If you’re seeking an affordable weekend escape that’s more budget-friendly than the glamorous destinations of Cannes or Monaco, Marseille is an underrated gem of the French Mediterranean coast. With direct Ryanair flights to Marseille starting at just £17 and taking under two hours, the city offers a much more affordable alternative to the pricier spots on the French Riviera, with food and accommodation costing significantly less. This city is a wonderful and authentic mix of sun-drenched beauty, beaches, fresh Mediterranean cuisine, and rich history, all set against the backdrop of a bustling metropolis.

What many don’t realise is that Marseille is actually the oldest city in France, founded by the Greeks in 600 BC under the name Massalia, making it over 2,600 years old and 300 years older than Paris. Marseille’s natural harbour, the Vieux-Port (Old Port), is one of the oldest and most important ports in the Mediterranean Sea.

Its location has historically allowed it to serve as a major crossroads for trade routes connecting Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.

The port facilitated the exchange of goods, and cultures, making Marseille a crucial player in Mediterranean commerce and one of the region’s most vital economic centers.

The Vieux-Port remains the vibrant heart of the city, a bustling area that has been in continuous use for thousands of years, lined with lively markets, charming restaurants, and cafes, all contributing to the city’s dynamic atmosphere.

Marseille has much to offer, including the fort Saint-Jean- a fortification built by Louis XIV at the entrance of the port and the beautiful Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, which is a basilica sitting on top of a hill and offering panoramic views of the city, the sea, and has an interior of mosaics. 

The locals are renowned for their warmth and welcoming nature. Whether you’re strolling through the streets or chatting with locals at a restaurant, you’ll find that their friendly spirit makes you feel right at home. 

From the sandy shores of Plage des Catalans to the breathtaking beauty of the Calanques de Cassis, Marseille offers incredible beaches and a big city all in one. 

One of the best things to do in Marseille is to take a boat trip to the Calanques – a protected national park which is located between Marseille and Cassis and widely known across the country, Here you’ll find secluded coves with water so clear it rivals even the Maldives.

The Panier District is a must and the oldest neighborhood in the city, having preserved its authentic local charm despite the influx of tourists over the years.

With its many colourful murals, narrow cobblestone streets, cafes and artisan shops, one can easily get lost in the local ambiance of the district.  

Marseille is also known for its world famous bouillabaisse, a traditional fish stew made with local fish, shellfish, and aromatic herbs.

The origins of thie bouillabaisse goes back centuries, and it is believed to have been created by fishermen as a hearty meal when they returned from being out at sea.