France · Gateway to the Mediterranean · Second Largest City
Marseille
France
1.9M Metro Area
Mediterranean Coast
CET (UTC+1)
Marseille, France's second-largest city, stands as the nation's premier Mediterranean port and economic powerhouse. With a city population of 877,215 (2022), an urban area of 1.64 million (2025), and a metropolitan region approaching 1.9 million residents, Marseille serves as the economic and cultural capital of southern France. The city's strategic location on the Mediterranean coast has made it France's gateway to North Africa, the Middle East, and the broader Mediterranean world for over 2,600 years.
The Port of Marseille-Fos is the crown jewel of the city's economy—France's largest commercial port, the Mediterranean's largest, and Europe's third-largest overall. This massive maritime complex handles over 100 million tons of freight annually, directly employs 45,000 people, and generates €4 billion in added economic value. As France's second-largest economic hub after Paris, Marseille's port-driven economy extends far beyond shipping to encompass petrochemicals, manufacturing, aerospace, and logistics.
Tourism has flourished in Marseille, which attracts more French tourists than any city except Paris. The airport welcomed over 11 million passengers in 2023, connecting this vibrant Mediterranean metropolis to the world. Marseille's cultural renaissance was highlighted by its designation as European Capital of Culture in 2013 and European Capital of Sport in 2017, recognizing the city's dynamic blend of ancient history and contemporary urban energy.
The historic heart of Marseille, where the city was founded over 2,600 years ago. This picturesque harbor is lined with cafés, restaurants, and the daily fish market, offering a vibrant atmosphere where visitors can watch boats come and go while enjoying the Mediterranean ambiance.
Marseille's most iconic symbol, this stunning Romano-Byzantine basilica sits atop the city's highest natural point. The golden statue of the Madonna watches over the city and sea, while visitors enjoy breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Marseille, the Mediterranean, and surrounding mountains.
A spectacular natural wonder featuring dramatic limestone cliffs plunging into turquoise Mediterranean waters. These fjord-like inlets offer world-class hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, and swimming in crystal-clear coves, making it one of Europe's most stunning coastal landscapes.
The Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations, a striking modern architectural masterpiece completed for Marseille's 2013 European Capital of Culture year. This waterfront museum explores the rich cultural heritage of the Mediterranean basin through innovative exhibitions and stunning design.
The legendary island fortress made famous by Alexandre Dumas's "The Count of Monte Cristo." This 16th-century castle sits on a rocky island just offshore, accessible by boat, offering fascinating history, stunning architecture, and spectacular views back to Marseille's coastline.
Marseille's oldest neighborhood, a charming maze of narrow streets, colorful buildings, artisan workshops, and vibrant street art. This bohemian quarter retains its authentic Mediterranean character with local markets, family-run restaurants, and a thriving community of artists and craftspeople.
As France's second-largest economic hub, Marseille's economy is dominated by the Port of Marseille-Fos, which handles over 100 million tons of freight annually and serves as the Mediterranean's largest and Europe's third-largest commercial port. This massive maritime complex generates €4 billion in added value and directly employs 45,000 people across shipping, logistics, petrochemicals, and related industries. The port serves as France's primary gateway to North Africa, the Middle East, and Mediterranean markets.
Beyond its maritime dominance, Marseille has developed a diverse economy encompassing aerospace, technology, petrochemicals, and a rapidly growing tourism sector. The city attracted over 11 million airport passengers in 2023 and draws more French tourists than any destination except Paris. Marseille's designation as European Capital of Culture in 2013 catalyzed significant urban renewal and cultural investment, transforming the city's waterfront and establishing world-class cultural institutions like MuCEM.
Marseille's culture reflects its position as France's most diverse and cosmopolitan city, with significant North African, Italian, Greek, Armenian, and Corsican communities creating a unique Mediterranean melting pot. This diversity is celebrated in the city's vibrant food scene—particularly its famous bouillabaisse—music, festivals, and street life. The city's creative energy, from hip-hop to contemporary art, positions Marseille as one of Europe's most dynamic and authentic urban destinations.
Founded around 600 BC by Greek sailors from Phocaea (in modern-day Turkey), Marseille is France's oldest city and was known as Massalia in antiquity. For centuries, it served as a crucial Mediterranean trading port, connecting the Greek and Roman worlds. The city maintained its importance through the Middle Ages as a major commercial center and crusader port, though it sometimes came into conflict with the French crown over its fierce independence.
Marseille's modern era began with French colonial expansion, when it became the primary port for trade with North Africa and the French colonial empire. The construction of the Suez Canal in 1869 further enhanced Marseille's strategic importance. The 20th century brought industrial growth but also urban challenges. Recent decades have seen major revitalization efforts, culminating in the city's transformation for its 2013 European Capital of Culture designation, which helped position Marseille as a vibrant, forward-looking Mediterranean metropolis while honoring its remarkable 2,600-year history.
Bureau Chief 지원자는 물론, Marseille를 방문하시는 모든 분들을 위해
편리한 여행 서비스를 안내해드립니다
⭐ 최저가 보장 • 24시간 전 무료 취소 • 안전한 예약