A Marseille itinerary takes advantage of one of the oldest cities in France, founded by the Phoenicians in 599 BC. Marseille is also France's second largest city and one of its most ethnically diverse. It has been the point of embarkation for generations of immigrants from the former French colonies of North Africa. A 7-day visit should include sights in the city and in the surrounding area which is rich in history, flora, fauna, and adventure. And, don't forget to savor bouillabaisse, a delectable fish stew, Marseille's most famous dish.

Day 1: Orient Yourself to Marseille.

An 18-km circle tour by bus, Marseille Le Grand Tour, includes 16 stops where riders can get off, explore on their own, and pick up the next bus. Tickets are good for 2 consecutive days. 

Day 2: Get Walking with a Self-guided Tour.

The Office of Tourism at the Vieux Port has maps of 3 walks; 2 take visitors into nearby neighborhoods, a third climbs the hill from the Vieux Port up to the towering Notre-Dame de la Garde where a 360-degree panorama of the city can be enjoyed. Guided tours are also available, some in English.

Day 3: Take a Boat Trip into the Mediterranean.

Do you want to visit the fictional Count of Monte Cristo in the real-life Chateau d'If? The island prison is a short 20-minute boat ride from the Vieux Port. Longer trips to see the fjord-like calanques along the coastline last several hours.

Day 4: Spend a Day in the Camargue.

Considered the "Wild West" of France,  French cowboys, wild horses, Camargue bulls, and pink flamingos while you roam the 360 square miles of the Rhone River delta, much of it a protected nature preserve.

Day 5: Discover Museums and Neighborhoods of Marseille.

What's your pleasure? Consider wandering around architect Le Corbusier's Cité Radieuse, a mid-20th century apartment, shopping, hotel and restaurant complex. Marvel at the remains of a sunken merchant vessel discovered in the Vieux Port that is now exhibited in the Museum of the History of Marseille. Or, check out the Espace Julien for cutting-edge music and performance art.

Day 6: Rent a Car for a Spectacular Seaside Tour.

Drive along the Corniche President Kennedy (used by Alfred Hitchcock in his films set on the Riviera) and head into the hinterland for a taste of rural Provence.

Day 7: Take a Day to do Something Active.

Rent scuba diving or snorkeling equipment or a kayak, walk hiking trails that parallel the coast or visit beaches on the calanques.

Before you go: Read a novel by native son Marcel Pagnol or see one of the cinematic incarnations of his work, such as Jean de Florette or the trilogy, César, Fanny, and Marius.