Marseille stretches along the Mediterranean coast in southern France, with a history that reaches back more than two thousand years. At the center of the city is the Vieux-Port, a bustling harbor surrounded by seafood restaurants, cafés, and boats, while the colorful Le Panier district climbs the nearby hillside through narrow streets decorated with murals and small artisan shops.

Above the city, the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde is one of Marseille’s most recognizable landmarks, offering expansive views over the rooftops, harbor, and Mediterranean. The coastline becomes more rugged outside the center, with the Calanques National Park featuring limestone cliffs, turquoise coves, and hiking trails. Marseille’s multicultural character is reflected in its cuisine, from the famous bouillabaisse and fresh seafood to North African, Corsican, and Provençal influences. Visitors can also take a boat to the Château d’If or explore the islands and coves scattered around the bay.