Marseille, France

Panier District on Foot

City Landmarks and La Major Cathedral Discover Marseille’s historic quarter during a guided walk through Le Panier, the city’s oldest neighborhood. Begin with a short stroll to La Major Cathedral, a 19th-century neo-Byzantine masterpiece overlooking the Old Port. See its two bell towers, each rising almost 200 feet tall, and step inside to view its ornate mosaics and marble columns. Continue through narrow streets to see La Vieille Charité, a 17th-century almshouse built around a Baroque chapel, and pass the Hôtel-Dieu, once Marseille’s main hospital for over 800 years. Your route spans 1.5 miles and ends at the 17th-century city hall—built on the former site of La Maison de Ville, a meeting place for merchants and consuls, it was almost destroyed during the French revolution and World War II. After viewing this historic building, set out to explore more on your own or visit a local café before returning to your ship. Please note: modest attire is required to enter the cathedral. Shoulders and knees must be covered. * Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.