Marseille was founded by the ancient Greeks as a strategic trading hub, and later developed into the beautiful portside city it is today. On this walking tour, you’ll journey through the heart of Marseille, where history, culture, and art converge. The tour starts at Vieux Port, the city’s historic waterfront, where you’ll be transported back to the bustle of this centuries-old maritime hub. You’ll stroll past key historical sites like the stunning Hôtel de Cabre, one of the oldest private residences in the city, and Hôtel Dieu Intercontinental Marseille, a 160-year-old hospital building. As you venture into the city’s oldest neighbourhood, Quartier du Panier, I’ll tell you about the city’s famous soap-making craft at Maison Méditerranée Savonnerie. The tour ends with a stroll through Passage de Lorette, a charming walkway that connects the vibrant Le Panier neighbourhood and Rue de la République thoroughfare. On this Marseille tour, you’ll have a chance to: • Take in architectural landmarks like Eglise Saint-Ferréol les Augustins (a Roman Catholic church) and the striking Cathédrale de la Major, a symbol of Marseille’s faith and resilience • Gaze upon the iconic Pavillon Daviel, once a private residence and now a municipal building, and the beautifully preserved Maison Diamantée, one of the oldest residences in Marseille • Pop into the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations (MuCEM) and the Marseille History Museum • Enjoy a taste of Provence in Bar des 13 Coins, Bar de la Samaritaine (a local institution steeped in history), or at Les Navettes des Accoules, a pâtisserie selling delicious local pastries • Explore the ancient Fort Saint-Jean, once a military fortress and now a museum with panoramic views of the city • Stroll through beautiful and historical squares including Place d’Armes, Place des Moulins, and Place de Lenche This two-hour tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the authentic soul of Marseille, answering questions about its past, its people, and its evolution as a vibrant Mediterranean city. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, or simply curious about the secrets of Marseille, this tour promises a rich and rewarding experience that’ll leave you with a deeper understanding of this incredible city.