Exploring all the highlights of the capital of Provence is easy. The key is to plan your route wisely. Buy a map of Marseille with the names and descriptions of its attractions — and you’re ready to go!
Old Port
This is where Marseille began. Many historic buildings have been preserved here, attracting countless visitors. The most impressive are the Fort Saint Nicholas and Fort Saint John, built in 1664 to defend the city from seaborne invasions.
Château d’If
Want to see Edmond Dantès’ cell? The very same Count of Monte Cristo? Then head to Belges Pier and board a sightseeing boat that will take you to the fortress-prison. You may even get a chance to peek into the underground passage supposedly dug by the “Man in the Iron Mask.” Entry to Château d’If costs 7 EUR, and the boat ride is 11 EUR.
Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde
This Romano-Byzantine church with its nine-meter bell tower was built in the 19th century. It was once known as the sailors’ church, as its night illumination guided passing ships like a lighthouse. Perched on a hill in the highest part of the city, it offers breathtaking views. Photos of Marseille taken from the basilica’s viewpoints are simply stunning: the capital of Provence unfolds before you like a map. Entrance is free.
Abbey of Saint Victor
This church, more reminiscent of a fortress, was once a monastery. Its greatest treasures — sarcophagi adorned with carvings and inscriptions — are kept in the crypts. Scholars consider them examples of early Christian art.
Palais du Faro
The grandiose palace complex with a magnificent interior was built in the twentieth century. It served as a residence for Napoleon II. Now it hosts various receptions of the city's services.
Garden of Ruins
On the Marseille sightseeing map, look for the garden on Rue Henri Barbusa. Historians believe this site was once the site of an ancient Greek port. The ruins were discovered quite by accident during the construction of a shopping center in 1960. Since then, it has been home to the Open Air Museum and the Marseille History Museum.
