Located on the Mediterranean Sea on the southern coast of France is the country’s second-largest city, Marseille.
Despite often being overlooked as a tourist destination, Marseille is a vibrant, international city with plenty for visitors to see and do.
Marseille’s Vieux Port is located smack-dab in the center of the city. It is a pedestrian-oriented area that is located around the city’s natural Mediterranean harbor that has served as a hub for seafarers since antiquity. Visitors can marvel at its beautiful blue water and the fishing boats and yachts that dominate it.
Also located in Marseille near the Vieux Port area is the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations. This museum is located inside the boundaries of an old fort that used to protect the city and gives a state-of-the-art look at Marseille and other Mediterranean cities’ history and development.
Another must-see for visitors to Marseille is the Notre Dame de la Garde Basilica. Located on top of Marseille’s highest point and with a privileged position overlooking the sea, this unique cathedral was built in the mid-1800s and features the colorful and avant-garde Byzantine Revival architectural style.
Finally, be sure to check out Les Calanques National Park if you’re ever in Marseille. Located right next to the city, this is a beautiful place to enjoy the rugged, natural Mediterranean landscape and marvel at the clean water on its virgin beaches.
