Destination Marseille: a city that is 100% Mediterranean
Located on the Mediterranean Sea, Marseille is an important port for both France and the Mediterranean region. With over 850,000 inhabitants, Marseille is also the second largest city in France.
It is nicknamed the “Phocean city” because it was founded in about 600 BC by Greeks from Phocaea. It was then called “Massalia”. The city has had several important stages of development, beginning with the Greeks and continuing under Roman rule. Over the centuries, the port of Marseille gained importance and benefited from many privileges until it held a monopoly during the 17th century.
Throughout their long history, the Marseillais rebelled against authorities many times. Even today, the city and its inhabitants have maintained their rebellious spirit that characterizes the city of Marseille in France.
In 2013, Marseille became the “European capital of culture”. The title encouraged many new artistic and cultural projects in the city as well as in surrounding cities in Provence, such as Aix-en-Provence and Aubagne. The nomination also enabled Marseille to undertake large projects to embellish the city. The Vieux Port (Old Port) has been partially transformed into a pedestrian area for the pleasure of visitors, restoring the old-fashioned look of the port.
Your stay in Marseille: reservations for plane tickets, tgvair, hotel…
You would like to visit Marseille during your next vacation?
Air France has many flights to Marseille departing from major US airports with stopovers in Paris or Amsterdam. Discover our best offers!
During your stay in Marseille you can swim in the sea, either at the city beaches or in the beautiful inlets called Calanques (National Park since 2012). At lunch time, have a drink on the Vieux Port and enjoy the city's typical Provencal culinary specialties. Walk through the narrow streets in the famous Panier district to the Cathédrale de la Major. Climb the steps to the Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica, also called the Bonne Mère (Good Mother) by the Marseillais, and admire the exceptional panoramic view. You can take a boat ride to discover the beauty of the Calanques as seen from the sea. Your trip to Marseille will immerse you in a lifestyle that is more than Mediterranean, it's Marseillais!
Thanks to the Mediterranean climate which provides more than 2,800 hours of sun yearly, Marseille is an ideal destination for your summer vacation. Don't wait any longer and take off to discover one of the most beautiful Mediterranean cities!