If you’re looking to spend 2 days in Marseille, keep reading for the scoop on how to easily pass 48 hours or a weekend in the second largest city in France.
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Travel to Marseille, France
After Paris, Marseille is the second largest city in France. Situated on the beautiful Mediterranean, it has a population of just under a million people.
Marseille is a port city. It features the Vieux Port, a popular tourist destination. In and near the Vieux Port, you can find cruise ships, beautiful hiking, cobblestone streets, eateries, shopping, and lovely historical attractions and architecture.
It’s also home to a U.S. Consulate, which was the reason for my recent trip to Marseille with my kids. You can’t renew a minor passport without appearing in person. So, talk about a good reason for a travel adventure.
2 Days in Marseille – Itinerary
Where to Stay
I’m a fan of AirBNB rentals. Accordingly, I rented a lovely flat that overlooked the Vieux Port. I appreciate having family space that AirBNB rentals offer.
However, there are numerous hotel options in Marseille, for every budget. For example, there’s an Ibis Budget close to the Vieux Port. My kids love Ibis’ fun and bright colors, family rooms, and breakfast buffets. Until they saw our funky rental with a fantastic view, they were a little disappointed that we weren’t staying at Ibis.
Things to Do
I visited Marseille during the Pandemic, so things to do were limited. The benefit was I didn’t really spend any money on anything except for lodging and food. However, I felt like I did exactly what I would want to do, Pandemic or not!
1. Wander around the Vieux Port
Soak up the sights and bustle of the old port. Grab food or a drink to go (emporter) at a shop and enjoy it in the beautiful Marseille sunshine.
2. Visit Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde
You can’t miss this beautiful cathedral that sits high up overlooking Marseille. Walk or go for a run and check it out. You can walk all around it. Alternatively, rent a cool AirBNB that gives you a view of it from a distance.
3. Binge on Caffeine
Hop from coffee shop to coffee shop and enjoy your cafe au lait or cappucino while you stroll the streets and squares of Le Panier. Since we’ve been deprived on Starbucks during the pandemic, we made a B-line for the Starbucks on Rue Montgrand. Unfortunately, the lovely terrace wasn’t open to the public when we visited due to COVID.
4. Chug-a-Lug Craft Brew
If Craft beer is your thing, don’t miss the brand new Beer District Craft Brew bar in the Old Port. Grab beer to go. Awesome customer service. And a take-away cooler with SO many different varieties of craft brew.
5. Colorful Burgers
If vegan is your thing and you love bright colors and food, check out Flower Burger. There are also many other gluten free, vegan, and green cafes and eateries, including the Oil and Wax Creperie.
6. Hiking in the Calanques
If you’re headed to Marseille and can’t stay long, it’s definitely worth your time to spend a few hours checking out the Calanques. OMG. The hiking. The Mediterranean views. Breathtaking!
7. Visit the Markets
Enjoy the many open air, farmer’s markets in the city, which feature Made in France products, like the famous Savon de Marseille (Marseille soap) and fresh, local produce.
Stay Safe
As with any travel, stay smart and stay safe. Keep your valuables close to you at all times. Not just in Marseille, but everywhere. Always be mindful of your surroundings and be aware of those around you.
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