Would you like to get away from it all without traveling to the other side of the world? So do we, and we're no strangers to this dilemma: finding a destination that's a real change of scenery, but without spending hours on the road. That's when we asked ourselves: where can I go that's less than 2 hours from Marseille? The good news is that there's no shortage of places to go around Marseille! Turquoise seas, hilltop villages, wilderness or charming little towns... Sometimes all it takes is a weekend to feel like you're on vacation. So we're sharing our 10 favorite ideas, tried and tested, for getting away from it all without wasting any time. So, are you coming with us?
1. Where to go within 2 hours of Marseille? Nice
Our weekend begins on one of Nice's must-sees: the Promenade des Anglais! Here we are between the sea and the city, under palm trees and a beautiful sun: what more could you ask for? A few interesting visits, of course! Our best of:
- the Matisse museum,
- the magnificent Saint-Nicolas Orthodox Cathedral,
- the Cimiez monastery,
- the Musée Masséna,
- the Cours Saleya.
We finish on a high note at Nice's castle hill, with its breathtaking view: what wonderful memories!
The quickest way to spend a weekend in Nice from Marseille is by car (allow just over 2 hours).
Our favorite hotelwe've fallen for the retro-chic decor ofHôtel Nap By HappyCulture! This pop establishment, which you can book here, is ideally located and reasonably priced.
The activity to book for your weekenda one-hour cruise in the bay of Villefranche to discover the natural splendor of the Côte d'Azur.
2. Visit Aigues-Mortes and the rest of the Camargue
For us, Saintes-Maries-de-Mer is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Camargue. Between the old town and the beaches as far as the eye can see, you simply feel at home. Nature is magnificent in the Camargue, punctuated here and there by white Camargue horses and bulls. As for pink flamingos, you'll find them in the Parc naturel régional de Camargue! You'll also fall in love with Aigues-Mortesa historic city surrounded by ramparts and salt flats, which sometimes take on a superb pink hue. A must-see!
It takes justtwo hours by car to drive the 135 km from Marseille to Aigues-Mortes.
Our favorite hotelle Médiéval may not be medieval, but it's a great place to sleep! Located near the ramparts, it offers free private parking and beautiful family rooms, bookable here.
The activity to book for your weekenda 4x4 safari with a passionate guide to see horses and bulls running free in their natural environment, as well as birds and flamingos in the Camargue.
The article to read: What to do and see in Aigues-Mortes? The 13 must-sees in 2025
3. Discover Hyères and Porquerolles, near Marseille
Theisland of Porquerolles is one of our favorite places to visit in and around Hyères. The best things to do on Porquerolles revolve around walking, punctuated by a few nice surprises, such as the Moulin du Bonheur. But visiting Hyèresalso means visiting a historic town, with its ramparts and the remains of its castle. During our tour of the market, we were able to catch a glimpse of this past, notably at the Tour des Templiers. Last but not least, we loved the unspoilt calm of Port-Cros, an ideal island for hikers and water lovers alike!
By car, you can reach Hyères in an hour. By train, allow around 1h40.
Our favorite hotelthe terrace overlooking the sea atHôtel Bor is a real treat! Click here to book your comfortable, elegant family room, ideally located in Hyères.
The activity to book for your weekenda sunset catamaran cruise on the Giens peninsula.
4. Where to go less than 2 hours from Marseille? Saint-Tropez
Saint-Tropez is a 2-hour drive from Marseille : the fastest option. The port is surely one of the must-sees in Saint-Tropez that everyone has heard of. It's true that it's beautiful, and the boats (or rather yachts...) are quite simply impressive! However, it's the simple charm of the narrow streets lined with flowery ochre facades that delighted our traveling hearts. They led us quietly to the city's towers, before we set off to discover the Citadelle. A truly wonderful visit!
Our favorite hotelwith private parking, a swimming pool and a calm, shady garden, we have nothing but fond memories of our stay at Lou Cagnard, bookable right here.
The activity to book for your weekendthis kayaking session in the Ramatuelle reserve
Petit Futé tipfor less expensive accommodation in Saint-Tropez, a city renowned for its luxury, opt for a campsite!
5. Stroll the streets of Avignon
Close to Marseille lies a magnificent city: Avignon. It takes just an hour and a quarter to get there, either by train or by car. Ideal for a weekend less than 2 hours from Marseille! Even if you haven't visited the city, you'll already be familiar with many of Avignon's must-sees:
- the Pont Bénezet (the famous "Pont d'Avignon of song"),
- the Popes' Palace,
- the Avignon Festival.
Our personal pleasure is to be found near the kayak rental company, along the Rhône (on the opposite bank from the city center). Whenever we're out and about, we enjoy a croissant or a giant pain au chocolat at La Magie des Pains, a charming and excellent bakery.
Our favorite hotelour favorite hotel: traveling with our dog, we appreciated the dog-friendly welcome at Le Saint-Roch, a charming hotel nestled in a magnificent old house. Book your room here!
The activity to book for your weekend think about booking in advance right here your entrance to the Palais des Papes and the Papal Gardens.
The article to read: Where to go for a weekend less than 2 hours from Lyon? 10 destination ideas
6. Where to go less than 2 hours from Marseille? Gordes in the Lubéron
Head for the Lubéron, and more specifically Gordesjust 1h15 from Marseille. This magnificent village perched on a rocky peak is one of France's most beautiful villages. We can confirm it! Its fortress castle is superb, as is the beautifully decorated church of Saint-Firmin. And it's great to stroll along the calades, those lovely stone streets!
Our second favorite place to visit in the Lubéron is the Colorado Provençal, with its warmly colored soil. It's magical!
Our favorite hotelfrom the local cuisine based on fresh produce to the comfortable rooms and magnificent exterior, staying at Le Carcarille was a real pleasure! Just a few clicks away, your room is waiting for you.
7. Marvel at the Gorges du Verdon
It takes just over 2 hours from Marseille to reach the superb Gorges du Verdon. Nature is king here, and we love it! Walking and water sports are at the heart of the must-do activities in the Gorges du Verdon:
- canoeing, kayaking
- boating,
- via ferrata,
- climbing,
- Mountain biking, etc.
The more adventurous even dared to bungee jump from the Pont de l'Artuby! As for the kids, they were particularly fond of Lac de Castillon and its beaches: what a delight!
Our favorite hotelhôtel du Roc de Castellane: simplicity is the order of the day at Hôteldu Roc de Castellane, but the welcome is impeccable, even for dogs! One click and you're at the gateway to the Gorges du Verdon, at a great price.
The activity to book for your weekendif you'd like to rent a canoe, kayak or SUP in the Verdon Canyon, just click here.
8. Discover Toulon, its harbor and its treasures
The Marseille-Toulon journey is just 50 minutes by car or an hour by train! We couldn't resist it, and set off for a weekend in Toulon full of discoveries. The Musée de la Marine, with its huge ship models, was a great attraction for everyone, including children. During our weekend, we also discovered Fort Saint-Louis, took the cable car up to Mont Faron and admired the Toulon harbor. Special mention must go to thecity's Opera House, as splendid inside as out!
Our favorite hotelthe Grand Hôtel Dauphiné: very central, ideally located. This budget hotel, bookable here, also boasts a swimming pool.
The activity to book for your weekendtake a city tour of Toulon on the little train. Admire the picturesque old town, the Fort Saint-Louis and discover the city's rich history along the way.
The article to read: What to do in Toulon The 19 must-sees
9. Take a break near Marseille, in Aix-en-Provence
It only takeshalf an hour to travel from Marseille to Aix-en-Provence (or 45 minutes by train). Why deprive yourself? Especially since the city is so adorable! Aix-en-Provence's best sights, such as the Fontaine de la Rotonde, are to be found in the heart of the city. It's pleasant to stroll through the narrow streets before, why not, heading south to the Parc Jourdan. Our greatest discovery, however, was a culinary one: calissons, a real delicacy that's a must-taste!
Our favorite hotell 'Escaletto: we found the best value for money in Aix-en-Provence at L'Escaletto, bookable here. A bright, comfortable hotel with the added bonus of a small private parking lot!
The activity to book for your weekendan immersive Son et Lumière show in Aix-en-Provence Cathedral.
10. Where to go within 2 hours of Marseille? Cassis
We literally fell under the spell of this town! There's so much to see and do in Cassis, it's absolutely everywhere. Our first evening was spent along the harbor, where we returned the next day to take a boat to the calanques of Port-Miou and Port-Pin. With its funny name, Cap Canaille also attracted us. No regrets, such is the beauty of the view! Fancy a quick tour of the town? Our family really enjoyed taking the little tourist train.
It takes 35 minutes by car from Marseille, or 45 minutes by train, to reach Cassis.
Our favorite hotelles Jardins de Cassis: relaxation is the order of the day at Les Jardins de Cassis, an establishment surrounded by greenery. The swimming pool is a real plus for cooling off in summer in a dream setting! Book your comfortable room here .
The activity to book for your weekenda half-day tour of the 3 calanques Port-Miou, Port-Pin and En-Vau with an enthusiastic guide, including a swim.
The article to read: Where to go for a weekend less than 2 hours from Paris? 19 destination ideas in 2025
Looking for a cheap weekend getaway in Europe? Why not start with France, before exploring beyond our borders? There are some wonderful places to visit, less than 2 hours from Marseille! From the seaside to more remote inland towns like Avignon, we went from surprise to surprise. The South of France is simply magnificent. Each town, each département, had its own landscapes and specialities in store for us. It's a real pleasure to come back every year!
The last article: Where to go for a weekend less than 2 hours from Bordeaux? 10 destination ideas
