What of the oldest city in France?
That honor goes to Marseille, a city that pulses with history, culture, and that lively Mediterranean atmosphere.
From its ancient roots right up to the modern day, Marseille has plenty for the curious traveler to discover.
A helpful tip: bringing your iRoamly France travel eSIM is a great way to easily navigate this ancient city and share your experiences online.
What is the Oldest City in France?
Origin: The title of oldest city in France goes to Marseille. In around 600BC sailors from Phocaea, a former Greek city, founded the city. Now the second largest city in France, Marseille is an important center of culture and trade with a history that reaches back over 2,600 years.
Geography: The city’s geographical location has long cultivated a blend of European-African-Middle Eastern flavors. Marseille, functioning primarily as a Mediterranean port, has suffered numerous invasions and economic downturns, yet has consistently rebounded. In the twentieth century, new waves of immigration bolstered its multicultural population.
History: Vieux Port, the historic port of Marseille, and Notre-Dame de la Garde, the city’s most visited site marked by a multicolored basilica and hilltop views.
Marseille is perhaps one of the most undeservingly overlooked cities in all of France. Visitors will find a city rich in history and culture that is well worth a visit.
Best Time to Visit Marseille
The best times to visit Marseille are during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). Unlike the cooler temperatures in Paris, these seasons offer moderate weather, fewer crowds, and plenty of sunshine in Marseille.
In spring, temperatures of 13-20°C (55-68°F) make for perfect days, to wander the Old Port and historic neighborhoods. Autumn cools slightly, but the added reds and golds of fall foliage are a visual treat.
What to pack?
Opt for layers around the temperate spring and fall seasons, bringing a light jacket for the twilight hours.
Durable walking shoes are a necessity.
Marseille's stone streets and inclines can be unforgiving, so sturdy and well-cushioned footwear will be your best friend while exploring.
Top 10 Most Worthwhile Places in Marseille
1. Vieux-Port (Old Port)
Historical, cultural, and still a working harbor, the 2,600-year-old "Old Port" is the center of Marseille. Watch fishing boats unload, choose a waterfront café to eat at, or take a boat tour.
How to get there: Centrally located, it's a short walk or bus ride.
Come at sunset to see the harbor beautifully lit up.
2. Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde
Nestling on a hill above the city, this lofty basilica offers sweeping views over Marseille and the coast. Built in the 19th century, it’s a key symbol of the city’s seafaring history.
How to get there: Catch bus number 60 or enjoy a hike up for a fantastic vantage point.
Tip: A camera is a must for some wonderful views.
3. Palais des Congrès
One for the architecture buffs, this conference center is also a popular venue for a range of cultural events.
How to get there: Perched in the city center, it's easy to get to via metro or tram.
Check what's on before your visit.
4. Château d'If
If you know your Dumas, you’ll remember this historic island fort as a setting for The Count of Monte Cristo. The boat trip is worth it just for the location, though.
How to get there: Boat tours depart from the Old Port.
Tip: The boat ride along the coast is as impressive as the island itself.
5. Le Panier District
The oldest neighborhood in Marseille is an area of winding lanes, art galleries, and candy-coloured houses. Perfect for exploring on foot.
How to get there: From the Old Port, it’s just a stroll away.
Look out for local artisan craft shops for souvenirs.
6. Calanques National Park
Just a stone’s throw out of town, this national park is a wonderland of limestone cliffs, azure waters, and secret beaches. Popular for hiking, swimming, and boat trips.
How to get there: Drive or sail there, or hike in on one of the trails.
Tip: Bring plenty of water and sun protection if you're hiking.
7. MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations)
Throwing off Marseille’s rough-and-ready image, this ultra-modern museum is all about the cultures, history, and peoples of the Med. The architecture alone is worth a visit.
How to get there: A hop towards the Old Port; wander or take a local transport.
Climb up for some rooftop pictures.
8. Cours Julien
This arty corner of the city is famed for street art, cool cafés, and a lively nightlife – it’s the beating indie heart of the city.
How to get there: A hop from the city center on foot.
Tip: It really kicks off towards sunset.
9. Fort Saint-Nicolas
Once part of the city’s defenses, this 17th-century fort is a great place to soak up the scenery and the city’s seafaring past.
How to get there: A bus ride or a leisurely walk from the Old Port reach the fort easily.
Compared to other spots, it’s relatively quiet and peaceful.
10. La Corniche
A grandiose coastal road that parades around the southern coast of Marseille, offering glitzy views of the Mediterranean along its length.
How to get there: Just follow the coast; on foot, car, or bike.
Spend some time at the best viewpoints and take it easy.
Top 5 Must-Try Foods in Marseille
You cannot visit Marseille without eating your way around the city's legendary gastronomy. Here are five dishes that perfectly encapsulate the Mediterranean flavors of the city:
1. Bouillabaisse
Marseille’s not-to-be-missed, signature fish stew is a heady mix of local fish, shellfish, and herbs, accompanied by a side of rouille sauce and enough crusty bread to mop out the bowls.
2. Pieds et Paquets
This rich dish features feet of lamb and tiny parcels of stuffed tripe known as 'paquets', simmered in a broth of wine and herbs. Marseille's preference for offal harks back to its rustic Mediterranean heritage.
3. Panisse
These chickpea flour cakes are fried to crispy perfection, creating a delicious savory snack that's used as finger food or a starter in best food locations.
4. Navettes
The famous biscuits shaped like little boats have been baking in Marseille for centuries, flavored with orange flower blossom. Perfect with coffee or tea.
5. Tarte Tropézienne
Another one pinched from Saint-Tropez but so delicious it had to be adopted, the Tropézienne is a sweet treat consisting of brioche filled with buttercream.
Top 3 Must-Visit Museums in Marseille
1. Vieille Charité
Located in the Panier district, the Vieille Charité was built as a 17th-century almshouse and now operates as museums and cultural spaces. It is known for its archaeological collections dedicated to Mediterranean cultures.
Getting there: Take the metro heading to Joliette or Colbert.
Tip: Visit chapel and courtyard.
2. The Marseille History Museum
This museum is located just off the Old Port and its exhibits take visitors through Marseille's history, starting with the Greek era.
Getting there: Via metro, get off at the Vieux-Port station.
Tip: Do not overlook the ancient Greek port remains in the garden.
3. Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations (MuCEM)
The MuCEM examines the cultural impact of the Mediterranean in beautiful modern surroundings. It opened in 2013.
Getting there: Get there on the metro to Joliette station and it’s a short walk along the seafront.
Tip: Take the connected skybridge to Fort Saint-Jean for stunning views.
Marseille Culture and Traditions
1. Opera
In the heart of Marseille, the Opéra de Marseille remains a cornerstone cultural venue with performances that range from traditional to innovative, a legacy of the city’s enduring love as a home of the opera.
2. Festivals
Festivals drive Marseille's vibrant social scene, 'Fiesta des Suds,' among others, bring together the world's music and celebrate the city's diversity.
3. Art
With space for street art and contemporary museums, such as the Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC) and innovative spaces such as ‘La Friche,’ art in Marseille is often historically conscious and inviting.
4. Tarot Cards
In Marseille, the 'Tarot de Marseille' is a set of tarot cards known for its detailed, symbolic images that connect Marseille’s medieval history with its mystical lore.
5. Christmas Figurines
The village’s Christmas markets sell fragrant, hand-painted ‘santons’ (traditional terracotta figurines) of village and nativity scenes, a popular generational tradition.
Marseille Day Tour
Morning
Cathédrale La Major: Begin your day at this impressive cathedral near the Old Port, which has Romanesque-Byzantine architecture.
La Vieille Charité: A short walk from the cathedral, this cultural destination was once a poorhouse, and now includes museum and gallery areas in an impressive historical building.
Marseille History Museum: This museum is near La Vieille Charité. The exhibits help you learn about the history of Marseille from long ago to now.
Midday
Le Panier District: Stroll the ancient streets and rich historical architecture of Marseille’s oldest district. Consider finding a lunch spot here.
La Canebière: Walk down the city’s most historic high street, bustling with city life. This leads to other attractions.
Afternoon
Palais Longchamp: Check out the museums inside and take a walk around the beautiful park.
Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde: Either hike or take a bus to this basilica located on a hill which provides an impressive view of the city and the sea.
Abbey of Saint-Victor: Another nearby place of worship and prayer in France with beautiful architecture and history.
Evening
Vieux Port (Old Port): Finish out your day at the Old Port with dinner overlooking the marina. Enjoy local cuisine like bouillabaisse.
FAQs
1. What is the oldest medieval city in France?
Saint-Paul de Vence is one of the oldest medieval cities in France, with its history dating back to the 12th century.
2. What is the oldest city in China?
Xi'an is the oldest city in China, going back more than 3,100 years.
3. What is the third oldest city in the world?
Damascus, in Syria, is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world, dating back approximately 11,000 years.
4. What are the three oldest countries in Europe?
San Marino (301 AD)
France (843 AD)
Denmark (965 AD)
Summary
Marseille, France’s (officially) oldest city, is a colorful, historical, and beautiful city on the Mediterranean coast.
It’s a fascinating mix of old and even older, from the ancient port to the modern museums and historic hillocks, making it the perfect location for the best place to travel.
Whether you’re a culture vulture, outdoor explorer, or a gourmet, there’s something for everyone in Marseille.
Find travel deals and plan your next visit to this town – Europe’s (basically) oldest city!