If one city could be considered a miniature representation of the whole country of France, it would definitely be Marseille. The amazing wine, the savory food, the entire ambiance of this great southern French city is unlike that which you will find anywhere else in the world and your travel agents can book you right into the heart of this historic port town. From the bars and restaurants of the Place Thiars to the fish that are so fresh they are still moving at the quai des Belges fish market this city displays its uniqueness in every way.

The Vieux Port is the best place to begin a tour of the marvelous old port city. From there you can see the popular Notre Dame de la Garde, called Bonne Mère by the locals who believe it provides protection for the sailors on their dangerous journeys. The Canebière is the city’s most famed street and the Quartier du Panier is the area of Marseille that is richest in heritage and history. Another must see spot is the fifth century Abbaye de Saint Victor which is maintained in remarkably good condition considering it's going on 1600 years of age. Your travel agent will demonstrate that no vacation is complete without taking a tour of one of several museums, five of which are Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée Grobet-Labadie, Musée d'Histoire Naturelle, Musée de la Mode and Musée Cantini.

Marseille is a culinary wonderland which features the rustic, hearty tastes of land and sea. Not far from La Vieille Charité, in the Panier district, Le Panier des Arts offers a wonderous menu of local delicacies.On the opposite bank, the iconic Les Arcenaulx and La Côte de Boeuf are two restaurants where typical Marseille cuisine is not just served, but glorified. A Marseille gastronomic institution is located on the nearby Rue Sainte, the world-famous Patalain.

The coastal road features such great restaurants as the Chez Aldo, Châteaux de Marseille, Le Petit Nice and the Chez Michel (on the Plage des Catalans beach). Some of the finest and freshest seafood in the nation can be found at L'Epuisette and Chez Fonfon, or if you're in the mood for pizzas and mixed grills you can head for Chez Jeannot or Chez Etienne.

Finally, at the end of the day, the avenue Pierre Mendès-France, route de Cassis, rue Senac, Les Goudes and quai de Rive Neuve are the places to head for evening action where you can dance and drink the night away. Contact your travel agent for details on how you can join the party in Marseille!