There are some spectacular destinations across the Mediterranean that offer luxurious holiday resorts with stretches of golden sand beaches, or charming city breaks steeped in history with majestic harboursides and cobbled lanes to wander. One medieval city has been named one of the best destinations to visit this year, offering a quieter yet alluring escape.
To help holidaymakers discover those desirable destinations to explore, Lonely Planet has outlined some of the top off-the-beaten-track places to visit this year in their new guide to travelling the Mediterranean. Following the likes of Bari and Naples in Italy, the global travel expert named Marseille, France, as one to visit – and it’s easy to see why.
The port city is renowned for being the sunniest in France, boasting a balmy Mediterranean climate and stunning turquoise waters along 26 miles of coastline. One of the most popular golden sand beaches is Plage des Catalans, near the city centre, along with Plage du Prado and Anse de la Fausse Monnaie – a cove nestled between cliffs.
The Marseille Port, also known as the Port of Marseille Fos, is the largest commercial seaport and a major Mediterranean hub for cargo, cruise, and ferry services in France, with links to Corsica and North Africa. Visitors can walk along the pedestrian-friendly Vieux Port (Old Port) and stop by one of the bars or restaurants, while admiring the small vessels docked in the harbour.
One holidaymaker praised the French port and shared on TripAdvisor: « The Old Port of Marseille is a true Mediterranean nugget! It is the vibrant heart of the city, where history, culture and modernity meet. Strolling along the docks, surrounded by colourful boats and the heady smell of the sea, is a magical experience.
« Lively terraces, traditional fish markets and views of Notre-Dame de la Garde create a unique atmosphere. It is the perfect place to enjoy a bouillabaisse, watch a sunset or go on a trip to the coves. A must, whether you are passing through or in love with Marseille! »
Elsewhere, visitors can wander through the narrow streets and neighbourhoods of France’s oldest city, exploring charming areas like Le Panier, and savour the flavours of their cuisine in local cafes and restaurants. Steeped in history, there’s plenty more to explore, from the majestic Notre-Dame de la Garde to the Gothic Cathédrale La Major and the tranquil gardens of Palais Longchamp, along with a day trip to its national park, Calanques National Park.
One visitor shared: « The natural highlight along France’s southern coast is without question the Parc National des Calanques. Between Marseille and Cassis, the park, which was only established in 2012, stretches for about 20 kilometres and was the first in Europe to encompass both city, land and water.
« Around 20 different rocky bays are located here, some with hundreds of meters high cliffs of white limestone. You can admire the bays from both sides, either by boat from Marseille or Cassis (or on foot via the many hiking trails). But no matter where you look, the Calanques fascinate almost everyone. »
Flights to Marseille are around two hours from London airports, with prices starting from £15, as shown on Skyscanner. During the warmer months, flights can start from £28, with temperatures reaching up to a warming 12C in January and a balmy 27C in June.
Lonely Planet’s top Mediterranean destinations to visit in 2026:
- Bari, Italy
- Naples, Italy
- Marseille, France
- Thessaloniki, Greece
- Brač, Croatia
- Antalya, Turkey
- Algiers, Algeria
Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com
Source link
