Marseille, the multifaceted Phocaean
city

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The beaches of the Côte Bleue
on the Mediterranean coast

Just 30 minutes from Camping Marina Plage and Vitrolles, Marseille is a must-see destination for vacationers looking to combine a nature-filled getaway with urban exploration.

From the campground, the drive is quick and easy, and if you’d like to visit Marseille—nestled between the Mediterranean, the hills, and the sun—just one day will be enough to fall in love with this cosmopolitan, vibrant city steeped in history.

— Practical Transportation Tips —  

The drive is straightforward (via the A7), but to avoid traffic and parking problems in the heart of Marseille, you can choose an alternative: From the Vitrolles train station, located just a few minutes from the campground, express trains will take you directly to downtown (Saint-Charles station) in less than 20 minutes—ideal for a stress-free start to your trip.

The Old Port, a symbol of
Marseille

It all begins at the Old Port, because that is the true heart of the city.  

This place brings together fishermen, people out for a stroll, and street performers in an authentic atmosphere, and whether you're alone, as a couple, or with your family, it’s the perfect place to stroll along the docks, admire the colorful fishing boats, and sample the famous bouillabaisse at one of the iconic restaurants. 

From the port, you can also take a cruise to the Frioul Islands or the Château d’If, made famous by *The Count of Monte Cristo*.  

Exploring the Calanques of Marseille:
Nature and Wonder 

Designated as a national park, the Calanques of Marseille are a natural wonder that you absolutely must see. 

Around Sormiou, Morgiou, and Sugiton, the landscape consists of limestone cliffs that plunge into turquoise waters.  

Some calanques are accessible on foot, others by boat from the Old Port, and for families, hiking trails designed with them in mind make it easy to explore these unspoiled coves—as long as you wear proper footwear and bring water.  

After a day of hiking and swimming in this picture-perfect setting, returning to Camping Marina Plage is a truly relaxing break, as you enjoy the comfort of your mobile home, the cool waters of the pond, and the friendly atmosphere of the bar-restaurant. 

Marseille's Beaches:
Relaxation and Family Fun

Marseille offers a wide variety of beaches, including family-friendly ones, that are ideal for cooling off under the Provençal sun. 

The Prado beaches, located just a few minutes from downtown, are perfect for kids: supervised swimming, beach volleyball courts, playgrounds, and pedal boat rentals. Further north, the Estaque Beach charms visitors with its down-to-earth atmosphere and breathtaking views of the harbor.  

Near the beaches or right on the sand, you can enjoy chichis and panisses—local specialties you definitely won’t want to miss.  

All these moments shared by the sea fit perfectly with the spirit of Camping Marina Plage, which embraces the same philosophy: simple, joyful, family-oriented vacations that combine nature and exploration. 

What are some family-friendly
things to do in Marseille?

In addition to boat tours and swimming, Marseille offers a wealth of cultural and recreational activities.  

The Mucem, the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations, will delight both children and adults with its interactive exhibits, while Borély Park, with its expansive lawns and lake, is perfect for picnics and bike rides.  

Finally, if you're looking for an unforgettable view, head to Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde, the famous “Bonne Mère” that watches over the city. 

And when the day comes to an end at dusk, there’s nothing quite like heading back to Camping Marina Plage to enjoy a lively evening.  

Marseille in Three Questions

Is Marseille easy to explore when staying at Marina Plage?

Yes, Marseille is easy to visit from the campground for a day trip, with easy access via the A7; otherwise, the Marseille train station is 22 km away. You can also travel via Vitrolles Marseille-Provence Airport and then take local connections.

This is a convenient excursion that lets you enjoy the sea, historical sites, and urban life without changing accommodations. The Old Port remains one of the city’s major landmarks, at the bottom of the Canebière, and Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde is one of Marseille’s must-see attractions.

What can families do in Marseille during the holidays?

Marseille offers plenty of activities to easily fill a day out with the family. Between the Old Port, the beaches, boat rides, the Mucem, and the hike up to the Bonne Mère, you can combine culture, sightseeing, and a dip in the water all in one outing.

To give you a concrete idea, the Mucem covers nearly 45,000 m² spread across three locations, making it a great place to visit—even with children—if you’re looking for a spacious, accessible, and iconic destination.

Why plan a day trip to Marseille when you're staying at Marina Plage?

Because Marseille offers a real contrast to the campground atmosphere. You go from a stay on the shores of the Étang de Berre to a major Mediterranean city known for its port, monuments, museums, and panoramic views.

It’s also a “time-efficient” trip: from the campground, you’ll be staying in family-friendly accommodations while still having easy access to one of Provence’s most culturally and touristically rich cities.

From Camping Marina Plage, set out to explore Marseille for a day spent between the Old Port, the Calanques, the beaches, and iconic panoramic views.

Book your stay and enjoy the perfect starting point for exploring Marseille while taking in the tranquility of the Étang de Berre.