Marseille, a vibrant port city nestled on the southeastern coast of France, has beckoned travelers since the days of the Ancient Greeks. Boasting an impressive average of over 300 days of sunshine annually, its enduring reputation as a premier Mediterranean getaway is hardly surprising. For those seeking respite from London’s often gray skies, Marseille offers the perfect sun-drenched escape to balance any trip.
Situated in the far south of France, the journey from London to Marseille presents several enticing options. While a direct flight remains the most expedient choice, often accompanied by budget-friendly fares, the train offers a scenic and immersive route through the heart of the French countryside. For the adventurous traveler with ample time, renting a car opens up the possibility of a personalized road trip, punctuated by charming stopovers in quintessential French towns.
How to Get from London to Marseille
The following table provides a comparative overview of the various transportation methods, outlining estimated travel times, costs, and suitability for different travel preferences:
| Time | Cost | Best For | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train | 7 hours, 30 minutes | from $73 | Leisurely travel, scenic views |
| Flight | 2 hours | from $27 | Quick and cheap travel |
| Bus | 21 hours | from $27 | Budget-conscious travelers |
| Car | 13 hours | 770 miles (1,240 kilometers) | Exploring France at your own pace |
By Train
Embarking on a train journey to Marseille offers a scenic, relaxing, and relatively swift passage across the breadth of France. Considering the vast distance covered, arriving in a matter of hours is quite remarkable. Furthermore, train travel can be surprisingly affordable, especially when booking tickets well in advance. Similar to air travel, train ticket prices tend to fluctuate, with fares increasing as the travel date approaches. Early booking is highly recommended to secure the best deals.
Several train options are available, contingent on the time of year and desired transfer points. Typically, the journey involves taking the Eurostar from London St. Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord. From there, you’ll need to transfer to Paris Gare de Lyon to catch a high-speed TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse) to Marseille St. Charles. This transfer usually requires navigating the Paris Metro or taking a taxi. The entire journey, including the transfer in Paris, typically takes around 7.5 hours.
The Eurostar offers a comfortable and efficient ride under the English Channel, arriving in Paris in just over two hours. The TGV, renowned for its speed and comfort, whisks passengers through the French countryside, offering picturesque views of rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages.
By Plane
While the allure of a leisurely train journey is undeniable, flying remains the most convenient option for direct travel from London to Marseille. If exploring the cities nestled between these two metropolises, particularly Paris, isn’t a priority, a flight offers both speed and affordability. Numerous airlines, including Ryanair and British Airways, operate direct flights, fostering competition that keeps prices competitive.
It’s crucial to acknowledge the seasonal nature of travel to Marseille. Expect to see a noticeable surge in prices during the warm summer months and holiday periods, as many Britons seek a coastal escape. Planning and booking in advance are essential to secure the most favorable fares during peak season.
London boasts six international airports, each with varying distances from the city center. Stansted (STN) and Southend (SEN) Airports, in particular, are located further afield. Before hastily booking the cheapest flight, carefully consider the travel time to the airport. An early morning departure, for instance, may present logistical challenges due to limited late-night transportation options. Access to London Heathrow is easy by using the Heathrow Express, while Gatwick offers a similar service. Luton and City airport offer train and bus links to the city.
By Bus
Opting for a bus journey on this lengthy route entails a considerable travel time of over 20 hours, typically involving a transfer in Paris. While tickets can be obtained at relatively low prices through services like BlaBlaBus, the affordability of plane tickets renders the bus a less appealing choice for most travelers.
Even in scenarios where last-minute plans coincide with peak season, causing flights and trains to become prohibitively expensive, exploring alternative bus routes to closer destinations like Paris or Brussels may prove more practical. The bus, however, can be a good option for those with limited mobility, as it often allows passengers to carry more luggage with them.
By Car
Embarking on a road trip from London to Marseille represents a significant undertaking, requiring a traverse across the entirety of France from north to south. However, for those with the luxury of time and a penchant for exploration, this journey offers an unforgettable experience, punctuated by leisurely stops in charming cities along the way.
If Paris beckons, the route can seamlessly incorporate a visit to the City of Lights before continuing south. However, be mindful that Paris traffic can substantially prolong the journey. Furthermore, while driving in France is generally straightforward, navigating the city of Paris with a vehicle can prove more of a hindrance than a convenience. Parking can be difficult to find and expensive, while congestion charges may also apply.
For those who have already experienced Paris or prefer to bypass it, a more easterly route through the Champagne region offers a delightful alternative. A stop in Reims, the heart of Champagne production, is a must for connoisseurs of the world’s most celebrated sparkling wine. Continuing southward, Lyon, another captivating city, warrants at least an overnight visit. Lyon is considered the food capital of France, and has some of the best restaurants in the country.
Driving your own car offers unparalleled freedom and flexibility, but it’s essential to be fully aware of the associated costs and logistical considerations. Beyond car rental and fuel expenses, factor in tolls. French highways operate on a toll system based on distance traveled, and traversing the entire country will inevitably result in significant toll charges. The A26, A5 and A7 are just some of the toll roads you may need to use. Crossing from the U.K. to France necessitates paying for car transportation via the Channel Tunnel (Chunnel). If renting a car and not returning to London, be aware that most rental companies impose substantial fees for dropping off a vehicle in a different country than where it was originally picked up.
What to See in Marseille
Marseille possesses a unique and somewhat edgy character. While some may perceive it as a gritty city, many travelers find this to be part of its inherent charm. Having captivated locals and tourists for over 2,600 years, Marseille holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously populated city in France, a testament to its enduring appeal.
Beyond the natural allure of the cerulean sea and Mediterranean beaches, Marseille has evolved into a cultural powerhouse in the 21st century, with a burgeoning scene of new museums, restaurants, and bars. The trendy St. Victor district is a hotspot for innovative establishments, offering a diverse array of culinary delights and stylish cocktails.
Being a coastal city, seafood is a must-try. The Provence region, where Marseille is located, is renowned for its rich and flavorful fish stew, bouillabaisse. No visit to Marseille is complete without savoring a bowl of this iconic dish. Other local specialities include Navettes, a local biscuit shaped like a boat, and Pastis, an anise-flavoured spirit.
