Once the central trading port of France, Marseille dates to 600 BC. Throughout the ebb and flow of history, this significant port city has sided with the Roman Republic, opposed Julius Caesar during the Civil War, was an early center of Christianity captured by the Visigoths, sacked by the forces of Charles Martel, then by The Crown of Aragon and ravaged by the Black Plague all before 1450. During the 16th century, Marseille was a major port for the Franco-Ottoman navies. The population was again decimated by a plague in 1720, recovering by mid century just in time to be at the center of the French Revolution. Marseille is also the birthplace of the French National Anthem, La Marseillaise. Modern Marseille was a major player in the Industrial Revolution and was occupied by The German Wehrmacht in 1942 which led to the city being heavily damaged. Currently the second largest city in France, Marseille is not only an historic place to visit, it is an engaging destination, with fine dining, and 5-star hotels.
One of the best located hotels in Marseille is the Radisson Blu Hotel, Marseille Vieux Port. This 189-room hotel is ideally located in the City Center with stunning views of Old Port, now a marina, it is the starting point of the city that boasts thousands of years of history and spans civilizations. Enjoy the convenience of the central location of this cozy hotel with comfortable rooms that is a short walk from the main train station as well as the shops, cafes and restaurants. You can even take the train to Paris for a day trip when you book at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Marseille Vieux Port.
The 189 rooms of the Radisson Blu Hotel, Marseille Vieux Port are in two distinctive buildings on the property that also offers guests a relaxing pool with sun courtyard, a fitness center and the Cinq Modes Spa. Each of the rooms has a view of cityscapes or the historic port and feature a minibar and coffee and tea service to enjoy during your stay.
The convenience and comfort of the Radisson Blu Hotel, Marseille Vieux Port is the perfect home base for exploring the famed Calanques de Marseille. These steeped walled inlets along the coast are reminiscent of Norwegian fjords and are located between Marseille and Cassis, they are the remnants of river mouths that form dramatic valleys. The concierge will gladly help visitors book boating excursions and make recommendations for sightseeing and excursions that are easily accessible from the Radisson Blu Hotel, Marseille Vieux Port.
Charcuterie Board with rosette & spicy dried sausage from Marseille, pate, dry-cured ham and condiments
Veggie Risotto with tomato, oregano and basil
Sea bream fillet and mussels of Tamaris, risotto with tomato and spinach
Vanilla creme brulee
Mixed fruits
Breakfast buffet
Newly opened at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Marseille Vieux Port is the Le Quai du 7ème featuring three distinctive dining settings. Terrace seating that faces the Old Harbor dining in a setting that reflects the exciting mood and lively interactions that the Old Harbor affords to visitors. Enjoy the Mediterranean Menu of Le Quai du 7ème as the evening settles in and the lively bustle of the day eases into a relaxing French evening. Terrace seating is the perfect setting to enjoy local Provencal tapas and signature cocktails while pondering the view that has been relished for thousands of years.
For family time or enjoying live music with your brunch, indoor seating is available among an aqua themed color scheme. Indoor seating features a Kid’s corner along with a Kid’s menu. For adults indoor dining selections include local seafood classics and homemade desserts.
For more intimate seating the Le Quai du 7ème offers secluded tables on the patio where you can enjoy a selection from the grill along with intimate conversation and relaxing cocktails.
Le Quai du 7ème has extraordinary events throughout the year which change seasonally. These events include live concerts featuring pop and soul music, Comedy Shows and Happy Hours. Be sure to check the schedule to see what’s on tap at Le Quai du 7ème during your stay at Radisson Blu Hotel, Marseille Vieux Port.
The Le Quai du 7ème offers a range of menu selections that is sure to satisfy an array of cuisine choices. Enjoy the Le Quai du 7ème for aperitif, lunch, snacks, dinner and classic French Cocktails. A lively, expansive Sunday Brunch is presented with live performances and unique events for children and families.
Lionel Van den Haute, General Manager
Story by Daniel Dachille and Laine Page
Some photos courtesy of Radisson Blu Hotel, Marseille Vieux Port