Marseille

Marseille – Mediterranean Port with Ancient Roots. As France’s oldest city, Marseille boasts a rich history dating back to the Greeks and Romans. The Old Port, Notre Dame de la Garde, and the historic Le Panier neighbourhood are key attractions.

Here is an itinerary that you may enjoy. Book your flight and hotel with the Expedia link below and off you go. Have a super holiday.

Arrival in Marseille -Day 1:

• Morning: Flight to Marseille
• Book a morning flight to Marseille-Provence Airport
• Afternoon: Check-in and Exploring Le Panier
• Upon arrival, take a taxi or shuttle to your hotel. Consider staying at a central location like Vieux-Port for convenience.
• After check-in, explore the Le Panier district. This is the oldest part of the city, known for its charming streets and vibrant atmosphere.
• Have lunch at one of the local restaurants in Le Panier, tasting traditional dishes like Bouillabaisse.
• Evening: Relax at Vieux-Port
• Spend your evening at Vieux-Port, the historic port of Marseille, now a bustling marina.
• Enjoy a seafood dinner at one of the portside restaurants, followed by a stroll along the harbour.

Cultural Immersion and Natural Beauty – Day 2:

• Morning: Visit MuCEM and Fort Saint-Jean
• Start your day with a visit to the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations (MuCEM), a stunning piece of modern architecture.
• Walk across to Fort Saint-Jean, offering panoramic views of the sea and the city.
• Afternoon: Calanques National Park
• Take a boat tour to Calanques National Park, known for its breathtaking limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters.
• Enjoy swimming or hiking in the park, and have a picnic with local treats.
• Evening: Dinner in Cours Julien
• Return to the city and head to Cours Julien, a neighbourhood famous for its street art, boutique shops, and trendy cafes.
• Choose from various dining options, from traditional French restaurants to international cuisine.

Historical Landmarks and Local Flavors – Day 3:

• Morning: Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde
• Visit the iconic Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, a symbol of Marseille. The basilica offers a panoramic view of the city.
• Have a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café.
• Afternoon: Palais Longchamp and Shopping
• Explore the Palais Longchamp, a monument housing museums and surrounded by a beautiful park.
• Spend the afternoon shopping at La Canebière or the Centre Bourse shopping mall.
• Evening: Farewell Dinner
• For your last night, choose a restaurant along the Vieux-Port for a memorable dining experience with views of the Mediterranean.

Departure – Day 4:

• Morning: Last Walk and Departure
• If time allows, take a final walk along the Corniche, a picturesque waterfront road.
• Depart from Marseille by a pre-booked taxi or public transport to the airport.

Additional Tips:

• Booking Flights: Use platforms like Skyscanner or Google Flights to compare and book the most convenient and cost-effective flights.
• Hotel Reservations: Websites like Booking.com, Hotels.com, or Airbnb offer a range of accommodations in Marseille, from budget to luxury.
• Local Transportation: Consider purchasing a Marseille City Pass for unlimited public transport and access to museums and attractions.
• Local Cuisine: Try specialities such as Navette biscuits, Pastis (an anise-flavoured spirit), and Tapenade (olive spread).
• Language: Knowing basic French phrases or having a translation app can be helpful for communication.

Conclusion

This itinerary with Jamie’s Planet Earth blends Marseille’s rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant urban life. From historical landmarks to culinary delights, a long weekend in this Mediterranean jewel promises a fulfilling and memorable experience.

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