Marseille, a captivating city in southern France, is renowned for its significant port, the heartbeat of its economy. However, the old port has been transformed into a vibrant area filled with cafés, restaurants, hotels, and marinas. Personally, I love the idea of taking a stroll there, sipping a coffee by the water.
With a history that spans centuries, Marseille is rich with historical landmarks that are well worth your time. At the same time, new museums and the growing tourism industry have added a modern touch to the city, blending the old with the new in a way that I find particularly appealing.
If you’re planning a trip to Marseille, France’s largest port, let’s explore the best areas to stay. Choosing the right place to stay is crucial for making the most of your experience in this wonderful city.
1. Old Port (Le Vieux Port), best area to stay in Marseille for first time
The Old Port (Le Vieux Port) is, without a doubt, the best area to stay in Marseille. It’s the beating heart of the city. Despite its age, the port holds immense significance, linking the city to the Mediterranean and drawing in visitors from all over.
In this area, you can take a leisurely stroll by the sea, buy fresh fish directly from local fishermen, or even hop on a boat to Corsica. If you’re into sightseeing, the Historical Museum and the Church of Saint-Ferréol les Augustins are must-visits.
For something more fun, head to the Grande Roue de Marseille for a ride on the Ferris wheel, or explore the Port Antique park.
The Old Port is definitely the area with the most to see and do, and staying there will be well worth it. I’d highly recommend it for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the vibrant life of Marseille.
Best Hotels in Old Port
- (€€€) Hotel C2: a 5-star hotel with spa, indoor swimming pool and restaurant, 10 minutes walk from Old Port
- (€€) NH Collection Marseille: a 4-star hotel with restaurant and breakfast, 13 minutes walk from Old Port
- (€) Hôtel Life Marseille VP – Vieux Port: a 3-star hotel with breakfast, opposite the Old Port
- (Hostel) Hostel Vertigo Vieux-Port: a cozy hostel with dormitories, 5 minutes walk from Old Port
2. Le Panier, best area to stay in Marseille for sightseeing
Le Panier is a historic gem in Marseille, full of winding streets and vibrant murals. If you’re the kind of traveler who loves diving into a city’s history, Le Panier is a must-visit or, better yet, the perfect place to stay.
As one of the oldest neighborhoods in Marseille, it carries the city’s history within its walls. You’ll find an array of museums here, like the Museum of Roman Docks, the Mucem (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations), the Musée Regards de Provence, and the Mediterranean Archaeological Museum.
This area is also home to the impressive Marseille Cathedral (Cathédrale de la Major), a Roman Catholic cathedral built in 1896, which now serves as a national museum.
Don’t miss the chance to explore Fort Saint-Jean, a fortress built in 1660 by Louis XIV, which adds another layer of history to your visit.
Le Panier is a hub of art and creativity, where you’ll stumble upon cozy cafés and colorful shops tucked away in its narrow streets. It’s a neighborhood that truly captures the spirit of Marseille.
Best Hotels in Le Panier
- (€€€) InterContinental Marseille – Hotel Dieu, an IHG Hotel: a 5-star hotel with indoor swimming pool, spa, restaurant and bar, 350m from Old Port
- (€€) La perle du Panier: fully-equipped apartment for 4 people, close to Marseille Cathedral
- (€) App-ART Coeur du Panier Vieux-Port Vieille Charité: fully-equipped apartment, close to Marseille Cathedral
3. La Joliette, where to stay in Marseille for shopping
La Joliette, bordering the historic Le Panier, shares the impressive Marseille Cathedral with its neighbor. This area is the business hub of the city, bustling with energy.
The most popular stretch of La Joliette runs from the Cathedral to the Terrasses de Port shopping center. Here, you’ll find the Marche de la Joliette, a covered market offering everything from clothes and toys to jewelry, linens, and cosmetics. The market is open from Tuesday to Saturday, from morning until 1:30 PM, and it’s always lively with people.
Besides shopping, La Joliette also boasts a few theaters, including the Theatre of the Flour Mill, the Joliette Silo, Dock des Suds, and Cinema Pathé La Joliette.
Staying in La Joliette is a great choice. It’s conveniently close to the city center, but just far enough to offer a bit of peace and quiet.
Best Hotels in La Joliette
- (€€€) NH Collection Marseille: a 4-star hotel with bar, restaurant and breakfast, 10 minutes walk from Marseille Cathedral
- (€€) Novotel Suites Marseille Centre Euromed: a 4-star hotel with breakfast, 20 minutes walk from Old Port
- (€) MEININGER Marseille Centre la Joliette: a modern hotel with breakfast, 20 minutes walk from Old Port
4. Plages du Prado, where to stay in Marseille for the beaches
Prado, or Plages du Prado, refers to the beaches located in the southern part of Marseille. This coastal area is actually an artificial park, created in the 1970s.
The Prado beaches stretch across a vast coastline and together form Marseille largest beach, even though they might feel like a series of smaller beaches. The grassy areas near the water provide a perfect spot for both kids and adults to play and relax.
Along the beach, you’ll find plenty of restaurants and bars, creating a lively atmosphere that carries on from day to night. While it’s a bit farther from the city center, requiring a car to reach, the stunning views and vibrant energy of the area make it well worth the trip.
Best Hotels in Plages du Prado
- (€€) Mercure Marseille Centre Prado Vélodrome: a 4-star hotel with breakfast, 400m from Chanot park
- (€€) AC Hotel by Marriott Marseille Prado Vélodrome: a 4-star hotel with swimming pool and breakfast, 270m from Velodrome Stadium
- (€) Appart’City Confort Marseille Centre Prado Velodrome: a 3-star hotel with breakfast, 200m from Perier Metro Station
5. Place Castellane, a historic area to stay in Marseille
Place Castellane is a historic square in Marseille, originally built in 1774. Located in the 6th arrondissement, it’s a fantastic area to consider for your stay. At the center of the square stands a fountain, initially constructed in 1798.
In 1911, the original fountain was moved to Mazargues, and Jules Cantini donated a new one, now known as the Cantini Fountain. This fountain represents three rivers of Provence, adding a touch of regional pride to the square.
Surrounding the square, you’ll find numerous shops, and in the mornings, the Prado market springs to life with over 80 stalls. The area is also dotted with cafés, restaurants, and even two cinemas. Whether you’re staying nearby or just visiting, Place Castellane is a great spot for a drink or a leisurely stroll.
Best Hotels in Place Castellane
- (€€) Un Mas en Ville: a luxury hotel with swimming pool and breakfast, 17 minutes walk from Old Port
- (€) Citadines Castellane Marseille: a 3-star hotel with breakfast, 10 minutes walk from Old Port
- (€) ibis Styles Marseille Centre Prado Castellane: a 3-star hotel with breakfast, 25 minutes walk from Old Port
6. La Corniche, best area to stay in Marseille with kids
La Corniche is a scenic road in Marseille’s 7th arrondissement, stretching along the Mediterranean coast from Les Catalans near the city center to the Promenade Georges Pompidou and the Prado Beaches in the south.
This coastal road is lined with hotels, villas, restaurants, bars, and numerous beaches. It embraces the white cliffs and sandy shores, offering breathtaking views that are perfect for a relaxing getaway. Despite its tranquility, it’s just a 10-minute drive from Marseille historic center.
If you’re traveling with family, especially with kids, this area won’t disappoint. The little ones can spend all day playing on the beach while you unwind on a sun lounger.
La Corniche also passes over the Vallon des Auffes, a charming traditional harbor, and the Monument aux Morts de l’Armée d’Orient, a striking monument dedicated to the soldiers who died in World War I. You’ll also find the Anse de la Fausse Monnaie marina along this picturesque route.
Best Hotels in La Corniche
- (€€) Mercure Marseille Centre Bompard La Corniche: a 4-star hotel with breakfast, 15 minutes walk from beaches
- (€) Le Rhul: a beachfront hotel with breakfast and restaurant
- (€) GMimosa Séjournez dans un esprit Boutique Hotel: a fully-equipped apartment, 400m from Plage des Caralans beach