Information about flights to Marseille
Recognised as the European Capital of Culture for 2013, Marseille is home to superb seafood restaurants, trendy cafés, and diverse nightlife venues ranging from exquisite cocktail bars to buzzing nightclubs. The city offers plenty of impressive attractions.
The Catholic basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde
The most recognisable monument in Marseille, partly because of its prominent location 149 metres above sea level, the Notre-Dame de la Garde is a sight not to be missed. Not only are the architectural details of the green limestone and Neo-Byzantine mosaics magnificent, the views from the building are simply phenomenal. The church, which has inspired many writers and painters over the years, was consecrated in 1864 and is well known for its pilgrimage festival in August
The Old Town
Just to the north of the pictorial Old Harbour, the Old Town is noted for its narrow alleys and beautifully painted houses. The area is home to the attractive medieval St Lazare church and the Quartier du Panier, which has been inhabited since the era of Ancient Greece and is the perfect place for photographs. The landmark is more than 140 metres in length and was designed in the second half of the 19th century, although it emulates the appearance of a much older medieval building.
Other sights
The Palais Longchamp is another fantastic landmark in Marseille and is acclaimed for its landscaped garden and impressive art museum, while the Marseille History Museum exhibits the city's important maritime heritage, its architectural history, and how it was remodelled during the era of Louis XIV. Meanwhile, the former almshouse known as La Vieille Charité is another fascinating landmark, which dates back to the late 17th century and is now a revered museum with four galleries.
Nearby – Les Calanques
If you have enough time, you shouldn't miss out on a visit to the glorious coves and rocky cliffs of Les Calanques. These dramatic inlets and secluded bays, just to the south and east of Marseille, are especially popular with rock climbers and offer incredible panoramic views of the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean.
