Is Marseille good for Christmas?

Marseille is a port city of great natural and architectural beauty. During the Christmas season, you will find plenty to see and do, whether you want to explore its cultural and religious traditions or enjoy the characteristic atmosphere of celebration.

What is Marseille like at Christmas?

During the end-of-year festivities, Marseille lights up and offers numerous activities: Christmas market, santons fair, ice skating rink, workshops…

Is December a good time to visit Marseille?

December-March

Still, if you want to explore the city without a lot of other tourists or the high prices of summertime, winter is a good time to come. Yet, keep in mind that this time of year is prone to high winds, referred to as le mistral, especially during the transition from winter to spring.

Is Marseille worth visiting in winter?

Aside from these events marking the festive season, Marseille attracts many tourists – even in winter – with its historic monuments, museums, fabulous landscapes and culinary specialties. It has nothing to envy of classic European destinations such as Spain, Greece or Italy.

What is the weather like in Marseille at Christmas?

Much like in Avignon to the north, winter properly arrives in Marseille in December. Although the city rarely sees snowfall, it does experience cool temperatures ranging from an average of 4°C at night to 12°C on average in the afternoon, which continue to become chillier into the New Year.

Visiting France's "Most Dangerous City"...

Are there Christmas markets in Marseille?

One of the must-do activities when visiting Marseille in 1 day or more, is to go to the Christmas market, which takes place annually in the Vieux-Port or Old Port. There, you will find groups of small local vendors, stores, among other options.

Where is the warmest place in France for Christmas?

French Riviera weather: hottest part of France

The winters in the French Riviera are mild and dry, with the temperature in South France frequently registering 3-4^oC above the rest of France. You can expect around 300 days of sunshine a year in the French Riviera.

Is Marseille very expensive?

For a mid range holiday which includes eating out, having a few drinks here and there, and visiting the key tourist attractions we would recommend budgeting around €95 – €100 per person per day. This doesn't include accommodation. For a 4 star hotel in the Old Port area you are looking at around €200 per night.

How many days in Marseille is enough?

For a solid itinerary, we recommend at least two to three days so you can explore the city's famous port, its diverse neighborhoods, and the delicious food scene. Tack on more time for Marseille's ancient sites and modern museums, with possible day trips to the Provençal countryside or Mediterranean coast.

Is Marseille friendly to tourists?

Marseille does have a rough past, but it strives to change for the better. If you have qualms about going to this dynamic city, have no fear because Marseille is safe for tourists.

Why do tourists go to Marseille?

Marseille is one of France's oldest and most popular tourist destinations. Every year, it attracts many visitors for its rich historical and natural heritage. Under the southern sun, the Phocaean city with its authentic charm and legendary gentle way of life reveals itself.

What to wear in Marseille in winter?

Winter in Marseille

Snow and frost are rare. What to Pack: Make sure to pack plenty of waterproof and cool to cold-weather clothes, with a few lighter items for warmer, sunnier days. An umbrella, scarf, and waterproof shoes are essential.

How much is the bullet train from Marseille to Paris?

If you book 30 days in advance, tickets will cost around US$98, while the price is around US$60 if you book 7 days in advance. Booking on the day of travel is likely to be more expensive, so it's worth booking ahead of time if you can, or check our special offers and deals.

What is the most Christmassy town in France?

Strasbourg, Capital of Christmas.

What city in France is best for Christmas?

Is Marseille a party town?

Marseille's nightlife is vibrant and you'll find the perfect place to dance and listen to good music all night long in every district. Are you looking for more techno? Head to the Friche de la Belle-de-Mai at the Cabaret Aléatoire.

Where not to stay in Marseille?

Is it safe to travel in Marseille : which neighborhoods are safe and which are unsafe? To be sure when you travel to Marseille, if you can, stay away from the northern districts. These areas include the 16th, 5th, 14th and 3rd arrondissements. There is also the 3rd arrondissement which includes Félix Pyat and Bellevue.

Is Marseille a walkable city?

Marseille is a large city, offering many historical sites and walking trails. To be able to explore the city and visit the most interesting cultural points, we advise you to define your itinerary according to the time you spend in Marseille, and your preferences.

Is it better to stay in Marseille or Provence?

Marseille gives more opportunities to travel to other places, but Aix is probably more relaxing. Recommendations of where to stay depend on your budget in € and whether you want a quiet or lively atmosphere. In Aix I would stay in the old town, or just near it (walking distance).

Is Marseille dodgy?

Marseille is often associated with having high crime rates, but upon further inspection, the crime rates in Marseille are similar or even lower than those of some American cities. At the end of the day, if you stay vigilant (as you would in any major city), you will likely be fine.

Is Marseille expensive to eat and drink?

Daily costs in Marseille

Dinner for two: From €20–25 each ($25–30) including a glass of wine around the Vieux Port. Cheaper alternatives can be found around Noailles. Beer/pint at the bar: Around €5 ($5.45) for a pint of beer. Famous local spirit pastis can be found for around €3.30 ($3.60).

Should you skip Marseille?

I'm going to tell you why you shouldn't skip Marseille. It's a complex and beautiful place that I feel has somewhat of an unfair reputation. Not as shiny or neatly manicured as Nice or other places on the Riviera, it can be gritty. But it would definitely be a mistake to look it over!

Is south of France warm at Christmas?

France Weather in December

The only place where we might say the weather is 'tolerable' in France in December in terms of temperature and rainfall is the French Riviera in the south of France. The temperatures range from 6-14°C/43-57°F with an average of 5 days of rainfall.

Is Christmas a good time to visit France?

Although the weather is cooler, November and December are lovely months to visit Paris. Museums and sites are quiet, while restaurants in the cities are still lively. Christmas markets open up across the cities, where vendors sell mulled wine, cheese, charcuterie and seasonal arts and crafts.

What is the warmest city in Europe during Christmas?

Tenerife, the largest of Spain's Canary Islands, is a veritable December paradise, with warm weather and plenty to do. Off Africa's northwest coast, this volcanic island is potentially the warmest place in Europe in December.