The
European Capital of Culture’s top rated hotels
With 2013 well underway, the French city of Marseille has
assumed its position as European Capital of Culture. In celebration of this,
the city promises plenty for visitors to enjoy throughout the year including
circuses, exhibitions, street entertainment, open air concerts and much more.
But apart from being this year’s European Capital of
Culture, what else does Marseille have to offer? Well, as one of the oldest
cities in France (founded 2,600 years ago), it’s steeped in history so great if
you’re a history buff. And, if you’re into watersports, Marseille is the place
to be. Plus, boasting over
300 days of sunshine per year, the chance of good weather when visiting the
city is highly likely.
If you’re looking to head to Marseille, we at
TripAdvisor have put together a list of the top 10 hotels in the city according
to our community of reviewers*:
1.
Sofitel Marseille
Vieux-Port – Located
in the heart of the city’s ancient harbour area, this hotel is inspired by
Marseille’s history and marine connections. Touches of the sea can be found
throughout and the design evokes a feeling of being inside the cabin of a
yacht. As one TripAdvisor traveller commented, “From the moment we arrived the
service was exceptional. The hotel room was excellent with fantastic views of
the old port.”
2. Music Hotel – Offering an
intimate feel with fewer than 20 rooms, this hotel is close to the beach,
Marseille Opera House, the Old Port of Marseille, and Vieux Port. As one
TripAdvisor traveller commented, “We couldn't have stayed in a better hotel.
Staff were very welcoming, friendly and attentive. We had a great, spacious
room with a designer look and feel.”
3. Le Ryad – Inspired by
Marseille’s North African influences, this hotel is designed with a Moroccan
feel. Located just a stone’s throw from the Old Port, it has nine rooms on
offer and boasts a courtyard in the centre of the building filled with trees,
roses and a fountain by which guests can
enjoy breakfast. As one TripAdvisor traveller commented, “My experience in Le
Ryad was exceptional. The service is first class and the rooms and amenities
are wonderful.”
4. Residence du Vieux – Located on the
south bank of the famous Old Port, this hotel offers stunning views of the
waterfront. The rooms have recently been renovated with a chic 50’s retro feel.
As one TripAdvisor traveller commented, “A
wonderful hotel in a perfect location. We stayed on the 6th floor and had a
great view of the old Port with the Notre-Dame de la Garde beyond.”
5. Mama Shelter – This stylish
hotel is located in the city centre and its amenities include an iMac with TV,
radio, internet, free WiFi access and on-demand movies in room, digital
concierge and in-room pamper products. As one TripAdvisor traveller commented,
“Love the decor of the hotel, especially the rooms. Super comfortable beds,
great bathrooms and good bed linen.”
6.
Seven Urban Suites
Prado
– Ideally situated at the heart of Marseille and its business area and only
200m from the ‘Perier’ metro, the Seven
Urban Suites Prado offers both hotel and apartment accommodation. As one
TripAdvisor traveller commented, “Our room was immaculately clean and
everything was new and contemporary. It is perfect for those who are looking
for value-for-money and who wish to have the flexibility of being able to
self-cater.”
7.
Hotel Lutia – This small and
intimate hotel is located in the lively city centre offering ten rooms for
those looking for a home from home experience. As one TripAdvisor traveller
commented, “Friendly service, super clean, lovely big rooms with unbelievably
large bathrooms! Flat screen TV, free WiFi, lots of fresh towels every day and
the breakfast was plentiful and delicious.”
8.
Holiday Inn Express
Marseille Saint Charles – Conveniently located opposite Marseille's busy Saint
Charles rail and metro station, this hotel boasts three tranquil terraces,
dotted with leafy shrubs which guests can enjoy meals and drinks from during
the summer months. As one TripAdvisor traveller commented, “Great location,
very convenient for leisure and business travellers. Our room was spacious and
modern with everything we needed.”
9. Pullman Marseille
Palm Beach
– A stylish and contemporary hotel, the Pullman Marseille Palm Beach boasts a
pool that overlooks the Mediterranean Sea, sauna, whirlpool bath and
marine-themed rooms. As one TripAdvisor traveller commented, “Superb hotel.
Room (with sea view) was absolutely lovely, Breakfast was excellent and the staff
were very proactive and professional.”
10. Radisson Blu Hotel
Marseille Vieux Port
– This hotel boasts an outdoor swimming pool with views of Vieux Port, a patio
where guests can enjoy a game of bowls and mini-golf and a spa offering a range
of treatments. As one TripAdvisor traveller commented, “The location was
priceless, right in front of the harbour. The building is very modern and
spacious and the breakfast spread was unbelievable – every type of food for
every taste.”
For more
information on Marseille, go to http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Tourism-g187253-Marseille_Bouches_du_Rhone_Provence-Vacations.html
*List is
according to TripAdvisor’s popularity index. Please note the
popularity index is dynamic and can change at any time. List was accurate
as of 21 January 2013.
