Full Day Private Guided Sightseeing City Tour in Marseille

The Porte d’Aix, completed in 1839, commemorates the military success of France. This triumphal arch, designed by Michel-Robert Penchaud, was inspired by traditional Roman architecture, and it marks the ancient entrance to Marseille from Aix-en-Provence.

Le Panier (or “The Basket”) is the charming old district of Marseille. Here you can still breathe the traditional atmosphere of the city as you take a look at the colorful street art, or visit the artisan shops and the little bistros that line the narrow alleys.

The Vieille Charité is a jewel of the 17th century architecture situated in the district Le Panier, where it originally served as an almshouse. This graceful structure was built by Pierre Puget, the architect of Louis XIV, and currently houses a cultural center.

The Cathedral of Sainte-Marie Majeure (or “La Major”) is comparable in size to St. Peter’s in Rome. This remarkable building elegantly blends together Roman and Byzantine styles, symbolizing the connection of the port city of Marseille to both East and West.

The Old Port, recently pedestrianized, is where both tourists and locals gather to take a stroll by the sea or enjoy a meal in one of the many restaurants in the area. The name “Old Port” refers to the ancient origins of this place, which dates back to the activity of ancient Greek settlers. Get your camera ready: from the port you will enjoy a stunning view of the church of Notre-Dame de la Garde.

Admire this Gothic church and its beautiful monumental façade and is located near the Old Port. It was originally owned by the Knights Templar Order and was completed in 1588.

When the Opera was built, between 1786 and 1787, Marseille became the second city in France to have its own theater. The design is from Joachim Bénard and it was built in classical style. Thanks to renovations in the 1920s, today it combines the style of the 18th century with Art Deco.

Built in 1801, the Jardin Puget is the oldest public garden of the city. Located on a hill, its entrance is guarded by a statue of Pierre Puget, an artist and engineer from Marseille. Take a leisurely walk along one of the paths to the top of the hill or rest on a bench while enjoying the view of the Old Port.

This symbol of early Christian and Romanesque architecture was founded in the 5th century by John Cassian. From here you will enjoy a panoramic view of the Old Port while listening to the insights of your guide about the martyr Saint Victor, whose remains are believed to be buried in the abbey.

The architectural site of the Pharo includes the Palais, a residence built by the city for Napoleon III, and the large park decorated with 84 monumental arches. Make sure not to miss the chance to take a picture from the garden, as this spot offers a spectacular view of the sea.

Also know to the locals as “La Bonne Mère”, this basilica is the symbol of the city of Marseille. This relevant example of Byzantine architecture was designed by Henri Espérandieu and is located on the highest hill of the city. The decorations inside are magnificent: white and red marble combined with stones decorated with mosaics.