10 Things to Do in Marseille on a Small Budget

Marseille has an efficient public transportation system which includes a metro, buses, trams, bicycles and ferry boats. They’re the most economical ways of getting around the city. A single ticket is valid for 1 hour and there are also 24- and 72-hour passes available. Make sure to validate your metro, tram or bus tickets/passes before each ride.

If you plan to visit many museums and attractions, consider buying a CityPass, which includes the use of all public transportation and free access or discounts for most exhibitions in Marseille.

The Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations offers a captivating exploration of the region's rich past. Located just north of the Old Port, the museum resides in a striking complex that links the historic Fort Saint-Jean to a modern cubic building. Visitors can freely explore Fort Saint-Jean, while the exhibition area carries a reasonably low entry fee, except for the first Sunday of each month when it's free.

Don't forget to cap off your visit with a trip to the museum's rooftop restaurant. From this vantage point, you'll be treated to breath-taking panoramic views of the city. 

Fort Saint-Jean is a historic fortification that dates back to 1660 and connects to a historical district and the first French national museum outside of Paris. Here you can walk the parapets that overlook the city and ocean and explore the structure that protected the city from invasion during the Middle Ages. It served as a military outpost and barracks up through the 20th century and played a critical role in World War II.

With easy access to the neighbouring Le Panier historic district and the old harbour, it's an enchanting place to walk in the footsteps of history.

Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the 19th-century at the Palais Longchamp, a stunning edifice in the centre of Marseille. Recognised as a Historic Monument, it hosts 2 museums and an elaborate fountain.

Venture beyond the palace walls and explore the expansive park adorned with beautifully manicured gardens and charming remnants of a former zoo. Today, known as the Funny Zoo, the cages are inhabited by colourful, life-size fibreglass animals, adding a whimsical touch to the setting. An ideal spot for a relaxing family stroll, the Palais Longchamp presents a blend of history, beauty and family fun.

Nestled 9 km north of the Old Port, L’Estaque is a picturesque village that has gracefully evolved into a neighbourhood of Marseille. It is a visual symphony of vibrant colours. Featuring red rooftops, green vegetation, ochre hills and the turquoise blue sea, it presents a captivating tableau that has long been a magnet for artists.

Among the artists who were captivated by the enchanting charm of L’Estaque was Paul Cézanne, one of the most renowned impressionist painters of the early 20th century. Searching for Cézanne’s painting spots in L’Estaque will help you explore this quaint district of Marseille.

Just north of the Old Port lies Le Panier, a district steeped in history and regarded as one of the oldest in Marseille. It’s a lively, multicultural neighbourhood that hosts museums and quaint boutiques. Le Panier is famed for the splendid paintings that adorn many of its walls, transforming the neighbourhood into a living, breathing canvas.

Dotted within this vibrant district are a variety of affordable eateries that draw in locals and visitors alike, such as Maison Geney on Rue Caisserie and Sur le Pouce Resto on Rue de la Joliette.

The Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde is the most iconic landmark in Marseille. Sat on a hill overlooking the Old Port, it’s also the best viewpoint in the city, making it an irresistible magnet for those seeking to experience the captivating beauty of Marseille from an elevated perspective.

Reaching La Bonne Mère, or 'the Good Mother as it’s affectionately called in Marseille, involves a scenic 40-minute walk from the Old Port. You can also get there by bus 60. Besides the breath-taking panoramic views, the interior of the basilica is worth the visit.

The Calanques is a National Park stretching for 16 km along the coast between Marseille and Cassis. With its narrow, rocky trails skirting the edge of a towering limestone cliff, the park offers a challenging yet immensely rewarding exploration experience.

Though hiring a guide is advisable for a more informed exploration, the trails can be conquered independently with some careful preparation. Essential gear includes a good pair of shoes, sunscreen, ample water and snacks to keep you energised. Walking the whole track takes about 3 hours, making an early morning start ideal to avoid the midday sun. Do not forget your camera as the landscapes are spectacular. 

Also known as Noailles’s Market, the Marché des Capucins is a farmers’ market boasting the multicultural character of Marseille. Animated and noisy, the market hosts many fresh produce stands, but also a good range of North African stands at which you can find spices, dried fruits and nuts.

You can also enjoy an assortment of inexpensive street snacks, perfect for a quick, delicious lunch. However, as the market can get crowded, it's advisable to keep a close eye on your belongings while you enjoy the rich, multicultural ambiance and the mouthwatering aromas wafting through the air.

Musée Subaquatique de Marseille is an underwater art museum 100 metres from Plage des Catalans beach. A small but intriguing collection of 10 sandstone sculptures lies 5 metres below the surface, each covered in a thin veil of sea moss.

Strong swimmers are welcome to explore the site for free at their own discretion. Bring a snorkel, fins and a wetsuit to Plage des Catalans, then swim west toward the bobbing yellow buoys. Alternately, the museum organises paid snorkelling and diving trips throughout the warmer months. More than just an underwater marvel, the project raises funds to protect marine biodiversity in the region.