Discover Marseille
Marseille rewards exploration. See our picks for landmarks, food, and things to do. And if you can extend your stay, we think you'll be glad you did.
Between land and sea
Marseille is a city of magnificent contradictions. Founded in 600 BC, it is France’s oldest city and one of its most dynamic – a Mediterranean metropolis of some 886,000 residents where ancient history and contemporary culture exist in easy, generous harmony.
The sea is never far. Rocky calanques plunge into turquoise water at the city’s edge, wild beaches interrupt the urban fabric, and the Old Port – the Vieux-Port – has been the beating heart of city life for two and a half millennia.
Coming for the congress is the perfect excuse to experience a city that rewards the curious: extraordinary food, vibrant neighbourhoods, and views that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.
“Provence is not just a destination. It is a lifestyle brand.” — The Economist
Landmarks worth your time
From ancient forts to striking contemporary museums, Marseille’s highlights are remarkably varied and almost all within easy reach of the city centre.
Palais du Pharo: Built by Napoleon III on a headland overlooking the mouth of the Vieux-Port, this grand 19th-century palace is one of Marseille’s most iconic settings – and yes, it’s also where the World News Media Congress 2026 takes place. On the evening of 2 June, the palace terrace is the backdrop for one of the congress’s flagship social events, the Soirée: harbour views, local food, live music, and the kind of evening you’ll still be talking about on the flight home.
Vieux-Port: The living heart of Marseille – a working harbour lined with cafés, daily fish markets, and a constant parade of boats and people.
Le Panier: Marseille’s oldest district: steep, colourful streets, artisan workshops, and a neighbourhood feel that has resisted every wave of change.
Fort Saint-Jean: A historic seaside fortress guarding the Old Port entrance, now open to visitors with sweeping panoramic views of the harbour and coastline.
MuCEM: The Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations – architecturally striking, perched over the sea, with exhibitions as impressive as the view.
La Major: An imposing 19th-century cathedral of striped stone, sitting grandly at the waterfront between the old city and the modern port.
Palais Longchamp: A grand 19th-century monument housing fine art and natural history museums, set within a beautifully kept park – a quieter side of Marseille.
Notre-Dame de la Garde: The gilded Madonna atop Marseille’s highest hill. Make the climb – or take the Petit Train – for the finest 360° views in the city.
Plages du Prado: Marseille’s popular city beaches, just a short ride from the centre – perfect for an early morning swim or an evening walk along the Corniche.
Two-hour walking routes
Three self-guided itineraries through Marseille’s most rewarding neighbourhoods – each around two hours, each completely different.
01 Local life & creative culture
Noailles → Palais Longchamp → Cours Julien
Start in the vibrant Noailles market, push north through the lively streets around Palais Longchamp, and finish in Cours Julien – Marseille’s arts and creative quarter, full of murals, independent cafés, and record shops.
02 Sea, history & modern architecture
Vieux-Port → Fort Saint-Jean → MuCEM
Begin at the harbour, walk the quays to Fort Saint-Jean, and cross the footbridge to MuCEM – a route that takes you through 2,600 years of Marseille history in the course of a single morning.
03 Old town & panoramic views
Le Panier → Notre-Dame de la Garde
Wander Le Panier’s winding lanes and steep staircases, then make the ascent – on foot, or by the charming Petit Train – to Notre-Dame de la Garde for views across the whole city and out to sea.
Sea & nature
Island & calanque crossings
Board a ferry from the Vieux-Port to Château d’If – the legendary island fortress of The Count of Monte Cristo – or continue to the Îles du Frioul for wild swimming and open water. Longer boat trips venture into the spectacular inlets of Calanque National Park.
Regular departures from the Vieux-Port. Tickets available at the waterfront box office on the day.
Into the Calanques
Take bus 21 or 22 from the Vieux-Port and within forty minutes you’re at the edge of the Calanques National Park. Walk limestone cliff paths above hidden beaches — Sormiou, Morgiou, and En-Vau are the most rewarding. A rare chance to hike through a national park without leaving a major city.
Wear good shoes, bring water, and go early in the day in warm weather.
For more ideas, solo explorations or group activities, browse the recommendations from our destination partner, Aix-Marseille Provence Convention Bureau.
What to eat
Marseille’s food is as cosmopolitan as its population – rooted in Provençal tradition, shaped by the Mediterranean, and elevated by a city that takes its table seriously.
Bouillabaisse
The city’s signature dish – a deeply flavoured saffron fish stew, traditionally served with rouille and crusty bread. Best enjoyed near the Vieux-Port or in Les Goudes.
Aïoli
Provençal garlic mayonnaise served with a generous spread of vegetables and seafood. Simple, punchy, and deeply local – a dish that repays company.
Panisse
Crispy, golden cakes made from chickpea flour – a street food staple with North African roots that speaks to Marseille’s cosmopolitan character.
→ Read our blog to explore Marseille’s best dining neighbourhoods and make the most of your time beyond the Congress.
What to take home
From artisan craft to international retail, Marseille’s neighbourhoods each have a distinct shopping character.
Le Panier
Local crafts, ceramics, and artisan goods in a neighbourhood where independent makers have been working for generations.
Cours Julien
Vintage, vinyl, independent fashion, and design – the city’s creative quarter has the best selection of one-of-a-kind finds.
Noailles Market
The place for edible souvenirs: spices, oils, olives, and regional specialities from the vibrant daily market.
La Canebière / Centre Bourse / Les Terrasses du Port
High-street and international brands for those who prefer familiar retail. Les Terrasses du Port has the added bonus of sea views.
Don’t leave without
- Savon de Marseille – the authentic olive oil soap, made here for 600 years
- Provençal olive oil and herbes de Provence from Noailles Market
- Pastis – the anise aperitif synonymous with southern French life
- Santons – hand-painted terracotta figurines, a Provençal tradition
- Artisan ceramics from Le Panier’s independent workshops
Have you booked your stay?
Use our dedicated hotel booking tool to find the right accommodation for the Congress and beyond.
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