A football trip to the French city of Marseille

Old Port of Marseille (Vieux Port)

Marseille is a port city and is also the most important port city of France. Marseille is also symbolized by the centuries-old port, where yachts and fishing boats are docked. Every port city serves the most delicious fish dishes, and this is also the case in Marseille. You should definitely dine at one of the many terraces along the port and order a delicious fish dish. After dinner, you could take a digestive walk along the promenade where you’ll be greeted by the music of musicians. This is the perfect way to indulge in the French culture!

Would you like to know more about the shipping industry in Marseille? You’ll find information about the port and shipping industry from the seventeenth century until now in the Musée de la Marine.

The historical centre

The historical centre of Marseille has luckily been preserved. Le Panier is the oldest neighbourhood in Marseille. You’ll truly get the feeling you’re in France when you walk along these streets. The picturesque streets are filled with shops, boutiques, galleries, restaurants and cafes. The streets are very convivial and you can buy all sorts of trinkets here, like souvenirs and carpets, but also clothes. The neighborhood is situated on a hill. Given its hillside location, be prepared for a few inclines and declines while exploring Le Panier.

Cathédrale de la Major

One of the most beautiful sights in Marseille is the Cathédrale de la Major. The cathedral was built in the 12th century and got reconstructed to adopt a Roman Byzantine style in the 19th century. White marble from Carerre, stones from Florence and mosaic from Venice were used to build the cathedral. While the cathedral's grandeur is apparent from the exterior, it is equally worthwhile to explore its interior. You’ll find Mosaic artworks, Byzantine architecture, and many statues inside the cathedral.

Notre Dame de la Garde

This basilica might be one of the most important sights of Marseille, and is also Roman Byzantine styled. The Notre Dame de la Garde is a lot higher than the Cathédrale de la Major and there’s a 10 metres high statue of Mary on top of the basilica. You can see the basilica from all over Marseille, because it’s one of the highest buildings in the city. You should, therefore, not only visit the Notre Dame de la Garde for what you can see inside, but also because of the amazing view over the city that you're able to see from the highest tower of the church.

Palais Longchamp

You should absolutely visit the Palais Longchamp when you’re in Marseille. You’ll regret it if you don't visit this beautiful sight during your football trip to Marseille. Constructed in honor of the extensive 85-kilometer-long Canal de Marseille, this palace stands as a testament to the city's historical water supply. Adorned with lush botanical gardens that were added later, it may very well be Marseille's most stunning attraction, making it a must-visit destination. Once you have finished exploring the exquisite palace and its gardens, consider venturing to the Musée des Beaux-Arts, where an array of captivating art exhibitions await your discovery.

Frioul-archipel

The Frioul-archipel is a group of islands close to the coast of Marseille. You can hop on a ferry in Marseille and travel to the group of islands which consists of two big and two small islands: Pomègues and Ratonneau, If and Tiboulen. You’ll find rare flora and fauna on the islands along with beautiful landscapes. Two must-sees on the islands are the Fort de Pomègues and the Chateau d’If. The latter served as a prison where many political leaders were locked up until their death.

The French fjords

The Massif des Calanques are located near Marseille. These are seen as one of the most beautiful nature reserves in the Provence. When you decide to visit this place, you will see that it's absolutely stunning here. Amongst the rocks and mountains, you’ll find bays with enchanting blue water and little beaches. You can hike, cycle and go canoeing at the Massif des Calanques, so there is also enough to do in Marseille's surroundings. Travel to the beautiful fjords and discover the beautiful area when you have some spare time left in Marseille.

Aix-en-Provence

Do you still have time left and have you seen everything in Marseille? Then you might like it to visit Aix-en-Provence. This is seen as one of the most beautiful cities of France and it’s only 40 minutes from Marseille. Walk among the picturesque mansions and indulge in the culture of the city. The city used to be an important city for artists. Many artists used to travel to this city for inspiration. When you walk through Aix-en-Provence, you will understand why.

Restaurant tips

You should order at least one fish dish when you’re in Marseille. There are many people who don’t like fish, but rest assured; there are plenty of alternative dining options available where you can indulge in delectable cuisine. We recommend the following three restaurants:

Le Brasserie du Vieux Port

This restaurant is located at the Old Port of Marseille. You can enjoy the French cuisine here with a beautiful view over the port.

Address: 54 Quai du Port, 13002 Marseille
Opening times: Monday - Thursday and Sunday from 11 A.M. until 10.30 P.M.
Friday and Saturday from 11 A.M. until 11 P.M.

Au Bord de l’Eau

Locals love to come to this restaurant because of its delicious fish dishes.

Address: 15 Rue des Arapedes, 13008 Marseille
Opening times: Friday - Sunday from noon until 2.30 P.M. and from 7.3 P.M. until 10.30 P.M.
Tuesday from noon until 2.30 P.M.
Closed on Wednesdays

Restaurant l’inattendu

All dishes are prepared with local ingredients in this restaurant. The menu changes every season, so you’ll taste the seasons of Marseille in every dish.

Address: 35 Rue de la Paix Marcel Paul, 13001 Marseille
Opening times: Monday – Saturday from 7.30 A.M. until 11.30 P.M.
Closed on Sundays.

Clubs in Marseille

Would you like to have a drink somewhere in the city after a football match of Olympique Marseille? You could visit one of these bars:

Carry Nation

The interior of this bar is stunning and a relaxing atmosphere roams through the room.

Address: Adresse Secrète 1, 13006 Marseille.
Opening times:
Closed on Mondays
Tuesday: 7 P.M. until 2 A.M.
Wednesday until Saturday: 6 P.M. until 2 A.M.
Sunday: 6 P.M. until midnight

L’Exit Café

This fun bar is located at Marseille's port. You can sit outside and enjoy free appetizers during happy hour!

Address: 12 Quai de Rive Neuve, 13007 Marseille
Opening times: Sunday – Thursday: 9 A.M. until 2 A.M.
Friday and Saturday from 9 A.M. until 3 A.M.

La Dame du Mont

Everybody always dances here and the bar is especially known for its delicious cocktails.

Address: 30 PI, Notre Dame du Mont, 13006 Marseille
Opening times: every day from 4.30 P.M. until 1.30 A.M.