The second largest city in France never fails to excite. Its culture, history, cosmopolitan identity and agreeable climate make Marseille a great destination for a weekend with friends or a romantic break. Les Collectionneurs offer a selection of charming establishments to stay or to dine in the heart of the old town of Marseilles as well as hotels in Provence-Alpes-French Riviera.
Marseille is easily accessible by plane using Marseille-Provence airport in Marignane. In only three hours the TGV takes you from Paris to Marseilles Saint-Charles station. The ideal destination for a short break, Marseille is best appreciated in summer by those who want to relax on the beach but low season is also great as there is so much to see.
The piazza of the Basilica of Notre Dame de la Garde which looks benevolently over Marseille also offers breathtaking views. From "Bonne mère", the roads descend to the mediaeval abbey of Saint Victor and to the Catalan Cove - a small beach and a great place to hang out. After a walk along the Corniche head up the avenue du Prado which borders the Velodrome in the 8th district, then stop at the old fish market and visit the Mucem, the iconic museum of Mediterranean cultures. A bit further on, enjoy the shade of the narrow lanes lined with colourful facades in Panier, one of the most picturesque districts of Marseille. Around the famous Canebière travellers can get off the beaten track and head for Noailles, known for its market and old boutiques such as that of herbalist Père Blaise, which opened its doors in 1815.
Since its creation, Marseille has always had close links with the sea. Travellers naturally want to stay near the Old Port to feel the soul of the city. This marina is known for its fish market and lively cafes. The impressive architectural trio of the Saint Jean and Saint Nicolas fort, the Roman church of Saint Laurent and the Pharo Palace appear to stand sentry over the port entrance. Tucked behind these buildings constructed between mediaeval times and the 19th Century, the Old Port is an integral part of Marseille's history. It's here in the "Bar de la Marine" that Marius, Fanny and César meet in the Marcel Pagnol's novels.
Travellers staying a night or more in this typical Marseille district will experience the Athens of the Gaules, whether as a family or a couple, in a charming hotel right in the centre of the Old Town. Les Collectionneurs select charming establishments with comfortable, spacious, well-equipped rooms. These hotels nestled within beautiful 19th Century residences exude an atmosphere of cosy warmth and welcome. The convivial setting comes with every modern comfort. The rooms and suites offer guests top quality bedding, a fully equipped bathroom, a flat-screen TV and free WiFi access. Most of these establishments also accept pets and offer services such as left luggage. A day of being spoiled begins with a full breakfast and in the afternoon travellers can treat themselves to a spot of relaxation in the interior garden whilst nibbling a pastry and enjoying a break from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
Whilst Marseille charms the visitor with its striking identity, its rich and vast culture and its ideal location on the shores of the Mediterranean, the city is also the ideal stopover for a romantic weekend in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur. Lose yourself in the countryside, get on a boat bound for the Chateau d'If in the Friuli archipelago, hike towards Sainte-Victoire mountain or among the "calanques" fjords and stretch out on a sandy beach or an intimate cove. Further out, head inland to visit beautiful Provencal villages surrounded by Meditteranean scrubland. Though the Mediterranean Coast is perpetually busy, the area surrounding Marseilles is more intimate and idyllic for a relaxing break. The warm climate is a clear invitation to lounge and relax. To recharge, nothing beats staying in a spa hotel in Provence-Alpes-French Riviera.
By the coast, enjoy sunny days by the side of an outdoor pool during a short stay or a one-night stopover in a bastide tucked away in wooded grounds. The spacious rooms and beautiful establishments are decorated with taste and elegance using authentic materials will leave unforgettable memories of your Provencal getaway. Close to Aix-en-Provence, enjoy the pleasure of sleeping in a chateau in the middle of vineyards. Finally, a stop at a Provencal farmhouse surrounded by lavender fields is not to be missed.
Provencal gastronomy is enriched with North African, Italian, Corsican and Spanish influences. Medeiterranean flavours mean olive oil, aromatic herbs, thyme, basil, and sun-drenched vegetables. Known for its symbolic "bouillabaisse", Marseille cuisine would be nothing without seafood. Sea urchin, lobster, sea bass a la plancha and more, restaurateurs here know how to make the best of fish and shellfish.
Les Collectionneurs have selected a range of establishments known for the passion of their restaurateurs who, whilst remaining loyal to Marseille culinary tradition, are nevertheless constantly updating local recipes with a touch of creativity. The South is also fond of its wine. The vines of the region give the great rosés of Provence, whites with character and woody reds with delicate tannins. To prolong the stay just book a room in a hotel-restaurant with a gourmet restaurant during a getaway to Marseille or the surrounding region.
To allow the restaurateurs and hoteliers of our community to once again share special moments with you, and welcome you under the best possible conditions in their establishments, specific COVID-19 health measures have been adopted along with additional measures to best adapt these policies to their unique type of operations. For details of the health policies implemented, please contact the particular establishment directly.
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