A Luxurious Weekend Getaway: A Two-Day Itinerary for Marseille, France
Hey everyone, I wanted to share that as I’m now in my mid-thirties, I’ve become more willing to splurge a bit on my holidays. Each time we travel, it reminds us of the two years of Covid when we were stuck in Hong Kong. During that time, we promised ourselves that we wouldn’t skimp on our travels anymore. Marseille is a city in France that strikes a great balance between luxury and affordability, so we decided to treat ourselves during the two days we spent there. While we didn’t follow this exact itinerary, most of it is accurate. There were a few places we didn’t have time for, but they’re definitely on our to-do list for the next visit. Bonnes vacances!
Day 1: Exploring the Old Port and City Center
Morning:
Begin your luxurious weekend in Marseille with a leisurely breakfast at your upscale hotel. As a first-time visitor, staying in the Vieux Port area provides the perfect blend of convenience and sophistication
- Breakfast with a View: Head to a café by the Old Port and savor a traditional French breakfast while overlooking the glistening Mediterranean waters. A warm croissant paired with a rich espresso is the perfect way to start your day.
Late Morning:
After breakfast, it’s time to explore Marseille’s historic Old Port, a bustling hub of activity that reflects the city’s maritime heritage.
- Boat Tour: To truly immerse yourself in the coastal beauty of Marseille, embark on a private boat tour from the Old Port. As you sail along the coast, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the iconic Château d’If, a fortress featured in Alexandre Dumas’ classic novel “The Count of Monte Cristo.” The gentle breeze and the tranquil sound of the waves create an ambiance of relaxation and wonder.
Lunch:
Return to the Old Port and savor fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant. Marseille is renowned for its maritime cuisine, and this is your chance to taste the best.
- Mouthwatering Seafood: Try bouillabaisse, the famous local fish stew, paired with a crisp glass of Provencal rosé. As you savor the rich flavors of the sea, you’ll understand why this dish has captured the hearts of both locals and visitors.
Afternoon:
After a sumptuous lunch, take a stroll through the charming streets of the Le Panier district, a historic and artistic neighborhood that provides a vivid glimpse into Marseille’s past and present.
- Cultural Exploration: Visit the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations (MuCEM), an architectural masterpiece that stands at the entrance to the Old Port. This museum, with its striking contemporary design, showcases exhibitions exploring the rich history and cultural diversity of the Mediterranean region. Continue your exploration by crossing the footbridge to Fort Saint-Jean, a historical site with commanding views of the city. The mix of old and new, traditional and modern, reflects the essence of Marseille.
Late Afternoon:
Indulge in a bit of retail therapy in the heart of the city.
- Luxury Shopping: Stroll through the shops on Rue Saint-Ferréol, one of Marseille’s premier shopping streets. This boulevard is home to an array of high-end French and international brands, making it the ideal place to indulge in a shopping spree. Whether you’re searching for haute couture or unique artisanal creations, Rue Saint-Ferréol caters to your discerning tastes.
Dinner:
For an unforgettable culinary experience, dine at one of the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants. Marseille is not only a cultural and historical hub but also a gastronomic paradise.
- Fine Dining: Savor innovative French cuisine at Le Petit Nice, a renowned three-star Michelin restaurant that specializes in seafood. The restaurant is perched by the sea, providing a tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Your evening here will be a symphony of flavors, blending the finest ingredients with exquisite culinary artistry.
Day 2: Cultural Delights and Relaxation
Morning
: Start your second day with a gourmet breakfast at your hotel. Marseille’s luxurious accommodations offer a perfect blend of comfort and style.
- Fresh Pastries and Coffee: Enjoy a classic French breakfast featuring buttery croissants, flaky pain au chocolat, and rich espresso. The exquisite flavors will awaken your senses and set the tone for a day of exploration and indulgence.
Late Morning:
Today is all about art and culture. Marseille is not only a port city but a cultural hub of the Mediterranean.
- Cultural Exploration: Begin your cultural journey by visiting the Cantini Museum, a renowned institution for modern and contemporary art. As you explore the museum’s collection, you’ll be treated to a diverse range of artistic expressions, from surrealism to abstract art. The ambiance is a perfect fusion of classic and contemporary, offering a unique perspective on Marseille’s cultural heritage.
Continue your cultural exploration with a visit to the Marseille History Museum. Housed in the beautifully restored 17th-century Maison Diamantée, this museum provides insights into the city’s rich heritage. Exhibitions cover a wide range of topics, including Marseille’s maritime history, ancient civilizations, and urban development. Stroll through the well-preserved historical quarters surrounding the museum for an authentic taste of Marseille’s past.
Lunch: Satisfy your appetite with a Provençal feast. Marseille is a city that prides itself on its cuisine, so every meal is an opportunity to savor the region’s culinary treasures.
- Local Flavors: Head to a traditional bistro and savor a Provençal lunch, enjoying dishes like ratatouille, a delightful blend of Mediterranean vegetables, or a hearty beef daube, a slow-cooked beef stew infused with aromatic herbs. A glass of local wine complements your meal, creating a culinary symphony that reflects the rich Provençal traditions.
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Afternoon:
After a morning of exploration and culinary delights, it’s time to unwind with a spa afternoon. Marseille offers a range of spa retreats, each providing a haven of relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Spa Retreat: Make your way to the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo Spa at the InterContinental Hotel. This luxurious spa offers a range of treatments, from soothing massages to revitalizing facials, all while enjoying panoramic views of the Mediterranean. The spa’s modern design, tranquil ambiance, and expert therapists ensure that your visit is a journey of wellness and tranquility. Take time to unwind in the spa’s facilities, which include saunas, steam rooms, and relaxation areas. Whether you choose a massage with aromatic oils or a rejuvenating seaweed wrap, your spa experience will rejuvenate both body and mind.
Late Afternoon:
Marseille’s diverse neighborhoods are not only cultural but also stylish. Spend your late afternoon exploring the trendy streets of the city, blending into the fashionable crowd.
- Shopping in the Boutiques: Stroll through the Le Cours Julien area, known for its unique boutiques, street art, and a bohemian atmosphere that attracts Marseille’s creative minds. This neighborhood is a hub for artists, designers, and those who appreciate the avant-garde. Explore independent boutiques and galleries, discovering one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect Marseille’s artistic spirit.
Dinner:
End your luxurious weekend with a gourmet Mediterranean dinner. Marseille’s culinary scene is a harmonious blend of classic French techniques and Provençal flavors, creating a symphony of tastes and aromas.
- Seaside Dining: Head to Le Rhul, an elegant seaside restaurant
