Free Things To Do in Marseille

If you have extra time, Abbaye Saint Victor is worthwhile.

#1
Le Panier Free

#1 in Marseille

Free

Le Panier – or the Basket – gives a glimpse of Old Marseille and real Marseille culture. From its narrow winding streets that spill into squares to its restaurants, ateliers (worskshops) and terraced homes, Le Panier is a delightful place to meander. It's also convenient to attractions, such as MuCEM and Cathedrale de la Major, among others.

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Neighborhood/Area Type

2 hours to Half Day Time to Spend

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#2
Vieux Port Free

#2 in Marseille

Free

Vieux Port started docking ships and boats back in 600 B.C., and it was a vibrant hub of the city until steamboats became the preferred mode of transport and Vieux Port was considered too shallow. Later in WWII, the Germans bombed the port, and it was left in disrepair until the mid-1900s when a revitalization project restored the port. These days, it is back to its former self, with scores of bobbing sailboats and an array of restaurants, bars and shops located just ashore.

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Sightseeing Type

2 hours to Half Day Time to Spend

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#3
Abbaye Saint Victor Free

#3 in Marseille

Free

Abbaye Saint Victor is a working Catholic church, which was founded back in the 11th century as an abbey and named for the Roman soldier and Christian martyr Victor of Marseille. Much of the abbey was destroyed in 1794, with the austere church and crypts remaining.

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Churches/Religious Sites Type

1 to 2 hours Time to Spend

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#4
Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde Free

#4 in Marseille

Free

The Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde – translated as Our Lady of the Guard – was built in the 1850s on the foundation of Marseille's ancient fortress. Today, this working Catholic basilica – filled with stunning marble, murals and mosaics – is a symbol of the city, the crowning point of its skyline and likewise, a wonderful place to enjoy sweeping views of the city below. You'll probably be able to spot it from the harbor, as a large, gilded statue of the Virgin Mary sits atop the bell tower.

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Churches/Religious Sites Type

1 to 2 hours Time to Spend

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#8
Cathedrale de la Major Free

#8 in Marseille

Free

Where the Abbaye Saint Victor is unembellished in its design, the Cathedrale de la Major is ornate. But it's also younger: The Cathedrale de la Major was built in the mid- to late 19th century, and its unique Byzantine design reflects a period in time where Marseille port was "the gateway to the east." Inside, visitors will find mosaics, statues and side chapels.

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Churches/Religious Sites Type

Less than 1 hour Time to Spend