Marseille looks toward the Mediterranean, most notably in the 2nd Arrondissement. It was from across the Mediterranean that Marseille’s first settlers came. This area encompasses both the docks from which the enormous ferries leave and an array of new cultural institutions. During a visit to the 2nd Arrondissement, walk along the sea to connect to Marseille’s past and its future.

Start in the south, where the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations (MuCEM) explores the lively culture of the Mediterranean world just next to the historic Fort Saint Jean. Wander through the narrow streets of the Panier historical district, now full of cultural beacons such as the Centre de la Vielle Charité. Appreciate the massive size and beautiful decoration of the Cathedral la Major and then set off into the 2nd Arrondissement’s industrial and post-industrial heartland.

Get a sense of the artistic heritage of the area at the Musée Regards de Provence. Catch a show, live or displayed, at the Docks des Suds and do some shopping at Les Terrasses du Port. Watch the crowds shuffle on and off the massive ferryboats docking at the Grand Port Maritime de Marseille. See what the process looked like more than 2,000 years ago at the Musée des Docks Romains.

Marseille’s 2nd Arrondissement spreads north along the Mediterranean from the center of the city. Substantial public transportation connections make it easy to access from anywhere in the city. Travel here in about 45 minutes by public transportation or 20 minutes by car from Marseille Provence Airport or about 12 minutes by metro or 15 minutes from Marseille’s main train station. Driving can be difficult and parking hard to find, though the area has several metered parking garages.

Like generations of Marseillais before, set out from the docks of the 2nd Arrondissement to explore the waters of the Mediterranean, to places as far afield as Algeria.