Marseille

Marseille stands proudly on France's southeast shore, embraced by the azure waters of the Mediterranean. As one of the continent's most ancient urban settlements, birthed by Greek merchants back in 600 BC, Marseille's pulse beats with history, a rich tapestry of cultures, and an enduring connection to the sea. Today, it stands as France's second-largest metropolis, trailing only the illustrious Paris.

Perched high, the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica is both a sentinel and a jewel of the city, with its elaborate neo-Byzantine design and the gleaming statue of the Virgin and Child offering visitors a magnificent vista of sprawling Marseille and the shimmering Mediterranean. The heartbeat of the city, the Old Port or 'Vieux-Port', is a hive of maritime activity. Here, one can wander amidst fishermen and gleaming yachts, partaking in the local vibe at cozy cafes and sumptuous seafood establishments.

This ancient hub echoes with tales of bygone trading ventures. Just a stone's throw from the port lies Le Panier, a district steeped in history with its quaint alleys, vividly painted homes, and quaint craft shops beckoning exploration. On the contemporary cultural scene, the MuCEM stands out. This modern museum dedicated to European and Mediterranean civilisations graces the waterfront and is connected via an imposing bridge to the historic Fort Saint-Jean, blending the past with the present.…