Marseille

Founded 2,600 years ago as a port city, Marseille – after some years in decline – remains a dazzling metropolis on the Mediterranean, especially after its turn as the European Capital of Culture in 2013. With some of its rough edges polished and even a smattering of new museums and a handful of Michelin-starred restaurants, France's second-largest city is making a comeback. Its long, vibrant history and its hilly landscape of gritty streets and whitewashed buildings that tumble to the yacht-filled waters also add to its allure, as is the feeling that Marseille is a place where it seems possible to stumble on something secret, something all your own – something not listed in the travel books. But you'd better hurry: The rest of the world seems to be catching on.

Food in Marseille

1. Bouillabaisse 

Marseille’s most famous and classic dish is bouillabaisse, which was once known as the poor man’s soup. It’s hardly that now, thanks to its popularity and higher price, which tourists gladly pay. This dish is a hearty meal and is loved by true seafood enthusiasts. The soup is made using a variety of seafood combinations, typically decided upon by the chef or by what is available. Ingredients can range from multiple types of fish, shrimp, crab, lobster, mussels, and sea urchins and often includes any combination of vegetable seasonings such as garlic, onions, potatoes and fresh herbs. Locals will attest to the deep, rich quality of the bouillabaisse created in Marseille.

2. Aïoli 

It looks like mayonnaise, but in Marseille, aïoli is a gourmet spread made of garlic, lemon juice, eggs and olive oil. It’s a popular dipping sauce for fries, cod, vegetables, shellfish and just about any other dippable food.

3. Madeleines 

One of Marseille’s specialties is the iconic shell-shaped and sweet sponge cake called a madeleine. These almond-flavored cakes are very popular throughout France and taste best when they’re fresh. Buy them at their peak freshness and take them back on the ship pre-packaged and unopened for the safety of other passengers.