The January blues are in full swing, and the best way to deal with them is to have some sunshine to look forward to – where better than the south of France?

1. The Plethora of Food

Marseille is a true culinary delight. As a bustling port city, its cuisine is heavily focused on fresh seafood, which I personally adore! The city also carries a strong mediterranean influence, combined with a multicultural mix that brings together flavours from across the world. This fusion makes Marseille a fantastic destination for anyone interested in exploring both traditional and modern takes on food.

For clients who love fine dining, there is no better way to incorporate this into your wine tour than with a visit to Villa La Coste, just an hour’s drive from Marseille. This makes for an excellent stop as part of a full day in the Provence vineyards. Villa La Coste promises a multi-sensory gastronomic experience with top-level chefs and creative menus with wine pairing. Guests can also incorporate a relaxing wine tasting at the on-site winery, Château La Coste. It’s the perfect stop for exploring the vineyards outside Marseille, combining exceptional food, world-class wines, and stunning Provençal scenery.

If you are interested in a more casual, vibrant dining experience in Marseille itself, I really recommend visiting the Cours Julien neighbourhood. During my stay in Marseille, I stumbled across this lively neighbourhood that comes alive in the evenings with music, food and a very local feel. Dining here is both affordable and delicious, with numerous restaurants experimenting with modern cuisine in creative ways. It brings a youthful, energetic atmosphere which offers a fascinating contrast from the city’s fine-dining establishments, and is definitely worth exploring if you want to try something new.

2. Sun-Kissed Reds – Bandol AOC

I wouldn’t be recommending Marseille if it wasn’t for its great wines! Perhaps less well known than the pale rosés synonymous with the region of Provence, yet just as delicious, the Bandol AOC region is only a short drive from Marseille and produces some of Provence’s finest full-bodied reds, primarily from Mourvèdre grapes. This region has an interesting viticultural history as Bandol was a large exporter of wine in the Roman times, earning the nickname “the hundred barrel workshop city”. However, in 1870, phylloxera devastated the vines in the area, meaning that pioneering winemakers had to rebuild from scratch. This makes for a fascinating historical visit. I especially love to send my clients to family-run estates where they can meet the winemakers and receive a hands-on introduction to the area’s historical winemaking heritage.

Another of my favourite experiences to recommend is a Provençal picnic among the rolling vineyards, accompanied by Bandol wines straight from the source! It is a truly unique experience being able to visit a vineyard, learn about its history, meet the winemakers themselves, and conclude with lunch amongst the vines. My clients always love it!

3. Unique Coastal Whites – Cassis AOC 

Following our celebration of Bandol reds, it’s only fair that reason number three to visit Marseille focuses on its white wines and the stunning coastal town of Cassis. I personally adore Cassis, and I always make sure to include it in my clients’ itineraries.

Cassis is home to the rare Cassis AOC, producing fresh, mineral-driven white wines that are unlike anywhere else. The vineyards cling to terraced hills above the sea, creating a dramatic landscape that perfectly complements the wine’s unique character.

The town itself is a charming contrast to the hustle and bustle of Marseille. Strolling along the colourful harbour and quaint streets, you’re guaranteed to feel at home in the town’s relaxed atmosphere. A brief stop to enjoy a glass of Cassis Blanc paired with fresh local seafood makes for a memorable experience.

For those with more time, a visit to one of the small, family-run vineyards in the area is wonderfully intimate, offering insight into the winemaking traditions of one of France’s smallest AOCs.

4. Legendary Coastal Scenery 

One of the biggest draws of Marseille is its stunning coastline and, of course, the famous Calanques. These are dramatic limestone inlets and cliffs that stretch along the Mediterranean between Marseille and Cassis. They are truly iconic and a must-see for anyone who loves scenery, hiking, and the ocean.

During my stay in Marseille, I made sure to visit this natural wonder, and it did not disappoint! I embarked on a one-hour hike to a quiet beach nestled among towering cliffs, and the views were absolutely breathtaking. There are many different Calanque beaches to explore, ranging from short 30-minute walks to full-day hikes, making it easy to fit into a wine holiday as a refreshing break from wine tasting.

For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, try exploring the Calanques by boat. This offers a unique perspective of the coastline, with turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and hidden coves all visible from the comfort of a dry land. It’s a perfect combination of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty, and a memory that any visitor to Marseille will be sure to treasure.

5. City of History and Culture 

Founded around 600 BC, more than 2,500 years ago, Marseille is France’s oldest city, so if you are fond of history I would not give Marseille a miss. Today, it is a vibrant, multicultural city: while its ancient Greek settlement still shows at its foundations, the thousands of years since have seen a plethora of cultures and people settling in the city of Marseille, making it into a true cultural melting pot today.

One of my favourite neighbourhoods to visit is Le Panier, which is the city’s oldest! Narrow, cobbled streets twist between pastel-coloured houses, laundry flutters overhead, and every corner hides a café or tiny art gallery. It is the perfect place to wander without an agenda, stop for a coffee and enjoy some people-watching – one of my personal favourite things to do in new cities.

The Old Port is beautiful to explore day and night as it buzzes with local life and maritime history, while landmarks such as Notre-Dame de la Garde and the Abbaye Saint-Victor showcase the city’s rich heritage. As you will see if you visit Marseille, you will not be short of things to do!

Marseille truly is a city that has it all. With delicious food, exceptional wine, rich history, and vibrant culture, not to forget the sunshine, you are guaranteed a wonderful weekend getaway! If I have convinced you that Marseille is a place you’d like to visit, take a look at our Provence tours for more inspiration, or get in touch with me directly to share your dreams for the perfect trip, and I’ll put something together for you.

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