By train from Zagreb to Marseille: The Beginning of the Adventure

An exciting morning started with a quick breakfast and a final check of my travel bag before heading to the Zagreb main station. The decision to start the journey by train was simple—the desire for slowly absorbing the changing landscape, meeting passengers of different nationalities, and the unpredictable dynamics of rail travel have always attracted me. 

At the station, I felt the familiar noise and bustle characteristic of places that are always somewhere on the way between departures and arrivals. While waiting in line to buy a ticket, I felt the excitement that each start of a journey brings with it. Each new destination is like a blank sheet of paper for me, an opportunity to write a new story, meet new people, and learn something new about the world, but also about myself.

The view of the train departure board reminded me of all the possibilities that lie ahead of me—each train was heading toward a new adventure. My heart beat faster as I approached the ticket machine. Despite modern technology, there was still a nostalgia in the air for old times, for the romance of train travel that few choose today.

Entering the train was like entering another world. The seats on the train, comfortable and spacious, made me feel at home, and the view through the window of the city slowly disappearing into the distance only amplified the feeling of leaving the familiar and entering the unknown. During the ride, the long corridors of the train and the sound of wheels on the tracks were the perfect backdrop for reflecting on everything that awaits me. This journey was not just an escape from the everyday; it was also a quest for something that might fill the void I felt despite everything I had.
Click to view accommodation in Marseille
Traveling by train to Marseille is not just a geographical transfer—it's a change in perspective, a chance to confront my thoughts, feelings, and expectations. Perhaps this journey will be the one that gives me the answers I seek or at least brings me closer to something that can give me new meaning.

First Impressions of Marseille: A City that Connects Cultures

Photo by: Domagoj Skledar/ arhiva (vlastita)

As the train slowly entered Marseille, my excitement grew with the view of the first outlines of the city stretching out before my eyes. Exiting the train brought the freshness of the Mediterranean air and the scent of the sea mixed with the urban rhythm of the big city. My first steps in Marseille took me to the wide boulevard La Canebière, the heart of the city, where I felt the pulse of different cultures living in this cosmopolitan center.

Walking the streets, I couldn't ignore how the old world mixes with the new. The enchanting facades of old 19th-century buildings stand side by side with modern shops and restaurants. People of different nationalities passed by me, each with their own story, each with their everyday life that here, on the streets of Marseille, turns into a mosaic of human destinies.

My path led me to the old port area of Vieux-Port, where I stopped to soak in the scenes of local fishermen selling fresh fish, flocks of seagulls circling over the market, and boats gently sailing around. This place, with its historic buildings and cafes overlooking the sea, provided the perfect backdrop for thinking about how the sea connects people and cultures.

Moving away from the coast, I found myself in the Le Panier district, the oldest part of the city. Here, narrow streets filled with colorful facades and drying laundry hanging from windows looked like scenes from some older, simpler time. Every turn brought new discoveries, from small art galleries to cozy cafes where I enjoyed local espresso, watching life unfold around me.

This city is a vibrant mosaic of cultures, colors, and scents. Marseille is a place where everyone can feel at home and at the same time be far from everything familiar. There, while sitting in one of those charming cafes, I felt a deep connection with the city that lives its history in modern times, a city that tells the stories of many who have called it home. And as I wrote down my thoughts, I was aware that the first impressions were just an introduction to all that Marseille has to offer.

Cuisine of Marseille: Tastes of the Mediterranean

Photo by: Domagoj Skledar/ arhiva (vlastita)

One of the most beautiful parts of traveling is definitely getting to know the local cuisine, and Marseille, as a city on the Mediterranean coast, offers unique gastronomic delights. A walk through Marseille and its culinary offerings is a true adventure for all the senses. From fresh seafood to traditional spices, every corner of this city offers something special.

My culinary exploration of Marseille began with a visit to one of the many restaurants on the coast serving bouillabaisse, a traditional fish soup that is a symbol of the city. This rich soup, full of seafood, has become not only a local specialty but also a way to connect with this beautiful region. The first taste of the soup immediately captivated me; the flavors were intense and layered, and every spoonful filled my mouth with the richness of the Mediterranean.

Bouillabaisse is prepared with various types of fish, shellfish, and crustaceans, and each ingredient is carefully selected to ensure harmony of flavors. The soup is usually served with rouille sauce, a spicy addition made of garlic, saffron, and paprika, which is spread on toasted bread. This addition to the soup gives it extra depth and enriches the gastronomic experience.

After tasting at the restaurant, my journey continued at the local market, where I had the opportunity to see and try fresh ingredients that form the basis of Marseille cuisine. The market in Marseille is a lively place where local vendors proudly display everything from freshly caught fish to colorful vegetables and fruits. Each stall was a story in itself, and the vendors gladly shared stories about their products, making the whole experience even more personal and authentic.

During a conversation with one of the fishermen, I learned about the different types of fish used to prepare bouillabaisse. I was impressed by how important it is to know local ingredients for the true preparation of this dish. The fisherman explained to me how each type of fish contributes a specific flavor and texture to the soup, making bouillabaisse a real work of art.

In addition to fish, an important part of the market consisted of herbs like rosemary and thyme, which are essential in many traditional dishes. Getting to know the local spices further deepened my understanding and appreciation of Marseille's cuisine and how tradition and modern influences shape the unique gastronomic identity of this city.
Click to view accommodation in Marseille
Every day spent in Marseille was a new discovery and an opportunity to connect with people through a shared love of food. Through bouillabaisse and conversations at the market, I felt how culture, history, and gastronomy intertwine, creating a unique experience that will remain with me as a precious memory of this beautiful Mediterranean city. This culinary journey not only fed my body but also my soul, giving me a new perspective on the beauty and richness of Marseille.

Strolling through the Old Port Town: Vieux-Port

When evening falls over Marseille, there is no better place to feel the pulse of this magical city than the Vieux-Port, the old port heart of Marseille. As I strolled along the famous promenade, each step revealed the layered history of this fascinating place, where centuries of Mediterranean trade and culture intertwine with modern life.

Vieux-Port is a true live theater; boats gently rocking on the waves, stalls with sea delicacies, street artists whose performances add a special charm to the evening. The history of this place was felt in the air, in the smell of the sea and the old stone that tells stories of conquerors, merchants, and adventurers who have passed through this port city over the centuries.

At every step, Vieux-Port offers something to see, from impressive ships tied to the docks to historic buildings that keep the secrets of past times. One of these buildings is the famous La Major, a cathedral that rises above the port, a symbol of the spiritual strength and resilience that have shaped Marseille through generations.

As I sat on the edge of the docks, watching the sky blend with the sea in the colors of the sunset, I felt a deep connection with this place. The colors of the sky poured over the water, creating a perfect backdrop for reflecting on my own journey and the search for meaning that brought me to this ancient city.

Vieux-Port is not just a tourist attraction; it's a place where the past and present meet, where every stone and every wave carries a story. Walking by the sea, with the sound of a guitar from a nearby cafe, I realized how important journeys like this are for understanding the world and ourselves. Every view of the old port was like looking through a window into another era, into another life, and each of those views helped me better understand what I am looking for—not just in Marseille, but also in myself.

This part of the city, with its narrow cobbled streets and old fishing boats, looked like a setting for a story of adventures waiting for anyone who dares to explore beyond the familiar. And as I continued on my way, the sounds and colors of Vieux-Port stayed with me, a reminder of an evening walk that was more than just sightseeing; it was a walk through history, through the lives of people who have called this port home, through stories that have shaped what Marseille is today.

A Trip to Calanques: Escape into Nature

Photo by: Domagoj Skledar/ arhiva (vlastita)

After exploring the urban charm of Marseille, the desire for nature took me to the Calanques National Park, an incredible natural treasure that stretches along the coast between Marseille and Cassis. This area is known for its dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise coves that offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The path to the Calanques was an adventure in itself. The trail I climbed was steep and rocky, but each step offered increasingly spectacular views of the Mediterranean and the surrounding landscapes. The feeling of conquering something so wild and untouched heightened every breath of fresh sea air I took.

Reaching one of the isolated coves, the sense of peace and awe at nature was almost palpable. The beach surrounded by high cliffs was like a hidden gem, a place where the blueness of the sea merges with the sky. I sat on the warm sand, listening to the waves gently lapping the shore, and my thoughts wandered far from everyday stress.

This place, with its rugged and untouched beauty, provided the perfect space for introspection. Reflecting on the journeys I have taken so far, I realized how nature has the power to renew and refresh our spirit. In the Calanques, surrounded only by natural sounds, I felt more connected to myself and the world around me.

On the way back, I walked the park's paths feeling fulfilled and grateful for all the experiences that the journey provided me. The Calanques is not just a place of wild beauty, but a symbol of the resilience and permanence of nature, a reminder of what we can learn when we connect with the natural world.

This trip to the Calanques was more than an escape into nature; it was a journey within myself, an opportunity to confront my own thoughts in an environment that inspires and heals. As I drove back to Marseille, I felt my heart filled with gratitude for all the incredible landscapes I had the opportunity to experience, for all the paths I have walked, and for all the paths that are still ahead of me.

Nightlife and Entertainment in Marseille

After days spent exploring the natural beauties and historical landmarks of Marseille, the city's nightlife offered a completely different kind of adventure. Marseille transforms at night, the streets come alive with lights, music, and dance, offering unforgettable moments of fun and relaxation.

One of the most striking places I visited was a lively open-air festival held in the heart of the city. The atmosphere was electric—streets filled with people of all ages, dancers moving rhythmically to the sounds of local bands, and stalls offering everything from traditional Mediterranean dishes to exotic cocktails. This night was an opportunity to immerse myself in local culture through music and dance, feeling like part of a community that celebrates life in its full glory.

I continued the evening in one of the city's renowned jazz clubs. The club was located in an old stone building whose walls resonated with centuries of stories. Inside, soft lamps cast warm light on dark wooden tables and chairs, and the sound of jazz music filled the space, creating a sense of intimacy and temporal distance from the outside world. I sat at a table near the stage, absorbing every note of the double bass and piano, feeling the music vibrate through the space.

An evening in the jazz club was more than just a night out; it was a cultural expedition into the heart of Marseille's art scene. Each set was a journey through different eras and emotions, with the musicians masterfully conveying their passions and stories through instruments. And as I ordered another drink, I felt the music and atmosphere blend, giving me a deeper insight into the soul of the city.
Click to view accommodation in Marseille
Marseille captivated me with its nightlife, which was as impressive as its daytime charms. Every evening spent in the city was an opportunity for new discoveries and connecting with the place in a way that daylight cannot reveal. From bustling festivals to intimate clubs, Marseille's nightlife showed its true face through joy, music, and community, leaving me with a desire to explore more and absorb the spirit of this incredible Mediterranean gem even deeper.

Personal Reflection: Emotions and Impressions Upon Departure

Photo by: Domagoj Skledar/ arhiva (vlastita)

As my journey in Marseille was coming to an end, feelings were mixed with sadness about leaving and gratitude for everything I experienced. The last views of the city from the airplane window were like the last pages of a book you don't want to close, aware that every end carries the promise of a new beginning.

During my stay, Marseille revealed to me its many faces. From the historic streets of Vieux-Port, through the tranquil beaches of Calanques, to the lively night festivals, every corner of the city had its own story waiting to be told. This dynamism and diversity made Marseille not only a travel destination but a place where I learned more about the world and myself.

The emotions I felt as I said goodbye to the city were strong and deep. Every encounter, every bite of food, every note of jazz music further bound me to this city. In my thoughts, I thanked for the opportunities I was given to grow, to challenge myself, and to truly feel life.

Marseille left a lasting impression on me not only through its visual and cultural beauties but also through the spirits of its inhabitants. The people I met, from artists to fishermen, shared with me a part of their daily lives, making my experience authentic and unforgettable. These encounters, often brief but intense, helped me understand the complexity and beauty of human connections.

As I moved away from Marseille, I realized that travels are not just about the places we visit, but also about the traces those places leave in us. Marseille is not just another destination on my map; it's a place where I found pieces of myself scattered along the cobbled streets, fragrant markets, and mysterious coves.

This journey to Marseille not only broadened my horizons but also gave me a new perspective on life, on the world around me, and on the places still waiting to be discovered. With a smile on my face and a tear in my eye, I am grateful for every moment spent there, aware that memories of Marseille will forever remain with me, like precious jewels I will carry wherever the road takes me.

This city, with its rich cultural tapestries and vivid landscapes, provided a canvas on which I could paint my adventures. Upon returning home, as I reflected on all the people I met and all the lessons I learned, I am grateful for the opportunity to dive so deeply into a new culture and experience all its complexity and beauty. Every moment in Marseille was a gift, an experience that enriched my life and changed my view of the world.

Recommended accommodation nearby: