Eurostar to Marseille
Bustling, sprawling, intriguing Marseille is the capital of Provence and home to a young multi-ethnic population that gives the city its buzz. This old city boasts great seafood and fabulous beaches, making it a great destination for a holiday travelling by Eurostar. Visitors will love the Insta-famous Old Harbour with its brightly painted houses and Ferris wheel.
If you’re staying for longer than a night be sure to explore the wonders of the spectacular Notre Dame de la Garde church, Marseille’s oldest museum, Palais Longchamp, Marseille cathedral and the 16th century castle, Château d’If, which was the inspiration for the famous novel The Count of Montecristo. Your Eurostar train will bring you straight into the heart of the city, so you’ll be able to explore from the moment you arrive.
Eurostar to Marseille
You can take the train from London to Marseille by catching the Eurostar at London St Pancras and changing in Paris or Lille. In Paris, transfer to Garde du Lyon for the TGV InOui, while in Lille the TGV departs from the same station. Trains arrive in Marseille Saint-Charles station and the journey time is around 11 hours 5 minutes, with eight connecting trains a day.
Eurostar to Marseille: Must-see
If your time in Marseille is limited, the one place you need to visit is The Vieux Port (the Old Harbour). Here you can admire the colourful houses, eat fresh fish sandwiches on the quayside and ride the popular Ferris wheel. Once you’ve had a look around, head to the nearby Old Town, which boasts food from around the world, and some great lively bars – making it the perfect destination for a night out in Marseille.
Where to eat in Marseille
Looking for a genuine fish restaurant in Marseille? Then head to La Boite a Sardines (sardine tin) on the Boulevard de la Liberation. Here you’ll find amazing fresh fish at great prices. Not surprisingly, it’s loved by travellers and locals alike.
What to buy
The French love their hand-made soaps and Marseille has been making some of the finest soaps since the 12th century. Look out for the traditional lavender and mimosa soaps. You can buy them from La Licorne, a traditional soap shop in Quai de Rive Neuve or at one of the many daily markets in the city that sell soap bundles surprisingly cheaply.
Where to stay in Marseille
Sofitel Marseille Vieux Port €€€
Bust the budget and treat yourself and a loved one to a very comfortable bed at this 5-star hotel. Situated at the top of a hill, the Sofitel overlooks the Old Port and the Med. The rooms are gorgeously romantic, and the service is excellent.
Looking for a boutique hotel in Marseille? Then head to the Alex Hotel. Here you’ll find beautifully decorated rooms and a cool new spa where you can try out some great French beauty products. The prices are surprisingly reasonable at this chic hotel.
This busy, friendly hostel in Rue Fort Notre Dame offers guests from all the over world a reasonably priced place to stay in central Marseille. You can choose from private rooms and dorms with free Wi-Fi and breakfast thrown in too.