7 reasons to take a cruise to Marseille this year

Marseille, France's second largest city and the pearl of its south, is one of the most exciting stops on MSC Cruises' Mediterranean cruises. This vibrant port combines rich history, multicultural atmosphere and a charming Mediterranean lifestyle. Why shouldn't you miss Marseille?

Here are 7 reasons that will convince you:

1. Old Harbour - the heart of the city

Vieux-Port, or Old Port, is the true heart of Marseille - a place where the city literally breathes its maritime heritage. It was here that Marseille's history began more than 2,600 years ago, when the Greeks founded the trading settlement of Massalia. Today, this port is one of the most lively and picturesque corners of the city, where locals, tourists, artists and merchants meet every day. Watch fishermen selling freshly caught fish from their boats in the morning, enjoy an espresso or a glass of wine in one of the harbour cafés in the afternoon, and enjoy the atmosphere in the evening when the city lights reflecting on the water create a magical backdrop.

2. Basilica Notre-Dame de la Garde - Guardian of the City

One of Marseille's most iconic sites is undoubtedly the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde, which rises majestically atop La Garde hill and stands over the city as its symbolic protector. Locals reverently call her La Bonne Mère - the good mother - and believe she protects the fishermen and the townspeople.

The basilica itself is a masterpiece of Neo-Byzantine architecture with a richly decorated interior, mosaics and a golden statue of the Virgin and Child that shines over the city. Inside you will find not only beautiful artistic elements, but also hundreds of votive offerings - paintings, ship models or commemorative plaques as thanks for miracles and protection. But the biggest attraction is the view. From the balcony of the basilica, you'll get a panoramic view of the whole of Marseille - from the Old Port, to the rooftops of the historic quarters, to the distant mountains and the azure blue Mediterranean.

Access to the top is possible on foot along the groomed paths or comfortably by tourist train, which is also a great way to get to know the surroundings.

3. Le Panier Historic Quarter - Art, History and Soul of Marseille

Le Panier, Marseille's oldest neighbourhood, is like a living open-air museum - a labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets, pastel-coloured facades, flower-filled windows and laundry flapping in the breeze. Walking through this neighbourhood is like a journey through time, taking you back to a time when Marseille was a fishing village with a restless but proud soul. Today, Le Panier is a vibrant place full of cafés, small galleries, artisan workshops and street art. The locals have preserved their traditional way of life and the neighbourhood retains an authentic charm that modernisation has not destroyed - on the contrary, it has given it a new lease of life.

It's the perfect place for quiet exploration without a specific destination - get lost in the alleyways, stumble upon a hidden square with a fountain, discover a small pottery shop or have a strong coffee in one of the many cafes overlooking the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

4. Château d'If - a fortress with a secret

Just off the coast of Marseille, on a rocky islet in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, stands the monumental fortress of Château d'If - the place made famous by Alexandre Dumas in his famous novel The Count of Monte Cristo. It was here that Edmond Dantès was unjustly imprisoned, and although his story is fictional, the atmosphere of the fortress still inspires respect and fascination.

The Château d'If was built in the 16th century as a defensive fortress, but soon turned into an infamous prison. Not only criminals, but also political prisoners and religious dissidents were held behind its thick walls. You can still walk through the stone cells, see the messages of the prisoners engraved on the walls and feel the raw history of this place for yourself.

The trip to the island is easy and very popular - boats leave several times a day directly from the Old Harbour and the cruise itself offers beautiful views of the city and the coast. The whole visit will only take you a few hours, making it an ideal activity for a one-day stop during your cruise.

5. Longchamp Palace - the beauty of water and art in one

If you want to discover another dimension of Marseille, head to the Longchamp Palace. This 19th-century architectural gem was built in honour of bringing water to the city and now houses two major museums - the Museum of Fine Arts and the Natural History Museum.The impressive fountains, arches and extensive park around the palace make it the perfect place to relax, picnic or just take a quiet stroll. Longchamp Palace is an often overlooked but all the more impressive stop that's well worth a visit - especially if you're looking for tranquillity off the main tourist routes.

6. Bouillabaisse and other flavours of Provence

A gastronomic experience for all the sensesMarseille is not only a port, but also a gourmet paradise where Mediterranean cuisine combines with Provençal traditions. The most famous speciality is the famous fish soup bouillabaisse, which originated here as a meal for poor fishermen - but is now considered a delicacy that no visitor can miss. The original recipe includes several types of sea fish, saffron, herbs and a strong fish stock, which is served with toasted baguette and garlic rouille sauce. Whether you have your bouillabaisse in an elegant restaurant overlooking the harbour or in a cosy pub tucked away in the alleys of Le Panier, it's always a unique experience.

In addition to bouillabaisse, Marseille will delight you with other flavours of Provence - olive tapenade, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh seafood, goat's cheese or sweets like calissons from nearby Aix-en-Provence. The town's markets offer a variety of fresh ingredients and aromas to take home as souvenirs - or to enjoy on the spot.

7. Museums and culture - where the past meets the present

Marseille is a city of contrasts - and this is beautifully reflected in its cultural scene. You'll find both modern architectural gems and historic buildings full of stories. The most striking example is MuCEM - Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations, which impresses not only with its progressive architecture with its fine concrete mesh, but also with its interactive exhibitions focusing on the history, cultures and religions of the Mediterranean. The museum is located right by the sea, connected by an elegant footbridge to the historic fortress of Saint-Jean, and also offers breathtaking views of the city and harbour.

In addition to MuCEM, the Historical Museum of Marseille is also worth a visit, where you can immerse yourself in more than 2,600 years of the city's history - from antiquity to the present day. Art lovers will appreciate the Palais Longchamp, home to the Museum of Fine Arts, or the smaller galleries scattered throughout the city, often hidden in bohemian neighbourhoods such as Le Panier or Cours Julien.

Marseille isn't just a destination you pass through - it's a place that will engulf you and leave you with memories at every turn. Whether you're a history buff, a lover of good food, art or nature, Marseille always has something to captivate you.

It's a city where the Mediterranean atmosphere is intertwined with modern life, where you can feel the pulse of history at every corner while enjoying new cultural experiences.

Tereza Samiecová