Port of Marseille: top attractions. Port of Marseille: top attractions Information about the city
Here is a detailed map of Marseille with street names in Russian and house numbers. You can easily get directions by moving the map in all directions with the mouse or clicking on the arrows in the upper left corner. You can change the scale using the scale with the “+” and “-” icons located on the map on the right. The easiest way to adjust the image size is by rotating the mouse wheel.
In what country is the city of Marseille located?
Marseille is located in France. This is a wonderful, beautiful city, with its own history and traditions. Marseille coordinates: north latitude and east longitude (show on large map).
Virtual walk
An interactive map of Marseille with landmarks and other tourist attractions is an indispensable assistant in independent travel. For example, in the “Map” mode, the icon of which is in the upper left corner, you can see a city plan, as well as a detailed map of roads with route numbers. You can also see the city's railway stations and airports marked on the map. Nearby you see the “Satellite” button. By turning on satellite mode, you will examine the terrain, and by enlarging the image, you will be able to study the city in great detail (thanks to satellite maps from Google Maps).
Move the “little man” from the lower right corner of the map to any street in the city, and you can take a virtual walk around Marseille. Adjust the direction of movement using the arrows that appear in the center of the screen. By turning the mouse wheel, you can zoom in or out of the image.
The geographical location of France and developed infrastructure make the country one of the most popular destinations for tourism and travel. Every year, millions of tourists come to France, who replenish the budget, contributing to the wealth and prosperity of the country. It is part of the European Union and has a currency - the euro.
Among all the cities, it is important to highlight Marseille. It is an important economic center in the south of France, due to the presence of one of the world's largest ports. The city is also rich in attractions and architectural monuments, which are known not only to the French, but throughout the world.
Cities of France
The country has many popular cities for tourism in the central part; they are rich in history and historical monuments. There is a wonderful Cote d'Azur in France, where you can relax, sunbathe and swim. There is a region of Provence, in which each locality is famous for a certain craft. You can visit the tourist center - Paris, without a visit to which not a single tour of the country is complete. It is recommended to visit principalities that are not part of France, but are closely connected with it, these are Monaco and Andorra, where there are also many interesting things to see.
City information
Marseille (France) is the economic and business center of Provence and the southern coast. The largest port in Europe operates here. Marseille appeared on the map of France in 600 BC. An ancient people lived on the territory - the Phocians, who belonged to the Greeks. Due to its favorable location, the province began to develop rapidly. Even in the Roman era the settlement remained partially independent. Since the Crusades, Marseille has experienced rapid growth as a transit port. In 1481 it became an official part of the Kingdom of France. The city suffered greatly during the bubonic plague in the 1720s, when nearly half the population died from the disease. It was one of the largest centers of resistance during World War II.
Marseille city in France
Climate and weather
Marseille has a Mediterranean climate and has mild winters and hot summers. Winters in the city are very warm, practically never reaching temperatures below +7° C. But sometimes they are frosty, and snow occasionally falls. In summer, precipitation is very rare, it is stuffy and hot. Autumn begins early for this type of climate; almost from the end of September there is frequent rain and the temperature gradually decreases.
The best time to visit Marseille for sightseeing is from mid-spring to mid-summer. And for the purpose of swimming and beach holidays, you need to go in the summer season.
How to get there
Marseille is located on a hilly area that separates it from the rest of France. The coast is rich in rocky bays and clean beaches, which are found throughout the Cote d'Azur.
Marseille France map
Important! The water in the vicinity of Marseille is not the cleanest, this is due to the presence of the port. For a beach holiday, you need to go to specially equipped places outside the city.
Getting to the city is not difficult, since the country has a very developed transport infrastructure; there are several ways to get around:
- airport. Marseille Provence International Airport is located 27 kilometers from the village. It is the second largest after Paris, and almost all tourists arriving in the region fly here. You can get to Marseille by regular bus, taxi, transfer or rent a car;
- transfer. When arriving for tourist purposes, transfer is usually included. If not, then you can find a special counter and contact the managers;
- Taxi. To order a taxi, you need to go to a special window and select the type and class of the car;
- car rental. The most convenient and fastest way allows you to conveniently inspect all objects of interest. There are many car rental companies at the airport and city;
- bus. Bus transport from the airport and along the entire coast is very developed, there are a large number of flights and directions, you can choose your own and comfortably get to the right place;
- metro. Marseille has its own metro network, which makes it easy to get around the city.
Note! A reusable metro card is much more profitable than paying for each trip separately.
Attractions
Marseille is rich in attractions and tourist sites. To see everything, you need to stay here for at least three to four days. Among the main ones are churches and cathedrals, many museums and several beautiful gardens and parks.
Marseille (France) attractions:
- Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde. Local residents stuck with the name Good Mother, since the basilica is considered the guardian of the city. The structure was built in 1864 on the site where an ancient fortress was previously located. The style of the building is neo-Byzantine, the architect was Henri-Jacques Esperandier. It is located on a hill in a high part of the city, making it one of the most prominent buildings. It has a crypt decorated with beautiful mosaics and statues of the Virgin Mary and Child. It is the most popular and visited place in Marseille;
Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde
- Museum of Fine Arts. Located in a beautiful old building. Ideal for art and painting lovers;
- Castle If. Located 4 kilometers from the city in the sea on an island. It is a fortification structure to protect against attacks from the sea. It was built in 1531. In the 16th century it began to be used as a place of detention for especially dangerous criminals. Now it is a museum and architectural monument. Known for Alexandre Dumas' novel The Count of Monte Cristo. Today it is a very popular place among locals and tourists; it has shops selling souvenirs and cafes with beautiful views of the city and the sea;
- Jardin du Faro garden and palace. The palace and beautiful garden were built under Napoleon III. Nowadays, numerous city services are located here. A great place for lovers of nature walks.
Marseille hosts many festivals and celebrations. For example, in April you can visit the “Holy Music” festival; in August there is a festival dedicated to the music and culture of the living diasporas. In October, it is recommended to visit the “Southern Fiesta” and the contemporary art bazaar. For many centuries, water competitions have been held in July, which attract a lot of spectators and are very popular.
- During the French Revolution, Marseille chose the side of the Republicans. After the victory, the French anthem became known as “La Marseillaise”;
- it is noteworthy that Marseille is located at the same latitude as the Russian Sochi, so the cities have a similar climate and temperature regime;
- Marcel is shown in many films, among which are all parts of Taxi, 22 Bullets and The French Connection.
Marseille stands out among other cities in France for its culture and traditions. Tourism is developed due to the presence of many interesting attractions. Recommended for visiting to learn about history and enjoy a beach holiday.
The port city of Marseille is a real pearl of France. The cultural and historical center of the country and a beautiful resort attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists every year.
Marseille is located on the shores of the Mediterranean, in the Gulf of Lyon. You can often hear its second name – “gate of the east”. The most important port of France connects Europe and Asia by sea.
The population of Marseille is approximately 1 million people. Arabs, Greeks, Africans, Jews and many other representatives of other countries united in one city. Partly, it is the mixture of such different cultures, peoples, and traditions that attracts tourists.
Marseille is a city with a subtropical climate. Winters here are mild and summers are warm. July and August are best for a beach holiday, as they are considered the hottest time of the year. The air temperature at this time reaches +27…+30℃, and the water warms up to +28℃. The cityscapes will enchant even the most experienced tourist. Flowing and hot sands, emerald shady gardens, as well as the sea will appeal to the taste of an experienced traveler.
Attractions
Marseille is rich in attractions.
Religious, natural, historical and modern cultural monuments will delight the demanding viewer.
In kiosks with periodical literature, which can be found on almost every street in the city, you can purchase a map with attractions marked on it and descriptions of them. We will also get acquainted with the main tourist sites in the article.
Chateau d'If
The 16th century fortress was originally used as a defensive structure. However, for most of its history it served as a prison for especially dangerous criminals. During its entire existence, not a single prisoner was able to leave the walls of his captivity. This has given rise to many legends that add a dark mystery to the already eerie place.
Despite everything, the castle museum remains very popular today. Of particular interest to tourists are the exhibitions of cameras of two characters – the man in the iron mask and the fictional Edmond Dantes from the novel “The Count of Monte Cristo” by Alexandre Dumas. Also here you can see the places of imprisonment of real prisoners, including famous political and cultural figures of France.
- The Château d'If is located at Embarcadere Frioul If, 1 Quai de la Fraternite.
- It is open every day except January 1 and December 25.
- During the spring-summer period (from May 16 to September 16), the museum can be visited from 9:30 to 18:10, and on other days from 9:30 to 16:45.
- The entrance fee for an adult is 5.5 euros, and for children it is free.
- A discounted category of tourists will visit the museum for 4.5 euros.
Old Port (Vieux Port)
A landmark of Marseille with a centuries-old history. Today it is aimed at pleasure, excursion or private boats. But in the past, the old port was the basis for freight and passenger transport.
Bright and lively, it is open to tourists at any time of the day or night. Here you can watch fishing boats and admire sunsets. Many coastal restaurants will delight you with excellent fish dishes. You can get to the port on foot from the metro station of the same name.
Chateau Borreli
In the 18th century, a wealthy family of merchants and shipowners built their park on the grounds. After their line was interrupted, the castle and park became the property of the municipality. Since then, these landmarks have become public places.
Today Boreli Park is a favorite place for walking for guests and residents of the city. On its territory there are several gardens, as well as a botanical garden.
A museum of Mediterranean archeology was opened in the castle itself, but after restoration it was moved to another building. In its place, the authorities established a museum of decorative arts, faience and fashion, by visiting which you can fully get an idea of the cultural trends of the past.
- The museum and park are located at 8 Avenue du Parc Borely 13008.
- The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00.
- Monday is a day off.
- The entrance ticket costs 6 euros.
Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde
Located on a hill whose height reaches 150 m. The hill is considered the highest part of Marseille. From its height there is a stunningly beautiful view of the city.
In 1931, a statue of the Madonna and Child, 11 meters high, was installed here. It is her who the residents of Marseille consider their patroness. The Romano-Byzantine cathedral and its nine-meter bell tower will make an indelible impression on its visitors.
- The Basilica can be seen for free at Rue Fort du Sanctuare.
- Opening hours: 7:00-18:15 (October-March) and 7:00-19:15 (April-September).
Museum of Fine Arts (Musee des Beaux-Arts)
One of the oldest museums in France. Works of art from Italy, Spain, and France are collected here. More than 8,000 paintings and sculptures are presented in the exhibition halls.
- The address of the palace in which the museum is located is Eduard Stefan Street 7.
- Opening hours: from 10:00 to 18:00, except Mondays.
- Every first Sunday of the month admission is free.
Abbey of Saint-Victor de Marseille
An ancient religious landmark of Marseille, which was built in the 5th century. Since then it has been destroyed and restored.
The monastery played a significant role in the cultural and spiritual life of France. Today, a functioning church and a crypt with sarcophagi, which are decorated with carvings and inscriptions, are open to tourists.
- You can visit the abbey every day from 9:00 to 19:00 at Marseilles, Rue Abbaye, 3.
- The cost of visiting the sarcophagus for any tourist will be 2 euros.
Arc de Triomphe of Porte d'Aix
One of the main attractions of Marseille. It is located at the beginning of the old road leading to Aix-en-Provence.
The arch is an almost perfect square. Each of its sides is approximately 18 meters. The arch depicts battle scenes of the French army, and it is dedicated to all the victories that the French won in these battles.
You can visit the attraction 24 hours a day and for free at the address: Place Jules Guesde, Marseille 3e Arrondissement.
Cathedral of Sainte-Marie-Majeure de Marseille
A religious landmark, which is one of the largest in Europe. The cathedral is recognized as a National Monument of France.
This 19th-century structure attracts tourists with its luxurious interior design, many statues of saints and intricate mosaics against a backdrop of bright marble. From the cathedral grounds you can admire amazing views of the port.
- You can visit the attraction almost every day at the address: Place de la Major, 13002.
- Tuesday-Thursday from 9:00 to 12:00 and from 14:30 to 17:30.
- Friday-Sunday from 14:30 to 18:00.
City Hall of Marseille (Hotel de ville de Marseille)
Located in the historical center of the city. This 17th-century building can rightfully be considered one of the oldest in Marseille.
Made in the Baroque style, it has been well preserved to this day. The second and third floors are still occupied by the offices of the mayor's office and city officials. On the first floor there were always trade pavilions.
A notable feature of the town hall is the absence of stairs connecting the floors. You can get to the top from the building located at the back. A stone bridge leads from it to the town hall.
- You can see the attraction for free at the address: quai du Port, 13002.
- On weekdays the museum is open from 8:00 to 16:00, on Saturdays from 9:00 to 12:00.
- Closed on Sunday.
Museum of the History of Marseille (Musee d'histoire de Marseille)
It consists of the museum building itself and the Garden of Ruins park. The entire history of the port city is presented here.
Each of the halls is thematic - symbolizes the era of formation and development of Marseille: from the ancient Greek hall to exhibitions of contemporary art. The most exceptional finds in this museum can rightfully be considered the remains of a Roman ship and an ancient Greek boat.
- The museum can be visited daily, except Mondays, from 9:00 to 19:00 at 12, rue Henri Barbuss.
- Entry cost is 3 euros.
Garden of Ruins (Jardim des Vestiges)
Mysterious landmark of Marseille. It was discovered in the 60s during the construction of a new shopping center. Due to the historical importance of the find, it was decided to create a park in this area, which was given the name Garden of Ruins.
Its total area is about 10,000 square kilometers.
In the park you can see ancient monuments, ruins from defensive structures and the remains of defensive fortresses.
- Garden address: 12, rue Henri Barbuss.
- You can visit it almost every day (Sundays are closed) from 9:00 to 19:00.
- Ticket price for adults is 2 euros.
- Discounted categories will be able to see the ruins for 1 euro.
Longchamp Palace
The palace building houses an observatory, museums of natural history and fine arts, a zoological garden, a complex of fountains and a triumphal arch with two colonnades.
Longchamp is a true decoration of French Marseille, which never ceases to surprise and delight guests and local residents.
- The palace is open to the public for free at 4e Arrondissement.
- In summer, opening hours are from 11:00 to 18:00, and during the rest of the period - from 10:00 to 17:00.
Museum of Natural History (Musee d'Histoire Naturelle)
The museum is more than 200 years old. During this time, he acquired extensive collections: paleontological, botanical, zoological and the smallest, which contains exhibits found during archaeological excavations in Marseille. The “Provencal” collection will show specimens of local flora and fauna.
- The entrance fee will be 6 euros.
- You can visit it from 10:00 to 18:00 from Tuesday to Sunday.
- Monday is a day off.
- Address: palais Longchamp, Museum d'Histoire Naturelle de Marseille, near Longchamp metro station.
Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations (Musee des Civilizations de l’Europe et de la Mediterranee)
Demonstrates the history of the peoples of the Mediterranean.
It is a museum complex consisting of three objects. The first one is on the territory of the former pier and is half under water. The second museum object is located in the former fortress of St. Jean and is surrounded by a beautiful park. The third exhibition collection is located in an ultra-modern building, where modernity and history harmoniously combine.
- All three objects are located nearby, at the same address: Promenade Robert Laffont (Esplanade du J4), 7, Musee des Civilizations de l’Europe et de la Mediterranee.
- The museum is open every day except Tuesday.
- In summer, working hours are from 11:00 to 19:00, and in winter - from 11:00 to 18:00.
- Entry cost 9.5 euros.
Calanques (les calanques)
A natural landmark of Marseille, which was formed more than 120 million years ago. They are limestone cliffs interrupted by deep bays.
The Calanques have been given the status of a National Natural Park. The unique eco-system of the park is very carefully protected by French law. You can see the incredible beauty by hiking with a guide or using a pleasure boat.
What to see with children?
Each of Marseille's attractions is unique.
In parks, cathedrals, numerous museums, castles and fortresses there is a lot of interesting and exciting things for both adults and the youngest tourists.
In the port city, there are many entertainment options for vacationers with children. For example, where there is a wide variety of attractions, as well as a rope park, a climbing wall and many attractive places for walking.
In the Park of Figures (French: Le Parc de Figuerolles) children will be able to visit a mini farm, where they will be told how to care for animals and will be allowed to feed some of them. There are interesting and unusual landscape and sculpture compositions here. You can have a small picnic on one of the sites.
If you want to take interesting photos on vacation, you can go to family entertainment center Sensas Marseille. It houses various play and upside-down rooms. Puzzle lovers can go through quest rooms and then arrange a memorable photo shoot.
Little travelers will be interested in visiting and examining the skeletons of prehistoric animals, seeing ancient fossils and learning something new about human evolution.
Families with children will find it useful to go to the Garden of Ruins and stroll along the shady alleys among the antiquities.
It will also not go unnoticed. In addition to permanent exhibitions, temporary exhibitions are also often held here. There are a lot of shows and performances for children. Most of them are often free.
It is quite obvious that Marseille will not let any traveler who comes to visit the city get bored. This is evidenced by numerous positive reviews from tourists who have appreciated the beauty and hospitality of the pearl of France.
On one of the central streets of Marseille there is a comfortable hotel, Hotel Rome et Saint Pierre, which also attracts guests with its non-standard design in the style of yesteryear. All hotel rooms are unique, they were decorated in vintage style. Some of the walls in the rooms are decorated with bright wallpaper with floral patterns; some rooms were decorated with antique furniture made of noble wood. With historical accessories...
For a honeymoon, many couples choose the Grand Hotel Beauvau Marseille Vieux Port. This grand hotel is part of the MGallery Collection and is considered one of the best not only in the city, but also in the country. Couples at the hotel have access to wonderful double rooms with a large high bed. Some of the romantic rooms have been decorated with antique furniture, and guests will also have the opportunity to choose…