Marseille-Provence in the European Capital of Culture in 2013, and the whole region will host hundreds of cultural events, such as exhibitions, spectacles, concerts, parades, festivals, food tastings and more. For more info, visit the website: www.mp2013.fr. And make sure to stop at the Office du Tourisme, located at the head of the Vieux Port, 4 La Canebière, Tel: +33 826 50 05 00. You can buy the City Pass, giving free entry to 15 museums, access to subway, bus and tramway network, boat trip to Frioul Islands and more. Valid 1day for 24 € or 2 days for 31 €.

Musée des Civilisations d'Europe et de Méditerranée: MUCEM
This spectacular new museum, opening in the spring 2013 will showcase exhibitions and diverse shows about European and Mediterranean civilizations and cultures. Located between the Vieux Port and La Joliette.
www.mucem.org

Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde: Marseille’s landmark. Romano-Byzantine basilica from the 19th century rising up from the city’s highest hill, about 1km south (right) of the Vieux Port. The esplanade around the basilica offers breathtaking views of the city.
Abbaye St-Victor: gorgeously preserved church by the Vieux Port (on the right side) built in the 12th century with chunks of the original 4th century structure remaining in the crypt.
Opera de Marseille, 2 Rue Molière 13001 Marseille Tel: +33(0)4 91 55 11 10.
Located at the head of the Vieux Port and hosting classical music concerts, operas and ballet performances.
Le Silo, 35 Quai du Lazaret 13002 Marseille Tel: +33 (0)4 91 90 00 00 www.silo-marseille.fr. Performing art center located close to the shipyards, presenting a fantastic choice of shows, from live music concerts, comedians, ballet dancing, plays etc... Check out their program.
Dock des Suds, 12 Rue Urbain V, 13002 Marseille Tel: +33(0)4 91 99 00 00
www.dock-des-suds.org. Artists and live bands from all over the world perform in this concert hall also located close to the shipyards.