Marseille
The sun-washed buildings that flank the Old Port show a city paying homage to its long historical roots while filling them with elegant modern luxuries, gourmet and artistic. Regal landmarks including the Palais Longchamp add to the city’s handsome, scruffy veneer, and with the Calanques’ spectacular formations and arts events throughout the year, Marseille is a cultural beacon, like its Notre Dame de la Garde shimmering against the night sky.