City Guides: Things to do While Boating in Marseille, France
A lively port city on the Mediterranean coast, Marseille is a melting pot of history, culture and natural beauty. With its rich heritage, diverse neighborhoods and stunning coastal landscapes, Marseille offers many attractions that captivate boaters visiting from marinas, resorts and private boat docks for rent.
Vieux-Port (Old Port)
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At the heart of Marseille lies the Old Port, a historic harbor that has been a focal point of the city for more than 2,600 years. Lined with colorful buildings, bustling markets and seafood restaurants, Vieux-Port is the perfect place to soak in the maritime atmosphere. Take a stroll along the quays, watch anglers bringing in the day’s catch or embark on a boat tour to discover the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean from private boat slips for rent.
Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde
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Perched atop a hill overlooking Marseille, the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde is an iconic city symbol. This stunning basilica is commonly known as La Bonne Mère (The Good Mother) and offers panoramic views of Marseille and the surrounding coastline. Visitors can climb to the top for a closer look at the ornate architecture and enjoy a peaceful moment in the basilica's serene surroundings.
Le Panier
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For a taste of Marseille's historic charm, a visit to Le Panier from private boat lift rentals is a must. This ancient neighborhood, the oldest in Marseilles, has narrow streets and colorful facades that exude a bohemian atmosphere. Le Panier is home to artisan shops, quaint cafes and vibrant street art, making it a delightful place to explore on foot. The Vieille Charité, a former almshouse turned cultural center, is also located in this area and is worth a visit for its museums and exhibitions.
Calanques National Park
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Nature lovers will find paradise at Calanques National Park, a series of stunning fjord-like inlets along the Mediterranean coast. You can visit secluded beaches, turquoise waters and breathtaking limestone cliffs via various hiking trails. Calanques (narrow inlets with steep limestone walls) such as Sugiton and En-Vau are particularly popular for their beauty. It's a beautiful site to visit from private boat lift rentals near Marseilles.
Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations (MuCEM)
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A modern architectural masterpiece, MuCEM is a cultural gem located at the entrance of the Old Port. Dedicated to the exploration of European and Mediterranean civilizations, the museum showcases a diverse range of exhibits, artifacts and contemporary art. Its unique design features a latticed concrete facade that contrasts visually with the historic surroundings.
Fort Saint-Jean
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Connected to MuCEM by a pedestrian bridge, Fort Saint-Jean is a historic military fortress dating back to the 17th century. The fort offers a glimpse into Marseille's maritime history and provides panoramic views of the city and the sea. Wander through its courtyards, explore the museum and enjoy the tranquil gardens surrounding the fortress.
Château d'If
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Are you looking for a boat excursion from a private boat slip rental or marina? For those intrigued by tales of adventure and mystery, a boat trip to Château d'If is a captivating experience. This fortress-turned-prison, immortalized by Alexandre Dumas in The Count of Monte Cristo, sits on a small island in the bay of Marseille. Tourists can explore the historic halls and dungeons while enjoying the sea breeze and imagining the stories that unfolded within its walls.
Be sure to check out some of these sites when you visit marinas or private boat docks for rent near Marseilles. Let us know your favorites!
