Shopping and Eating in Marseille, France

Shopping and Eating in Marseille, France

Marseille is one of the largest cities in the country of France.

Shopping in Marseille

Shopping is probably not the main reason to visit Marseille defined by AbbreviationFinder. The city is not the same shopping paradise as Paris or Milan. The stereotype of French elegant models wearing the latest and most modern in fashion and cosmetics does not fit the average Marseille resident, who is far more down-to-earth and less gaunt than Paris. It is also relatively expensive in Marseille, something that many Norwegian tourists are not quite prepared for.

The main shopping areas of Marseille

The main shopping areas are around La Canebière main street and its side streets. The largest shopping center is the modern Center Bourse, which is open Monday to Saturday at. 0930 to 1930 and contains over 60 different stores.

In the lively Rue Saint-Ferréol pedestrian zone, the shops are close by while the street artists entertain, and the parallel streets Rue de Rome and Rue Paradis also have many options, from international retail chains to small specialist shops. For example, try the somewhat special and popular clothing store Didier Parakian on Rue Paradis 43, where you can find unique and out-of-date designs.

Although Marseille can by no means compare with Paris as a fashion metropolis, even the most trend-conscious can find exclusive designer clothes if they head for Rue de la Tour in the Cours Julien district. This is Marseille’s bohemian area, where you will also find many small shops. Every weekend there is also an antique market here.

In the small streets of La Panier you will find small shops where you can buy local products such as lavender soap and olive oil, or the typical Marseille souvenirs: small clay saint posters.

Eating in Marseille

Food in Marseille, France

Marseille’s foremost and most famous dish is the fish stew bouillabaisse, which was originally a simple soup that poor fishermen ate. Eventually it found its way to the royal dinner plates, and is today considered the region’s foremost delicacy. A real bouillabaisse should contain at least five different types of fish, in addition to shellfish, tomatoes, saffron, olive oil and herbs. The price level can range from NOK 120 to over NOK 500 depending on how exclusive the ingredients it contains. The more lobster, the more expensive it is.

Bouillabaisse is served everywhere in Marseille, but you want to make sure it is cooked properly, so look for the “La Charte de la Bouillabaisse” sign found at sixteen restaurants, most of them around Vieux Port. The most named of these is Le Miramar in 12 Quai du Port.

Of course, French cuisine has much more to offer, after all, it is considered the best in the world. If your wallet can withstand it, try French specialties such as frog thighs, garlic-grilled snails and goose liver. If not, you also have the choice of hundreds of less expensive brasseries and pizzerias, as well as Indian, Moroccan, Chinese, Japanese and Armenian restaurants.

Drink in Marseille

Of course, French wine applies, and it is much cheaper here than in Norway. You can get half a bottle of red wine at a restaurant from 40 kroner. French are also rank coffee drinkers, and espresso and café au lait are particularly popular. Try these with a cognac or armagnac for.

Beer is usually served only from bottles, but if you miss a frothy pint, Marseille’s Irish pubs by the name of Shamrock and O’Malley’s have, of course.