A city
with a thousand facets

A thousand-year-old witness to Christianity in Marseille

Just a few minutes' walk from the Hôtel Amoi Vieux-Port, discover one of the oldest churches in France. Founded in the 5th century, the Abbey of Saint-Victor with its impressive crypts houses Palaeochristian sarcophagi and precious relics that bear witness to the early days of Christianity in Provence. Its fortified façade and mystical atmosphere make it an exceptional place of meditation. Don't miss the traditional blessing of the shuttles on 2 February, Candlemas Day, a living tradition in Marseille linked to this historic building.

Byzantine splendour on the Mediterranean coast

This imposing neo-Byzantine cathedral, visible from the Hôtel Amoi Vieux-Port, impresses with its colossal dimensions and majestic domes. Built between 1852 and 1893 on the site of the old Romanesque cathedral, La Major is distinguished by its unique blend of white and green marble. Its monumental proportions make it the largest cathedral to be built in Europe since the Middle Ages. Visit its richly decorated mosaic interior and enjoy its forecourt, which offers a splendid view of the Mediterranean Sea and the new districts of the Port.

The historic soul of Marseille just a stone's throw from your hotel

Lose yourself in the narrow, colourful streets of Marseille's oldest district, within easy reach of the Hôtel Amoi Vieux-Port. The Panier, the birthplace of the city, will charm you with its village atmosphere, pastel-coloured facades and picturesque staircases. This Mediterranean labyrinth is full of artists' studios, local craft shops and shady little cafés where you can enjoy a shuttle or a slice of fougasse. Don't miss the many mural frescoes that tell the story of the history and cultural diversity of this authentic district, the true beating heart of Marseille.

An architectural gem in the heart of the Panier district

Nestling in the historic Panier district near the Hôtel Amoi Vieux-Port, this former 17th-century hospice designed by Marseilles architect Pierre Puget is now a cultural centre not to be missed. Its exceptional architecture is arranged around a three-storey arcaded courtyard, dominated by a unique oval-domed chapel. La Vieille Charité now houses renowned temporary exhibitions, the Museum of Mediterranean Archaeology and the Museum of African, Oceanic and Amerindian Arts. A place steeped in history where heritage and contemporary culture come together in a sumptuous setting.

The emblem of contemporary Marseille

The first national museum devoted to the civilisations of Europe and the Mediterranean, the MuCEM has become the emblem of Marseille's architectural renewal since its inauguration in 2013. Less than 15 minutes' walk from the Hôtel Amoi Vieux-Port, this spectacular building designed by Rudy Ricciotti, with its filigree concrete latticework, will impress you with its dialogue between modernity and history. Linked to Fort Saint-Jean by a vertiginous footbridge, the museum offers fascinating exhibitions on Mediterranean cultures, as well as a rich cultural programme. Don't miss its panoramic terrace and gourmet restaurant offering a breathtaking view of the sea.

Provencal art in an exceptional setting

Housed in Marseille's fully refurbished former maritime health station, the Musée Regards de Provence is just a few minutes from the Hôtel Amoi Vieux-Port. This luminous museum features permanent collections and temporary exhibitions dedicated to Provencal and Mediterranean artists from the 18th century to the present day. The remarkably restored 1940s Art Deco building also boasts a panoramic restaurant with an exceptional view of the Cathedral de la Major, the MuCEM and the sea. A must for art and architecture lovers looking to discover the region's artistic heritage in a unique setting.

The beating heart of Marseille for 26 centuries

Less than 10 minutes' walk from the Hotel Amoi Vieux-Port, discover the historic birthplace of Marseille, where the Phocaean Greeks established their trading post in 600 B.C. Now redeveloped as a pedestrian zone by architect Norman Foster, the Vieux-Port remains the city's nerve centre. Admire the fishing boats and luxury yachts moored there, stroll along the shimmering ombrière, and don't miss the daily fish market where fishermen sell their fresh catch every morning. The lively terraces of the cafés and restaurants lining the port provide the perfect setting for savouring an authentic bouillabaisse while watching the bustle of Marseille.

The temple of football in Marseille

A veritable institution in Marseille, the Stade Vélodrome is easily accessible from the Hôtel Amoi Vieux-Port by metro or bus. Renovated in 2014, this stadium with its spectacular architecture can accommodate more than 67,000 spectators, making it the second largest stadium in France. Home to Olympique de Marseille, a legendary club with a prestigious track record, the Vélodrome is renowned for its electric atmosphere on match nights. Even outside match periods, don't miss the guided tour that will take you behind the scenes of this monument to French sport: changing rooms, access tunnel, pitchside and stands will reveal their secrets to you.

Natural wonders between Marseille and Cassis

Just 30 minutes by bus or car from the Hôtel Amoi Vieux-Port, the Calanques National Park reveals one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Mediterranean. These miniature fjords with turquoise waters carved out of white limestone form a breathtaking backdrop. From Marseille to Cassis, discover these wild coves accessible on foot via hiking trails or by boat on a maritime excursion. Whether you choose to explore the calanques of Sormiou, Morgiou, Sugiton or En-Vau, you'll be fascinated by the unspoilt beauty of these exceptional natural sites. Don't forget your swimming costume for an unforgettable swim in these crystal-clear waters.

A picturesque, timeless fishing port

Just a 15-minute walk from the Hôtel Amoi Vieux-Port, discover the charming Vallon des Auffes, a small urban cove nestling under the Corniche Kennedy bridge. This traditional fishing port, with its colourful pointus (traditional Provencal boats) and its small houses with pastel-coloured facades, offers an authentic picture of Marseille's maritime life. Its name comes from the "auffes", plant fibres used in the past to make ropes and fishing nets. Today, this haven of peace is home to a number of renowned restaurants where you can enjoy a bouillabaisse facing the sea in an exceptional setting. Don't miss this hidden gem that has managed to preserve its village character right in the heart of Marseille, particularly photogenic at sunset.

The wild archipelago off Marseille

Embark at the Vieux-Port, just a few minutes from the Hôtel Amoi, for a maritime escapade to the Frioul archipelago. After a 20-minute crossing, discover these four limestone islands with their lunar landscapes and secret coves. Pomègues and Ratonneau, linked by a dyke, form the inhabited heart of the archipelago along with the picturesque Port-Frioul. Follow the signposted paths that wind between historic fortifications, pebble beaches and mistral-resistant Mediterranean vegetation. The transparency of the waters and the richness of the seabed make this a popular spot for swimming and snorkelling. An ideal day trip to escape the urban hustle and bustle while enjoying exceptional views over Marseille and its harbour.

Legendary fortress immortalised by Alexandre Dumas

Just 20 minutes by boat from the Old Port, and easily accessible from the Hôtel Amoi, the Château d'If stands on its rocky islet like a guardian of Marseille's harbour. This fortress, built on the orders of François I in the 16th century to defend the city, became world-famous thanks to Alexandre Dumas' novel "The Count of Monte Cristo". Transformed into a state prison, it housed political and religious prisoners for over three centuries. Now a historic monument, the château offers a fascinating insight into history and literature. From its terraces, admire the exceptional panoramic view over Marseille, Notre-Dame de la Garde and the Calanques massif.