Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, Marseille

Absolutely BEAUTIFUL. Its a quite the steep journey however it is worth it once you reach the top. I can not describe just how beautiful and stunning it is when you are there. The pictures do not grasp the amount of beauty. Highly recommend this. If I had one place to visit in Marseille I would pick the top of this church. You can see everything from there. It looks like Greece :D

Absolutely stunning basilica - and a must-see in Marseille. I first visited on the Saturday, but because of high winds the entrance to the basilica was closed. I was told I could enter via the crypt, but there was a mass happening and nobody was allowed to enter either the crypt or the basilica. Luckily I was able to return on Monday (thought I’d give Sunday a miss as there was only a half hour window to visit at 9am due to masses being held throughout the day). I’m so glad I had the time to come back, as the basilica is absolutely stunning. The views from outside are pretty gorgeous too. Entrance is free, but I’d recommend paying 1€ for the pamphlet at reception - which points out some interesting facts and items to view. Also, the walk up is hard going - even for the fittest of walkers. I’ve climbed Ben Nevis, so I know what I’m talking about! If the weather is cool then go for it, but when it’s hot…no thanks! You can get the No.60 bus from Vieux-Port (I’d recommend getting on there as the bus does get packed pretty quickly). The journey takes around 10-15 minutes by bus and drops you off directly outside the basilica. It costs 2€, and if by chance you can’t get in because of high winds (or mass) it covers the cost of the trip back down - as long as it’s within an hour of purchase.