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Guide to Marseille, France
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Click to go to Flight Prices for Marseille
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MarseilleDespite its lack of skyscrapers, large squares, and many cultural institutions found in sister cities throughout France, Marseille is the oldest and second largest of the metropolises. Its location by the coast has been both a blessing and a disadvantage, as this was the place where Greeks and Romans arrived in droves to conquer the land. High-rises dont line the boulevards, but youll find beautiful, quaint villas and shop-lined streets. And Marseille makes up for the absence of brazen architecture with some of the friendliest people youll ever get to meet. This citys lack of pretension is what makes it such a desirable destination; oh, and, of course, the beautiful views and cozy islets as well.
When to go:
Marseille is gorgeously sunny in the summer, but though the humidity drops significantly during the day, the temperatures rise quite a bit. For some travelers, its quite a nuisance if going from place to place on foot. However, the climatic disadvantages of summer are petty in comparison to those of the autumn and winter seasons. These two bring rain and loads of it, and Marseilles coastal location doesnt exactly help. If youre looking for the best balance, visit the city during spring, when a spontaneous rain shower isnt all that surprising, but the temperatures stay comfortably warm.
Getting there and around:
The Marseille Province Airport serves a neighboring town along with Marseilles so the distance from runway to city centre is not a short one. No worries; youll find that the airport serves travelers with around-the-clock shuttle buses headed for the Marseille Saint Charles Rail Station. If buses arent your cup of tea, or if you want direct access to your hotel, hire a taxi (metered), or rent a car. Car rentals are not out of the question; youll find that the roads in Marseille are not as traffic-laden as expected and parking is available nearly everywhere.
If you choose not to rent a vehicle, and youre looking for the best way to get around town, look no further than a Marseille taxi. The fares are reasonable, and your driver will always go via the shortest and fastest route. You may even find a driver up for an impromptu tour of the city for a fee and/or sizeable tip, of course.
Attractions:
Marseille is big on beaches with its beautiful rocky coves and islets, and its the perfect place to explore the citys small but thriving fishing industry. Walk along the Plage des Catalans and later the Plage du Prado, and youll find the beautiful islet known as Anse des Auffes. Continue along the coast, and youll come upon Parc Borely, where there are sure to be a number of locals and travelers walking about the park grounds. Parc Borely has everything, from a boating lake surrounded by palms, to rose gardens, and a free botanical garden.
One of Marseilles most-known sites is the Chateau dIf, the infamous prison well documented in Alexander Dumas novel /The Count of Monte Cristo/. Although Chateau dIf has been known as a state prison (no longer in use) it first stood as a fortress during the 16^th century.
Palais Longchamp is a building prized by all city inhabitants. Despite Marseilles lack of marvelous French architecture, the Palais Longchamp is an exceptional structure. All of the wings of the palace have been ornately crafted, and inside youll find a fountain dropping a steady pane of water 3 floors tall. Though the aqueduct put in place from the Durance to the palace was originally utilize for this purpose, the aqueduct as since ceased being used. Now the underground water system of the city is what provides for the fountain. In one wing of the palace youll find the Musee des Beaux-Arts where a great number of 16^th -19^th century paintings are housed. Works by Corot, Millet, Ingres, David, and Rubens, can all be found here.
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