Marseille

Although it's home to several excellent museums, such as the Musée des Beaux-Arts, you won't truly experience the rich culture and spirit of this ancient seaport unless you venture out into it's crowded, vibrant street markets and bustling centre ville.

The second largest city in France, Marseille has a long history as a cultural melting pot. It's also the oldest city in France, originally settled by Greeks from Asia Minor and later invaded by Persians and Romans. It's a sunny, city by the sea, with a rocky coast and surprisingly clear water, that receives close to 2,900 hours of sun per year. Outstanding natural beauty can be found at the white cliffs of Les Calanques.

But unlike its glamourous neighbours over on the Cote d'Azur, Marseille is a city of industry. Commerce has always been the heart of this city, with its success and failure focused around its port, which is now the largest cruise port in France. You can see this history commemorated at the Musée des Docks Romains on the Place Vivaux, or experience it firsthand by visiting Le Vieux-Port area of the city.

Marseille is a large city, divided into 16 arrondisements. The Vieux-Port, along with the main street La Canebière and the surrounding centre ville form the heart of the city. There are several cathedrals to see: the oldest is L'abbaye de Saint-Victor (built in 300BC), the largest is Cathédrale de la Major (1890), but the most famous is Notre-Dame de la Garde.

Along with the Christian heritage, Marseille boasts a longstanding mix of other cultures, including a strong and vibrant Arab community. This mix is now reflected in a modern, urban street culture, including flourishing street art and rap music scenes. Be sure to check out the La cité Radieuse, the large modernist apartment complex designed by Le Corbusier, with its purpose-built hotel and 9th floor panoramic terrace.