Basilica of Notre-Dame-of-la-Garde at Marseille

Today, we introduce a dreamy sea journey—the Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas 9-night, 11-day Western Mediterranean cruise including Barcelona. Let's explore every detail of this luxurious sea voyage together! 🌊✨ 🛳 Oasis of the Seas 🛳 🚢 Scale: This cruise ship weighs 225,000 tons, is 362 meters long and 47 meters wide, has 17 decks, 2,796 various cabins, and can accommodate 6,431 passengers. 🌊 Facilities: The ship features seven themed neighborhoods, including Central Park with tropical plants, the lively Boardwalk, and an adult-only entertainment area. There are also pools, sports areas, youth activity zones, and spa and fitness areas. 🍽 Dining: More than 10 types of international cuisine, over 10 different cafes, bars, and dessert stations to satisfy your taste buds. 🌟 Highlights of the Trip 🌟 ✨ Mallorca: Known as the backyard of the Mediterranean, it is a sunny retreat for artists and writers. ✨ Marseille: Experience the charm of the capital of the Provence region in France, visit the Notre-Dame de la Garde overlooking the city. ✨ Cinque Terre: A popular Italian destination, enjoy the stunning coastal scenery of Italy. ✨ Rome: Explore the Eternal City, from the Colosseum to the Trevi Fountain, and feel the charm of the open-air architectural museum. ✨ Naples: The jewel of southern Italy, with the opportunity to visit the ancient city of Pompeii, which has been asleep for thousands of years. 🗺 Itinerary Reference 🗺 📅 2024: May 4 | June 8 🌈 Day 1: Depart from Beijing to Barcelona 🌈 Day 2: Barcelona (Spain), stay in Barcelona. 🌈 Day 3: Barcelona (Spain), city tour, board the ship in the afternoon, expected departure at 18:00. 🌈 Day 4: Palma (Spain), explore Mallorca. 🌈 Day 5: Marseille (France), visit the Old Port of Marseille, Notre-Dame de la Garde, etc. 🌈 Day 6: La Spezia (Italy), visit Cinque Terre. 🌈 Day 7: Civitavecchia/Rome (Italy), explore Rome's historical sites. 🌈 Day 8: Naples (Italy), explore Naples and the ancient city of Pompeii. 🌈 Day 9: Sea cruising. 🌈 Day 10: Return to Barcelona, visit major attractions in Barcelona. 🌈 Day 11: Return to Beijing, end of the journey. 💰 Costs Included 💰 Round-trip airfare + cruise ticket + Spanish visa + 2 nights in European hotels + tickets to designated attractions

Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica In Maseille, a port city in southern France, there is a local "Mazu Temple"—Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde, also known as Notre Dame de la Garde/Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica/Holy Mother of the Guard/Garde Sanctuary, there are too many Chinese names! In fact, it is nicknamed "la Bonne Mere" (the good mother) by the people of Marseille. It stands tall on the Garde hill in the center of Marseille, as if forever overlooking and watching over the ships and sailors entering and leaving the port of Marseille. At the top of the 157-meter-high building is an exquisite golden statue of the Virgin Mary. This is a pilgrimage site with more than 800 years of history. Its construction went through three different historical stages: a small chapel was built in 1214, renovated in the 15th century, and the magnificent domed church was demolished and rebuilt in 1853. In fact, Notre-Dame de la Garde in Marseille combines military and religious functions. In 1516, French King François I realized the strategic importance of Garde Hill and ordered the construction of military castles here and on the nearby island of If, which is now the Château d'If.

It was a weekend getaway to Marseille, France. We started our day by exploring the vibrant heart of Marseille, the Vieux-Port (Old Port). As we walked along the picturesque waterfront, we were mesmerized by the sight of fishing boats and luxury yachts docked side by side. The lively atmosphere, with street performers and bustling cafes, set the perfect tone for our weekend adventure. We would recommend taking the time to stroll through the harbor, soaking in the sights and sounds of this historic area. Don’t miss the morning fish market, where you can watch local fishermen selling their fresh catch, perfect for some authentic photo opportunities 📸 📍 Quai des Belges, 13001 Marseille, France After the Old Port, we visited Le Panier, Marseille's oldest neighborhood, filled with colorful buildings, charming boutiques, and art galleries. We wandered through the narrow streets, stumbled upon quaint courtyards, and admired the street art that gives this district its unique character. 📍Le Panier, 13002 Marseille, France For lunch, we headed to Chez Fonfon, a local institution renowned for its Bouillabaisse. The rich, flavorful seafood stew 🍲 was just as good as we had heard, and we savored every bite of the perfectly seasoned broth and fresh fish 🐟 This place is popular, so we’d recommend making a reservation in advance. 💰€45 per person. 📍140 Rue du Vallon des Auffes, 13007 Marseille, France The next morning, we embarked on a short hike in the Calanques National Park. The dramatic limestone cliffs plunging into turquoise waters were breathtaking, and we highly recommend taking the trail to Calanque de Sugiton. The trail was moderately challenging but rewarding, and we cooled off with a dip in the crystal-clear cove. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water. 📍 Route de la Gineste, 13009 Marseille, France In the afternoon, we visited the *Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, which offers the best panoramic views of the city. The climb to the basilica is steep, but we found it well worth the effort. The stunning architecture and beautiful mosaics inside are a must-see, and the view from the top was simply unforgettable. I would recommend spending some time here to take in the sights and capture some great photos 📸 📍Address: Rue Fort du Sanctuaire, 13281 Marseille, France To end the trip, we treated ourselves to L’Epuisette, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its exceptional Mediterranean cuisine. The tasting menu was a culinary journey, featuring dishes like sea bass carpaccio and lavender-infused lamb. Each course was beautifully presented, and the flavors were exquisite 🙌🙌🙌 💰 €90 per person 📍158 Rue du Vallon des Auffes, 13007 Marseille, France #weekendgetaways #Vacation #trip

#europetravel From the high-rolling luxury of Monte Carlo to the historic charm of Marseille, this trip offers a perfect mix of elegance, coastal beauty, and cultural depth. Plus, the journey itself is an experience! 🚆 Getting There The fastest way between Monte Carlo and Marseille is the train (about 3.5 hours), offering stunning views of the French Riviera along the way. Alternatively, a road trip down the Mediterranean coastline lets you stop at gems like Cannes, Antibes, and Saint-Tropez. 🌟 Monte Carlo Highlights 🎲 Casino de Monte-Carlo – Even if you’re not gambling, the architecture is worth admiring. 🏎️ Formula 1 Grand Prix Route – Walk or drive through the legendary track. 🏰 Prince’s Palace & Old Town – A glimpse into Monaco’s royal history. 🌊 Larvotto Beach – Relax on a pristine Riviera shoreline. 🔥 Marseille Highlights ⛪ Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde – The city’s best panoramic view. 🌊 Old Port (Vieux-Port) – Bustling markets, fresh seafood, and waterfront cafés. 🏝️ Château d’If – The real-life prison from The Count of Monte Cristo. 🛶 Calanques National Park – Hike or boat through these breathtaking limestone cliffs. This journey blends Monte Carlo’s luxury with Marseille’s raw authenticity—a perfect Riviera adventure!

And I believe that the feeling of a city, like meeting a person for the first time, is very important to the eye. Three hours after leaving Paris, standing outside the Marseille train station square, looking at the shimmering blue sea not far away, the dense yachts, the groups of seagulls flying from Notre Dame to Yves Island, the blue sky, and the air is clear as if it were soda water with bubbles, I think that the next few days of getting along will definitely be very good. People always say that the Seine River is Paris's good luck, while the Old Port is Marseille's blessing. As the largest seaport in the Mediterranean region, nearly 200 ships depart here every day to Corsica and other European regions. The numerous yachts and cafes and bars in the port, if viewed from the air on a summer night, are like scattered diamonds falling into the sea. Just like the Ile de la Cite in Paris, because it is too beautiful, Parisians are reluctant to waste a single second of their lives to enjoy the romantic changes of the four seasons, so all the outdoor seats of cafes on the Left Bank face the Notre-Dame de Paris, while all the outdoor seats of the taverns in Marseille's Old Port face the highest point of Marseille - Notre-Dame de la Garde. I made an appointment with a long-lost friend. He left Beijing on the day of the summer solstice music festival in France. This time we met in his country, and the wonderful feeling brought by the distance is no less magical than sitting in the old tavern in the harbor all the time, until the sunset, until the evening glow smears the white stone wall of Notre Dame like dusk.

Day 1: Start your adventure by exploring the Old Port. Take in the lively atmosphere with its boats, cafés, and restaurants along the waterfront. Then head to Notre-Dame de la Garde, the city’s iconic basilica, for breathtaking views of Marseille and the Mediterranean. In the evening, enjoy some local seafood at a cozy restaurant near the port 🦞. Day 2: Spend the day exploring the beautiful Calanques National Park. Whether you hike or take a boat tour, the crystal-clear waters and stunning limestone cliffs are a must-see 🌊. After your day in nature, head back to the city for a relaxing evening stroll around Le Panier, the oldest neighborhood in Marseille, full of history, charm, and local art. Day 3: Save the best for last: a visit to the legendary Vélodrome Stadium 🏟️, often called the most beautiful stadium in Europe, and home to the Olympique de Marseille. The atmosphere here is unmatched, especially on match day! ⚽️🔥 Take a tour of the stadium or, if you’re lucky, catch a game to experience the electric energy of the fans. End your trip with a dinner in Cours Julien, a trendy neighborhood known for its vibrant street art and nightlife. Marseille has it all: stunning views, rich history, and football passion like no other city! #FranceTrip #MarseilleMagic #VelodromeStadium #OMPassion #CalanquesAdventure #MediterraneanVibes #100WaysOfTravel #BestFootballAtmosphere #ExploreFrance #TravelFrance

#francetrip Just got back from an amazing trip to Marseille, and I have to say, this city has completely won me over! 🇫🇷✨ As France’s oldest city, Marseille has this incredible blend of history, culture, and stunning coastal views that make it such a unique destination. My first stop was the Old Port (Vieux-Port), which is buzzing with life—fishing boats, market stalls, and street performers all around. I took a stroll along the harbor, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and watching the sunset over the Mediterranean. 🌅⚓ One of the highlights was visiting the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde. The climb to the top was steep, but the panoramic views of the city and the sea were worth every step. You can even see the Château d'If, the famous island fortress, from up there. Entry to the basilica is free, which is great for budget travelers. 🏛️🏞️ Inside, the basilica is beautifully decorated with mosaics and maritime-themed offerings. After that, I wandered through the charming Le Panier district with its narrow streets, colorful murals, and cozy little cafes. It’s the perfect spot to grab a coffee and enjoy some people-watching. ☕️🎨 For foodies, Marseille is a dream. I tried the local specialty, bouillabaisse, a delicious seafood stew that’s a must-try. The city’s mix of cultures means you can find everything from traditional French cuisine to North African-inspired dishes. 🥘 If you’re planning a trip to France, make sure to put Marseille on your list. It’s full of surprises and has a spirit all its own! #trip #Marseille #OldPort #NotreDameDeLaGarde #FrenchRiviera #TravelFrance

As the most iconic building in Marseille, the Notre-Dame de la Garde stands atop a 147-meter-high hill, symbolizing the city with its unique Neo-Byzantine architectural style and golden statue of the Virgin Mary 🏰 The history of the church dates back to 1214, having undergone several centuries of changes. In the 16th century, French King Francis I built a fortress here for military purposes. The current structure, rebuilt in 1853 on the original fortress foundation, features a distinctive Roman-Byzantine style with a striking black-and-white exterior. The golden statue of the Virgin Mary atop the church stands 11 meters high, guarding the entire port of Marseille. From the observation deck in front of the church, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Old Port of Marseille, the Palais du Pharo, Fort Saint-Jean, and the Mediterranean Sea. The church's interior is solemn and majestic, with impressive mosaics and stained glass windows✨ Known as the guardian of Marseille, this church is not only an important religious site but also the best vantage point to appreciate the city's scenery. Its architectural beauty and expansive views make it a must-visit landmark in Marseille! 🥰

#europetravel Visiting Marseille in winter was a fantastic decision. While much of Europe was freezing, the Mediterranean coast offered mild temperatures and sunny skies. Walking along the Old Port without summer crowds felt almost surreal—fishing boats rocked gently in the harbor, and I could take in the view without the usual rush of tourists. Exploring Le Panier, the city’s oldest district, was a highlight. Its colorful streets, artistic murals, and hidden cafés created a warm, inviting atmosphere. A short climb up to Notre-Dame de la Garde rewarded me with breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the sea. For travelers, winter is the perfect time to enjoy Marseille’s charm without the summer heat or crowds. Pack light layers for the cooler evenings, and take advantage of off-season prices on accommodation. Whether enjoying fresh seafood, wandering historic streets, or soaking in the coastal beauty, Marseille in winter offers a peaceful yet vibrant escape.

Marseille is an ancient and significant port city and the second largest city in France. It serves as an important economic hub connecting Mediterranean coastal countries with France's former colonies. We took a bus from Aix, which took about 30 minutes. We didn't plan much for this trip, so First led the way. The main attractions include: Notre-Dame de la Garde: A beautiful and grand church located on a hill, offering a panoramic view of the entire city of Marseille. Fort Saint-Jean: A fortress situated by the Mediterranean Sea, built in 1660 by King Louis XV of France to guard the entrance to the port of Marseille. Cathédrale La Major: A Roman Catholic cathedral that serves as the main cathedral of Marseille. After taking some beautiful photos, First took us up the elevator in the MUCEM (no ticket required) to capture stunning views of the old port of Marseille. Without First, we wouldn't have known how to get there. Vieux Port: The old port is another major tourist attraction, often referred to as the gateway to the Mediterranean.

#beachtime Marseille, France's oldest city, boasts a rugged coastline with beaches offering Mediterranean charm. From sandy shores to rocky coves, the beaches cater to various preferences—whether you seek relaxation, water sports, or stunning views. #### **Top Beaches in Marseille** 1. **Plage des Catalans** - **Location**: Close to the Old Port. - **Vibe**: A lively, urban beach with volleyball courts and a young crowd. - **Tips**: Arrive early as it gets crowded, especially in summer. 2. **Prado Beaches (Plages du Prado)** - **Location**: South of the city center. - **Vibe**: Family-friendly with ample space for picnics and games. - **Facilities**: Restaurants, playgrounds, and water sports rentals. 3. **Plage de la Pointe Rouge** - **Location**: In the southern suburbs. - **Vibe**: A mix of sand and pebbles, ideal for families and windsurfers. - **Dining**: Plenty of seafood eateries nearby. 4. **Calanques Beaches** - **Location**: Within the Calanques National Park. - **Vibe**: Wild and secluded coves with turquoise waters. - **Highlights**: Accessible by hiking or boat; **Calanque de Sormiou** and **Calanque d’En-Vau** are must-visits. - **Note**: Wear proper hiking shoes, and bring water and snacks. 5. **Plage de la Batterie** - **Location**: Near Estaque, north of Marseille. - **Vibe**: A quieter, less crowded beach. - **Activities**: Perfect for watching sunsets over the Mediterranean. --- #### **Best Times to Visit** - **Season**: May to September for warm weather and calm seas. - **Timing**: Morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat. --- #### **Activities** - **Snorkeling & Diving**: The clear waters near the Calanques are perfect for underwater exploration. - **Boat Tours**: Charter a boat to explore hidden beaches and sea caves. - **Cultural Touches**: Combine beach visits with Marseille's landmarks like the Old Port, Notre-Dame de la Garde, and the MuCEM. --- #### **Packing Essentials** - Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection. - Comfortable hiking shoes if visiting the Calanques. - A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. - A beach mat or blanket for comfort on rocky shores. --- #### **Local Tips** 1. Public beaches can be crowded in peak season; consider visiting early or opting for lesser-known coves. 2. Parking is limited near popular beaches—use public transport when possible. 3. Respect nature—especially in the Calanques—by leaving no trace. Enjoy the Mediterranean vibes and unique beauty that Marseille’s coastline has to offer!

#2024wish This past visit to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde in Marseille was nothing short of spectacular. The entrance, entirely gratis, was a soul’s gift at the sight of such amazing offers. #NotreDameDeLaGarde #MarseilleMagic The basilica that stands on top of a hill offers the most glorious view of Marseille imaginable. The Byzantine architecture and mosaics inside are a demonstration of the effort that has gone into making this place of spiritual refuge. 🌅🎨 The hike up to the basilica is a part of this adventure. However you will climb by foot or use the tourist train, excitement is achieved with every step and breathtaking panoramas of Marseille reveal as one gets to the peak. 🚂🚶♀️ The terrace that surrounds the basilica provides a calming oasis for contemplation, with both sea and city on either side. It is a perfect place to enjoy the view of Mediterranean and admire boats in harbour. 🌊⚓ Following your visit, stroll around the pretty streets of Le Panier quarter that is nearby. The narrow alleys, interesting street art and cozy cafes make for a lively space. 🏰🍽️ Notre-Dame de la Garde is a religious and artistic delight, with the best bit – it’s free. This places one of the most magnificent viewpoints, astounding architectural wonders along with a number of attractions it is an absolute must-visit place in Marseille! #MarseilleMarvel #SpiritualJourney