Why visit
Marseille is France's most Mediterranean city. Vieux Port, Calanques national park, Panier's narrow streets, and the MuCEM waterfront museum.
France at a glance
Country center
46.0°, 2.0°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
551,695 km²
213,011 mi²
Country population
64.8 million
117/km²
Subregion
Western Europe
Currency
Euro (€)
EUR
Dial
+33
Language
French
Demonym
French
Internet
.fr
UN
Member state
ISO code
FR / FRA
Where in the world
46.0° · 2.0°
France
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Did you know
- Marseille, founded by Greeks around 600 BCE, is France's oldest city.
- The Calanques National Park starts at the edge of the city and contains 20 fjord-like coves accessible only by hiking or boat.
- Bouillabaisse, France's iconic fish stew, was invented here by fisherfolk to use the less valuable fish from their catch.
- France is the most-visited country in the world: around 90 million tourists annually.
- The Eiffel Tower was meant to be temporary: built for the 1889 World's Fair and only kept because it made a good radio antenna.
Bordering France
Traveler notes
- Calanques hike or boat between Marseille and Cassis
- Bouillabaisse at a proper Vieux Port restaurant
- Château d'If island (Count of Monte Cristo) by ferry
Plan checks
- Build a three-day plan before extending. Most travel cities are easy to undersell to yourself.
- Check seasonal timing: high season can triple costs on some coastal destinations.
- Verify swim safety, ocean conditions, and water-quality reports by month.
- Reserve top restaurants 2–4 weeks out and plan two standout meals per city.
Explore more
Frequently asked about Marseille
What currency is used in Marseille?
Marseille uses the Euro (€), ISO code EUR.
What languages are spoken in France?
The primary language is French.
What is the international calling code for France?
The calling code is +33.
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