One day in Marseille (picture-perfect itinerary)

Only have one day in Marseille to explore and take some stunning photos? Embark on a captivating journey through the enchanting streets and picturesque landscapes of this vibrant French city in the South of France. Marseille, nestled along the azure shores of the Mediterranean Sea, beckons travellers with its rich history, cultural diversity, and stunning architecture. We begin our day straight after breakfast, capturing the city’s unique character through the lens of our cameras, immersing ourselves in the charming alleys of Le Panier, ascending to the heights of Notre-Dame de la Garde for breathtaking views, and exploring the architectural wonders of Cathedral La Major and Fort Saint-Jean. Join us in this one-day Marseille itinerary for a visual feast that will prove to be every travel photographer’s dream.

Is one day in Marseille enough?

If you only have one day in Marseille, it is likely that you either:

• arrived on a cruise ship (this was our second stop after visiting Palma De Mallorca)
• taken a day trip from another French location
• OR simply staying in Marseille for a very limited time.

We only had one day (9 AM to 6 PM) to explore this coastal city after arriving in Marseille on a cruise ship. But with a bit of planning and preparation, we feel that one day was just enough to get a feel for this great place and leave us wanting to come back again.

Itinerary snapshot

If you are in a rush, here’s a quick timeline of how to spend an unforgettable picture-perfect day in Marseille, France’s oldest city, where you won’t be able to put your camera down for one second.

This is a relatively intense itinerary, suitable for someone with the ability to walk long distances on foot. However, it can be adjusted to meet your requirements or to use public transport. Details on the buses in Marseille are at the bottom of the post.

Here’s also a link to this Marseille One Day Itinerary on Google Maps.

Marseille: things to do in one day

If you are in Marseille for one day, we highly recommend starting early in the morning, before the crowds flood the city center. For this exact reason, we highly recommend making your way to the main sightseeing place in Marseille – Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde – as soon as possible, and then making your way down across the waterfront and the Old Port of Marseille. It’s one of the advantages of exploring Marseille on your own, instead of taking a guided tour!

Starting Point

If you are coming from the cruise ship, you are likely to start your exploration in one of the two places: La Joliette (free shuttle stops here) or the Old Port (most cruise ship shuttles stop here). Alternatively, you may be starting at the Gare St Charles.

It is a very (VERY!) steep climb to get to the first stop on our Marseille itinerary – Basilique de Notre Dame de La Garde, so we highly recommend getting a taxi or taking a public bus up to it. It will save you a lot of time, and energy because we suggest you continue with the rest of the itinerary on foot.

From La Joliette to Notre-Dame de la Garde

If you’re taking a free shuttle bus from the cruise port (Môle Léon Gourret pier), you will stop near the La Joliette Square metro station. Take a 12-15 minute walk to the Fort St Jean bus stop on Avenue Voydoyer, where you can take Bus 60 directly to Notre Dame De La Garde. The trip will cost approx €2 (Summer 2023) and will take about 20 minutes.

From Old Port to Notre-Dame de la Garde

Catch Bus 60 from the Métro Vieux Port bus stop. It will take about 15 minutes for €2 (price from summer 2023).

From the Gare St Charles to Notre-Dame de la Garde

If you are starting at the train station, we highly recommend taking a walk down La Canebière to the Old Port of Marseille (it’s a great opportunity to stroll down this grand boulevard and see some impressive architecture of Marseille. It is on the way to the Basilica of Notre Dame de la Garde, and this boulevard will not appear again in this itinerary). The walk to the old port will take about 25 minutes. From there take Bus 60 from the Métro Vieux Port bus stop for a 15-minute ride up to the top of the hill.

You have arrived, so prepare for some stunning views of Marseille!

Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde

Get to the Notre-Dame de la Garde as early as possible to avoid the crowds and having to wait around for a spot by the railings to take in the views.

Perched atop Marseille’s highest hill, the Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde certainly offers travel photographers a visual feast. Nicknamed by the locals as La Bonne Mère (“Good Mother”), its Neo-Byzantine architecture, adorned with colourful mosaics, provides a captivating subject for stunning shots. From its vantage point, the panoramic views of the Old Port and the Mediterranean Sea create breathtaking landscapes, ideal for capturing the city’s essence. The interior’s stained glass windows and religious ornaments offer further opportunities, making it a must-visit location for photographers seeking to capture Marseille’s soul through their lenses.

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or an amateur with a passion for capturing striking landmarks, the Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde promises an unforgettable photographic experience. This elevated vantage point offers a unique perspective of Marseille, showcasing the city’s beauty and charm from a breathtaking height and leaving you with a collection of images that truly embody the spirit of this captivating French metropolis. After all, it is the highest point in the city, offering the best views!

From there, take the pedestrian stairs down towards Saint-Victor area of Marseille and continue on to Forst Saint-Nicolas. The descent takes about 20 minutes. The stairs can be seen in the photo below, taken from the ship while docked at the Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal (MPCT). Although 7km away, my 16-300mm paired with a crop sensor D7200 camera allows this unique perspective at almost 300mm focal length.

La Citadelle de Marseille (Fort Saint-Nicolas/Fort d’Entrecasteaux)

Although rarely open to the public, La Citadelle de Marseille, also known as Fort Saint-Nicolas, stands proudly on If Castle Island, offering photographers a captivating exterior to capture. Its imposing walls and intricate fortifications create a dramatic backdrop against the azure Mediterranean Sea, making it a treasure trove of photography opportunities. From various vantage points around Marseille, you can frame this historic fortress, capturing its formidable beauty and infusing your shots with a sense of the city’s enduring history and strength.

Carry on towards the waterfront, for a minute to relax by the seaside. A leisurely stroll to Plage des Catalans will only take about 15 minutes.

Plage des Catalans

Plage des Catalans in Marseille beckons travellers to indulge in a moment of relaxation by the azure Mediterranean Sea. This charming beach is a perfect spot to unwind with a refreshing cold drink or ice cream while soaking in the captivating seascape. However, depending on the season, it may get incredibly busy. In this case, just stroll by on the way to your next sightseeing spot if it looks too crowded.

Palais du Pharo is just a short distance away – it will take about 9 minutes. 

Palais du Pharo

This majestic building stands as a captivating masterpiece in Marseille, offering architecture photography enthusiasts a perfect opportunity to showcase their skills. This imperial residence, built by Napoleon III for Empress Eugénie, exudes grandeur and elegance from every angle. Its neoclassical design, adorned with ornate details and majestic columns, creates a mesmerizing interplay of light and shadows, making it a compelling subject for photographers seeking to capture architectural brilliance.

Take a 20-minute stroll down the Quai de Rive Neuve towards the Vieux Port of Marseille – one of the most popular places in the city. On the way, you will pass Place Aux Huiles, lined with restaurants, shops and bars, as well as Le Musée du Savon de Marseille – an interactive soap museum.

Vieux Port (Old Port of Marseille)

The Old Port of Marseille (Vieux Port) offers photographers a delightful array of subjects to capture through their lenses. As the heart of the city’s maritime soul, the harbour is adorned with fishing boats and elegant yachts, presenting a picturesque juxtaposition of tradition and modernity.

The vibrant quayside comes alive with bustling markets, street performers, and locals going about their daily lives, providing ample opportunities for candid shots and vibrant street photography. There is often a fish market in full swing (the best time to see it in action is in the mornings in the summer months when locals come to buy fresh fish). 

Beyond the waterfront, the surrounding area boasts charming cafes, historic buildings, and narrow alleyways adorned with colourful facades, offering a visual feast of architectural details.

Do not miss L’ombrière du Vieux Port

When visiting the Old Port of Marseille, one architectural gem not to be missed is L’ombrière du Vieux Port. This contemporary canopy, designed by Norman Foster, a British architect, is made out of reflective mirrors, offering a unique and mesmerizing opportunity for photographers to capture the bustling port from an entirely different perspective.

Furthermore, the mirrored surface creates a fascinating play of light and reflections, allowing visitors to frame the dynamic harbour and its surroundings in a captivating, ever-changing kaleidoscope of imagery.

Carry on towards the oldest district in Marseille – La Panier. It’s only a short walk away…

Le Panier

This vibrant quarter, nestled between the Old Port and Fort Saint-Jean, exudes a Bohemian allure, making it an ideal location for capturing unique and artistic shots.

Meandering through the narrow streets and cobbled alleys, you will encounter street art, charming boutiques, and quaint cafes that provide excellent subjects for capturing candid moments of local life. The district’s eclectic blend of architectural styles, from ancient structures to contemporary murals, offers a rich tapestry of textures and details, inviting to compose striking compositions that reflect the area’s character and cultural diversity.

Moreover, you will find some true architectural wonders in the heart of the Le Panier quarter, including La Vielle Charite, Ville De Marseille (Town Hall) and Cathedral La Major.

La Vieille Charité

This historic building, constructed in the 17th century, is a fine example of Baroque architecture. Originally built as an almshouse to house the city’s poor, it now serves as a cultural centre and museum. The striking façade, featuring pinkish-coloured stones, showcases intricate detailing and sculpted ornamentation. Inside, visitors can explore various museums and exhibitions, such as the Museum of Mediterranean Archaeology and the Museum of African, Oceanic, and American-Indian Arts.

La Vieille Charité’s serene courtyard, with its arcaded galleries, offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city, making it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts, travel photographers and culture seekers alike.

Cathédrale La Major

Cathédrale De La Major, also known as Marseille Cathedral, is certainly breathtaking. This grand Roman Catholic cathedral, built in the 19th century, showcases a captivating mix of Romanesque and Byzantine styles, creating a visual feast for the camera. Its awe-inspiring exterior, with its massive domes, elegant colonnades, and intricate details, offers a striking subject for architectural photography.

Inside, the cathedral’s lofty ceilings, colourful stained glass windows, and ornate altars provide ample opportunities to capture the splendour of its interior. Whether bathed in the soft glow of natural light or illuminated by the flickering candles during religious ceremonies, Cathédrale La Major offers an ideal setting to capture the essence of spiritual grandeur and artistic brilliance through the lens.

Fort Saint-Jean & MUCEM

Finally, for those with the time and energy to delve deeper into Marseille’s cultural treasures, Fort Saint-Jean and MUCEM are must-visit destinations. Fort Saint-Jean, located at the entrance of the Old Port, is a historical fortress that offers panoramic views of the harbour and the city. Its ancient walls, hidden passages, and impressive drawbridge provide a captivating backdrop for architectural and historical photography.

Next door, MUCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations) stands as a striking contrast with its modern architectural design. This innovative museum showcases exhibits exploring the rich cultural heritage of the Mediterranean region. Its exterior offers a captivating blend of contemporary lines against the backdrop of the sea, providing endless opportunities for creative shots.

That’s it! It’s the end of our one-day Marseille itinerary. Next stop – Florence – and we only have one day there too!

Practical information

Getting to Marseille from the cruise ship

If you are arriving in Marseille on one of the larger cruise ships, you are likely to be docked at the MPCT – Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal. To get to the city, you have a few options:

• Free Shuttle: There is a Free Shuttle from the port that takes you to La Joliette Square (which is a walkable distance to all the sightseeing spots). It runs every 20 minutes between 9:20 AM and 5:20 PM, and takes about 20 minutes each way. From your cruise ship, simply follow the green line on the ground. Walk for approximately 10 minutes, heading towards the exit of Gate 4 of the port until you arrive at the well-marked stop. NOTE: it is worth contacting the Tourist Office of Marseille in advance to make sure the free shuttle operates as usual for the day you’re arriving (the shuttle didn’t run due to protests in the city when were visiting).
• Cruise Line Shuttle: most cruise lines offer a shuttle to the city centre of Marseille. It typically costs around €20 for a round-trip and takes you to either La Joliette or the entrance of the Old Port (just outside the Cathédrale La Major). You should see a desk selling tickets in the terminal building once you disembark the ship.
• Taxi: there are plenty of taxis at the port. When we travelled to Marseille in June 2023, a one-way trip to the Old Port cost €25.

Getting to the heart of Marseille from Gare St Charles

If you are starting at the train station, we highly recommend taking a walk down La Canebière to the Old Port of Marseille (it’s a great opportunity to stroll down this grand boulevard and see some impressive architecture of Marseille. It is on the way to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde, and this boulevard will not appear again in this itinerary). The walk to the old port will take about 25 minutes.

Alternatively, take M1 route on the Metro (it’s about a 17-minute ride).

Getting around Marseille on public transport

All of the sightseeing spots in this One Day In Marseille Itinerary lie on one of the bus routes, so there is no need to get on a metro train. After all, you want to see as much as possible, so going underground is always the last resort when travelling on holiday, right? But it is the second-largest city in France, so avoiding public transportation may get pricy!

Before you take a seat on the bus, simply hand the cash to the driver – a bus ride costs €2 (price in June 2023) and you can use the ticket for 1 hour to take multiple bus rides. Once the ticket is handed to you, you need to validate it by touching it on one of the round orange devices on the bus (your 1-hour timer starts then). You need to validate your bus ticket on every bus this way if you take multiple rides within the hour.

Alternatively, you can get a day pass that includes metro, busses, trams and ferry-boat line for €5.20 (price in June 2023). It is valid for 24 hours from first validation of the ticket. They are available to purchase at ticketing machines located at metro and tram stations, as well as from RTM-authorized outlets (look for RTM sign).

Here is a handy website that will help you plan your bus trips from one point to another: Marseille Bus Route Planner. Just pop in your start and end points to see what route you should be taking.

Have More Time In Marseille?

​If you have an opportunity to extend your stay on this gorgeous spot on the Mediterranean coast, we recommend you visit some of the other best places in and around Marseille. 

• Château d’If: For a captivating half-day boat trip from Marseille, visiting the Chateau d’If is among the best things to do. This historic fortress, situated on a rocky island in the Mediterranean Sea, offers an unforgettable experience. Explore its intriguing past as a former prison, made famous by Alexandre Dumas’ “The Count of Monte Cristo,” and take in the stunning coastal views while learning about its role in maritime history. Alternatively, take a full-day tour of Frioul Islands. 
• Palais Longchamp, an impressive architectural masterpiece located in Marseille, is a must-visit attraction. Built in the 19th century, it comprises a stunning palace, exquisite gardens, and a monumental fountain, making it a perfect spot to immerse oneself in the city’s rich history and artistic beauty. Adjacent to the Palais Longchamps, you will also find the Natural History Museum. 
• Calanques National Park: Just a 40-minute drive from the city, visitors can explore the park’s awe-inspiring limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and hidden coves, offering the best way to escape into pristine Mediterranean landscapes. On the way, stop at the Cité Radieuse – a renowned architectural landmark in Marseille, France, designed by Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier, and characterized by its innovative use of concrete and functionalist design principles.
• Botanical Gardens (Jardin botanique de la Ville de Marseille): A peaceful oasis within the bustling city, offering a diverse collection of plants from around the world, as well as local Mediterranean flora. With its serene atmosphere and educational exhibits, it provides a delightful escape for nature enthusiasts and a great opportunity to learn about the region’s rich botanical heritage.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, a one-day adventure through this beautiful city in Southern France offers a whirlwind immersion into the city’s diverse perspectives. From the panoramic vistas of Notre Dame de la Garde to the serene beach scenes and captivating architecture, this intensive itinerary encapsulates the essence of Marseille’s charm. While demanding, exploring the city in a day rewards travellers with a vivid tapestry of memories that showcase its historical treasures, cultural richness, and picturesque beauty. Marseille is a destination that leaves a lasting impression, making the intensive journey well worth the experience.