A Perfect Weekend in Marseille by Train: Coastline, Culture and Mediterranean Food

Marseille is one of France’s most vibrant coastal cities: a mix of Mediterranean sunshine, sea views, colourful neighbourhoods, excellent seafood and fascinating cultural layers. With fast rail connections from Paris, Lyon, Nice and Avignon, it is a perfect weekend destination without needing a car. The city is walkable in many parts, well connected by metro and bus, and full of scenic waterfront strolls.

This guide covers what to see, where to eat, what local dishes really are, where to stay, how to explore beyond the city, and how to arrive smoothly by train.

Why Go?

Marseille offers a combination of coastal beauty, culture, history and excellent food. The Vieux-Port is one of the most atmospheric harbours in France, the neighbourhoods are full of character, and the Mediterranean setting gives everything a relaxed, sunny feel. From bustling markets to quiet coves, Marseille is a city that rewards wandering.

A Bit of History

Founded by Greek sailors around 600 BC, Marseille is France’s oldest city. Its history is shaped by trade, immigration and maritime life, creating a distinctive cultural identity not found anywhere else in the country. Over time, waves of influences from Italy, North Africa, Corsica and beyond have blended with Provençal traditions, giving Marseille its unique personality and cuisine.

What to Expect

Expect a lively Mediterranean atmosphere, colourful buildings, fishing boats, street art, bustling markets and long waterfront promenades. Marseille has a mix of refined historic areas, gritty urban energy and beautiful natural landscapes. The city is best enjoyed on foot, with public transport available when needed.

Five Things to See and Do

Vieux-Port (Old Port): The heart of Marseille, surrounded by cafés, seafood stalls and boats. A great starting point for walks, boat trips and people- watching.

Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde: Marseille’s most iconic viewpoint. Reach it by bus or on foot for sweeping views of the city, harbour and coastline.

Le Panier: The oldest neighbourhood in Marseille, full of narrow lanes, colourful facades, craft shops and street art. Very atmospheric and great for photography.

MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations): An architecturally striking museum right on the water, connected by walkways to Fort Saint-Jean. Exhibitions explore Mediterranean history and culture.

Les Calanques: A dramatic stretch of coastal cliffs and turquoise coves between Marseille and Cassis. Access requires a bus and a hike or a boat trip, but the scenery is unforgettable.

Food Culture

Marseille’s food culture reflects its port-city history and Mediterranean influences. Seafood is central to local cuisine, from simple grilled fish to bouillabaisse, the city’s most famous dish. Olive oil, garlic, tomatoes, fennel, citrus and herbs all play key roles. North African and Provençal flavours blend naturally into everyday meals, and the markets overflow with fresh local produce.

Marseille Food Explained

Bouillabaisse: A rich seafood soup made with multiple types of fresh fish, potatoes and Provençal seasoning, traditionally served in two courses.

Panisse: A chickpea-based fritter, crispy on the outside and soft inside.

Pieds et Paquets: A traditional dish of stuffed tripe rolls slow-cooked in tomato and wine sauce.

Aïoli: A garlic mayonnaise typically served with cod, vegetables and eggs.

Navettes: Orange-blossom biscuits shaped like little boats, traditionally eaten around Candlemas.

Where to Eat

Chez Fonfon: A long-established seafood restaurant in the Vallon des Auffes, famous for bouillabaisse and harbour views.

Le Café de l’Abbaye: A relaxed spot overlooking the water, ideal for drinks or a light Mediterranean meal at sunset.

La Cantinetta: A warm Italian-Provençal restaurant in the hip Cours Julien area, known for fresh pasta and seasonal dishes.

Marché des Capucins: A lively North African and Mediterranean market perfect for picking up snacks, fresh fruit or street food.

Where to Stay

Hotel La Résidence du Vieux-Port: A waterfront hotel with colourful, retro-style rooms and balconies overlooking the Old Port.

Maison Montgrand: A stylish boutique hotel set around a quiet courtyard, offering comfortable rooms in a central location.

NH Collection Marseille: Located between the Vieux-Port and Euroméditerranée, with modern rooms and easy access to tram and metro.

Off the Beaten Track

Vallon des Auffes: A tiny fishing harbour with colourful boats, small houses and great seafood spots.

Cours Julien: A creative district filled with street art, cafés, vintage shops and an alternative feel.

L’Estaque: A seaside neighbourhood north of Marseille, known for its painters, beachside walks and fried chichi fregi snacks.

How to Get There by Train

• From Paris: Direct TGV from Paris Gare de Lyon in about 3 hours 15 minutes.

• From Lyon: Frequent TGVs taking around 1 hour 40 minutes.

• From Nice: Regional TER trains connecting the Riviera to Marseille in roughly 2 hours 30 minutes.

Suggested Weekend Itinerary

Day 1: Explore the Vieux-Port. Stroll into Le Panier. Visit MuCEM and Fort Saint-Jean. Enjoy sunset at the harbour before a seafood dinner.

Day 2: Morning visit to Notre-Dame de la Garde. Afternoon trip to Vallon des Auffes or the Calanques. Dinner in Cours Julien.

Real Travel Guides – Real Travel. By Rail.