Holiday rentals in Marseille, a surprise on every street corner

The multi-cultural city of Marseille is only beaten in size by Paris. One of the most fascinating holiday destinations in France, it was founded by Greek sailors and conquered by Caesar in 49BC. Visit the charming old port (le Vieux Port) with plenty of bars and restaurants where you can sit back and watch the world go by then enjoy some shopping just minutes away in the lively town centre. Marseille is a vibrant city from sun-up to sun-down made up of many small villages offering a different atmosphere in each. Admire the colour-washed buildings in the old town, (Le Panier), or join the shopping crowds on the tree-lined pavements of the Haussmann-designed Rue de la Re´publique. Named the European Capital of Culture in 2013, this gem of the Provençal coastline is studded with forts, castles and churches, and enriched with a vibrant French-African quarter. No matter your age or interests, a visit to Marseille offers the perfect opportunity to spend memorable moments with loved ones and soak up the unique atmosphere in this wonderful city. Browse our holiday rentals in Marseille and choose from 3 great locations : Marseille Centre Parc Chanot Vélodrome, the apart’hotel Le Dôme and the apart’hotel Canebière just a few minutes from the famous Old Port of Marseille with its lively atmosphere. More information

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Things to do in Marseille

The list of things to do in Marseille is endless, however here are a few must-dos to put on your list while on holiday in the South of France. On both sides of the busy Vieux Port, you can start your day at either Fort Saint-Nicolas or Fort Saint-Jean and admire the lovely views of the city. Known for its top-tier football club OM, fans must visit the Orange Vélodrome stadium and if you’re not a football fan then check out the list of world-class music concerts held here. Visit the stately Palais Longchamp and the towering Basilique Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde or for a more modern feel, the Mucem Museum, which is in itself a stunning architectural acheivement. Take a ferry and visit the Castle of If, the setting for Dumas’ "The Count of Monte Cristo". Rent a bike with “Le Vélo”, an electric bike-sharing service, to discover the city’s hidden secrets and if you need a break from the hustle and bustle head for the beaches and park at Borely.

Marseille's world-famous cuisine

After a day of exciting and fascinating visits, relaxing and enjoying a tasty meal in one of Marseille’s many varied restaurants blending French, North African and Mediterranean gastronomy is a must. Discover classic recipes including tajine and couscous but don’t forget that seafood is the speciality here. Try the bouillabaisse (fish stew), bourride (fish stew with aïoli – a garlic sauce), anchoïade (an anchovy-based dip or spread) and poutargue (dried mullet eggs). Alternatively, feast on pieds-paquets (stuffed lambs’ feet) or soupe au pistou (pasta and pesto soup). Local desserts include pompe à huile (sweet bread rolls made with orange blossoms) and navettes (fusiform pastry made on Pancake Day). Marseille offers a vast choice of dining options ranging from fun tapas bars to Michelin starred restaurants – the choice is yours. Last but not least, don’t forget to try a glass of Provençal wine and unwind with friends and family on your holiday in Marseille.

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