![Marseille, France](https://images.suitcasemag.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/10124724/six-places-to-visit-in-the-south-of-france-that-arent-st-tropez_654a85a9c7ee4.jpeg)
Marseille
When Parisians pack up and move somewhere, it's worth investigation. So it is with Marseille, where a creative renaissance has enticed new inhabitants from as far afield as the French capital. There's a reason we picked this city as a destination to watch in 2023. Ever-rebellious, Marseille's glow-up rejects the glitzy peacocking of Cannes or St Tropez; instead, expect a refresh more akin to Lisbon's regeneration. The sun-scorched city - France's second largest - has found its port roots reshaped by a flourishing art scene and a slew of new restaurant openings. Top on your list to explore should be the city's diverse food scene, which prefers to lift up independent hospitality and champion inclusivity and affordability over chasing stars. For a taste, try the sunshine-filled vegetarian plates at Limmat, the Congolese street food at Libala or creative seafood dishes at Caterine.
Where to stay: Les Bords de Mer