This is a a guide along with personal reflections, encouraging cultured travelers from around the world to explore French culture beyond the capital.
- La Mercerie Restaurant / 9 Cr Saint-Louis, 13001 Marseille, France
As well as its cultural attractions and seaside getaways, Marseille has established itself on the gourmet culinary map as a must-visit destination for food lovers. From traditional seafood dishes to modern fusions, every cobbled street seems to lead to new restaurants around every corner. At a spot in the lively Noailles district, a stone’s throw from the old port, La Mercerie is a must-visit restaurant favored by locals and tourists alike, including Skadhauge.
With a resident sommelier, the restaurant is famous for its biodynamic and natural wines. Whether it’s a drink with friends, a dinner date or a family affair, at La Mercerie, you’re sure to feel like a local.
- Provisions Bookstore / 95 Rue de Lodi, 13006 Marseille, France
Tucked away on a street corner in Baille is one of Marseille’s best kept secrets. Provisions is a French bookstore turned grocery store owned by friends Sasika and Jill. Located in a former mid-century bookstore, the space’s original wood fixtures and antique tiles evoke a warm sense of intimacy. The shelves are stocked with specialty groceries from France, including carefully selected wines (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic), books, ceramics and local flowers.
Every week – on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays – Provisions cooks up a short menu of sweet and savory items. Using local produce from the markets and selected items from their counter, the menu rotates weekly, honoring seasonal produce and minimizing waste. Recent dishes include vegetarian Flammekueche with crème fraîche, onions, shiitakes and oyster mushrooms, gnocchi with ragú and plenty of sweets for those with a sweet tooth. The food comes in small batches and is appreciated by the locals.
- Sessùn Alma / 127 Rue Sainte, 13007 Marseille, France
Sessùn is a well-known French fashion brand with roots in Marseille. In an old soap factory on the famous Rue Sainte, is their favorite concept store, Sessùn Alma. This hybrid space – part boutique, part restaurant – is the heart of the Sessùn brand and has become one of the most beloved shopping spots in the city.
Designed by Marseille-based architecture firm Marion Bernard, the space uses mineral-inspired materials to evoke warmth and Mediterranean charm, with saffron-hued floors, pearly white walls, high ceilings and handmade trinkets by local artisans on built-in shelves. Before dining in the restaurant, hosted by a rotating roster of resident chefs, browse Sessùn clothing and handcrafted pieces from local artisans – tableware, ceramics, baskets – and more.
- Vanille Noire/ 15 Rue Caisserie, 13002 Marseille, France
At Vanille Noire – Marseille’s most sought after ice cream parlours – “you’ll find the best ice cream and sorbet in town”. The name is a direct translation and reference to their most popular flavor, Black Vanilla, a ball of which has a sweet, salty and undeniably umami flavor. Local favorites also include lavender ice cream, pasticcio sorbet and orange blossom water ice cream with caramelized pistachios. Vegetarian options with almond milk such as praline and sesame are also available.
Vanille Noire can be found in various locations, on the promenade along the Vieux-Port as well as in the winding streets of Le Panier. We recommend starting at the main store and “enjoy two balls on a walk to the Le Panier neighborhood or on the way to the Mucem museum.”
- Calanque de Sormiou / Calanque de Sormiou, 13008 Marseille
While Marseille has many attractions in the city center, it is also worth taking some time to explore the surrounding landscapes and connect with nature. There are many excursions that deserve a place in the program, we recommend spending half a day at the Calanque de Sormiou, a famous cove famous for its breathtaking panorama of blue waters, limestone cliffs and ethereal greenery. Prepare for a beautiful hike. The location is easily accessible by public transport and it is an hour’s walk to reach the Calanque. Walk around the creek on a nature trail and relax on the beach.
- Mijoba / 79 boulevard Vauban, 13006 Marseille, France
Tucked away on Boulevard Vauban, at the foot of Notre Dame de la Garde, is one of the city’s newest and most sought-after restaurants. Having worked at Café des Epices and Péron, Venezuelan chef David Mijoba founded Mijoba in 2023 and quickly gained a reputation for his vegetable- and seafood-oriented menu, combining vibrant flavors and unexpected combinations.
The chef and owner respects the products he works with and therefore forges close collaborations with local farmers. Previous dishes include ravioli with ricotta, lentils and fresh chestnuts, and local mackerel served with roasted leeks and asparagus, drizzled with za’atar vinaigrette.
- Frioul Archipelago, walk and swim with a boat ride to reach the islands / Frioul Archipelago, 13007 Marseille, France
For a longer excursion, we recommend a day trip to the nearby Frioul archipelago, 15 minutes by city ferry from Le vieux port. The islands are raw, photogenic and a great location for a walk and a swim. Close to the port, Saint-Estève and Morgiret bays are a favorite location for long days at the beach. A little further away is the Calanque de la Crine, often described as the most beautiful bay of the Frioul archipelago surrounded by crystal clear waters.
- Notre-Dame de la Garde / Rue Fort du Sanctuaire, 13006 Marseille, France
Notre-Dame de la Garde is one of the most iconic sites of Marseille, with its Roman-Byzantine architecture characterized by domes, stones, polychrome, gold and mosaics. Adding to its charm, the location also exists as one of the highest points in the city, offering a panoramic view of Marseille.
We recommend exploring the surrounding area – which is usually free of tourists – before slowly climbing to the top of the Basilica. Once you reach the top, there is an amazing spot to watch the sunset over the Frioul Islands and the sea. It’s impressive to have such a scenic view in the middle of the city.
