A recent study highlights the unexplored potential of the city of Marseille and the Calanques, revealing that they are among the most underrated destinations in France. Compared to iconic places such as the Eiffel Tower, the Phocean city possesses an exceptional natural and cultural heritage that deserves to be discovered. In this article, we will examine the results of this study and explore the reasons why Marseille and its surroundings are a treasure to be rediscovered.
Calanques: an unexpected landscape
The national park of the Calanques stretches from Marseille to Cassis, offering spectacular landscapes that captivate with their beauty. Surprisingly, despite an annual attendance of 3 million visitors, this place is still perceived as unknown. According to the SumUp study, it even ranks third among the most underrated places in France. Visitors can enjoy peaceful coves, walking trails suitable for all, as well as impressive biodiversity.
The numbers speak for themselves
Each year, nearly 5 million tourists head to Marseille, but many overlook the richness of its natural environment. The study awarded a score of 97.35/100 to the national park of the Calanques, placing it just behind the famous cliffs of Étretat. A reservation system has been implemented for access to certain sites, which already highlights its success, although it also shows that there is a need to better organize attendance.
Specifics of the study
To establish this ranking, SumUP relied on various factors, including the number of reviews on TripAdvisor, five-star ratings, and social media engagement. This set of indicators proves that the Calanques, although highly popular, do not receive recognition commensurate with their value. The adopted methodology clearly demonstrates that tourists’ interest in this location could be enhanced with better communication.
Why Marseille is a destination to prioritize
In addition to the Calanques, Marseille is rich in cultural, historical, and gastronomic attractions that make it a vibrant city. Iconic neighborhoods such as the Old Port and Le Panier offer a blend of history and modernity. The richness of its cultural heritage, coupled with urban renovation projects, makes Marseille a dynamic city that deserves to be visited. Visitors have the opportunity to discover unique culinary specialties, such as bouillabaisse or the famous pastis.
A city in the midst of transformation
In parallel, Marseille stands out for its efforts in sustainable development and innovation. The city is investing in its infrastructure and enhancing its natural assets. This evolution attracts not only tourists but also investors and entrepreneurs looking to settle there. In short, Marseille is a city to be rediscovered, with a strong potential waiting to be explored.
Marseille, often seen as just a stopover for more famous destinations, has an underlying wealth that a recent study has highlighted. Between its magnificent Calanques and its unique cultural heritage, the city is a hidden gem. While millions of visitors flock to iconic places, Marseille must be recognized as an essential destination in its own right. Nature lovers and culture enthusiasts will find their share here. In summary, the Phocean city is undergoing significant changes and deserves to be highlighted for its unique features and ambiance. Whether through its natural heritage or its gastronomy, Marseille offers an authentic experience that still has much to reveal. With its growing popularity, we can only hope that this city receives the recognition it deserves in the French tourist pantheon.
