From the winding alleys leading to the Old Port to the steep summits of Notre-Dame de la Garde, Marseille sets the perfect scene for a romantic getaway. Throughout this three-day journey in the Phocaean city, discover its breathtaking panoramas and savor the Provencal cuisine.
Day 1 Vieux Port (The Old Port)
Vieux-Port, Marseille, France
Start your day in Marseille as a couple with a morning stroll to the fish market at the Old Port. Enjoy this colorful spectacle where fishermen unload their catch, then take a moment to savor a coffee while admiring the boats.
Capture the moment by taking a selfie together under Norman Foster's mirrored ceiling. Make a stop at Père Blaize, the iconic pharmacy-herbalist of Marseille, and don't miss Maison Empereur, the oldest hardware store in France. It's a sublime place, timeless, where you can buy a souvenir and even enjoy a coffee.
Next, hop aboard the petit train (small train) that will take you to Notre-Dame de la Garde for a romantic stroll along the Mediterranean Sea. The arrival is magnificent, with a 360° view of the city, at the feet of the Bonne Mère.
For lunch, head to Noailles and dine at La Mercerie to taste refined bistronomic cuisine.
Then, take a walk around the majestic Cathedral of La Major, a masterpiece of neo-Byzantine architecture.
In the evening, dine in an intimate atmosphere at Oaï, on Rue Sainte and delight in authentic Provencal cuisine.
Spend the 3 nights on the Old Port, at Maison Montgrand, a charming hotel with an interior garden for an unforgettable romantic experience.
Day 2: The Frioul Islands"
In the morning, escape the hustle and bustle of the city by taking a ferry to the Frioul Islands. Opt for a 5 km hike hand in hand on Pomègues Island, the largest in the archipelago. Enjoy the wild nature and breathtaking panoramas, and if the weather permits, cool off with a swim in the crystal-clear waters and have a picnic on the grass or rocks.
In the afternoon, visit the famous Château d'If, immortalized by Alexandre Dumas in "The Count of Monte Cristo." Back at the port, don't miss visiting the Mucem and exploring the treasures of the Cosquer Cave.
n the evening, let yourself be seduced by the romantic atmosphere of the Vallon des Auffes at sunset, and enjoy a gourmet dinner at L’Epuisette, with the murmur of the waves as background music. You can also swim there in the summer and go for a drink at Viaghji di Fonfon !
Day 3: Le Panier and the Blue Coast train
Begin your final day with a romantic stroll through the colorful alleys of Le Panier, one of the most picturesque neighborhoods of Marseille. Take a gourmet break by tasting some Navettes, the traditional biscuits of the region, accompanied by a coffee at Les Treize Coins or in the courtyard of La Vieille Charité.
In the afternoon, indulge in some dolce vita and guaranteed romance as you take the SNCF Line n°7 which connects Marseille (Saint Charles Station) to Miramas. You'll traverse the entire Blue Coast for nearly 32 km, passing through coves, viaducts, and extraordinary panoramas.
Feel free to get off the train to explore one of the charming villages along the way. For example, in Sausset-les-Pins, you can enjoy the beach and numerous restaurants, while in Niolon, you can relax in a charming little harbor.
Dine at Cours Julien to conclude these three days in Marseille as a couple in a friendly atmosphere. Enjoy a drink on the terrace and then dine at Chez Gérahr where you'll find Provencal cuisine shaped by the chef's travels, focusing on local and organic ingredients. Will you be tempted by sardines with pastis, a 9-hour braised lamb shoulder, or a pear with Provence saffron?
Advive and recommendations
During your stay in Marseille and its metropolitan area, remember to respect the fauna and flora of the Calanques National Park, and leave no trash behind.
By Marie Raymond
Journalist
Marie is a tourism and culture journalist with a serious weakness - she can write just about anywhere, but definitely not in an office! She is inspired by the spirit of the times and the momentum of the moment.
