Main Attractions

*The Abbey Saint Victor is almost defensive in stature and visitors can go down into the crypt to see the original catacomb chapel and the grotto of St. Victor.

*Calanques are the Fjord like cervices which are sometimes used as natural yacht harbours and stretch between Marseilles and Cassis. The most impressive being Port Miou, En-Vau and Port-Pin and in summer are popular with bathers.

*The setting of the novel ?The Count of Monte Cristo? is the Chateau d?If, found on a rocky island in the bay of Marseille. The fortress was once used as a prison but today can be visited by tourists.

*The Palais Longchamp is a fine example of 19th century architecture which stands by the Natural History Museum and the Zoological garden.

*The largest club football ground in France is the Stade Velodrome of the Olympique de Marseille with a seating capacity of 60,000. Try and get hold of tickets for an atmospheric game experience.

When to go

Marseille is pleasant throughout the year but July is the busiest month due to Bastille day celebrations when the city comes alive with a two week festival. Winters are cooler, yet snow and ice are very uncommon and tourism is still popular.

How to get there

Marseille Provence airport is located 25km north west of the city and a shuttle then runs into the city centre. Otherwise Marseille is accessed by TGV and SNCF services from most cities in France.

There are many bus lines and the network is dense enough to reach any place in the city without a problem. The metro is obviously the way to avoid traffic. You can purchase a day pass card for 4 Euros which allows free usage of the buses and metro.

Visa information

American Citizens do not need a visa when they travel to France for business or for personal travel, however the stay must not exceed 90 days. The same applies for British, Canadian and Australian citizens.

Tipping

Unlike in America, cafes and restaurants in Paris and the rest of France directly include a 15 percent service charge in your check. This is required by French law as tips are assessed for taxation purposes.