Book a hotel in Marseille

Planning a trip to Marseille? Choosing where to stay is key to experiencing the city’s unique blend of history and coastal charm. To help you find the perfect spot, eDreams has rounded up everything you need to know about accommodation, whether you're after a boutique hotel in Le Panier or a comfortable stay near the Vieux Port.

Discover Marseille, a dynamic port city on the Mediterranean coast. As France's oldest city, it offers a fascinating blend of history and contemporary culture. Explore the bustling Vieux-Port, where fishing boats and yachts bob on the water, surrounded by vibrant markets and seafood restaurants. Just a short walk away, you’ll find the historic Panier district with its narrow streets and colourful street art.

Take a ferry from the port to Château d'If, the island fortress immortalised in *The Count of Monte Cristo*, or hike up to Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica for panoramic views across the city and sea. Marseille is renowned for its fresh seafood, particularly its bouillabaisse, and offers a lively atmosphere day and night. When planning your trip, consider your preferred area for staying to easily access these attractions. Many visitors enjoy staying close to the waterfront or within the historic centre to soak up the local charm.

When looking for a hotel in Marseille, most visitors choose to stay around the Vieux Port. This central area offers convenient access to many attractions and a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly stays to more upscale hotels.

The Vieux Port is the historic heart of the city, ideal for first-time visitors. Here, you are close to landmarks like the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, accessible by tourist train, and the Musée d'Histoire de Marseille. Accommodation varies, with many hotels offering views of the harbour. Just north of the port, Le Panier is the oldest district, characterised by narrow, winding streets and small squares. It provides a more authentic, village-like experience, with charming guesthouses and boutique hotels. This area is home to the Cathédrale La Major and the Centre de la Vieille Charité.

East of the Vieux Port, the Cours Julien area offers a more bohemian atmosphere. Known for its lively squares and street art, it attracts a younger crowd. Hotels here are generally modern and vibrant. Further south, the Corniche Kennedy area provides seaside accommodation with excellent views of the Mediterranean. This district is known for its beaches and offers a more relaxed, resort-like feel, typically with larger hotels.

When selecting your hotel, consider Marseille's transport links. The city has a comprehensive public transport network of buses, trams, and two metro lines, making it easy to get around. Hotels near metro stations like Vieux Port or Noailles offer excellent connections. For arrivals, Marseille is served by Marseille Provence Airport (MRS), located about 17 miles north-west of the city centre. A shuttle bus service connects the airport directly to Marseille's central Gare Saint-Charles train station, making airport transfers straightforward.

Secure a cheaper hotel stay in Marseille by considering your travel dates. Prices typically rise during the summer months (July and August), as well as around major events like the Fête du Panier, a lively neighbourhood festival held annually in the city's historic Le Panier district. Booking your accommodation for the shoulder seasons – April to June or September to October – often results in better value, as the weather remains pleasant for exploring the city's coastline and Calanques National Park without the peak season crowds.

To further reduce costs, look for hotels outside the immediate vicinity of the Old Port (Vieux-Port), which is a prime tourist area. Consider areas such as La Joliette or Saint-Charles, which are well-connected by public transport and offer a good selection of budget-friendly options. Booking further in advance also allows you to compare more deals and secure competitive rates.

Book your next hotel stay in Marseille with eDreams today and find a deal that suits your budget.