Welcome to Marseille – From Old Port to Le Panier and La Major Cathedral

Marseille is not only France’s oldest city but also one of its most vibrant and diverse. Perched on the Mediterranean coast, it has always been a place of encounters: of traders, sailors, migrants, and dreamers. All this gave Marseille its unmistakable character — energetic, sometimes chaotic, but always full of life. Today, it’s a city where ancient history, maritime tradition, and modern architecture stand side by side. Join us to discover this fascinating mix!

The story of Marseille begins over 2,600 years ago, when Greek settlers from Phocaea arrived and founded Massalia. Ever since, the city has been shaped by people coming and going: Romans, medieval merchants, crusaders, and more recently newcomers from across the Mediterranean. It became a vital port for France’s empire, a gateway to Africa, and later a symbol of resistance during World War II. This long history left behind layers of architecture and stories that you can still see and feel as you walk through its streets.

Our walk starts right in the heart of the city at Place du Général-de-Gaulle, just by the famous Old Port — the natural harbor that has been the beating heart of Marseille since antiquity. From there, we step into the Jardin des Vestiges, an archeological site where ancient remains whisper about the city’s distant beginnings. Passing along Rue de la République, we will pause by the Hôtel de Cabre, one of the oldest houses in Marseille, and the elegant Hôtel Dieu, today transformed into a luxury hotel but with centuries of stories to tell.

We continue into Le Panier, the oldest district of Marseille, with its narrow alleys, colorful facades, and street art. Once home to sailors and immigrants, it is now the city’s most picturesque neighborhood. Rising nearby is the striking Cathédrale La Major, a 19th-century landmark that dominates the waterfront with its Byzantine-inspired domes. Just a short walk away, modernity takes center stage at the MUCEM – Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations, and the bold Villa Méditerranée. Finally, we cross to Fort Saint-Jean, where the old fortifications guard the entrance to the harbor, offering unforgettable views over sea and city.

This walk through Marseille is not just about monuments — it’s about understanding how this unique city has always stood at the crossroads of cultures. Whether it’s Greek traders, French revolutionaries, or today’s mix of communities, all left their mark here.

Join us to discover Marseille’s history, character, and energy. From ancient ruins to modern icons, from narrow alleys to the wide blue of the Mediterranean, this tour will help you see why Marseille is a city like no other.