Marseille is one of those cities that people seem to either absolutely love or love to complain about. Personally, I’m firmly in the first camp.
In fact, the more time I spent there, the less I understood the criticism. No, it’s not as polished as some other French cities. That’s kind of the point. Marseille feels lived in. A little chaotic at times, sure, but never boring.
I think a lot of people arrive expecting one thing and get something completely different. I certainly did.
The funny thing is that choosing where to stay can have a big impact on which version of Marseille you end up experiencing. Stay in one neighbourhood and you’ll wonder what all the fuss is about. Stay in another and you’ll probably start planning a return trip before you’ve even left.
Let’s take a look.
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Opera/ Vieux Port
If it’s your first time in Marseille, Opéra and the Vieux-Port de Marseille are the best places to stay. You’ll be right in the heart of the city, with the harbour, major sights, restaurants, and transport all within easy walking distance.
Saint Victor
If you’re looking to save a bit of money, Saint-Victor is a great choice. It’s just a short walk from the Old Port, but accommodation is often more affordable and the neighbourhood has a quieter, more local feel.
Notre Dame du Mont
If you want to be close to Marseille’s best bars and late-night spots, Notre-Dame-du-Mont is the place to stay. Centered around Cours Julien and La Plaine, it has a creative vibe and some of the liveliest nightlife in the city.
Le Panier
If you’re after Marseille’s coolest neighbourhood, Le Panier is hard to beat. With colourful streets, independent cafés, and a creative atmosphere, it’s full of character and still within walking distance of many of the city’s top sights.
Thiers/ Canebière
For families, Thiers and La Canebière make a really practical base. With excellent transport links, plenty of shops and restaurants, and easy access to Marseille’s main attractions, it takes a lot of the stress out of travelling with kids.
A Guide to Marseille’s Best Neighbourhoods
Marseille stretches along the Mediterranean coast in the south of France, roughly halfway between Montpellier and Nice. With more than 2,600 years of history, it’s one of the oldest cities in Europe and, in my opinion, one of the most interesting places to stay in France.
What I love most about Marseille is that it feels real. It may not have the polished glamour of the Côte d’Azur, but that’s exactly part of its appeal. The city has a gritty edge, loads of character, and some of the warmest, most welcoming neighbourhoods I’ve come across in France.
If it’s your first time in Marseille, I’d stay around Opéra and the Vieux-Port de Marseille, where you’ll be right in the heart of the action and within easy walking distance of the city’s main sights. If you’re looking to keep costs down, Saint-Victor is a brilliant option, with a more local feel and often better-value accommodation.
For lively evenings, Notre-Dame-du-Mont is the neighbourhood I’d choose, while Le Panier is easily the coolest part of the city, with colourful streets, independent boutiques, and a creative atmosphere. If you’re travelling with kids, Thiers and La Canebière make a convenient and family-friendly base close to the city’s main attractions.
Marseille is a big city, and where you stay can make a huge difference to your trip. Keep reading, and I’ll walk you through each neighbourhood to help you find the one that suits you best.
1. Opera/ Vieux Port – Where to Stay for Your First Time
If it’s your first time in Marseille, I honestly can’t think of a better place to stay. Centred around the iconic Vieux-Port de Marseille, this area puts you right in the heart of the city, with waterfront restaurants, historic sights, and excellent transport connections all within easy walking distance.
One of the best things about staying here is how easy everything feels. Start your morning at the fish market, hop on a boat to the Frioul Islands, or wander through nearby Le Panier before making your way up to Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde for the views.
For a first visit, being this central makes a huge difference. It’s also a brilliant base if you’re backpacking through France, thanks to the excellent transport links and huge choice of places to stay. With Marseille’s most famous sights, restaurants, and transport right on your doorstep, Opéra and the Vieux-Port are a fantastic place to base yourself.
- Best For: First-time visitors, couples, and city breaks.
- The Vibe: Lively, central, and classic Marseille.
- Proximity to Airport: Around 30 minutes by car from Marseille Provence Airport.
- Transport Level: Excellent. Metro, buses, ferries, and many major sights are within walking distance.
- Budget: Mid-range to upscale, with plenty of hotels and apartments.
- Crowds: Busy year-round, especially around the harbour and in summer.
Top Things to Do in Opera/ Vieux Port
- Browse the daily fish market at Quai des Belges.
- Ride the Grande Roue de Marseille for sweeping views over the harbour.
- Try a traditional bowl of Bouillabaisse at one of the seafood restaurants around the port.
- Take a boat to the Frioul Archipelago or Château d’If.
- Get a great overview of Marseille on a hop-on hop-off bus tour, with stops at major sights including Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde. It’s an easy way to explore the city at your own pace while learning more about its history and culture.
- Enjoy an apéritif by the waterfront and watch the boats come and go.
- Join a food tour to sample some of the best local dishes in Marseille.
Best Hotel: Grand Hotel Beauvau
Grand Hotel Beauvau is a fantastic choice if you want to stay right by the harbour. This elegant four-star hotel combines historic charm with modern comforts and puts you just steps from the Vieux-Port, La Canebière, and countless restaurants and shops.
The rooms are stylish and comfortable, and the service is excellent. If you’re looking for a classic Marseille stay in an unbeatable location, this is a superb option.
Best Alternative Hotel: Escale Oceania Marseille
Escale Oceania Marseille Vieux Port is a great mid-range option right on the edge of the Vieux-Port. The rooms are modern and comfortable, and you’ll be just a few minutes’ walk from the harbour, La Canebière, and some of the city’s best restaurants and bars.
The location is hard to beat, especially if you want to be close to the action without sacrificing comfort. It’s an excellent base for exploring Marseille on foot.
Best Hostel: The People Hostel
The People – Marseille is a fantastic hostel if you’re backpacking through France or looking for a sociable budget stay. With both dorms and private rooms, a lively bar, games room, and terrace, it strikes a great balance between comfort and atmosphere.
The location is excellent too, with the Vieux-Port, metro stations, and major attractions all within walking distance. It’s a great-value option if you want a clean, modern base right in the heart of Marseille.
Best Airbnb: Studio Vieux Port
This modern studio is a great choice for solo travellers or couples visiting Marseille for the first time. Just a short walk from the Vieux-Port de Marseille and nearby metro stations, it puts the city’s main sights, restaurants, and bars right on your doorstep.
The studio includes a handy kitchenette, so you can prepare simple meals if you like, although there are plenty of excellent places to eat just around the corner. It’s a comfortable and convenient base for exploring Marseille.
2. Saint Victor – Best Place to Stay on a Budget
If you’re trying to keep costs down, Saint-Victor is one of the best areas to stay in Marseille. It’s just a short walk from the Vieux-Port, but hotels and apartments here are often noticeably cheaper than those right on the waterfront.
What I like about Saint-Victor is that it feels much more local. You’ll find traditional cafés, excellent bakeries, and some really good-value restaurants, all without the higher price tag of the more touristy areas. It’s also home to the historic Abbaye Saint-Victor, one of the city’s oldest landmarks.
If you’re backpacking through France or simply want to make your budget go a little further, Saint-Victor is a smart choice. You still get a central location and plenty of character, but at a more affordable price.
- Best For: Budget travellers, backpackers, and anyone wanting a central but more affordable base.
- The Vibe: Local, laid-back, and full of character.
- Proximity to Airport: Around 30 minutes by car from Marseille Provence Airport.
- Transport Level: Very good. The Vieux-Port is within walking distance, with metro and bus connections nearby.
- Budget: Budget to mid-range, with generally better-value accommodation than the Vieux-Port.
- Crowds: Moderate, with a much calmer feel than the busiest parts of central Marseille.
Top Things to Do in Saint Victor
- Visit the historic Abbaye Saint-Victor, one of the oldest landmarks in the city.
- Walk up to Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde for panoramic views over Marseille.
- Spend a few hours at Plage des Catalans, the city’s most accessible beach.
- Relax with a picnic in Jardin de la Colline Puget.
- See some of Marseille’s most iconic sights in a half-day tour, including Mucem, Palais Longchamp, Abbaye Saint-Victor, and Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde. It’s a great way to get your bearings and learn more about Marseille’s history and culture.
- Stroll along the harbour and soak up the atmosphere around the Vieux-Port.
- Eat your way around Marseille on a guided food tour, stopping to sample local favourites and hidden gems you’d probably miss on your own. From sweet treats to Provençal specialities, it’s a delicious way to explore the city and get a feel for its multicultural food scene.
Best Hotel: Hotel C2
C2 Hotel is a beautiful five-star hotel set in a restored 19th-century mansion, with original columns, marble floors, and plenty of character. There’s also a spa, indoor pool, gym, and sun terrace if you’re in the mood for a little luxury.
The rooms are bright, stylish, and thoughtfully designed. If you’re looking to treat yourself while staying in Saint-Victor, this is an exceptional choice.
Best Alternative Hotel: Radisson Blu Hotel
Radisson Blu Hotel, Marseille Vieux Port is a fantastic four-star option overlooking the harbour. With stylish rooms, a swimming pool, and a fitness centre, it offers plenty of comfort while keeping you within easy walking distance of Saint-Victor and the Vieux-Port.
Surrounded by excellent restaurants and bars, it’s a great choice if you want a little extra comfort in a superb location.
Best Hostel: Vertigo Vieux-Port
Vertigo Vieux-Port is one of the best hostels in Marseille and a brilliant choice if you’re travelling on a budget. The dorms are clean and comfortable, and the atmosphere is friendly and social without feeling overwhelming.
You’ll be within easy walking distance of Saint-Victor, the Vieux-Port, and plenty of bars, restaurants, and markets. It’s a great-value option and a favourite with backpackers exploring France.
Best Airbnb: Canebière: Beautiful apartment, panoramic views
This bright and colourful apartment is a lovely choice if you want something with a bit more character. It has a fully equipped kitchen, laundry facilities, and a private balcony with sweeping views across Marseille.
With the beach, shops, and many of the city’s top attractions within easy reach, it’s a comfortable and convenient base for exploring Saint-Victor and the surrounding neighbourhoods.
3. Notre Dame du Mont – Best Area to Stay for Nightlife
If you’re the type who likes to head out for dinner and end up staying for a few drinks, Notre-Dame-du-Mont is where to be. This creative, bohemian neighbourhood is one of the liveliest parts of Marseille, with a huge choice of bars, late-night cafés, and restaurants.
The heart of the action is Place Jean-Jaurès, better known locally as La Plaine. During the day, the area is full of independent bookshops, record stores, coffee roasters, and street art. Once the sun goes down, the terraces fill up, and the neighbourhood takes on a buzzing, distinctly local atmosphere.
What I love about Notre-Dame-du-Mont is that it feels lively without being overly polished. It’s creative, a little edgy, and packed with personality. If you want to experience Marseille after dark and stay somewhere with a genuinely cool local vibe, this is a brilliant choice.
- Best For: Nightlife, young travellers, and anyone who wants bars and restaurants on their doorstep.
- The Vibe: Bohemian, creative, and lively.
- Proximity to Airport: Around 30 minutes by car from Marseille Provence Airport.
- Transport Level: xcellent. Served by the metro and within easy walking distance of the Vieux-Port.
- Budget: Budget to mid-range, with plenty of affordable hotels, apartments, and hostels nearby.
- Crowds: Busy in the evenings and at weekends, with a lively local atmosphere.
Top Things to Do in Notre Dame du Mont
- Explore the colourful street art around Cours Julien and the nearby Escaliers du Cours Julien.
- Catch a live concert at Espace Julien.
- Escape the city for a few hours and explore the stunning Calanques National Park by boat. You’ll visit hidden coves, snorkel in crystal-clear water, and see some of the most beautiful scenery on the Mediterranean coast.
- Grab a drink and soak up the atmosphere at Place Jean-Jaurès, known locally as La Plaine.
- Browse the independent bookshops, record stores, and vintage boutiques in the neighbourhood.
- Join a guided half-day e-bike tour of the city’s highlights (all the views, minimal effort!).
Best Hotel: Mama Shelter Marseille
Mama Shelter Marseille is a fantastic choice if you want nightlife right on your doorstep. The hotel has its own lively bar, and you’ll be just a short walk from the bars, restaurants, and late-night spots of Notre-Dame-du-Mont.
The rooms are modern and comfortable, with private bathrooms and mini fridges. With the metro nearby, it’s an easy and stylish base for exploring Marseille after dark.
Best Hotel: Saint Ferréol
This simple hotel has all the basics you’ll need for a comfortable stay in Saint Ferréol. It’s within walking distance of museums, shops, and markets, and is ideal for sightseeing. If you want to travel further afield, the hotel is surrounded by metro stops and train stations.
Best Hostel: Vertigo Vieux-Port
Vertigo Vieux-Port is one of the best hostel options in Marseille and a great pick if you want to stay near Notre-Dame-du-Mont without spending a fortune. It’s just a short walk or quick metro ride from the neighbourhood’s bars and nightlife.
The dorms are clean and comfortable, and the atmosphere is friendly and social. If you’re backpacking through France or travelling on a budget, this is a solid choice in a very convenient location.
Best Airbnb: Gorgeous Studio in the Heart of Marseilles
This bright, recently renovated studio is a great option if you want to stay close to the nightlife of Notre-Dame-du-Mont. With plenty of natural light and space for up to four guests, it’s ideal for friends travelling together.
You’ll be just a short walk from the neighbourhood’s bars, restaurants, and street art, making it a comfortable and convenient base for enjoying Marseille after dark.
4. Le Panier – Coolest Place to Stay
If I had to pick the coolest neighbourhood in Marseille, it would be Le Panier without hesitation. This is the city’s oldest district, perched on the hill just above the Vieux-Port, and it’s packed with colourful streets, street art, artisan boutiques, and tiny cafés.
Le Panier has a creative, slightly bohemian feel that makes it incredibly fun to explore. You can spend hours wandering its narrow alleyways, popping into independent galleries, and stumbling across hidden squares. It feels much more intimate than the busier parts of the city, but you’re still within walking distance of many of the must-see things in Marseille, including Mucem and the Old Port.
If you like staying somewhere with loads of character and a distinctly local feel, Le Panier is hard to beat. It’s one of those neighbourhoods where getting a little lost is half the fun.
- Best For: Creative travellers, photographers, and anyone looking for Marseille’s coolest neighbourhood.
- The Vibe: Artistic, historic, and full of character.
- Proximity to Airport: Around 30 minutes by car from Marseille Provence Airport.
- Transport Level: Very good. The Vieux-Port, metro stations, and many top sights are within walking distance.
- Budget: Mid-range, with a mix of stylish apartments, boutique hotels, and guesthouses.
- Crowds: Moderate during the day, but much quieter than the Vieux-Port in the evenings.
Top Things to Do in Le Panier
- Wander the colourful streets of Le Panier and keep an eye out for murals, hidden squares, and some of the city’s best street art.
- Visit Mucem to learn more about Mediterranean culture and enjoy the fantastic sea views from the rooftop.
- Step inside Cathédrale La Major, one of the most impressive buildings in the city.
- Discover what ancient Marseille looked like at Musée des Docks Romains.
- Browse the independent galleries, artisan shops, and cafés tucked away throughout the neighbourhood.
- Walk down to the waterfront and soak up the views around the museum district.
- Explore Marseille at your own pace with a self-guided audio tour, which takes you through the city’s historic neighbourhoods and major highlights. It also includes entry to Château d’If, the famous island fortress featured in The Count of Monte Cristo.
Best Luxury Hotel: InterContinental Marseille
InterContinental Marseille – Hotel Dieu is one of the most luxurious places to stay in the city. Set in a magnificent historic building overlooking the Old Port, it features an indoor pool, spa, elegant bars, and excellent restaurants, including a standout breakfast.
The rooms are beautifully designed, and the views are hard to beat. If you’re looking to treat yourself while staying in Le Panier, this is an unforgettable choice.
Best Hotel: Alex Hotel & Spa
Alex Hotel & Spa is a stylish boutique hotel with modern rooms, fast Wi-Fi, and a seriously impressive spa. It’s a great option if you want a little extra comfort without splurging on a five-star stay.
Located near the main train station, it offers easy access to Le Panier and the rest of Marseille. The spa is a real highlight and perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
Best Hostel: Hotel Hermes
Hotel Hermes provides a convenient base to explore the city and features a nice buffet breakfast and a family atmosphere. There’s a solarium and roof terrace where guests can enjoy a unique view of the city, the Old Port, and Notre Dame de la Garde.
Best Apartment: Funky Apartment in the Heart of Panier District
This stylish apartment puts you right in the heart of Le Panier. Set on a quiet street, it gives you all the character of Marseille’s oldest neighbourhood while still offering a peaceful place to unwind at the end of the day.
You’ll be just steps from colourful alleyways, independent cafés, and some of the city’s most iconic sights. It’s a fantastic base if you want to soak up the atmosphere of Le Panier.
5. Thiers/ Canebière – Best Neighbourhood Families to Stay in
If you’re visiting Marseille with kids, Thiers and La Canebière are a really practical place to base yourself. You’ll be close to the main train station, metro lines, shops, and plenty of family-friendly hotels, which makes getting around the city much easier.
What makes this area work so well for families is the convenience. The Vieux-Port is within walking distance, while attractions like Palais Longchamp, Mucem, and the beaches are all easy to reach by public transport. There are also parks, playgrounds, and lots of casual restaurants nearby.
France is generally a very safe country to travel with children, and staying somewhere central and well-connected can make family trips feel much more straightforward. If you want a practical base with everything close at hand, Thiers and La Canebière are a great choice.
- Best For: Families, train travellers, and anyone wanting a central, convenient base.
- The Vibe: Practical, lively, and well-connected.
- Proximity to Airport: Around 30 minutes by car from Marseille Provence Airport.
- Transport Level: Excellent. Close to Marseille-Saint-Charles Station, metro lines, buses, and the Vieux-Port.
- Budget: Budget to mid-range, with a wide choice of hotels and apartments.
- Crowds: Busy during the day, but generally less tourist-focused than the Vieux-Port.
Top Things to Do in Thiers/ Canebière
- Visit Église Saint-Vincent-de-Paul, one of Marseille’s most striking churches.
- Spend a fun couple of hours by booking a ticket for Musée de l’Illusion Marseille, where kids and adults can explore interactive exhibits and mind-bending optical illusions. It’s an easy family activity right in the city centre.
- Browse the bustling Marché des Capucins for spices, produce, and local snacks.
- Turn sightseeing into a game with this family-friendly treasure hunt around Marseille. Kids can solve clues and explore the city in a much more engaging way than a standard walking tour.
- Spend a few hours exploring Palais Longchamp and its beautiful gardens.
- Stroll along La Canebière and soak up the atmosphere.
Best Self-Catering Accommodation: Les Floralies Canebière
This bright and modern apartment is a fantastic option for families or small groups. With two double bedrooms and additional sofa beds, there’s plenty of space for up to six guests.
Located right in the heart of Thiers near La Canebière, you’ll be within easy walking distance of shops, restaurants, and many of Marseille’s top attractions.
Best Hotel: Le Ryad Boutique Hotel
Le Ryad Boutique Hôtel is a lovely family-friendly option in the heart of Marseille. The rooms are comfortable, the peaceful courtyard is a great spot to relax, and the central location makes it easy to get around with children.
You’ll be close to La Canebière, public transport, and plenty of casual restaurants. It’s a charming and practical base for families exploring the city.
Best Airbnb: Apartment in Heart of Old Port
This beautifully renovated apartment is right in the heart of the Vieux-Port de Marseille and is perfect for couples or small families. With a queen bedroom, a comfortable sofa bed, and a fully equipped kitchen, it has everything you need for a longer stay.
You’ll be just steps from the metro, restaurants, shops, and boat departures, making it an incredibly convenient base for exploring Marseille. The side views of the Old Port are a lovely bonus.
Best Budget Accommodation: Central Flat with Balcony
If you’re travelling with kids and want great value for money, this modern apartment is hard to beat. Sleeping up to six guests, it includes a full kitchen and comfortable living area, giving your family plenty of space to spread out.
The location is excellent too, just minutes from the Old Port and close to restaurants, shops, and Marseille’s top attractions. It’s a practical and affordable choice for families.
FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Marseille
Here’s what people usually ask about the areas of Marseille and where to stay.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Marseille
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ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
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So, Where Will You Choose to Stay in Marseille?
Marseille’s style and diversity give it a real sense of authenticity compared to other destinations in the South of France. Whilst you’re in Marseille, you absolutely have to get out to the Calanques National Park. I guarantee the scenery will take your breath away (as will the temperature of the water!).
If you’re still unsure where to stay in Marseille, you can’t go wrong with The People Marseille. It’s got a great location and everything you’ll need to stay comfortably. However, if you want to splash some cash on a boujee stay in Marseille, you’ll want to check out Grand Hotel Beauvau.
Whenever you end up staying, I hope you fall in love with this town along the French Riviera as much as I did.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around France.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Marseille.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in France instead.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for France.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
