Adventure in Marseille!

Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica (La Bonne Mère)

Why Visit?

Embark on a thrilling adventure to Marseille"s iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica, affectionately known as "La Bonne Mère" by locals. This opulent 19th-century monument sits atop a limestone outcrop 149 meters above the city, offering not just spiritual solace but also panoramic views that beckon the spirited adventurer.

Starting the Journey

Your adventure begins at the Old Port (Vieux Port) of Marseille. Feel the pulse of the city as you traverse this bustling harbor, absorbing its historic charm. From here, you have two choices:

1. By Foot: For the energetic and those craving a physical challenge, the vigorous hike up to the basilica is a must. The ascent takes you through quaint streets and stairways, gradually revealing stunning vistas of the city and Mediterranean. It’s a rewarding 30-minute trek, well-marked and offering several spots to rest and soak in the views.

2. By Tourist Train: Alternatively, board the charming tourist train from the Old Port, which offers a narrated journey filled with anecdotes and historical insights about Marseille. This option provides a comprehensive city tour before ascending to the basilica, ideal for those seeking a less strenuous route.

At La Bonne Mère

Upon reaching Notre-Dame de la Garde, marvel at its vibrant neo-Byzantine architecture. The basilica, completed in 1864, stands as a protector of fishermen and sailors, evident from the numerous model ships suspended inside as votive offerings. The interior dazzles with mosaics, murals, and a serene ambiance, inviting reflection and awe.

Climb to the terrace circling the statue of the Virgin Mary, perched atop the basilica"s bell tower. Here, adventure lovers can revel in a 360-degree view that stretches across Marseille, from the rugged Calanques to the bustling cityscape.

Wrapping Up

After descending, consider a leisurely stroll back to the Vieux Port, concluding your visit with a well-deserved bouillabaisse at one of the local seafood restaurants, reflecting on a day well spent embracing both the physical and spiritual heights of Marseille.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Cantini Museum (Musée Cantini)

Why Visit?

Embark on an inspiring journey through the heart of Marseille with a visit to the enchanting Musée Cantini, a hub for modern art enthusiasts and adventure lovers alike. Start your day with a spirited stroll through the vibrant streets of Marseille, soaking in the Mediterranean ambiance and the city’s bustling energy.

Getting There

Musée Cantini is conveniently located at 19 Rue Grignan in the 6th arrondissement. Adventure seekers can easily access the museum by public transport; take the metro to Estrangin Préfecture station or alternatively, bus lines 41, 54, 60, 80, or 81 all stop nearby. For those who enjoy cycling, Marseille offers bike-sharing schemes, such as Le vélo, which provide an eco-friendly way to navigate the city.

Visiting Musée Cantini

Step into the Musée Cantini, housed in an elegant 17th-century mansion. The museum opens its doors at 10 AM, welcoming visitors to explore its impressive collection of modern art dating from 1900 to 1960. Adventure lovers will appreciate the museum’s dynamic array of works by renowned artists such as Picasso, Klee, and Miro. Each piece tells a story of innovation and exploration, resonating with those who seek out new experiences and creative challenges.

Interesting Facts

The building itself has an adventurous past, originally built for the wealthy Montgrand family and later transformed into a museum in 1936. Its rooms once echoed with the plans and dreams of Marseille’s elite, and now with the bold visions of modern artists.

Extend Your Adventure

After immersing yourself in art, continue your adventure by exploring the nearby Vieux Port, just a 15-minute walk away. Here, you can dive into maritime history, enjoy a scenic boat tour, or savor fresh seafood at one of the local bistros.

Musée Cantini not only offers a dive into the art world but also serves as a perfect springboard to further adventures in France’s vibrant heart of culture and history, Marseille.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

La Corniche

Why Visit?

Embark on an exhilarating journey along La Corniche, a breathtaking coastal road that stretches from the vibrant city of Marseille to the picturesque town of Cassis in the South of France. Known for its dramatic cliffs and stunning Mediterranean views, this route promises adventure lovers an unforgettable tour.

Starting Point: Marseille

Begin your adventure in Marseille, a city rich with maritime history and culture. Explore its bustling Vieux Port before heading to the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, perched atop a limestone outcrop. Accessible by bus, bike, or a hearty walk, the basilica offers panoramic views that are simply a prelude to the vistas you will experience along La Corniche.

Journey to Calanque de Sormiou

From Marseille, drive or cycle towards the rugged cliffs of Calanque de Sormiou. This natural wonder is part of the Calanques National Park, a haven for climbers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts. The road to Sormiou is a challenging descent, so ensure your vehicle is up for the task, or opt for a hike that reveals hidden coves and crystal-clear waters ideal for a refreshing swim.

Explore Cassis

Continue along the winding road to Cassis. This charming fishing town is famous for its white cliffs and vineyards. Here, adventure seekers can indulge in kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding in the serene waters, or take a guided boat tour to explore the dramatic inlets along the coast.

Cap Canaille Climb

No visit to La Corniche is complete without scaling Cap Canaille. Offering some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, the Cap provides thrilling hiking and paragliding opportunities. The climb might be strenuous, but the view from the top is a rewarding panorama of the French Riviera.

End of Tour

Conclude your tour back in Cassis, perhaps with a well-deserved glass of local wine, as you watch the sunset over the sea, reflecting on a day filled with adventure and natural beauty.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Marseille Cathedral (Cathédrale La Major)

Why Visit?

Welcome to the pulsating heart of Marseille, where the grandeur of Cathédrale La Major awaits to cast its spell on you. This cathedral, a beacon of Romanesque-Byzantine splendor, stands proudly by the sea, a testament to a rich maritime history intertwined with spiritual grandiosity. Begin your adventure at the Vieux-Port, the vibrant old port of Marseille, bustling with life and the scent of freshly caught fish. From here, hop onto the local bus line 60 which whisks you away to the cathedral, or for the more intrepid, rent a bike and pedal through the bustling streets, soaking in the Mediterranean ambiance.

As you approach Cathédistribution, the majestic silhouette of La Major, constructed between 1852 and 1896, looms into view. The cathedral, one of the largest in France, stands as a monumental gateway between the east and the west, its domes and arches a canvas of religious and cultural fusion. Inside, marvel at the intricate mosaics and vast navels that echo the tales of sailors and crusaders who once sought blessings here before setting sail into the unknown.

Just a stone’s throw from La Major is the vibrant Le Panier district. After your cathedral visit, wander through this colorful quarter, known for its steep, narrow streets adorned with artistic graffiti. Dive into a cozy café to sample a "navette", a local biscotch cookie, perfect for refueling.

For a panoramic view of Marseille, including the majestic cathedral and the sprawling blue Mediterranean, head to the nearby MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations). Here, not only can you explore Mediterranean history through engaging exhibits, but also climb up to the rooftop terrace as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden glow over La Major.

This adventure through Marseille, blending breathtaking sights and vibrant street life, promises to be a memorable journey through the very soul of this historic port city.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations (Le Mucem)

Why Visit?

Start your adventure in the vibrant city of Marseille, a melting pot of culture and history, by exploring the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations (Le Mucem). This striking museum, a masterpiece designed by architect Rudy Ricciotti, stands at the entrance to Marseille’s harbor, making it an iconic part of the cityscape.

Morning: Arrival and Exploration

Begin your day early by catching the metro to Joliette station, followed by a breezy 10-minute walk down the promenade to Le Mucem. As you approach, marvel at the museum’s exterior, a cubic structure enveloped in a latticed concrete shell, designed to evoke the intricate patterns of Mediterranean facades.

Entry and Exhibits

Purchase your ticket (consider a ‘Marseille City Pass’ for wider access around the city) and start with the permanent galleries showcasing a rich tapestry of Mediterranean history. Each artifact tells a story, from ancient Greek vases to contemporary art, highlighting the interwoven cultures of the Mediterranean basin.

Lunch with a View

By midday, head to La Terrasse at Môle Passedat, the rooftop restaurant offering stunning views of the sea and a perfect spot to refuel with some Mediterranean delicacies.

Afternoon Adventure: Fort Saint-Jean

Connected to Le Mucem by a striking suspended footbridge is Fort Saint-Jean, a historic fortress that provides a vivid peek into Marseille’s past. Explore the ramparts and gardens, and dive deeper into local history. Don"t miss the breathtaking views from the lookout points which offer panoramic scenes of the Old Port and beyond.

Sunset at the Sea

Wrap up your adventure by walking back towards the Vieux Port (Old Port), where you can catch a ferry for a short trip to the Frioul Islands or the Calanques, natural wonders that are perfect for hiking and watching the sunset over the Mediterranean.

This day at Le Mucem and its surroundings offers not just a cultural feast but also a lively exploration of Marseille’s rich maritime heritage and stunning landscapes.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.