Unlike its glitzy cousins up the Riviera, Marseille is a great example of a gritty Mediterranean port town. In addition to the harbor area and beaches, there are some amazing sea views from the nearby limestone calanques. (2007, 2020)
My first impression of Marseille was amazement at how brilliantly blue-green the water was along the famous ‘Corniche’
At the heart of Marseille is the old port filled with boats and ships and the blue water of the Mediterranean. High on the hill, you can also see the cathedral Notre Dame de la Garde
The old section of the city called “Le Panier” is full of characteristic faded pastel buildings with drooping shutters and hanging laundry.
One signature feature of Marseille’s seascape are the limestone cliffs in the background called the calanques. In these, the sea has carved out many secluded beaches like the one seen here
There’s lots of seafood to be tried in Marseilles including a steamer full of moules–in this case Mauritian style with curry chicken, pineapple, and mango.
OM (Olympique de Marseille) is one France’s top football teams and I had the chance to go to a game with some friends
More views along the coast including the Pont de la Fausse Monnaie
The Palais du Pharo built in 1858 by Napoleon III
