Paris is not just France as there are plenty of other cities in this amazing country. Cities that are both unique and have plenty to offer to curious visitors. Marseille is the perfect example of a French city that has plenty to offer for even the most demanding tourists.
At the same time, Marseille is one of those cities that is open to both wealthy and budget travelers. There is no point in writing a guide for those for whom money is not an object. That is why the following guide reflects on what it takes to explore the city with a limited budget.
Airport to Marseille transport
The airport is the starting point for most international travelers. As a result, Marseille airport transfers is the first thing that interest any budget traveler. The cheapest option is to catch the train as the ticket costs just €5.1. That’s a one-way ticket to the city center. Then comes the bus that costs €8.3.
How to find an affordable place to stay?
The only way to make most of your Marseille trip is if you stay there for some time, at least a few days. That way, you can truly explore the city and absorb everything it has to offer. The most affordable way to do so is to look for short-term rentals in Marseille. That’s the cheapest option, way cheaper than booking and staying in a hotel.
The main difference between a standard rental and a short-term rental is that for a short-term rental, you don’t need to sign a CDI contract. Thanks to the big demand, there are more and more short-term rentals popping out all over the city.
Finding a short-term rental place is possible through Le Bon Coin, which is pretty much like the US’s Craiglist. Other than that, Airbnb can be pretty helpful when finding a short-term rental space. In any case, finding an affordable place to stay can be done without too much hassle.
Getting around the city
The easiest, the healthiest, and the cheapest way, to get around Marseille is on foot. Le Panier (the oldest district in the city) is just five minutes’ walk from the Old Port. There are a few hills that might look like bit challenging on foot, but the views there are worth every step, every effort you make.
If you are not into walking then bike renting is the next best thing. Marseille also has a pretty good tram and subway system. If you are into public transport getting a CityPass is definitely worth the money. Not only you will have free access to the metro, the tram, and the bus, but will also receive museum perks. One day pass costs €26, a two-day pass is €33, and a three-day pass goes for €40.
Conclusion
Other than the tips above, you can only save on eating. That means buying food from local groceries and cooking it on your own, or buy ready food from street vendors. In any way that beats eating into a fancy restaurant where the prices can be pretty hectic. But if you are determined into going into restaurants, avoid the ones on the main tourist roads and near the main attractions. Instead, look for the ones in the side alleys where locals eat.
