Marseille: A Cosmopolitan Rebel City, Tour with an Actress Guide

Marseille , France

Marseille: A Cosmopolitan Rebel City, Tour with an Actress Guide

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About this experience

Explore the historic and fascinating old town of Marseille on an immersive tour led by a professional actor guide. Discover the history of Marseille, and the story of those who made it. Marseille has been composed of multiple peoples in search of discovery, a fresh start, or refuge. It is a cultural patchwork, a mosaic of peoples, a true symbol of openness to the world. Your actor guide will bring the city and it's people - past and present - to life during this unique walking tour.

Available options

Tour in English

What's included

Enjoy an immersive 1.5 hour guided tour led by a professional actor-guide

Feel the heartbeat of Marseille in its lively streets, timeless stories, and proud diversity.

Uncover the city’s mosaic of cultures—shaped by sailors, exiles, dreamers, and survivors.

Explore the soul of France’s oldest city, where every corner whispers a different tale.

Detailed itinerary

Welcome to Massilia! "Come as you are," those who enter here in search of a fresh start. Your journey begins in the heart of the city, in the historic district of Le Panier.

It is here, in the district of Le Panier, that Marseille was born in its first form, 600 years ago. Wander through the narrow streets, accompanied by the best guides imaginable, the founders of the city, Gyptis, or Protis themselves, both of whom know the many secrets of the city.

2600 years ago, Protis, a Greek navigator in search of adventures, discovered pristine coves in the south of Gaul. There he met the charming and intriguing Gyptis, a young Gaulish woman. Their mutual and passionate love gave birth to the city now known as Marseille. From the union of these two characters, Massilia was born, a Greek colony founded by the Phocians who gave the city its nickname: the Phocaean city. Over the centuries, many have believed they could shape Marseille in their image, constrain it, make it something it was not.

Stop 2

But Marseille resists all and assimilates, mixes, and enriches. It is this richness and mixture that you will discover by following Gyptis or Protis on this unusual visit. Marseille will be revealed to you at different times in its history: in the Middle Ages, under the 3rd empire, during the colonial period, under Nazi occupation...

So many exciting episodes of the city's history that will be recounted during this theatrical stroll. The union of Gyptis and Protis is what symbolizes Marseille in all its splendor: love for the other, arms outstretched to the stranger, and a haven for the most unfortunate. This is what our Greco-Gaulish couple invites you to discover through a visit to the city's streets.

From antiquity to the present day, traverse the time and space of this true mosaic of cultures and feel the spirit of this city that makes Marseille extraordinary.

What's not included

Hotel pick up/drop off

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet your guide at Port Antique, rue Henri Barbusse, 13001, Marseille.

They will be wearing a badge around their neck on a black lanyard.

Important notes

Please note this tour requires a reasonable amount of walking. Please wear comfortable shoes!

About Marseille

Marseille, the oldest city in France, is a vibrant port city known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning Mediterranean coastline. With its bustling Vieux Port, historic architecture, and nearby Calanques National Park, Marseille offers a unique blend of urban and natural attractions.

Top Attractions

Vieux Port (Old Port)

The heart of Marseille, the Vieux Port is a bustling harbor surrounded by restaurants, cafes, and shops. It's a great place to start your exploration of the city.

Historical 1-2 hours Free to explore

Calanques National Park

A stunning coastal park with turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and hidden beaches. Perfect for hiking, swimming, and kayaking.

Nature Half-day to full day Free entry

Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde

A iconic basilica offering panoramic views of Marseille. A symbol of the city and a must-visit for its architecture and views.

Religious 1-2 hours Free entry

MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations)

A modern museum exploring the history and culture of the Mediterranean region. The building itself is an architectural marvel.

Museum 2-3 hours €11 for full access

Château d'If

A historic fortress and prison, made famous by Alexandre Dumas' novel 'The Count of Monte Cristo'. Accessible only by boat.

Historical Half-day €10 for the boat and entry

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bouillabaisse

A traditional Provençal fish stew made with various types of fish and shellfish, served with rouille and toasted bread.

Dinner Contains seafood, gluten (in the bread)

Navettes

Small, orange-blossom flavored biscuits shaped like boats, a specialty of Marseille.

Snack Vegetarian, contains gluten

Tapenade

A spread made from olives, capers, and anchovies, typically served with bread or crackers.

Appetizer Vegetarian option available (without anchovies)

Popular Activities

Hiking in Calanques National Park Kayaking in the Mediterranean Scuba diving at the Riou Islands Sunbathing at Plage des Catalans Spa treatments at a luxury hotel Strolling along the Vieux Port Visiting museums and galleries Attending a performance at the Grand Théâtre de Marseille

Best Time to Visit

June to September

This is the best time to visit Marseille for beach activities and outdoor exploration. The weather is warm, and the city is lively with festivals and events.

20°C to 30°C 68°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: French
Widely spoken: English, Arabic, Italian
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Marseille is generally safe for tourists, but like any large city, it has its share of petty crime. Exercise caution, especially in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.

Getting there

By air

Marseille Provence Airport • 25 km from city center

By train

Marseille Saint-Charles

By bus

Gare Routière Saint-Charles

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is efficient and easy to use, with two lines connecting key destinations.

Taxis

Available • Apps: G7, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Le Panier La Canebière Cours Julien

Day trips

Aix-en-Provence

30 km • Half-day to full day

A charming university town known for its elegant architecture, vibrant markets, and proximity to the Luberon region.

Cassis

25 km • Full day

A picturesque coastal town known for its stunning calanques, white cliffs, and vibrant port. Ideal for swimming, hiking, and boat tours.

Arles

80 km • Full day

A historic town with Roman ruins, medieval architecture, and a rich artistic heritage. Arles is known for its connections to Vincent van Gogh.

Festivals

Fête de la Musique • June 21 Marseille Jazz Festival • July Festival de Marseille • June to July

Pro tips

Visit the Calanques early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photography.
Take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Provençal dishes like bouillabaisse and tapenade.
Explore the city's street art scene in the Cours Julien and Panier neighborhoods.
Try local specialties like navettes, panisse, and socca at the markets and street food stalls.
Take a boat tour to the Château d'If for a unique perspective on the city and its history.