Is the climb to the Basilica difficult?

Yes, it is considered a challenging walk. The route involves a significant elevation gain and several steep sections, particularly along Boulevard André Aune and the final stairs to the Basilica.

What is the best time to visit Notre-Dame de la Garde for photos?

The late afternoon or 'golden hour' is the best time for photography. The setting sun illuminates the city and the Mediterranean sea, and the golden statue of the Virgin Mary glows brilliantly against the sky.

Can I reach the Basilica without walking the whole way?

Yes, if the climb is too much, you can take Bus 60 from the Vieux-Port, which drives directly to the parking lot of the Basilica. You can then choose to walk the downhill portion of the route.

Is Notre-Dame de la Garde free to enter?

Yes, admission to the Basilica is free for all visitors. It is an active place of worship, so visitors are asked to dress respectfully and maintain silence during services.

What are the ex-votos inside the Basilica?

The ex-votos are offerings left by locals, particularly sailors, who believe 'The Good Mother' saved them from danger. You will see many small model boats and paintings depicting shipwrecks or miracles hanging from the walls and ceilings.

Are there places to eat along this walking route?

The Vauban neighborhood, located halfway up the hill, has several charming local cafes and bakeries. There is also a restaurant and a snack bar located at the top near the Basilica.

Is the Abbaye Saint-Victor worth visiting?

Absolutely. It is one of the most historically significant sites in Marseille. While the upper church is impressive, the ancient crypts downstairs contain 5th-century sarcophagi and offer a deep look into the city's early history.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

2 hr 30 min

Duration

5

Stops

Challenging

Difficulty

About This Tour

Marseille's silhouette is dominated by one iconic figure: 'La Bonne Mère' or The Good Mother. Perched atop the city's highest natural point, the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde has served as a beacon for sailors and a symbol of protection for locals for centuries. This walking route invites you to experience the physical and spiritual heart of Marseille, beginning at the very roots of the city and ascending through the charming, steep neighborhood of Vauban. This is not just a walk; it is a pilgrimage through time, offering some of the most spectacular 360-degree panoramas in the Mediterranean. As you navigate the winding streets and steep staircases, you will uncover layers of history, from the Roman foundations at the Port Antique to the fortified walls of the Abbaye Saint-Victor. The climb is challenging, but the reward is unparalleled. You will see the city unfold beneath you—the terracotta roofs, the shimmering Vieux-Port, and the distant Frioul Islands. This self-guided adventure allows you to set your own pace, stopping to admire the ornate mosaics of the Basilica or the quiet dignity of a hidden garden. Whether you are a history buff intrigued by maritime lore or a photography enthusiast seeking the perfect golden hour shot, this neighborhood stroll captures the rugged, resilient spirit of Marseille. Discover why generations of Marseillais have looked to the heights for hope and how the city's geography has shaped its identity as a gateway between Europe and the sea. The route concludes at the massive Abbaye Saint-Victor, a fortress of faith that has guarded the harbor entrance since the 5th century.

Highlights

The 360-degree panoramic views from the top of Notre-Dame de la Garde
The ancient Roman remains at the Port Antique
The steep and charming streets of the Vauban neighborhood
Intricate Byzantine-style mosaics and maritime ex-votos
The fortified 5th-century Abbaye Saint-Victor

Route Map

Numbers indicate the order of stops on the tour

Tour Stops (5)

1

Port Antique

Welcome to the birthplace of Marseille. Here at the Port Antique, also known as the Jardin des Vestiges, you are standing among the remains of the ancient Greek and Roman harbor. When the city was founded as Massalia around 600 BC, this was the gateway to Gaul. Look closely at the stone foundations; they reveal the layout of the ancient docks and defensive walls. This site was only rediscovered in 1967 during a construction project, proving that in Marseille, history is always just beneath the surface. This is the perfect starting point for our journey, as it represents the city's oldest maritime roots before we begin our climb to its highest spiritual peak.

2

Jardin de la Colonne

As you enter the Vauban neighborhood, you'll find the Jardin de la Colonne, a small, peaceful oasis tucked away from the city bustle. The garden is named after the solitary column standing here, which was originally intended to support a statue of Napoleon, though the project was never finished. This spot marks the transition from the flat harbor level to the steep residential slopes. It is a favorite among locals for a quiet moment. Take a breath here and enjoy the early glimpses of the sea between the buildings, as the incline is about to become much more demanding.

3

Boulevard André Aune

Prepare your legs as you reach Boulevard André Aune. This is one of Marseille's most famous 'climbing' streets. Known for its incredible steepness, it offers a direct, albeit strenuous, path toward the Basilica. As you walk, notice the architecture of the Vauban district—a mix of traditional 19th-century townhouses and narrow alleyways. This neighborhood has a distinct village feel, despite being so close to the city center. Many residents here have lived in these steep streets for generations. Don't forget to look back every so often; the view of the Vieux-Port framing the street behind you is one of the most photographed scenes in the city.

4

Notre-Dame de la Garde

You have reached the summit. At 149 meters above sea level, the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde is the crowning glory of Marseille. Completed in 1864 in a Neo-Byzantine style, it is topped by a monumental gilded statue of the Virgin and Child, known as 'La Bonne Mère'. Step inside to see the breathtaking gold-leaf mosaics and the unique ex-votos—small model ships and paintings hanging from the ceiling, left by sailors as thanks for surviving storms at sea. The outdoor terraces offer a 360-degree view of the city, the sea, and the limestone hills. It is the spiritual heart of the city, where religious devotion and maritime tradition meet.

5

Abbaye Saint-Victor

Descending from the heights, we finish at the Abbaye Saint-Victor. This massive, crenelated structure looks more like a medieval fortress than a church, and for good reason—it was built to defend the harbor. Founded in the 5th century, it is one of the oldest sites of Christian worship in France. Beneath the main floor lies a sprawling complex of crypts and early Christian sarcophagi. Every year on February 2nd, the city celebrates 'La Chandeleur' here, with a procession carrying a green wax candle to the abbey. It’s a site of profound history that anchors the city to its early medieval past.

Frequently Asked Questions

The walk from the Vieux-Port to the Basilica typically takes 30 to 45 minutes of active walking. However, with stops to enjoy the views and explore the interior, you should budget at least 2 to 3 hours for the full experience.