Those looking for a destination full of character, sunshine and southern charm need look no further than Marseille. This bustling Mediterranean port city is a delightful blend of Mediterranean zest for life, authentic neighborhoods and surprisingly modern touches.
From Brussels, you can fly there directly in less than two hours. Those who like to travel sustainably can also make the return trip by train - a relaxing ride past ever-changing landscapes that beautifully captures the transition from southern to northern France.
Once in Marseille, it is hard not to fall immediately for its lively atmosphere. In the old quarter of Le Panier - a warren of colorful streets, gable art and small boutiques - you can taste the authentic soul of the city. Here time sometimes seems to stand still, while in the background the sea air and the murmur of the port are never far away.
If you really want to experience the local culture, indulge in a game of pétanque in a shady square, with a glass of Ricard in hand, of course. Then the Vieux-Port beckons, the beating heart of the city, where fishermen sell their catch and the terraces invite endless aperitifs.
Marseille is also a city of views. A boat ride on the sea offers a fresh look at the impressive coastline and the Calanques, jagged rock formations that seem straight out of a postcard. Sports enthusiasts can kayak or hike, while epicureans simply sit back and enjoy the azure waters.
At night, a culinary adventure awaits: from sophisticated seafood restaurants to hip rooftop bars overlooking the setting sun. Marseille has emerged in recent years as a surprising gastronomic hotspot, where tradition and creativity go hand in hand.
Whether for a weekend of team building or an inspirational incentive events is, Marseille knows how to seduce visitors with its raw charm, warm light and endless energy. A city that lives, vibrates and continues to surprise - all year round.
