Things to Do in Marseille
• Gasp at the eerie landmark that inspired the 19th-century novel, The Count of Monte Cristo.
• As you walk through the monument, you’ll see old graffiti by past prisoners across the walls.
• Gain a better understanding of why this fort was built in the first place.
• Fun Fact: This mythical landmark inspired the popular novel, The Count of Monte Cristo (which was translated worldwide) and 23 films.
Join us to explore this wonderful city of 2,600 years on a two-hour walking tour, where we will embark on an exciting journey. We will begin our adventure at the marvelous Old Port, a natural harbor and the birthplace of the city, where it all began.
Then, we will head to the new Hôtel Dieu, which opened its doors for the "Marseille Provence 2013" event, during which Marseille was the European Capital of Culture. From there, we will venture into the Le Panier District, a beautiful old town with a long history dating back to the founding of Marseille by the Greeks in the 6th century BC. Over the centuries, this neighborhood has been home to a mix of communities, including Romans, Armenians, Neapolitans, and Africans, among others, reflecting the cultural diversity that permeates its architecture and atmosphere.
We will continue our tour by visiting the impressive Marseille Cathedral, one of the architectural symbols of the city. We will conclude our experience at the entrance of the Mucem: a new icon of Marseille. The Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations is one of the most visited places in the city thanks to its modern architecture that blends with the Renaissance-era Saint-Jean Fortress. Here, you can enjoy an unforgettable panoramic view of the city and capture memorable photos of the coastline.
This journey will allow us to travel through time and understand the changes that have taken place in this ancient city.
Welcome to this tour of the oldest town of France.
We'll start at the Old port, where the Greeks landed 600 BC ! from there we'll step back 2600 years ago at Le Jardin Des Vestiges, to see how Massalia was born.
Then we'll get in the oldest neighborhood of France « Le Panier » retracing the history and anecdotes of its monuments, Hotel de Cabre, Hotel Dieu, Pavillon Daviel, Church of the Accoules.
Strolling through the charming old streets, you'll learn the area evolution, known for its spicy and colorful past, from the rue du Panier down to the renaissance beauty of La Vieille Charité.
Heading toward the New port we'll discover: Cathedrale of la major, Mucem, Villa mediterranée...
A lively area, attracting for its view, contrast of architectures and a great cultural offerings.
Finally at the Old Port's entrance, you'll take in stunning views of Notre Dame, two historic fortress St Jean and St Nicolas, Eglise St Laurent and Abbaye St victor.
My goal is to provide you with a rich, enjoyable, and deep understanding of my city. Sharing its history, stories, customs, and legends that make Marseille so special. I'll gladly answers your questions and give my best recommendations.
Let's explore Marseille together !
• Visit the players’ pitch, the trophy room, and the dressing room which are usually off-limits to the general public.
• Once inside, discover football match archives, player posters, and player anecdotes from past matches.
• Conclude your tour with a close look at the Olympique de Marseille trophies, from the UEFA Champions League trophy to numerous domestic titles.
Join me, Florent, a passionate and experienced guide, for an unforgettable walking tour of Le Panier, Marseille’s oldest and most vibrant district! With my in-depth knowledge of the city, years of experience in tourism, and multilingual skills, I will bring Marseille’s history and culture to life.
This tour will take you through the charming streets of Le Panier, where you'll discover:
- The Vieille Charité, a stunning 17th-century architectural masterpiece.
- Colorful street art, showcasing the artistic soul of Marseille.
- Historic squares and narrow alleyways, filled with local stories and traditions.
- The Cathedral of La Major, one of the city's most iconic landmarks.
- Local artisan shops and cafés, where you can experience Marseille’s authentic atmosphere.
- Panoramic views from the St John Fort ( Closed in tuesday)
Whether you're a history lover, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking for an engaging experience, this tour is for you! Let me show you the real Marseille, its hidden gems, and its fascinating past in a way that only a true local can.
• A six-seater capsule takes you through a 220-meter route, in a 35-minute ride through semi-darkness.
• End your visit at the 2,500 m² Mediterranean Gallery which focuses on the lives of the Homo sapiens who lived in the caves and the animals they shared their lives with.
• Enjoy the rest of the day exploring the top sights of Marseille with a multilingual audio guide available on a sightseeing app.
Discover Marseille off the beaten path, through an immersive journey of flavors, stories, and local culture, blending the elegance of the Belle Époque with the vibrant soul of the modern Mediterranean.
🥐 1. A Sweet Start at the Opéra
We begin in the elegant Opéra district, with its classic architecture and grand cafés. Your first treat: a fine pastry at the beloved Boulangerie Aixoise, a local favorite that embodies French savoir-faire.
Optional stop at La Vanille Noire, an award-winning artisanal ice cream shop, famous for its bold and surprising flavors (yes, there is a black vanilla flavor!).
🌿 2. Tisanes & Time Travel
Next, step into France's oldest herbalist shop, still in operation. This charming boutique is a treasure trove of Provençal herbs, infusions, and natural remedies. A true hidden gem!
🌍 3. Global Flavors in Noailles
Welcome to Noailles, Marseille’s own “souk.” This buzzing, colorful neighborhood is a melting pot of African, North African, Asian and Caribbean cultures. Sample spices, street food, exotic ingredients — all while soaking up the multicultural vibe.
We’ll stop for a quick bite: something delicious, hot and ready to eat on the go — just like locals do.
☕ 4. A Coffee Break with History
Time to slow down at Café de Noailles, a true local institution. This vintage café-bar still echoes the spirit of old Marseille, back when the Canebière was full of life and cafés.
🎨 5. Art, Cheese & Street Culture in Cours Julien
From there, we move to the alternative artsy neighborhood of Cours Julien, known for its vibrant street art, indie spirit and cool vibes. Here, you can explore:
- A local cheese shop, packed with regional treasures
- Optional stops for a sweet break or a wine tasting
- A visit to a traditional soap maker, where you’ll see how the famous Savon de Marseille is made — and shop straight from the workshop
Budget around €20 per person for the various tastings and small foodie stops along the way.
• Choose between the beginner-friendly Sublue Navbow or the powerful Vapor scooter, then dive into a 30-minute underwater adventure with your expert captain guiding you.
• Enjoy a second 30-minute snorkeling session in a different spot, exploring more of the vibrant marine life and underwater scenery.
• View the Frioul archipelago, Château d’If, Calanques National Park, and breathtaking Mediterranean seascapes from secluded, hidden spots.
• Upgrade for a relaxing lunch on Frioul Island, where you can savor authentic local flavors while taking in stunning views of the surrounding coastline.
Welcome to Marseille! I'll be waiting for you at the entrance on Avenue Canebière, Old Port.
On that same avenue, we'll stop by the Chamber of Commerce and also the tourist office in case you have any questions during your stay in Marseille.
We'll continue until we reach the Jardin des Vestiges, where the old port used to end. After that, we'll pass Avenue de la République, the second most important avenue in Marseille.
We'll continue on to see the town hall and its square, which will remind us of anecdotal moments from that era: the Hotel de Ville and the Hotel Dieu, which is now a major hotel, known as the Intercontinental Hotel.
We will arrive at the most beautiful entrance to the Le Panier neighborhood, Monte des Accoules, and immerse ourselves in this beautiful neighborhood until we reach La Major Cathedral.
In it we will find a square where the views will show us the Palace du Pharo, the MUCEM, Fort St Jean and the Cosquer Museum.
Finally, we'll stroll to the viewpoint of Saint Laurent Church, offering spectacular views of the Notre Dame de la Garde Basilica, the Abbey of Saint Victor, and the spectacular Old Port.
It will be a pleasure to welcome you. I look forward to seeing you!
• An expert guide will take you through the cobbled streets of Les Baux and Sainte-Victoire mountain with insights into the region's medieval history.
• Step back in time at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pont du Gard, and marvel at the Roman engineering of the world's first 3-tier aqueduct.
• Tour the villages of Les Baux-de-Provence and Avignon, ending the day with a wine-tasting experience in Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
HELLO
Welcome to Marseille!
I'm Nicolas, a physical education and health teacher. Together we'll discover the magic of this beautiful city, 2,600 years of history summarized in an interactive and fun walk.
Don't hesitate to ask me anything you want to know, I'll be happy to help!
We'll begin by meeting at the Vieux Port, where the mirrored walkway known as Norman Foster's L'Ombrière is located. Then, we'll head to the Hotel de Ville. There, we'll make our first stop, which includes a few surprises.
We'll then continue toward Fort Saint-Jean, the Museum of Modern Art (MUCEM), the Church of Saint-Laurent, and the Cathedrale La Major, ending in the Le Panier neighborhood with its beautiful streets full of color, history, and restaurants.
The must-sees of Marseille on a guided tour led by a tourism enthusiast, who loves teaching and enjoying these experiences alongside travelers from around the world.
I'll wait for you, look for the colorful umbrella at the old port!
My Instagram @ nico.freetourmarseille
THIS TOUR IS OPERATED WITH A MINIMUM OF 5 PASSENGERS, PRIOR CONFIRMATION 12 HOURS BEFORE THE TOUR STARTS
• Enjoy a guided 30-minute ride with a professional captain, diving into the waters on your own underwater scooter, right to the museum.
• Dive into the Mediterranean’s crystal-clear waters and explore submerged sculptures at the Underwater Museum and vibrant sea life.
• Choose your adventure with either the easy-to-use Sublue Navbow or the powerful Vapor scooter for a more thrilling ride.
Marseille, France's second most populous city, is waiting to be discovered!
I love it, and during the tour I will take you to discover its historic center, which is also its most vibrant heart.
We'll depart from the Vieux Port and then wander through the streets of the Le Panier neighborhood, amid the scent of Marseille soap and colorful graffiti. Passing through the Places du Moulins, we'll arrive at the Vieille Charité, where we'll discover some curiosities about the reign of Louis XIV (the Sun King). We'll then continue on to the Cathedral of Sainte-Marie-Majeure. Our tour concludes with a beautiful view of the port of Marseille: are you ready to fall in love?
Is the date or time you wanted no longer available? Contact me and I'll do my best to find a solution for you.
