A city of tranquil squares, bustling avenues and street markets, Marseille is a charming destination in southern France. Tracing its history back to 600 B.C as a crossroads of immigration and trade, the heart of Marseille is the Vieux-Port (Old Port), where fishmongers sell their catch along the boat-lined quay. Modern landmarks include Le Corbusier’s famous Cité Radieuse complex and Zaha Hadid’s CMA CGM Tower, while the 17th-century poorhouse Vieille Charité is now a cultural centre that is home to archaeological and primitive-art museums. Visit the Abbey St. Victor, a 5th-century crypt which houses the sarcophagus St. Cassian before hitting the trendy Cours Julien to explore boutiques, bars, restaurants and galleries. Be sure to flavour bouillabaisse, an aromatic seafood stew which is the local culinary speciality.
