Marseille surprised us in the best possible way. As France’s oldest city, founded by Greek sailors over 2,600 years ago, it carries a raw, authentic energy that’s completely different from the polished charm of Paris or Lyon. Walking through its bustling streets, we could feel the mix of cultures and centuries in every stone, from the ancient port once used by traders from across the Mediterranean to the vibrant modern neighborhoods alive with music, color, and food. The city’s maritime history still defines it — the salty air, the sound of seagulls, and the endless view of boats bobbing in the Old Port all make you feel connected to something ancient and enduring.
We began our visit at the Vieux-Port (Old Port), the heart of Marseille, where fishermen still sell their catch each morning. The smell of bouillabaisse — the city’s famous seafood stew — drifted through the air, tempting us into waterfront cafés. From there, we wandered up the narrow lanes of Le Panier, the city’s oldest district, filled with pastel houses, street art, and tiny boutiques. It felt like an open-air museum of Marseille’s soul.
High above the city stands the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, its golden statue of the Virgin Mary watching over the harbor. The panoramic view from the top was breathtaking — the blue of the Mediterranean stretching endlessly, dotted with islands like Château d’If, made famous by The Count of Monte Cristo.
In the evenings, Marseille transforms. Locals gather along the port for apéritifs as the sunset paints the sky pink and orange. We joined them, sipping rosé and watching as street musicians filled the air with energy.
To really appreciate Marseille, we found two full days ideal — enough to see the main sights and soak in the city’s rhythm without rushing. The city’s diversity, grit, and seaside beauty make it unlike anywhere else in France — more Mediterranean than Parisian, yet utterly captivating in its authenticity. It’s a place that lingers in your senses long after you’ve gone.