Marseille must-sees: explore beaches, culture and history

Marseille is a city not to be missed on a vacation at camping Ceyreste in the Bouches-du-Rhône. Discover the riches of the Phocaean city, such as the old port, the Goudes district, the Château d’If and enjoy the city’s many beaches.

The Mucem in Marseille, Bouches-du-Rhône department

Start your cultural visit at the Musée des civilisations de l’Europe et de la Méditerranée (or Mucem). This museum, one of the most visited in the world, aims to promote Mediterranean heritage through over 350,000 objects, documents and permanent and temporary exhibitions.

The Mucem is a must-see for visitors to Marseille. Located at the entrance to the Old Port, this modern building, designed by architect Rudy Ricciotti, offers a striking contrast to the surrounding historic monuments. Its openwork concrete structure, inspired by moucharabiehs, is an immediate eye-catcher.

Mucem is much more than a museum. It offers a wide range of exhibitions exploring the cultural links between the shores of the Mediterranean, from ancient history to contemporary issues. Its exceptional location also makes it possible to take a stroll on the rooftop terrace, offering a breathtaking view of the sea and Fort Saint-Jean. When you visit the Mucem, you can also discover its hanging gardens, its restaurant areas and enjoy a unique immersive cultural experience. Accessible on foot from the Old Port, it’s a landmark of modernity and Marseille’s openness to the world.

The Château d’If off Marseille: a place steeped in history

The Château d’If, located on an island off the coast of Marseille, is a must-see monument for lovers of history and legends. This fort, built in the XVIᵉ century by François I, originally had a military vocation before becoming a famous prison.

The Château d’If owes part of its fame to Alexandre Dumas’ novel The Count of Monte Cristo, which immortalized it as Edmond Dantès’ fictional place of incarceration. Today, visitors can explore its cells and learn more about its prisoners, both real and imagined.

Accessible by boat from the Old Port, this island also offers spectacular views of Marseille and the Frioul Islands. It’s an ideal excursion for combining cultural discovery and maritime excursions. For the best possible experience, remember to plan a visit in the morning to take advantage of the exceptional light on the sea and the surrounding area. The Château d’If is a not-to-be-missed symbol of Marseille’s eventful history.

Enjoy emblematic beaches and natural landscapes, from Les Goudes to Marseille’s creeks

Marseille boasts a large number of idyllic beaches and coves. Plage du prophète is ideal for families, with its shallow waters. Lovers of water sports will find themselves on the Pointe-Rouge beach, while the Calanques massif offers heavenly landscapes, crystal-clear water and exceptional biodiversity.

Les Goudes: an immersion in nature

Marseille’s Les Goudes district is also well worth a visit. Located near the Calanques National Park, to the south of the city, this small fishing village is home to typical local fishing huts and boats. This picturesque setting attracts hikers and nature lovers alike. Just a few kilometers from the center of Marseille, the Goudes district has an authentic feel and is close to the calanques.

This small fishing village is a true haven of peace, offering a striking contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city. Les Goudes is popular for its wild coves, ideal for swimming, and its hiking trails leading to spectacular panoramas.

The area is also renowned for its restaurants serving local specialties such as bouillabaisse. As you explore this neighborhood, you’ll discover typical Mediterranean landscapes, with crystal-clear waters and unspoiled vegetation. Accessible by car or public transport, it’s best to visit Les Goudes outside rush hour to take full advantage of its calm. Don’t forget to immortalize your visit with a view of Ile Maïre, another jewel of Marseille’s coastline. A stroll through Les Goudes is a plunge into a more authentic and natural Marseille.

The Vieux-Port: the vibrant heart of Marseille

The Vieux-Port is the soul of Marseille and a must-see for all visitors. The historic heart of the city, it is surrounded by emblematic monuments such as Saint-Victor Abbey and the Palais de la Bourse. It’s the ideal place to stroll and enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere. Lined with restaurants, it’s the perfect place to sample local dishes such as fish soup or bouillabaisse. In the morning, don’t miss the fish market, where local fishermen offer their fresh catch of the day.

The Old Port is also the starting point for numerous excursions, including to the Château d’If, the Calanques and the Frioul Islands. The recent renovation of its quays has enhanced this space, with modern amenities such as the Norman Foster-designed Ombrière, offering a spectacular reflection of the surrounding life. The Vieux-Port embodies the essence of Marseille: a fusion of tradition and modernity. A visit is essential to understand why this city is so unique.

A stroll along the Vieux Port is another way to discover the city’s maritime heritage and the friendly atmosphere of the weekly markets. The Basilica of Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde is another emblem of the city of Marseille. Built in the Romanesque-Byzantine style, the “Good Mother” watches over the people of Marseille and offers panoramic views over the city.