My spouse and I like to travel the last week of the year. Work is slow, and it's a great time to be away. We love Paris at NYE, but I'd like to try something new. Anyone have experience with Marseille in the winter?
Posted by
Paris
7304 posts
I lived in Marseille for almost two years and I would generally not recommend it between early December and end February (there is one exception, see below). Much of the city pretty much shuts down somehow (despite the large resident population), the wind can be bitingly cold, and there are few indoor activities. There is no specific NYE celebration, no fireworks...
Nice, however, has a much milder climate and will be livelier at that time of the year.
What about the exception, then? If you're a keen hiker, despite the short days winter is prime hiking season in the Calanques and other neighboring areas. You just have to be careful about the wind (I've had to crawl down a ridge once, couldn't stand up).
Posted by
OP
SF, CA, USA
40 posts
Balso - Thank you! Great advice, and I think with that Marseille is out of the running. I'll take a look at Nice. (While we enjoy a good hike, I don't welcome a good crawl in the wind.)
Posted by
Savannah, GA
1383 posts
I went to Marseille for Christmas 2015 and had an amazing time. I didn’t run across anything shut down at all. The weather was just fine and I was able to take day trips as well. I loved Marseille. Reconsider going.