Explore Marseille on a Budget with iBestTravel

With groundbreaking museums and world-class restaurants, Marseille offers plenty of opportunities to splash out. However, it’s also a city that can be enjoyed and experienced without breaking the bank. From the glittering Vieux Port to affordable eats in the historic Le Panier district, many of the best things to do in this famous Mediterranean metropolis can be either low-cost or even free. Here’s how to experience Marseille economically.

Explore This Atmospheric City on Foot

Marseille is one of France’s largest cities, yet it’s also very walkable. St. Charles train station is just 10 minutes by foot from the Vieux Port, while a stroll from Le Panier up to the colorful cafes of Notre-Dame du Mont takes less than 30 minutes. Walking allows you to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of this vibrant town. Just keep in mind that the steep walk to Notre-Dame de la Garde can be challenging, so opting for a taxi may be a convenient choice.

Get Your Bearings with an Epic View from Above

Notre-Dame de la Garde offers spectacular panoramic views over Marseille from its perch on a high limestone outcrop. From this vantage point, enjoy breathtaking vistas of the port, city rooftops, and the dazzling coast, all for free, including entrance into the basilica itself.

Don’t Spend Much on Breakfast

In Europe, embrace the local culture by enjoying breakfast in bistros and boulangeries scattered throughout Marseille. Opt for an alfresco seat in the sun, savor a coffee and croissant, and enjoy the bustling atmosphere, all for around €5 (US$5.25). This leisurely breakfast will provide you with plenty of energy for your morning explorations.

Consider a City Pass

Investing early can save you money in the long run. Marseille’s City Pass is priced at €27 ($28.40) for 24 hours or €37 ($38.90) for 48 hours. This pass allows unlimited travel on public transport, grants entry to the extraordinary Mucem Museum, along with discounts at various shops and cafes, making it a wise investment for savvy travelers.

Reach Marseille with Budget Airlines

Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) is well-served by budget airlines such as Ryanair and EasyJet, offering fares much lower than legacy carriers like Air France. Budget flights to Marseille, especially from the UK, can cost as little as £20 ($25) round-trip, making this an appealing option for travelers.

Take the Train to the City from the Airport

At €5.10 ($5.35), the TER train from Marseille Provence Airport Vitrolles is the cheapest way to reach the city center. To get to the station, catch the number 13 shuttle bus located just outside Terminal 2, which takes only five minutes.

Explore Marseille by Train

Alternatively, Marseille is easily reachable by train from Paris and beyond, making it convenient for eco-conscious travelers. The journey from Paris to Marseille-Saint-Charles takes under 3.5 hours, costing around €20 ($21) if booked in advance for the best prices.

Participate in a Free Walking Tour

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, a walking tour is a fantastic way to get acquainted with the city. The Marseille Free Walking Tour operates daily at 11 am, lasting two hours and offering insightful guidance on this iconic old port city. Look for the light blue umbrella when you exit the Vieux Port station of the Metro, and feel free to tip the guide at the tour’s end based on your experience.

Consider Home-Stay Sites

While hotel rooms in Marseille are reasonably priced, checking platforms like Airbnb can be beneficial for even more affordable accommodations. Especially for larger groups, there’s a good chance of finding a charming apartment in the city center with a delightful balcony—a luxury that would be pricier at a hotel.

Utilize Neighborhood Restaurants

Like other European cities, Marseille offers a mix of Michelin-starred dining and overpriced eateries catering to tourists. However, it’s easy to find delicious meals for under €15 ($15.75) by venturing into manageable neighborhoods. Consider trying hearty meals at local spots like La Maison des Raviolis, Helin Kebab, or Chez Yassine.

Stay Hydrated

As a walkable city, especially in the summer heat, it’s essential to stay hydrated while exploring. Carrying a reusable water bottle will save money on buying disposable bottles and is an eco-friendly choice. The tap water in Marseille is safe to drink, so you can easily refill at cafes during lunch breaks.

Visit During the Shoulder Seasons

To avoid high prices during the summer peak (June to August), aim to visit during the milder spring and fall months. April, May, September, and October offer pleasant weather and better lodging prices, with potentially cheaper flights and train tickets as well.

Explore Free Museums

Marseille provides free admission to the permanent collections of numerous local museums, such as the Musée des Beaux Arts and the Musée d’Histoire de Marseille. If visiting in May, keep an eye out for La Nuit des Musées when numerous museums open their doors for free.

See the City on Two Wheels

Marseille’s pleasant climate is ideal for cycling, making it a time-efficient and economical way to explore the city. The local bike-share system, Le Vélo, has easy-to-use docks throughout the city. A week-long membership costs only €1, with the first 30 minutes of each ride free, allowing you to navigate around without additional costs.

Spend an Afternoon in a Grandiose 17th-Century Park

In the bustling city of Marseille, the serene Parc Borély offers a lovely oasis of calm, free to enter and boasting beautiful scenery including a peaceful lake and a botanical garden. The park is easily accessible within just 20 minutes by bike from the Vieux Port, making it a wonderful destination to unwind.

Daily Costs in Marseille