Marseille

Marseille is best discovered from above: the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, reachable by a small tourist train, offers one of the finest views over the city and the sea. The Old Port remains the heart of the city, surrounded by the Panier district with its narrow lanes, hidden passageways and colourful street art. The calanques, tricky to reach on foot, are best explored by boat, much like the Frioul Islands, accessible via a shuttle boat from the Old Port, where secluded coves are perfect for swimming. The MuCEM regularly hosts memorable temporary exhibitions, while the Vélodrome stadium, home to Olympique de Marseille, draws football fans keen on its electric atmosphere. Livelier, more working-class areas such as Noailles or Belsunce are also worth exploring to grasp the city's diversity, as are Cours Julien and the Friche de la Belle de Mai, both buzzing after dark. For dining, Les Bords de Mer serves fresh, sea-facing dishes prepared with care, while the rooftop at Massilia Beach makes for a pleasant evening out. Nearby, the calanques of Cassis and the Gorges du Verdon make for popular day trips.