Excursions around Montpellier: Marseille

France wouldn't be what it is without Marseille and its singing accent from the South of France. During your language course you will have the chance to go on a day trip to this great and beautiful city in the South of France! A great way to immerse yourself in French culture while learning French.

Marseille, the oldest city in France, is located on the shores of the Mediterranean. This makes it a cosmopolitan city, favourable to cultural but also economic exchanges with Southern Europe and the rest of the world. A legacy of the past, its seaport is the leading French port. You will be able to observe it during the first stop of this day's excursion at the famous Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde basilica nicknamed "la Bonne Mère" from where you will have a breathtaking view of the city.

Discover the fascinating medieval city of Marseille during your language course in Montpellier. Immerse yourself in the 2600 years of history of France's second largest city - a perfect combination of tradition and modernity.

To continue your immersion in the Phocaean city, you will travel to the heart of Marseille for the lunch break during which you will have the opportunity to taste the famous bouillabaisse, a must in Marseille's gastronomy. This typical dish, originating from ancient Greece, is a mixture of bouillon and two kinds of fish caught of course in the Provencal creeks. You can accompany it with a glass of pastis, the emblematic aperitif of Marseille.

After lunch, you will leave for a guided tour of the city to discover all the cultural wonders but also the famous old port, a natural meeting place for all Marseilles inhabitants and visitors. It is here that you will be able to feel the atmosphere so characteristic of Marseille between its fish market and the bustle of the city centre with the immense Avenue de la Canebière where you can go shopping to bring back souvenirs of your language study stay in the South of France.

During the visit you will be told about the legends and history of this culturally rich city. You can also freely visit the very old Saint-Jean fort and the famous MuCEM, a museum with grandiose architecture dedicated to European and Mediterranean civilisations adapted to all publics. A little away from the city centre you will discover the majestic Cathedral of the Major which has an incredible architecture that will leave you speechless!

Marseille also abounds in the most delicious delicacies. During this beautiful day out, take the time to stroll around to find some panisses or orange blossom shuttles, a delight!

Each excursion is unique, so don't hesitate to sign up during your language study stay in the South of France for any of the excursions offered by our French language school. You will always learn more about French culture and you will come back with memorable memories and stars in your eyes!