Sunday, 26 January 2025

Marseille. Day3.


Avignon is a small historic city in southern France, known for its medieval charm, religious history and well-preserved architecture. It is only 100 kilometers by road from Marseille. So, I decided to visit it during a day.

I took Flixbus, which was with duration only one hour and twenty minutes. Everything was good until I found out that it stops not in the centre of Avignon. Another 5 kilometers should be done by walking.


Long distance walking is not a problem for me. Moreover, I was rewarded with the charm of the old city.







By tradition, some memorable photos. But it is almost time to go back to Marseille. Still, before departure I decided to try the local restaurant.


The food was simple, good, but pricy.


In Marseille I was enjoying some night walks today. 




Saturday, 25 January 2025

Marseille. Day2.


The weather is promising today as well. I am not going to waste any minute without discovery more of the city!


The first discovery was a grand, monumental staircase that connects Marseille’s main train station (Gare Saint-Charles) to the city below. Built in the early 20th century, it’s known for its impressive sculptures, wide stone steps, and panoramic views over the city.


Second landmark was the massive, decorative fountain at the center of the Palais Longchamp, celebrating the arrival of water to Marseille via the Durance canal in the 19th century.




On the left wing of the monument is located a fine art museum, which I also decided to visit. Maybe next time I will visit natural history museum, which is located on the right wing.




Another jewel of Marseille is Notre-Dame de la Garde, which sits atop a limestone hill about 150 meters above sea level. The hill offers spectacular panoramic views of Marseille, the port and the surrounding coastline




After such a long walking I deserved some treatment...


Cheese and baguette must be traditional food here. Of course, it is France!


It was a very busy day, with lots of positive surprises, because without any expectations I saw so many beautiful landmarks and views here!






Friday, 24 January 2025

Marseille. Day1.


Visiting the Mediterranean city in winter, which is also the most criminal city in France, was not my dream honestly. But I found the cheap direct flights there. Why not to try?




Luckily, the hotel is located quite in the city centre. So, I do not need to think about transport, and also I hope it is safer here than in other districts of the city.
The room is very good to my taste, but most of all I liked the view, which also offered looking into the sea. Far away from the sea, but still pretty walkable.



The weather is sunny, so I could enjoy my walking around the city. And finding so many good spots for taking pictures.



For lunch it was some Armenian restaurant with very delicious food. Honestly, I have no idea, what kind of food is traditional for Marseille. But this oriental cuisine is very tasty for me.



The Port of Marseille is the largest in France and one of the biggest in the Mediterranean, serving as a major hub for cargo, ferries, and cruise ships, but it's also known for industrial noise, pollution, and being a hotspot for smuggling and illicit trade.


The historic heart of Marseille is the Vieux-Port (Old Port). It is very scenic and lively. 



Dinner was near the port - at the food court with many restaurants. The freshest fish and oysters, and one of the best pizzas of all time, with pistachio sauce. 



Very good feeling of the city after the first day of staying. It was safe so far.