Things to do in Marseille

What to see

• Vieux-Port — The harbour that has been the city's heart for over two millennia: morning fish market, old forts guarding the entrance, and the tiny Ferry Boat crossing the port.
• Notre-Dame de la Garde — The 'Bonne Mère' basilica on its hill, with a 360-degree view over the city, the islands and the sea.
• MuCEM and Fort Saint-Jean — The Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations at the harbour mouth, linked to the old fort by a footbridge.
• Le Panier — The oldest quarter: narrow lanes, the Vieille Charité and its archaeology and world-arts museums.
• Calanques National Park — White limestone coves with turquoise water just south of the city, by boat or on foot; summer fire risk can close land access, so check the park's status before going.
• Château d'If and the Frioul islands — Boats from the Vieux-Port to the island fortress Dumas made famous as the prison in The Count of Monte Cristo.