Any help would be welcome on trying to decide between seeing Marseille or Cassis for a day excursion when our ship docks in Toulon for the day. Cassis is closer to Toulon, but being only 30 minutes further away, is Marseille a 'must see'? Or does Cassis have that charm that Marseille has?
Posted by
Seattle, WA, USA
784 posts
Cassis is much smaller and has some charm. I haven't been to Marseilles, opting instead for a day trip to Cassis. I think it depends on whether you want to go to a big city or a small fishing town. I would choose the latter. While you can get boat tours of the Callanques from both, I believe they are more accessible from Cassis. We did a 2 hour boat tour, had a nice port-side lunch, and explored the town. You are lucky you are on a cruise as parking in Cassis can be difficult.
Posted by
South Florida
776 posts
Maybe because I'm a city person, I much prefer Marseille. it's France's version of Naples and Palermo with bustle, culture mixing, a vibrant port, excellent food and museums. On my many visits Marseille has never disappointed. Cassis is lovely, yes but it's not Marseille . . .and perhaps that's why you'd prefer Cassis with its more relaxed atmosphere. All in all, I'm not much help.
Posted by
Kingston, ON Canada
208 posts
I'm reading this thread with interest. We have a cruise port stop at Marseille this October (as well as Sete). We've not been anywhere along this area of the Med, so it's all new to us. :-)
cheers,
Vivian
Posted by
New York, NY, USA
11294 posts
"All in all, I'm not much help."
I think your post is a GREAT help, because it sums up the differences well. Cassis is a small town, Marseille is a big city (and for some a thrilling one, for others an off-putting or overwhelming one). I liked Marseille, but I would never say it's a "must see" for everyone.
Posted by
OP
2 posts
All great info. Thanks everyone.