Top 4 Itineraries in Marseille

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By Paola Westbeek

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Introduction

Discover the best Marseille itineraries for a maximized trip! In this article, we will guide you through the top 4 itineraries in Marseille, with options for every timeframe, budget, and travel preference.

Marseille is an excellent choice for a vacation in France. It's a place where time flies and it's easy to fill days on end with memorable experiences. To save you time and effort, we have reviewed the largest selection of travel packages in Marseille and listed the top 4 itineraries for you.

Whether you want to relax at one of Marseille's best places to stay or jump head-first into exploring, an unforgettable vacation awaits. In fact, Marseille is famous for its outstanding hospitality, exciting experiences, and welcoming atmosphere. Knowing the best time to visit Marseille can further enhance your experience.

Simply scroll down to discover the perfect Marseille itinerary!

Popular Types of Trips to Marseille

No matter how long you plan to stay, there’s a perfect trip to Marseille.

If you only have a few days, Marseille weekend getaways are the perfect option. A 3 to 5-day stay in Marseille offers just enough time to soak in the highlights

For a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation, city breaks in Marseille are ideal. With a few extra days, you can dive deeper into Marseille’s most iconic landmarks, stroll through charming neighborhoods, and savor local cuisine at a leisurely pace.

For those who crave freedom and discovery, road trips through Marseille offer the perfect opportunity to explore beyond the city. With the open road ahead, you’ll uncover France's most scenic landscapes, visit charming towns, and discover hidden gems along the way.

For sun seekers, beach vacations in Marseille offer the perfect escape. Whether 5, 7 or 10 days, spend them unwinding on sandy shores, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and soaking up the coastal beauty.

Explore all the best trips for every travel style below and make your next trip to Marseille truly unforgettable!

Find Trips to Marseille

If you’re as convinced as we are that Marseille belongs on your bucket list, you're in luck. The best trips to Marseille are just a quick search away.

Enter your dates below to discover the best travel packages in Marseille and start planning your next trip!

The Top 4 Best Marseille Travel Itineraries

Discover the perfect Marseille itinerary with our handpicked list. Whether you're in Marseille for a short stay or a longer visit, there's an itinerary for you.

With detailed routes, top attractions, and insider tips, these 4 itineraries will help you experience the best of Marseille without missing a thing. Dive into our list and learn how to plan the ultimate trip to Marseille!

4. The Ultimate 4-Day Road Trip Itinerary Through Marseille and Beyond

Photo of The aerial view of Basilique Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde in Marseille, a port city in southern France.

A scenic 4-day road trip through Nîmes, Aigues-Mortes, Marseille, Avignon, and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard is one of the best ways to experience France. With the freedom to travel at your own pace, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to make spontaneous stops between the planned activities on your itinerary.

A 4-day itinerary means that Marseille can easily be combined with other top destinations in France without stress. While it’s possible to travel between Nîmes, Aigues-Mortes, Marseille, Avignon, and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard by public transport, renting a car in France opens up a whole new level of freedom!

So, with 4 days to spend, all you need is a rental car, some hotel reservations, and this iconic road trip itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Nîmes

Begin your road trip adventure by picking up your rental car at the airport upon arrival in Nîmes. Drive to your centrally located hotel, which offers convenient access to local attractions. Spend the day exploring nearby sights, and in the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional flavors and soaking up the atmosphere.

Day 2: Explore Nîmes, Aigues-Mortes, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, and Sagriès

Set out on a day of discovery and visit Pont du Gard, Haribo Candy Museum, Towers and Walls of Aigues-Mortes, and Museum Romanité. Take time to enjoy the scenery and local highlights of Nîmes, Aigues-Mortes, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, and Sagriès, with the freedom to stop at whatever sight catches your interest. By the end of the day, check-in at a new hotel, located in central Marseille.

Day 3: Discover Marseille and Avignon

  • Destinations: Marseille and Avignon
  • Driving distance: 179.99 km, approx. 3 hours and 24 minutes
  • Accommodation: hotel in Nimes, e.g., Appart'city Nimes Arenes
  • Sightseeing: Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean, Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde, Palais des Papes, Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon), and Calanques National Park
  • Recommended tour: Skip the Line: Museum of Romanity Ticket
Spend the day exploring Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean, Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde, Palais des Papes, Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon), and Calanques National Park. Take scenic drives or walking tours to experience the area’s charm at your own pace. End the day by checking into a new hotel, conveniently located in central Nimes.

Day 4: Bid Farewell to Nîmes

  • Departure city: Nîmes
  • Driving distance: 2.14 km, approx. 26 minutes
  • Sightseeing: Jardin de La Fontaine
Savor an hour or two for souvenir shopping or revisiting a favorite spot before it’s time to say goodbye to Nîmes. Drop off your rental car at the airport a couple of hours before departure for a seamless end to your trip.

The estimated cost for a rental car and accommodations for each night along this route is around 393 EUR, providing a value-for-money way to experience what's beyond Marseille.

Looking for something different? Explore more road trips with a stop in Marseille for alternative itineraries, routes, and durations.

3. The Top Recommended 5-Day Marseille City Itinerary

Photo of Fantastic vacation place, stunning viewpoint on the cliffs, Calanques de Port Pin bay with yachts and sailing boats, Calanques National Park near Cassis, Provence, South France, Europe.

Enjoy a 5-day city break in Marseille with the perfect itinerary, designed to showcase the city’s top sights, local flavors, and hidden corners.

No need to stress over the details – we’ve curated the perfect 5-day itinerary to give you a seamless outline for your trip. Use this itinerary to capture the best of Marseille without the hassle of planning.

Day 1: Begin Your Journey in Marseille

Arrive in Marseille and start your trip with a relaxing walk through town.

Take in the local charm as you wander the streets, and as evening approaches, indulge in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. Chez Roger is a top-rated recommendation. Say 'cheers' and set the tone for an amazing vacation ahead!

Day 2: Discover Marseille's Most Iconic Attractions

Enjoy your first full day in Marseille by heading out for some must-see sightseeing. Explore around town and visit popular attractions like the iconic Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean, Parc Émile Duclaux, Palais Longchamp, Abbaye Saint-Victor, and Friche la Belle de Mai.

One of the best ways to quickly learn how to navigate the city is to join one of the many great city sightseeing tours in Marseille. Choose a walking tour to embrace a relaxed exploration. Alternatively, go for a tour by bus or bike to cover a larger part of Marseille in the same amount of time.

In the evening, head out for another lovely dinner and raise a glass to a fantastic day of exploring!

Day 4: Explore the Local Flavors of Marseille

Start the day with breakfast at a local cafe before you head out to explore. Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde, Parc Borély, Le Maregraphe, The Marseille Soap Museum, and Unité d'Habitation are attractions you could discover today.

Afterward, enjoy lunch or visit a local market. Spend the afternoon shopping for unique souvenirs to memorialize your city break in Marseille.

For a fun and interesting evening, check out the food and drink tours in Marseille. Take the opportunity to sample local specialties and learn more about the food culture of France!

Day 5: Savor Your Final Moments in Marseille

Spend your last few hours in Marseille soaking up the charm of the city at your own pace. Stroll through favorite spots or revisit local markets before bidding farewell to the city.

We recommend booking your transfers from Marseille in advance.

For more inspiration, explore the complete selection of city breaks in Marseille, all including pre-planned itineraries you can customize to suit your style. Start with a ready-to-go Marseille travel plan and make it your own by selecting tours, accommodations, and more.

2. The Best 7-Day Marseille Beach Vacation Itinerary

Photo of Marseille. Palais de Longchamp with fountains and sculptures, in sunny day, view from the right side.

A 7-day beach vacation in Marseille offers the perfect mix of sun, sand, and relaxation.

Highlights of the best beach vacation itinerary in Marseille:

  • Beaches: Spend your days at Calanque d'En-Vau, Plages du Prado, and Plage de l'Huveaune.
  • Accommodation: Enjoy a relaxing stay close to the beach at places like Les Appartements du Vieux Port for easy access to nearby dining and activities.
  • Beach activities: Dive into beachside fun with options like sup-surfing, kayaking, and kiting or windsurfing, and more.
  • Dining experiences: Savor the flavors of the coast at Chez Roger, La Table de Nans, and restaurant la Ciotat Sloop, and other nearby dining spots.
  • Nightlife: Enjoy live music and late-night entertainment at bars like L' Antiquaire, Café Brun, and Les BerThoM, and more.
  • Cultural experiences: Explore Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde, Calanques National Park, Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean, Cathédrale La Major, Palais Longchamp, Parc Borély, Les Petits Trains de Marseille, and Calanque de Port-Miou, local markets, and souvenir shops.
With a well-planned 7-day beach vacation itinerary in Marseille, you can fully unwind, knowing your time is optimized for some of the best local beaches and daily activities.

Day 1: Begin Your Beach Escape in Marseille

Arrive in Marseille, settle into your hotel, and take in the sea breeze as you prepare for 7 days of relaxation and adventure. Enjoy a refreshing swim at Calanque d'En-Vau or explore the attractions near your accommodation as you settle in Marseille.

Day 2: Relax at a Top Local Beach

Enjoy a day under the sun at Plages du Prado, a top beach in Marseille. In the afternoon, make sure to visit Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde, Parc Borély, and Calanques National Park for an exploration of local attractions. As evening approaches, head to one of the best restaurants in the area to taste the freshest local dishes.

Day 4: Ride the Waves with Thrilling Water Sports

Enjoy a fun-filled day of water sports at Calanque de Sormiou. Alternatively, try out popular activities in Marseille to add some adventure to your day. End the evening with a meal at a local restaurant and soak up the unique atmosphere.

Day 5: Relax at a Local Beach

Start your day by lounging by the crystal-clear waters of Plage du Prophete, one of the best beaches in Marseille. Add a cultural twist to your beach trip in the afternoon by choosing from a wide selection of cultural tours in Marseille.

Day 6: Explore the Local Scene

Spend a sun-filled day at Plage des Catalans. In the afternoon, explore the local scene by visiting Les Petits Trains de Marseille, Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean, and Old Port of Marseille. As the day winds down, enjoy a meal and a refreshing drink while admiring the beautiful views.

Day 7: Say Farewell to Marseille

Wrap up your trip with a leisurely morning exploring any missed highlights in Marseille. Pick up last-minute souvenirs, grab a coffee at a beachfront café, and savor one last view of the sea before you say goodbye. Then, choose from many convenient transfers in Marseille to make your departure easier.

For more beach vacation ideas, explore all beach vacations in Marseille. Whether you're seeking a brief escape or an extended stay by the sea, these trips offer pre-planned, customizable itineraries, making it simple to enjoy the best of Marseille's coastline.

1. The Perfect 5-Day Marseille Weekend Itinerary

Photo of Colorful kayaks in the famous French fjords,Calanques national park, Calanque d'En Vau bay, Cassis,Marseille, Southern France, Europe.

A 5-day weekend getaway in Marseille offers the perfect break from the hustle of daily life.

However, with a well-planned Marseille itinerary, you can effortlessly experience the best of the city in just a few days. Picture yourself exploring iconic landmarks, savoring local cuisine, and wandering charming neighborhoods—it's all within reach as long as you know how to plan your trip properly.

With 5 days to spend, this is the perfect Marseille weekend itinerary for your trip:

Day 1 - Arrive in Marseille

Arrive in Marseille around noon and head to your hotel for an early check-in.
  • Morning: Take some time to relax and refresh after your journey, or get a head start by visiting a nearby landmark.
  • Afternoon: Ease into your trip with some sightseeing, and soak in the surroundings.
  • Evening: Dine at a popular restaurant and celebrate the start of the vacation with some drinks.
  • Tip: Book an airport transfer to Marseille in advance for a smooth journey. End the day with an evening stroll for an enchanting first glimpse of Marseille by night.

Day 2 - Discover Marseille’s Famous Sights

Maximize your first full day in Marseille with sightseeing, food, and drinks.
  • Morning: Visit Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean early to avoid crowds and enjoy the views.
  • Afternoon: Continue to Palais Longchamp, stopping by Parc Émile Duclaux for a break and some photos.
  • Evening: Dine at a popular restaurant and cap off the day at a local bar.
  • Tip: Use part of the morning to join one of the many city sightseeing tours in Marseille and get a guided journey through the top attractions in the city.

Day 3 - Immerse in the Local Culture of Marseille

No itinerary in Marseille is complete without trying the city's top local delicacies and experiencing the culture.
  • Morning: Start with a traditional breakfast to fuel up for the day and then head to La Vieille Charité.
  • Afternoon: Explore Les Petits Trains de Marseille and Old Port of Marseille, stopping at markets, boutiques, museums, or exhibitions along the way.
  • Evening: Enjoy a dinner featuring regional specialties and finish with a night tour of the city’s illuminated landmarks.
  • Tip: Explore food and drink experiences in Marseille and join an afternoon tour to sample the authentic flavors of France.

Day 5 - Depart from Marseille

Make the most of your last few hours in Marseille before your departure.
  • Morning: Grab a light breakfast at a local bakery or café and take a final stroll nearby.
  • Afternoon: If you have time, do some last-minute sightseeing.
  • Tip: Schedule an airport transfer from Marseille in advance to enjoy a stress-free end to your trip in Marseille.
For more ideas, explore our complete selection of weekend trips to Marseille. Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway or want to extend the weekend, these trips all come with pre-planned but customizable Marseille itineraries, ensuring an effortless travel experience.

What To Discover Next in Marseille

As you explore Marseille, you’ll find countless layers of history, art, and local charm waiting to be uncovered.

Finding the right place to stay is essential for a comfortable trip. This is why we've also gathered our top recommendations for the best places to stay in Marseille for you.

If you're unsure of when to visit, don't forget to check out our insights on the best time to visit Marseille. We'll share everything we know about weather, crowd levels, and price fluctuations throughout the year.

Wherever your journey takes you, we’re here to make every step memorable. From expert tips to local insights, count on us to help you experience Marseille in a way that feels truly unforgettable!

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