Our final day exploring a European city brought us to the vibrant and historic Marseille. This bustling port city, with its rich history and stunning landscapes, was the perfect place to end our European adventure.
Having deliberately skipped the little tourist trains in other big cities, choosing to walk instead — see more, get some exercise, and soak in the vibe — we finally caved in Marseille. Whether it was the exhaustion from over three months of non-stop travel or the relentless heat, we found ourselves hopping aboard La Petit Train. And honestly? It felt like the perfect way to wrap up this epic journey. The train took us through the iconic Le Vieux-Port, and past the Les Forts and other sights on the way to Notre-Dame de la Garde, a stunning basilica perched atop the city, offering panoramic views of Marseille. The basilica is adorned with intricate mosaics, marble, along with hanging models and paintings of ships. It’s a symbol of the city’s enduring faith and a protector of sailors.
with breathtaking beauty
Ships adorning the walls of
Notre-Dame de la Garde, a tribute
to Marseille’s seafaring heritage
Stunning views where the water meets the city, framed by majestic mountains—an all-too-common, breathtaking sight in this part of Europe
Karen took on the challenge of driving a manual car into Marseille, quickly getting the hang of it despite having not driven a stick shift since Emily was born, along with having to deal with the chaos of pedestrians, motorcycles darting within inches, and confusing street signs.
Reflecting on this trip, Europe has dazzled us with its mosaics, marble, grandeur, and the breathtaking blend of ocean, mountains, and cliffs. Marseille was no exception, showcasing these elements in its own unique way. Indeed, the slower pace of life, genuine connection, and cherished siesta in France, Spain, and Portugal offer a lesson in balance and mindfulness that the USA could truly benefit from.
But as much as we’ve loved Europe, there are a few things we won’t miss — constantly inhaling cigarette smoke wherever we go (particularly disgusting when sitting at a restaurant!!), the lack of personal space and impatience of those who stand far too close in lines and are constantly pushing and prodding. These little frustrations aside, Marseille, like the rest of Europe, has left us with memories we’ll cherish forever.
