Arts & Culture

The 5 Things You Must See Before You Leave Marseille

France’s oldest city offers more than a few fascinating sights. Discover what to see in Marseille on your next trip.

With a rich history and a vibrant urban scene, Marseille is a truly unique city. You rarely get a chance to see such a perfect blend of cultural influences. If you’ve decided to visit, you can rest assured you’ve made an excellent decision.

If you have the time, you should explore everything that Marseille has to offer. Still, there are a few things that you must visit before you move on to the smaller and less famous sights. Here’s what to see in Marseille first.

1. Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde

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Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde is a monument that you couldn’t miss even if you wanted to. It stands proudly at the hilltop, showcasing the opulence of the neo-byzantine architecture. The lavish gilded Madonna crowns the belfry and this is the first thing that will catch your eye from afar.

Of course, the interior of the Basilique is nothing less impressive. Light and dark arches contrast one another in a mesmerizing fashion. There are also many artifacts that you can see once inside.

When you reach the terrace, you’ll get to enjoy a marvelous panoramic view of Marseille. The view extends from the nearby red rooftops to as far as the Frioul Islands. With all of this in mind, you’ll want to set aside at least a couple of hours for the Basilique.

2. Old Port of Marseille

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For more than 2,600 years, Marseille’s enormous port has been the epicenter of trade. Due to its size, it’s not really a sight as much as a district of its own.

You can take a stroll down the many broad promenades surrounded by 18^th-century warehouses. On the ground floor of just about all of them, you’ll see cafés, shops, or fish restaurants. Old Port of Marseille restaurants are as charming as you imagine them to be, and the Marseille food will leave you wanting more.

Today, the majority of the boats that you’ll see are for enthusiasts rather than traders. That’s because the local fishing industry modernized and moved to the many docks in the north. Still, you might stumble upon a fisherman carrying away fish to sell at a local market.

3. Musée d’Histoire de Marseille

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What is Marseille famous for?

How about a 2,600-year-long history?

It’s tough to grasp everything that the city’s been through on your own. Because of this, you don’t want to miss the Musée d’Histoire de Marseille. As you can imagine, the museum that contains so much history has to be the largest in the country. So if you’re a fan of history, you’re in for a unique treat.

Do you want to see all the artifacts from the time of the Ancient Greeks to the 20^th century? Or models and maps of Marseille throughout history? These are just the tip of the iceberg.

Plus, the museum is very close to the Old Port, so you can get to it in no time after you’ve finished browsing the shops and bars.

4. Le Panier

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Speaking of history, you must visit the Old Town where the Greeks settled in 600 BC. Le Panier is the cultural and historical center of Marseille, so you shouldn’t leave town before you get a chance to check it out.

What you’ll see are colorful pastel buildings, boutique shops, art galleries, and many unique spots. The entire area has a very artistic vibe, and even the gentrification hasn’t removed its charm.

As hard as it may be to believe once you get there, Le Panier is also a residential area. High lines of laundry breathe even more life into the area, making it even more appealing than it already is.

Naturally, the area has a few notable landmarks that you’ll want to visit. These include the Vieille Charité, Cathédrale de la Major, and Hôtel de Ville. And if you’re to explore Marseille’s heart and soul, be sure to take a walk through La Panier.

5. Calanques National Park

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If you’re up for a Marseille adventure, don’t forget to stop by the Calanques National Park. You can either hike or take a boat if you’re more into a relaxing trip. But even if you do decide to hike, the scenery will be well worth the effort.

The sight of the limestone rock walls over the mesmerizing turquoise water may be enough to tempt you to jump into it. Of course, you’re free to do so and you can enjoy many other activities as well. These include board cruises, yachting, and kayaking, to name a few.

If you have the time, you should certainly book a guided boat tour or even a private tour. That’s how you’ll get the chance to see some of the majestic fjord-like coves like Port-Pin and En-Vau.

And if you get tired of exploring, you can enjoy savory meals and drinks surrounded by awe-inspiring scenery.

Don’t Leave Too Soon

What you see here is only a sample of Marseille. This is a destination that deserves a lot of attention, so be sure to leave enough time to visit all the major sights.

Of course, Marseille also has many forts and castles that you may want to check out later. You can stand on the same spot as the Ancient Greeks of more than two and a half millennia ago, for example.

You won’t get many opportunities to do so, which is why you should take full advantage of everything that Marseille has to offer.

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Spend 4 Days In This Laid Back SoCal Surf Town For Under $100

Think you can’t afford a dreamy California beach vacation? Think again. Just north of San Diego lies Oceanside, a chill surf town with uncrowded beaches, vintage coastal vibes, and—get this—a way to spend four whole days here for less than $100.

Yes, really.

Thanks to a jaw-dropping travel offer from Booksi, you can enjoy 4 days and 3 nights in Oceanside for just $89 total. Here’s how to make the most of this SoCal hidden gem without blowing your budget.

🌊 Day 1: Hit the Beach

Oceanside’s beaches are clean, relaxed, and never too crowded. Start your trip by stretching out in the sun, strolling the iconic Oceanside Pier (one of the longest on the West Coast), or watching local surfers do their thing. Cost? Free.

🏄‍♂️ Day 2: Ride the Waves

Rent a surfboard or bodyboard for around $25 and hit the beginner-friendly waves. Not into surfing? Grab a coffee and walk The Strand for amazing coastal views. Finish the day with a cheap-but-delicious fish taco from a local food truck.

🎨 Day 3: Culture + Local Flavor

Explore Oceanside’s growing art scene at the Oceanside Museum of Art (low admission), then swing by the Thursday night Sunset Market for free live music and window shopping. You’ll find food stalls, handmade crafts, and a seriously cool community vibe.

🚴 Day 4: Get Active

Rent a bike and cruise the coast, explore the harbor, or visit Mission San Luis Rey—the largest Spanish mission in California. It’s a budget-friendly way to soak in the town’s history and natural beauty.

💵 The Math That’ll Blow Your Mind

· 3-Night Stay: $89 via Bo oksi’s exclusive offer

· Beach days: Free

· Activities + food: ~$10–$30/day depending on your style

Total? Easily under $100 for your stay. 🙌

🏖️ Final Word

Oceanside is the kind of place that delivers all the SoCal magic—without the crowds or the price tag. With Booksi’s unbeatable $89 offer, you’re just one click away from the beach town getaway you didn’t know you could afford.

👉 Book Your Oceanside Escape Now 👈

Weekend Getaways

Why Oceanside Is The Coolest Beach Town In California You’ve Never Heard Of

Oceanside: The Coolest Beach Town in California You’ve Never Heard Of (But Should!)

Forget the crowded boardwalks and sky-high prices of California’s more famous beach towns. There’s a true gem sparkling on the Southern California coast, quietly cultivating a vibrant, authentic, and undeniably cool vibe: Oceanside. If it’s not on your radar yet, prepare to be wonderfully surprised.

For years, Oceanside might have been considered merely a pit stop on the way to San Diego. But those days are long gone. This dynamic city has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving into a destination that perfectly blends classic California surf culture with a burgeoning arts scene, an exciting culinary landscape, and a commitment to sustainable living.

So, what makes Oceanside the coolest beach town you’ve been missing out on? Let’s dive in!

More Than Just Miles of Sand (Though We Have Plenty!)

Oceanside Pier — Aeroviews.co. (2025). Available at: https://aeroviews.co [Accessed 14 Jul. 2025]

Yes, Oceanside boasts 3.5 miles of pristine, wide sandy beaches – perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or catching a wave. But it’s the iconic Oceanside Pier that truly sets the scene. Stretching nearly 2,000 feet into the Pacific, it’s one of the longest wooden piers on the West Coast, offering breathtaking views, fantastic fishing (no license required!), and a quintessential California stroll. You’ll see surfers carving lines below and may even spot dolphins or seals playing in the waves.

Just north of the pier, the Oceanside Harbor is a charming hub for all things maritime. Think colorful boats, fresh seafood restaurants, and opportunities for whale watching, kayaking, or paddleboarding. It’s a picturesque spot to soak in the coastal ambiance.

A Surfer’s Paradise with a Rich History

Oceanside’s roots are deeply entwined with surf culture, and it’s celebrated at the fantastic California Surf Museum. Here, you can immerse yourself in the sport’s history, marvel at vintage boards (including an 11-foot redwood from the 1800s!), and learn about legendary surfers. Even Bethany Hamilton’s shark-bitten board is on display, a testament to the resilience and spirit of the surf community.

Beyond surfing, Oceanside embraces its past with historic landmarks like the Mission San Luis Rey and the beautifully restored “Top Gun” House (now serving up nostalgic pies!). You’ll find a blend of old and new, creating a unique character you won’t find just anywhere.

A Culinary Scene That Will Surprise and Delight

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Prepare your taste buds, because Oceanside’s food scene is booming! What was once a sleepy surf town is now a culinary hotspot, with new and exciting restaurants popping up regularly. From European bistros to East Coast-inspired delis, and a plethora of craft breweries and wine-tasting rooms, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Don’t miss out on exploring Artist Alley, a vibrant space that hosts a First Friday Art Walk with pop-up galleries and artisan goods, often with delicious food trucks on hand.

Beyond the Beach: Unique Adventures Await

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Oceanside offers a surprising array of activities that go beyond the typical beach day:

Skydiving with Ocean Views: For the ultimate thrill, try indoor skydiving at iFLY or, for the truly adventurous, jump out of a plane with GoJump Oceanside for unparalleled views of the coastline.
Goat Hill Park: This isn’t your average golf course. It’s a refreshingly inclusive and unique spot with ocean views, a relaxed atmosphere (no dress code, rock music!), and even a commitment to local beekeeping!
Whale Watching: Year-round excursions from the Harbor offer incredible opportunities to spot majestic whales and playful dolphins.
Biking the Strand: A pedestrian-friendly path runs parallel to the ocean, perfect for biking, running, or a leisurely stroll.
Sunset Market: On Thursday evenings, Pier View Way transforms into a lively outdoor market with food, music, and local crafts – an experience not to be missed.

Why Oceanside is Your Next California Escape

Oceanside isn’t just a pretty face; it’s a community with a strong sense of identity, a laid-back charm, and a dedication to growth that benefits both visitors and locals. It’s less crowded than its Southern California neighbors, offering a more authentic and relaxed beach town experience. And with visitor spending consistently growing (reaching $568 million in 2022!), it’s clear that more and more people are discovering its magic.

So, if you’re looking for a California beach getaway that’s off the beaten path, rich in culture, brimming with delicious food, and offers endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation, then Oceanside is calling your name. It’s the coolest beach town in California you’ve never heard of, and it’s time to change that.

Romantic Trips

New Orleans’ Jazz Scene: A Music Lover’s Guide

When it comes to jazz, New Orleans doesn’t just play the notes—it lives them. The city pulses with rhythm, soul, and a kind of musical magic that floats through the air like the scent of beignets in the French Quarter. From cozy dive bars to iconic street corners, the New Orleans jazz scene is a nonstop symphony of culture, history, and toe-tapping groove. Whether you’re a seasoned jazz enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the genre, this guide hits all the high notes.

What Makes New Orleans the Home of Jazz?

Let’s not beat around the brass—New Orleans jazz isn’t just a genre. It’s a vibe. A lifestyle. A living, breathing part of the city’s DNA. Born in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, jazz in New Orleans blends African rhythms, European instruments, blues, ragtime, and good old-fashioned improvisation. It started in neighborhoods like Tremé and Storyville, and from there, it grew into a global phenomenon.

You don’t need a history degree to feel it. Just stroll down Frenchmen Street or hang around Jackson Square for five minutes and you’ll understand. This isn’t just music—it’s a conversation between generations, played out on brass, woodwinds, and whatever else folks can get their hands on.

The Best Spots to Experience the New Orleans Jazz Scene

Alright, let’s get to the good stuff. If you want to hear authentic New Orleans jazz, these are the spots you have to hit.

Preservation Hall

Live performance in the heart of the New Orleans jazz scene with brass band musicians and local crowd — Simpleviewinc.com. (2025). Available at: https://assets.simpleviewinc.com/ [Accessed 11 Jul. 2025].

Let’s start with the legend. Open since 1961, Preservation Hall is a no-frills, all-thrills venue that serves up traditional New Orleans jazz nightly. No drinks, no food—just pure, unfiltered music played by local legends in an intimate, soul-stirring setting. The line gets long, so show up early and bring cash.

Frenchmen Street

You know how Bourbon Street gets all the hype? Frenchmen is where the real magic happens—especially for jazz lovers. This strip in the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood is packed with live music venues, from the swanky vibes of The Spotted Cat to the standing-room-only energy at Blue Nile. You can literally bar-hop from jazz band to jazz band, all night long.

Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro

Looking for a more polished experience? Snug Harbor is a classy little jazz club and restaurant that’s been a staple since the ’80s. It hosts some of the best local and national talent around. Plus, the acoustics are spot-on, and the Creole cuisine isn’t too shabby either.

Tipitina’s

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Okay, so it’s not strictly jazz. But Tipitina’s is legendary in the New Orleans music scene. You’ll hear funk, soul, blues, and, yes, jazz—all under one roof. Founded in honor of Professor Longhair, a pioneer of the New Orleans sound, this venue is a rite of passage for any music lover.

Jazz in the Streets: Music on the Move

You don’t need a ticket to catch great jazz in New Orleans. In fact, some of the best performances happen where you least expect them. Jackson Square? Full of trumpet players and saxophonists making magic happen. Royal Street? You’ll stumble upon brass bands so good they’ll make you cancel your dinner reservation just to keep listening.

And don’t forget about second lines. These vibrant parades, often part of weddings or community celebrations, feature high-energy brass bands, dancing crowds, and a party atmosphere that’ll stick with you long after the music fades.

Jazz Museums and Experiences for Hardcore Fans

If you’re the kind of person who likes to go deep, New Orleans has you covered.

The New Orleans Jazz Museum

Housed in the historic Old U.S. Mint, this museum is packed with artifacts, instruments, and exhibits that trace the history and impact of jazz. It’s a must-visit for anyone who wants context with their soundtrack.

Congo Square

This sacred ground in Louis Armstrong Park was once the only place enslaved Africans could gather on Sundays. It became a birthplace of rhythm, dance, and early jazz. Today, it’s a powerful spot to reflect and sometimes even catch a live performance.

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When to Visit: Jazz Fest and Beyond

If you want the full-blown, jazz-soaked experience, plan your trip around the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. Held annually in late April and early May, Jazz Fest features local legends and global stars alike. But honestly, any time’s a good time. New Orleans doesn’t take days off when it comes to jazz.

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Final Notes: Why Jazz in New Orleans Just Hits Different

Sure, you can hear jazz in other cities. But nowhere does it like New Orleans. The vibe here is raw, real, and ridiculously contagious. The musicians aren’t just playing songs—they’re sharing stories, history, and heart. Every solo has soul. Every street corner could be your next favorite stage.

So, if you’re planning a trip, don’t just eat your way through New Orleans (though, by all means, do that too). Tune in. Listen up. Let the rhythm find you. Because in this city, jazz isn’t just background noise—it’s the soundtrack to life.