Long weekends are simply great (you can imagine I would immediately vote for a 4 day working week :) ) so we decided to go and check out Marseille.
We heard a bit of mixed comments about the city more towards the negative, but we had an absolutely great time. I was coming just after the Tour du Mont Blanc, with my knee still in pain, but slowly we managed to cover at the end of the first day 20 km. So let's see what's there to explore.
Getting there
After researching train options from Brussels, we ended up taking a plane from Charleroi Airport. I really wish the governments would come with some initiatives to reduce the prices for trains as it's at this moment in time for most lanes unaffordable.
Once in Marseille airport you pick a bus which gets you to the train station and then easy peasy get to town.
Once in Marseille airport you pick a bus which gets you to the train station and then easy peasy get to town.
Accommodation
As we were arriving super late, we decided to book a hotel close to the station: Meininger Marseille Centre la Joliette. It's a good stay and they also offer buffet breakfast against a reasonable price.
Day 1
This is a long walking day, but don't worry we made sure to stay with our bellies full.
1. Oursjayet
Our first stop was to take a selfie with a giant "teddy" bear created by @artjayet representing the biggest bear in the world. The sculpture measures over 5m and 6 tones. You can find it close to Cathedral Saint Marie Majeur de Marseille.
2. Promenade
From there we walked along the promenade enjoyed the views over the port and of the Notre Dame de la Garde Cathedral.
Don't forget to take a selfie with the M from Marseille.
And of course make some funny faces in the mirror of the L'Ombriere de Norman Foster.
3. Take a Break in Place de Thiars
If it's as hot as it was when we went, you will thank me to remind you to take a break for a cold drink while people-watching
4. Sweet tooth
To get some more energy head to Twistavenue where you can enjoy some Kurtoskolacs with a twist. If you've been to Eastern Europe you will know what I am talking about. If you have not been you need to go, this is one of the best deserts out there.
5. Shopping
While enjoying your Kurtos, you can pass by the shopping street and buy something. As my friend Dana says, whenever you wear that item you will remember you bought it in Marseille.
6. Walk towards the Cathedral Notre Dame de la Grande
Keep in mind this is a serious uphill to get there, so take your time and enjoy the architecture around.
7. Cathedral Notre Dame de la Grande
The Cathedral offers amazing 360 views over Marseille. I was very surprised to realize how big the city is.
8. Head towards Kennedy street
When going down take the alternative road (you will find it, don't worry) and head all the way to Corniche Du President John Fitzgerald Kennedy. Walk alongside the sea for gorgeous views.
9. French Cuisine Dinner
We ended up in an Corsican Restaurant (Chez Marinette - 27 Rue Joel Recher) which was absolutely delicious.
10. Head out for drinks
if you still have the energy head our for drinks around Rue D'Endoume.
Day 2
After an intense first day, let's relax a bit :)
1. Take a Boat Trip to the National Park of Calanques
A beautiful day trip is a boat ride to Calanques National Park. Just go to the old port in Marseille and get yourself a ticket. I would recommend taking the morning tour as if it's hot and sunny, it will not be as plesant to enjoy.
2. Lunch & Ice Cream Break
By now you might have gotten hungry so why not a small lunch topped with a special ice cream. We had lunch at Opera Zoizo followed by Black vanilla ice cream at Vanille Noire.
3. Lazy on Plage de Catalans till sunset
This city beach is a must in Marseille. Not because it's pretty, as it's not really, but because of the cultural experience. What I found absolutely amazing is how well everyone seems to be integrated. Depending from where you are when reading this, it might seem like a no brainer, something normal or something out of the question. We enjoyed seeing groups of friends of mixed ethnicity & religion.
4. Best Pizza in town
Since the lockdowns in 2020 and into 2021 I developed a new hobby. if you are on my IG, you would know that I have pizza every Friday (I can be flexible with the day) and try to make sure to try all best pizza's in Europe.
The best pizza in Marseille is double trouble and I mean it with all the positive power of it. The pizza is delicious and the location is outstanding.
Splendido pizzeria belongs to the Big Mamma Group which they tend to open pizzerias in very special locations, and this one in Marseille is absolutely gorgeous.
And so the weekend flew by without even realizing. I enjoyed a lot the Marseille vibes, and I am sure you would too.
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