Last Updated on September 12, 2023 by April | Dreaming in French
Looking for fun Marseille Souvenirs to buy? Then you’re in the right place!
I typically want to bring a little souvenir from my trip home, but I didn’t know what to buy in Provence, France.
In any place, it might be difficult to find the ideal souvenir, and this is certainly true in Marseille. So that you don’t regret anything on your upcoming trip to Marseille, here is the definitive guide to buying souvenirs there.
If you are planning a trip to Marseille, you will want to make sure you take home some souvenirs that capture the essence of this vibrant city. From savory spices to luxurious soaps, Marseille offers a wide range of products that are unique to the region. We will take a closer look at the best things to buy in Marseille, where to find them, and what makes them special.
Psst! This blog post contains affiliate links in it which sends me a bit of extra money if you use them… at no extra cost to you. Merci!
If you are in a hurry, here’s a summary of the best Marseille souvenirs:
Introduction to Marseille Souvenirs
Marseille is a vibrant city located in the south of France, on the Mediterranean coast. It is the second-largest city in France after Paris and is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and beautiful architecture. Marseille is also a paradise for shoppers, offering a wide range of products that are unique to the region.
The shopping scene in Marseille is diverse, with everything from traditional markets to high-end boutiques. The city is home to several shopping districts, including the Old Port, Le Panier, and Rue Paradis. Each district has its own unique character, and you can find everything from traditional Marseille products to luxury designer brands.
The Best Marseille Souvenirs
You don’t want to buy something in Marseille that you can readily find back home; you want your souvenir from Marseille to immediately take you back to your time there.
Savon de Marseille
One of the most iconic products of Marseille is the Savon de Marseille. This soap has been produced in Marseille since the 17th century and is made from natural vegetable oils, such as olive oil, palm oil, and coconut oil. The soap is known for its purity and gentle cleansing properties, and it is often used for sensitive skin.
Savon de Marseille soap comes in a variety of scents, including lavender, rose, and verbena. You can find it in many shops in Marseille, but if you want to buy the authentic product, look for the “Savon de Marseille” label and make sure it is made with at least 72% vegetable oil.
I know Fer à Cheval is a good brand to keep an eye out for.
Calissons
The calisson is a traditional candy from the city of Marseille, France. The candy is made from a type of almond paste, candied fruits, and spices, and is typically shaped into a diamond or oval shape. The calisson is a popular souvenir for tourists visiting Marseille, and can be found in many of the city’s souvenir shops.
The history of the calisson is believed to date back to the 14th century, when the candy was first created in the city of Aix-en-Provence. The candy eventually made its way to Marseille, where it became a popular treat among the city’s residents. The calisson was officially adopted as a Marseille souvenir in the 19th century, and has been a popular tourist item ever since.
There are a few different theories as to how the calisson got its name. One theory suggests that the name is derived from the French word for almond, amande. Another theory suggests that the name is derived from the Latin word for candy, calice. Regardless of its origins, the calisson is a delicious and iconic Marseille treat that makes for a great souvenir.
Tea Towels
There’s no shortage of great souvenirs to be found in Marseille, but if you’re looking for something unique and quintessentially French, you can’t go wrong with a tea towel. These popular household items are not only practical, but also make for charming decorations in any kitchen.
Tea towels originally became popular in the 18th century as a way to keep the tea warm while it was brewing. Today, they are most commonly used as dust cloths or for drying dishes. However, their original purpose is still represented in many of the designs, which often feature traditional French motifs such as roosters, Provencal landscapes, and the ubiquitous Eiffel Tower.
Easy to pack and relatively inexpensive, tea towels make great souvenirs for anyone on your list (including yourself!).
The only drawback is that these gems can only be found in Marseille (if that’s even a drawback, you should visit Marseille while in the South of France!). The Marché aux Puces, which is held every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, has a stand where you may find them.
Savory Spices and Herbs
Marseille is known for its delicious cuisine, which is heavily influenced by the Mediterranean and North African flavors. To recreate some of the local dishes at home, you can buy some of the local spices and herbs.
One of the most popular spices in Marseille is the “Épice de Marseille,” a blend of spices that includes fennel, coriander, and turmeric. You can find this spice blend in many shops in Marseille, and it is often used to flavor fish dishes.
Another popular herb in Marseille is the “Herbes de Provence,” a blend of herbs that includes thyme, rosemary, and oregano. This herb blend is used in many traditional Provencal dishes, such as ratatouille and grilled meats.
Buy artwork from Marseille
Some of the best souvenirs that you can take home with you from Marseille are pieces of art. There are many galleries and shops throughout the city that sell paintings, sculptures, and other art forms that are inspired by Marseille and its history.
One of the most popular galleries is the Galerie Najuma, which is located in the Old Port area. This gallery specializes in contemporary art, and you can find works by some of the most famous artists in the world. If you are looking for something a bit more traditional, then you can also find plenty of art galleries that sell pieces that date back centuries.
Some of the most popular paintings that you will find in Marseille are those that depict the city’s beautiful landscapes. Marseille is known for its stunning coastline, and there are many paintings that capture the majesty of the Mediterranean Sea. You can also find paintings of the city’s streets and buildings, which are full of character and charm.
A Box of Navettes de Marseille
In addition to soap and spices, Marseille is home to many other traditional products that are unique to the region. These products make great souvenirs and are a great way to take a piece of Marseille home with you.
One of these products is the Navettes de Marseille, a traditional cookie that is shaped like a boat.
Navettes are made with a simple cookie dough that is flavored with orange blossom water. The cookies are baked until they are golden brown. Navettes are typically made around the time of the Feast of the Annunciation, which is why they are often given as gifts on that day.
Navettes are delicious and delicate, and make a great souvenir or gift for family and friends.
Handcrafted ceramic pottery
Marseille is home to many talented artisans who create beautiful handcrafted pottery. You can find everything from colorful plates and bowls to intricate vases and figurines. The pottery is often decorated with traditional Provencal designs, such as lavender and sunflowers.
One of the best places to buy pottery in Marseille is the “Santons Fair,” which takes place every year in December. This fair is dedicated to the traditional Provençal figurines, but you can also find a wide range of pottery and other handmade products.
Provencal textiles and fabrics
Marseille is also known for its beautiful textiles and fabrics, which are often made with traditional Provençal designs. You can find everything from tablecloths and napkins to clothing and accessories.
One of the most popular textiles in Marseille is the “Indiennes,” a colorful fabric that was originally brought to Marseille by Indian traders. The fabric is often used to make clothing and home decor items, and you can find it in many shops in Marseille.
A Bottle of Local Rosé Wine
One of the best things to bring home from Marseille is a bottle of the local rosé wine. This pale pink wine is made from a blend of Grenache, Cinsault, and Mourvèdre grapes, and has a light, refreshing flavor. It’s perfect for summer days, and pairs well with seafood dishes.
If you’re looking for a particular brand of rosé wine from Marseille, try Domaine du Gros’Noyer. This family-run winery produces a gourmet rosé wine that has earned praise from wine critics. Another option is Château Sainte-Marguerite, whose rosé wines are said to have a hint of strawberry flavor.
If you want to taste some of the local wines and spirits, you can visit one of the many wine bars in Marseille or take a tour of one of the local wineries.
Bring a bottle of Pastis back home
Pastis is a french anise-flavored liqueur and one of the most popular drinks in Marseille. Invented in the early 20th century, pastis is typically made with distilled alcohol, water, and flavored with star anise and other herbs. It is usually served diluted with water and has a characteristic cloudy appearance.
Pastis is a popular aperitif in Marseille and can be found in many bars and cafes. It is also a common ingredient in many cocktails. If you are looking for a souvenir to bring home from Marseille, a bottle of pastis would make a great gift.
If you are interested in trying pastis, be sure to stop by one of the many bars or cafes in Marseille. Or, if you are feeling adventurous, you can try making your own at home.
Pastis is a popular souvenir from Marseille, and can be found in many shops in the city. It is also possible to find pastis in other French cities, but it is most associated with Marseille.
Buy a Maritime Flag
There are a few things that come to mind when you think of the French city of Marseille – its vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere, historic buildings and, of course, its maritime flags. These colourful flags can be seen all around the city, fluttering in the breeze and adding a splash of colour to the streets.
If you’re looking for a unique souvenir from Marseille, a maritime flag is the perfect choice. These flags are available in a variety of designs, all of which are inspired by the city’s nautical history. You’ll find flags bearing the images of famous ships, maritime symbols and even the city’s coat of arms.
No matter which design you choose, a maritime flag from Marseille is sure to add a touch of French flair to your home décor. These flags make beautiful wall hangings, table cloths or simply addition to your collection of souvenirs from your travels.
Go Antique Shopping for Marseille Souvenirs
If you’re looking for Marseille souvenirs with a bit of history, then you should definitely go antique shopping! There are plenty of antique shops in the city, each with their own unique selection of items.
Marseille Antiques – The Village Antiques is one of the largest and most well-known antique shops in Marseille. Located in the Vieux Port area, the shop is filled with a wide variety of items, from furniture and paintings to jewelry and ceramics. With so many different things to choose from, you’re sure to find something that catches your eye.
Another best places to start your search is the Vieux Port area. This is the old city center, and it is full of small shops and stalls selling all sorts of interesting things. You can find anything from vintage clothes to antique furniture here.
If you are looking for something specific, then you may want to head to one of the city’s many markets. The Marché aux Puces is a great option, as it is full of stalls selling a wide variety of items, including antiques.
Where to shop for the best souvenirs in Marseille?
If you want to buy some souvenirs to take home from Marseille, there are many great shops to choose from. Some of the best places to shop for souvenirs include the “Savonnerie Marseillaise,” where you can find authentic Savon de Marseille soap, and the “Marche de la Joliette,” a traditional market where you can find a wide range of local products.
If you are looking for high-end boutiques, head to the Rue Paradis or the Cours Julien, where you can find luxury designer brands and trendy fashion boutiques.
Final Thoughts on Marseille Souvenirs
I wish you much success in your search for the perfect Marseille souvenirs to take home even a small portion of this stunning region.
Leave a Reply