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Lovely arched windows bring light into this striking former cathedral, probably built during the 13th century. Its west front is lavishly decorated with carved stonework. Inside, a pointed arch is pierced by a single window.

Fragonard’s depiction of Christ Washing the Disciples’ Feet is the main reason for visiting this 13th-century church. It also contains three striking religious works by Rubens, all painted in Rome in 1601: The Crown of Thorns , The Crucifixion of Christ and The Deposition of St Helena .

A harmonious blend of Romanesque and Gothic, with a barrel-vaulted nave and rib-vaulted apse, this church dates from the 14th century. Elaborate geometric patterns decorate the doorway.

This Romanesque-Byzantine church is the symbol of Marseille. Perched on the city’s highest hill and topped by a great, gold statue of the Virgin, it can be seen from everywhere in the city and is itself all-seeing: the views from the church are spectacular. Built in the 1850s, the vaulted crypt is carved out of the rock while the sanctuary is rich with mosaics and marble.

The largest store in town is the one-stop shop (clothes, gifts, wines, groceries and more) for those with less time to spare.

You will find four levels of international designer and brand name clothes and accessories for men, women and children, all under one roof. Free parking, too.

The 1952 work is among the best known of Matisse’s blue paper cut-outs series.

Signature Provençal product. Introduced by the Greeks in the 4th century BC, olive oil is central to regional dishes.

Some 1,000 boats from 50 nations compete in this sailing event.

The favourite French soccer team (see Marseille) plays home games July to May.