Marseille

Marseille is France's oldest city and a gateway to Provence. The Vieux Port, the city's centre, is lined with fishing boats, yachts, and seafood restaurants. A daily fish market runs at Quai des Belges, and the mirrored Ombrière canopy overhead reflects the movement below. Behind the port, Le Panier is the oldest quarter, with narrow alleys, pastel houses, and hidden courtyards. Above it all, the golden dome of Notre-Dame de la Garde offers wide views of the city and the Mediterranean. A free shuttle runs from the cruise terminal to the Vieux Port. From there, the Petit Train Touristique does a loop of the main sights. The MuCEM, a modern museum at the harbour mouth, covers Mediterranean culture and history. A short train ride from Saint-Charles station reaches Aix-en-Provence, known for its markets and architecture. Back in Marseille, bouillabaisse is the local dish to try, best ordered at one of the old-port restaurants that still follow the traditional recipe.