Summary
Marseille is France’s second largest city, situated along the southern coast of the Mediterranean Sea.
The city presents numerous attractions, from the renowned Marseille Soap and Canebière High Street to the more rugged Le Panier neighborhood, along with fascinating boat rides along the coast.
Located within the Provence region of France, Marseille also serves as an excellent base for a variety of delightful day trips.
Whether you seek natural splendor or wish to immerse yourself in authentic French culture, there is a wealth of experiences readily accessible from the city.
Below are the 15 most noteworthy day trips you can embark on from Marseille.
1. Avignon
Situated along the banks of the Rhône, Avignon is most renowned for its Papal Palace, one of the largest edifices in the world.
Avignon is historically significant as the city where the popes resided during the 14th century; its history extends well beyond this period.
Designated a European Capital of Culture in 2000, Avignon boasts a variety of cultural offerings, including art galleries, traditional French cinemas, and theaters that host the famous Avignon Theatre Festival annually.
Bicycles for rent enhance the experience, making it a delightful location for a leisurely ride.
2. Les Calanques
Extending from Marseille to La Ciotat, Les Calanques comprise a series of fjord-like inlets sculpted by the sea from natural limestone formations.
This entire region is characterized by stunning natural scenery and is an essential sight if you are visiting.
Numerous excellent hiking trails are available, requiring only a moderate level of fitness. Once at the base of the Calanques, you can indulge in the pleasure of swimming in the clear Mediterranean waters.
Moreover, various cycling tours operate between Marseille and the Calanques, providing spectacular views of the area.
3. Aix en Provence
Commonly referred to by locals as Aix, this city offers an excellent opportunity to experience typical Provençal culture and architecture. It is situated just a few minutes north of Marseille.
Famed as the birthplace of Cézanne, the city continues to be imbued with this artistic legacy.
Unique art galleries are dispersed throughout the city, with beautiful fountains that form a significant part of the local culture.
Much cleaner and wealthier than many other French cities, Aix serves as a refreshing contrast to the roughness of Marseille, making it an ideal day trip destination.
4. Cassis
Positioned just beyond the Calanques, Cassis provides a serene ambiance infused with traditional coastal Provençal culture.
This locale serves as a gateway to the Calanques yet stands as a destination worthy of exploration in its own right. The picturesque harbor attracts visitors seeking relaxation and a taste of local life away from Marseille.
Cassis is particularly renowned for its distinctly local wines and seafood cuisine. The quaint boutiques along the main street invite exploration, and the entire town is easily navigable on foot.
A small beach located right by the harbor offers a place to unwind.
5. Sault
Lavender fields bloom extensively throughout Provence, and these flowers have become a significant tourist attraction.
Sault serves as a health resort nestled within the prime lavender cultivation region, where visitors can enjoy the soothing benefits associated with the fragrance.
Numerous small shops offer lavender-themed products, while food outlets creatively incorporate lavender into their dishes.
Nearby Mont Ventoux provides stunning vistas over the landscape, and equestrians will appreciate the designated riding trails located just outside the town.
6. Arles
Situated along the Rhône river, Arles is a charming town boasting a distinct Southern European culture that contrasts with the rest of France.
It is best recognized as the locale where Vincent Van Gogh created several of his most renowned artworks. The town features a wealth of well-preserved Roman architecture, including an amphitheater that rivals the renowned structure in Rome.
The numerous art galleries and quaint cafés preserve the legacy of Van Gogh.
7. St Remy
Although less recognized than its cultural counterparts, St Remy is an outstanding choice for exploring a quaint Provençal village.
Van Gogh spent time in this area, and the stunning architecture of the cottages and structures throughout the town influenced his artistry.
The town features numerous attractions dedicated to Nostradamus, who was born here.
Additionally, several lesser-known Roman landmarks can be found in the town, including a modest yet less touristy amphitheater.
8. Nice
The archetypal destination of the French Riviera, Nice has continued to allure visitors for decades due to its stunning coastal setting and favorable year-round climate.
The Promenade des Anglais represents the city’s most famous attraction, extending along the waterfront with a beach adjacent to it.
The Old Town area, while less frequented, offers striking architecture, narrow cobbled streets, and typical dining establishments.
Much like other French towns, Nice is filled with unique art galleries and larger institutions such as the Matisse and Chagall museums.
9. Monaco
Only a short distance further east of Nice, Monaco is an independent principality known as a haven for the affluent and celebrated.
Its position between the French and Italian Riviera affords it exceptional vistas of the Mediterranean and surrounding mountains.
Most travelers gravitate towards the Monte Carlo area, renowned for its stunning architecture and the illustrious Grand Casino, frequented by some of the world’s wealthiest individuals.
For a more authentic—yet significantly more affordable—experience, visitors can venture to the old town to appreciate the unique history of this centuries-old principality.
10. Cannes
Best known as the venue for the world-renowned Cannes Film Festival each May, Cannes also boasts an array of attractions that captivate visitors throughout the year. Located on the French Riviera, the surrounding natural beauty alone makes it a compelling day trip from Marseille.
Cannes exudes luxury through its upscale dining options and casinos, gaining a reputation as one of the priciest night outs in France.
For budget-conscious travelers, however, there are opportunities to enjoy simple pleasures, such as admiring the harbor, the distinctive French architecture, and more local eateries offering unique cuisine.
11. Toulon
Located approximately midway between Marseille and Nice, Toulon provides an opportunity to experience the French Riviera devoid of the tourist congestion prevalent in more famous towns and cities.
The historical center showcases medieval architecture and narrow, winding streets that evoke the essence of medieval France.
The harbor features charming wooden boats, many of which are hand-crafted and owned by locals.
Many museums within the city emphasize France’s maritime history, making it a suitable destination for those interested in seafaring. Additionally, the new town is home to a sizable opera house that features local productions.
12. Montpellier
As one of the largest cities in Occitanie, Montpellier provides a distinct perspective on France that diverges from that of Provence.
The city presents greater diversity than many of its Southern French counterparts, with a vibrant array of cultural elements, restaurants, and bars.
If you enjoy haggling, Montpellier hosts one of the largest flea markets in France, where many vendors engage in haggling as if it were a competitive sport.
The newly revitalized Esplanade boasts market stalls and a lush, coastal atmosphere, enabling visitors to experience France’s multicultural aspects in a more relaxed environment compared to larger cities.
13. Nimes
The key landmark in Nimes is the Roman Colosseum, which ranks as the second largest in the world but draws far fewer visitors than its counterpart in Rome, providing a more enjoyable experience for those wanting to explore a Roman cultural site at their own pace.
The city hosts several additional Roman landmarks, including a temple, preserved gardens, and a Roman bath.
Nimes is also experiencing an emerging arts scene, making it a captivating option for visitors interested in contemporary artistic expressions. Independent galleries and boutiques offer insights into the work of France’s new generation of talent.
14. Saint-Tropez
Featuring luxurious dining venues, idyllic weather, and associations with Bridget Bardot, Saint-Tropez encapsulates the essence of glamour associated with the French Riviera.
Renowned as a playground for the affluent and celebrated, the town offers a myriad of upscale attractions to engage visitors during their day trips.
While elite shops and cafés line the waterfront, a short trek into the city reveals more affordable dining options and boutiques.
The harbor boasts numerous ferry and cruise opportunities for exploring the enchanting beauty of the French Riviera from the Mediterranean Sea.
15. Béziers
Béziers is a city in the nearby Languedoc-Roussillon region that exudes medieval charm and intriguing history.
The grand Cathedral dominates the skyline, offering a dramatic testament to the architecture of the Middle Ages; from the Cathedral, one can explore the narrow, historic streets of Béziers.
The Canal Du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, flows through the city, connecting the Mediterranean with the Atlantic Ocean.
Avenue Paul de Riquet is a laid-back area filled with charming cafés and intriguing restaurants where you can relax and savor local cuisine.
