Is it safe to travel in Marseille : which neighborhoods are safe and which are unsafe? To be sure when you travel to Marseille, if you can, stay away from the northern districts. These areas include the 16th, 5th, 14th and 3rd arrondissements. There is also the 3rd arrondissement which includes Félix Pyat and Bellevue.
Marseille is very walkable. In fact, some of its neighborhoods, including Vieux Port and Le Panier, are best experienced on foot. Plus, if you buy the City-Pass, a walking tour of the city is included in the price.
La Canebière leads from the Réformés church up to the Vieux Port, the main tourist attraction in Marseille. It is a busy street, and by walking through it you visit many different facets of the city.
For a solid itinerary, we recommend at least two to three days so you can explore the city's famous port, its diverse neighborhoods, and the delicious food scene. Tack on more time for Marseille's ancient sites and modern museums, with possible day trips to the Provençal countryside or Mediterranean coast.
As with any large city, shady areas are best avoided, and women still have to take extra care of their safety, especially when going out at night. Avoid walking alone after dark, and be alert when strolling the streets.
Marseille is very popular for its nightlife, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere, while Aix-en-Provence attracts visitors for its museums and shopping. Marseille is more touristy than Aix-en-Provence and is popular for its unique history, its diverse population, and its authenticity.
Marseille is a city of contrasts, with both ancient history and modern architecture. The famous Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, which overlooks the city, is one of Marseille's most famous landmarks. The city is also home to modern architectural marvels like the CMA CGM Tower, one of the tallest buildings in France.
Some of the many reasons to visit include, the long coastline for beach-going and boating, the temperate climate, the abundant sun, the diversity (of people, of architecture, of activities), and the southern, laid-back pace. The locals are fiercely proud—Marseille is a city that locals love or hate or love to hate.