By Alexandre De Cardenal

Marseille, the 2nd most populated city in France and elected European Capital of Culture in 2013, is a must-see destination on your trip to the French Riviera.

Mediterranean gastronomy, paradisiacal landscapes and a fabulous history, without forgetting the 300 days of sunshine per year are the main reasons to escape to Marseille. We present you the French jewel of the Mediterranean coast. The oldest city in France but also the most multiculturalone. Historically Marseille has always been an ideal location for boat trade and the development of civilizations.
Is it possible to visit Marseille in 1 day? It is. Is it possible to fly Marseille Paris by private jet at an affordable price? It is possible too!



The history of Marseilles

Marseille was founded by the Greeks in 600 BC. It became an important ally of the Romans from the beginning of our era. In those times it took the name of Massilia. A strategic location for maritime trade in the Mediterranean Sea, Marseille has always been a coveted area by the greatest empires that have ruled the Mediterranean.

The Marseillaise

The Marseillaise was written by Rouget de l’Isle during the French revolution. It was then sent to the Marseillaise troops to motivate them as they marched to the capital to overthrow the government. This song motivated and galvanized the troops so much that it stayed and was sung by the whole country before becoming the official French anthem in 1795.

Marseille in 1 day

Travelling by private jet to Marseille, and you only have limited time to visit the city? We have prepared you a list of places you absolutely must pass by during your trip to Marseille in one day.

The Vieux Port

Emblem of the city of Marseille. At the Vieux Port you will find several times a week a market of fresh fish caught the same morning. The unsold leftovers will surely end up in a Marseilles bouillabaisse, we’ll tell you more later!

vieux port marseille in 1 day
The Vieux Port

Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica

The Basilica Notre-Dame de la Garde, a major monument of the city, was built from 1853 to 1864. Its statue is visible from the 4 corners of the city, this one being arranged in height on a hill. Once you arrive at the cathedral, you will have a magnificent 360 degree view of the whole city. Certainly the most beautiful panorama that Marseille has to offer.

Notre Dame de la Garde marseille in 1 day
Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica

Le Panier (old town)

Take a tour to the old town with its colorful buildings. Experience the sun shining on the windows and warming your skin, old houses and a light smell of grilled fish. In this area, street art has a very important place and adds an extra charm.

le panier old town marseille in 1 day
Old town

The Velodrome Stadium

It is not possible to talk about Marseille without mentioning its mythical soccer club: the Olympique de Marseille (OM). The only French club to have won the Champions League (1993). Its stadium and the fiery atmosphere that resounds there are known and recognized throughout Europe. Attending an OM home game is the certainty of a federative and passionate atmosphere in Marseille and that will give you chills. If there is a match at the Velodrome, whether you are a soccer fan or not, don’t hesitate to get a ticket for the match!

stade velodrome marseille in 1 day
The Velodrome Stadium

Where to stay in Marseille?

If you want to extend your trip beyond one day, you will off course need a place to stay. We have prepared a list of our favorite hotels in Marseille:

  • Nhow Marseille : A luxury hotel with a SPA, a gym and several meeting rooms at your disposal for your business meetings.
  • Sofitel Marseille Vieux-Port : Blending tradition and modernity and offering a magical and unrivalled view, this hotel specialises in French food and has several restaurants in which you can indulge.
  • InterContinental Marseille – Hotel Dieu, an IHG Hotel : One of the most luxurious hotels in the city with a SPA, Michelin-starred restaurants and 1,230 m2 of meeting space that can be used for all types of meetings, adapting the venue to the desired atmosphere.

Stunning views of the seashore, the beaches and the city observable from your bedroom window.

Where to eat in Marseille?

  • La Table de l’Ours : open from 12:00 to 14:30 Monday to Saturday. French specialities but above all from Marseille, this small family restaurant will make you discover the best local specialities.
  • AM par Alexandre Mazzia (3 Michelin stars) : open from Wednesday to Saturday, from 12:00 to 14:30 in the morning and from 20:00 to 21:30 in the evening. In this restaurant, chef Alexandre Mazzia, who will also be cooking for the athletes of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, prepares real works of art by mixing colours and flavours in your plate.
  • La Pequeña Boqueria : open from Tuesday to Saturday, from 10:00 to 23:00. A Mediterranean tapas restaurant that will satisfy a small hunger as well as the desire for a big meal.

Off course we warmly recommend you to go and eat a bouillabaisse. This local dish is typical to the city of Marseille. Bouillabaisse is a fish soup with garlic croutons, pieces of fish and potatoes. However, be careful where you eat it. Don’t believe the “cheap” bouillabaisse offers. Expect a price for about 60 to 80 euros per person!

bouillabaisse marseille in 1 day
Bouillabaisse

Talking about food we should not forget the drinks either. When you are visiting Marseille in 1 day you must absolutely try the pastis. Pastis is an aniseed alcohol that can be drunk at any time of the day. Just ask for a “petit jaune”. This will make the waiter smile and bring you a glass with a bottom of pastis, ice cubes and fresh water. All you have to do is measure out your glass as you wish and enjoy it.

Pastis from Marseille

Marseille Airport

The airport of Marseille Provence, located at about twenty kilometers from the city is one of the most important ones in France. It is adapted to all types of travelers and aircraft. For example, you will find many rooms that can be reserved on request for presentations, conferences, customer meetings or even recruitment sessions. The airport also has a lounge for private travelers. And the FBO of this airport is open 24/24.

Book your next private flight to Marseille

And now you know everything you need to know to go on a day trip to Marseille. But the French Riviera still has some great surprises for you after visiting Marseille. Check out our blogs on Nice and St Tropez to learn more!



If you are a travel and discovery enthusiast, take a look at our 1600 available destinations in Europe and enjoy our private jet services with our two air taxis: the Cirrus SR22 and the Piper PA46. If you have any questions or need more information, do not hesitate to send us an e-mail at info@flyaeolus.com or call us at +32 (0)3 500 9082.