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 Marseille is a vibrant melting pot of cultures, a city where the relaxed, laid back charm of southern France meets the energy and diversity of North Africa. Its streets are bustling and alive, its architecture faded yet grand, and its welcome as warm as its climate…..oh, and they have a pretty good football team too !
France’s second city is not the first place one might think of when planning a city break. This busy port situated on the Mediterranean coast has long been shunned by visitors to the south of France, who have preferred to stick to the more popular holiday destinations, such as Nice, Cannes and St Raphaël.
But people are ever searching for new places and new experiences and Marseille is fast becoming a destination to rival the others.
The Vieux Port is perhaps the most picturesque part of the city and is popular with locals as well as tourists. No longer commercially active, the port is nevertheless crammed with fishing boats and yachts and ferries still operate between Marseille and Corsica/Sardinia at certain times of the year. All of the restaurants and cafés overlooking the harbour have outdoor terraces, the perfect spot for people watching and soaking up the sun whilst enjoying some of the culinary delights that Marseille is renowned for.
It won’t take long to find a restaurant which serves the delicious fish soup Bouillabaisse, which will undoubtedly be prepared with fresh fish caught locally that day. Garlic lovers must try Aioli, a rich, mouth watering, garlic mayonnaise, usually served with warm vegetables and fish.
Overlooking the Vieux Port is the cathedral of Notre Dame de la Garde. Built in the 19 th century, it is topped with a golden statue of the Virgin Mary, who has watched over all of the sailors and travellers who have passed through the city over the years. Also worth a visit is the Chateau d’If, which can be found on one of the smallest of the Iles de Frioul, a short boat trip from the harbour. Legend has it that the Count of Monte Cristo was imprisoned here.
It’s unlikely that you’ll be stuck for things to do in this fascinating city, but if you have a spare afternoon, why not hop on the train and head for Aix en Provence. Only a 30 - 40 min train ride from the Gare St Charles, Marseille’s main station, Aix en Provence is further inland and was the birthplace of Cézanne. It is a beautiful, tranquil town and well worth a visit.
More and more people are realising that Marseille has a lot to offer and at just under 3 hours by TGV from Paris, the city is easily accessible and waiting to be explored.
Events
For details of other forthcoming events visit www.marseille.fr
Hotels
Contact French Travel Service on 08702 41 42 43.
www.f-t-s.co.uk
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