Embark on an unforgettable 8-day journey through two of Europe's most captivating cities: Marseille, France, and Milan, Italy. This itinerary is designed to immerse you in the rich history, vibrant culture, and exquisite cuisine of these iconic destinations. From the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean in Marseille to the fashion-forward streets of Milan, you'll experience the best of both worlds.

Marseille, located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, is France's oldest city and a melting pot of cultures. Known for its bustling port, historic architecture, and delicious seafood, Marseille offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Meanwhile, Milan, the capital of Lombardy, is Italy's hub of fashion and design. With its stunning cathedrals, world-class museums, and vibrant nightlife, Milan is a city that never fails to impress.

Throughout this itinerary, you'll explore iconic landmarks, indulge in local delicacies, and discover hidden gems. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or a fashion enthusiast, this trip promises to be a memorable adventure.

Day 1: Arrival in Marseille

Afternoon

Arrive in Marseille and check into your accommodation. For the best options, consider booking through VRBO or Hotels.com. Spend your afternoon exploring the Vieux Port, the heart of Marseille, where you can enjoy the lively atmosphere and stunning views of the harbor.

Evening

Dine at Le Miramar, a renowned restaurant known for its authentic bouillabaisse, a traditional Provençal fish stew. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the Quai des Belges and soak in the vibrant nightlife.

Day 2: Exploring Marseille

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, a stunning basilica offering panoramic views of the city. Consider joining the Marseille Shore Excursion: City Sightseeing Tour for an in-depth exploration of Marseille's historical center.

Afternoon

Head to the Le Panier district, the oldest neighborhood in Marseille, known for its narrow streets and colorful buildings. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at La Vieille Pelle, a charming bistro offering traditional French cuisine.

Evening

Experience the local culture with a visit to the MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations). End your day with dinner at Chez Fonfon, a popular seafood restaurant located in the picturesque Vallon des Auffes.

Day 3: Day Trip to Provence

Morning

Embark on a day trip to the beautiful Provence region. Consider booking the Provence Full Day Private Tour to explore the charming towns of Aix-en-Provence and Cassis.

Afternoon

Visit the stunning Calanques National Park, known for its breathtaking limestone cliffs and turquoise waters. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the natural beauty of the park.

Evening

Return to Marseille and unwind with a glass of local wine at La Caravelle, a cozy bar with a terrace overlooking the Vieux Port.

Day 4: Travel to Milan

Morning

Depart Marseille and travel to Milan. The most convenient option is to take a train via Omio, which offers a scenic journey through the French and Italian countryside. The trip takes approximately 7 hours.

Afternoon

Arrive in Milan and check into your accommodation. For the best options, consider booking through VRBO or Hotels.com. Spend your afternoon exploring the iconic Duomo di Milano, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

Evening

Dine at Ristorante Cracco, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering innovative Italian cuisine. After dinner, enjoy a nightcap at Bar Basso, famous for its Negroni Sbagliato cocktail.

Day 5: Discovering Milan

Morning

Begin your day with a visit to the Santa Maria delle Grazie to see Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece, The Last Supper. Book a guided tour through Viator to skip the line and gain insightful commentary.

Afternoon

Explore the Brera district, known for its artistic heritage and charming streets. Visit the Pinacoteca di Brera, a renowned art gallery housing works by Italian masters. Enjoy lunch at Trattoria Torre di Pisa, a local favorite for traditional Milanese dishes.

Evening

Experience Milan's vibrant nightlife in the Navigli district, famous for its canals and lively bars. Have dinner at Osteria del Binari, a rustic eatery offering delicious Italian fare.

Day 6: Day Trip to Lake Como

Morning

Take a day trip to the stunning Lake Como, just an hour's drive from Milan. Join the Bellagio & Varenna - Small Group Tour for a guided exploration of the lake's picturesque towns.

Afternoon

Enjoy a leisurely boat cruise on Lake Como, taking in the breathtaking scenery and elegant villas. Have lunch at a lakeside restaurant in Bellagio, known as the "Pearl of the Lake."

Evening

Return to Milan and relax with a gelato from Grom, a popular gelateria offering a variety of flavors made with natural ingredients.

Day 7: Shopping and Culture in Milan

Morning

Spend your morning shopping in the Quadrilatero della Moda, Milan's fashion district, home to luxury boutiques and designer stores. Don't miss the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a stunning 19th-century shopping arcade.

Afternoon

Visit the Castello Sforzesco, a historic castle housing several museums and art collections. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Panzerotti Luini, famous for its delicious stuffed pastries.

Evening

Experience a performance at La Scala, one of the world's most prestigious opera houses. End your day with dinner at Trattoria Milanese, a cozy restaurant serving classic Milanese cuisine.

Day 8: Departure

Morning

Spend your final morning in Milan visiting the Cimitero Monumentale, an open-air museum of art and architecture. Enjoy a farewell brunch at Pavé, a trendy café known for its artisanal pastries and coffee.

Afternoon

Depart Milan and head to the airport for your journey home, filled with memories of an incredible European adventure.

This 8-day itinerary offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and relaxation, allowing you to experience the best of Marseille and Milan. From exploring ancient landmarks to indulging in local cuisine, this trip promises to be an unforgettable journey through two of Europe's most captivating cities.