Cover Marseille Marina (Photo: Instagram/ @Paris2024)
Marseille Marina (Photo: Instagram/ @Paris2024)
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From the iconic ports of Marseille to the vibrant streets of Bordeaux, Tatler provides the essential guide for making the most of your visit to France, whether you're here for the Games or a leisurely holiday
The Summer Olympic Games take place in Paris from July 26 to August 11, followed by the Paralympics from August 28 to September 8. Most of the events will be held in the bustling capital, its suburbs and neighbouring cities, but some are further afield: there’s handball in Lille to the north and sailing in Marseille on the south coast; football, meanwhile, is being played in stadiums around the country.
Many of the competitions are taking place at some of the most recognisable edifices and venues across the country. We take a closer look at some of those you might have heard of but not know much about.
Whether or not you’ve scored tickets to the Games, France is a brilliant holiday destination with something for everyone; these recommendations of Tatler’s favourite attractions, hotels and eateries will ensure you get the most out of your visit.
Read more: Haute Spots: Hélène Darroze’s insider guide to eating and drinking well in Paris
MARSEILLE
Above The Stade Vélodrome in Marseille (Photo: ©Paris 2024)
The Stade Vélodrome in Marseille (Photo: ©Paris 2024)
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The Stade Vélodrome, or Marseille Stadium, is France’s second-largest sports arena. As the name suggests, it was built as a combined stadium and velodrome; it opened in 1937 with a friendly
football match between the local team Olympique de Marseille and Italian side Torino FC—the home side won—then went on to host the 1938 World Cup.
It has undergone several major renovations, including removing the cycling track in the mid-1980s and increasing the capacity from 42,000 seats to a little over 60,000 ahead of the 1998 World Cup. The venue also hosted the Euro 1984 and 2016 championships, and the 2007 and 2023 Rugby World Cups.
Marseille is a prime spot for cultural events over the summer, with music festivals attracting artists from all over the world. It’s a draw for history buffs too: France’s oldest city and its second-largest, it was founded by Greek sailors in 600 BC and originally named Massalia. This rich Greek heritage still influences the city’s culture and architecture, particularly in the La Panier District.
At the venue:
Football (July 24-August 6)
See also: Meet the Malaysian athletes who have qualified for the Paris Olympics 2024
PLACES TO SEE, EAT AND STAY
Les Calanques National Park (Photo: Getty Images)
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SEE
The Frioul archipelago, Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica, Les Calanques National Park, Vieux Port (the old port), Mucem (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations)
DID YOU KNOW
Château d’If, a fortress-turned prison on a small island off the shores of Marseille, gained fame through Alexandre Dumas’ novel, The Count of Monte Cristo. The protagonist, Edmond Dantès (played by Jim Caviezel in the 2002 film version), was imprisoned here before he made his legendary escape.
Above French fish soup Bouillabaisse with seafood, salmon fillet, shrimp, rich flavor, delicious dinner. Close up.
Above Chateau d'If castle island, Mediterranean Sea, Marseille, France
French fish soup Bouillabaisse with seafood, salmon fillet, shrimp, rich flavor, delicious dinner. Close up.
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EAT
Bouillabaisse Head to Chez Fonfon, Restaurant Peron or Restaurant Michel to try this savoury fish stew.
Navette biscuits Get these boat-shaped, orange-blossom-scented biscuits from Four des Navettes, the city’s oldest boulangerie.
Don’t miss: A sweet guide to the best-loved bakeries in Paris
Above Le Petit Nice Passedat (Photo: courtesy of Le Petit Nice Passedat)
Le Petit Nice Passedat (Photo: courtesy of Le Petit Nice Passedat)
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STAY
Le Petit Nice Passedat This five-star luxury hotel sits right on the water’s edge, promising a tranquil stay in beautifully appointed villas and rooms. Visit the three-Michelin-starred restaurant helmed by chef Gérald Passedat while you’re there—the once modest seafood bistro is now a world-renowned gastronomic destination.
GET THERE
The main train station is Marseille-St-Charles. Fast TGV trains take over three hours from Paris.
Elizabeth Soong is the managing editor of Malaysia Tatler. She loves a good laugh, but is serious when it comes to work, and gets a high from dancing, cats purring, plus enjoys musicals or binge-watching a good TV series. Continually inspired by the people she meets, edits and writes about, you're welcome to see what she's up to on her Instagram @lizsoong.
