olive oil

A city nestled in the south of France has seen a major transformation over the last 13 years, ditching its reputation and seeing a major investment, bringing in ‘chic’ and ‘hip’ food spots

A stunning European city with UK flights and 20C temperatures in April has been branded the “capital of cool”. Marseille in the south of France secured half a billion euros of investment after being crowned the European Capital of Culture in 2013.

Since then the world famous port has become known for being “chic” and “hip”. It blends a mix of history thanks to the bustling Vieux-Port, which sits at the bottom of the Canebière, a kilometre-long main street in the city.

Visitors can take a selfie under the Ombrière – a giant umbrella at the port – and a stroll along the quayside before watching the fishing boats head out to sea. Towering above the port is the historic Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, which offers 360 degree views of the stunning city.

The port however blends history with modern, boasting a range of “cutting-edge museums,” reports the Daily Mail, along with “foodie-approved restaurants” and “trendy bars”. The paper, which describes the city as the “capital of cool”, reports: “Marseille is wonderful for a short break at this time of year, with average daily highs of around 19C-20C – and the seafood is second to none.”

One popular dish in the city in particular is bouillabaisse, an “iconic” fish soup that is served in two dishes. One contains the fish and the other a broth on a stove, with the fish itself traditionally cut up in front of diners.

Bouillabaisse is then served with rouille or aioli sauces with croutons for dipping. The influence of the Mediterranean is also evident in the local cuisine, with anchoïade, a traditional dish made with anchovies, capers, olive oil and garlic, said to contain the “iodine taste of the sea” in “every bite,” reports Ville De Marseille.

Away from the food scene, visitors to Marseille can visit the Le Panier, the oldest district of the city which now boasts small café terraces, street-art coloured facades, and designer shops. Having now become an “open-air museum” the area was first inhabited by the Greeks in 600BC.

It developed a reputation for violence and prostitution in the 20th century but has seen a massive overhaul in the past 13 years. It is now described as one of Marseille’s “must-see districts”.

For nature lovers, the cliffs of the Calanques have been described as a “natural wonder”. The Calanques boast fine sandy beaches, miniature fjords and turquoise waters.

It is the perfect area for people who want to sun-bathe or enjoy a spot of kayaking. YouTuber Nathan Frank, who posts as On World Travel, described Marseille as a “city that doesn’t care if you like it or not”.

He said: “We’ve been here for three days now and I’ve spoken to quite a few locals and they’ve been so friendly. Like more friendly than a lot of places we’ve been to and super down to earth and friendly. Our first impressions of Marseille have been really positive, we have some really good food on the agenda.”

Marseille boasts average temperatures of around 19 to 20C in April. And according to Skyscanner, prices from Manchester Airport start from around £28.

If you want to experience the Italian charm, cuisine and history without facing major crowds, swap Rome for a hidden gem on the southeastern heel of the country.

Rome is one of the most popular travel destinations on Earth, thanks to its history, architecture, weather and style.

But for those of us who are tired of navigating hordes of tourists to catch a glimpse of the Fontana di Trevi or queuing up for the best restaurants, there is an alternative.

The southeastern tip of Italy is home to the comune of Lecce, rich in baroque architecture and with the same historical charm that draws millions to the Capital.

Nicknamed the ‘Florence of the South’ for its characteristic style, Lecce has a rich history that is still tangible today in the form of places such as the Church of the Holy Cross (Chiesa di Santa Croce), built in 1353 and completed in 1695, and the Church of Saints Niccolo’ and Cataldo, initially built in 1180.

You’ll also find convents, the Column of St. Oronzo – built to mark the end of the plague – a major Roman-era amphitheatre, three archaeological museums, and Lecce’s own Arc de Triomphe (Arco di Trionfo), said to stand over St. Giusto’s tomb.

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You’ll also find an imposing castle – Il Castello di Carlo V – in which tourists can enjoy cultural tours and seasonal events, originally built by Charles V in the 1500s.

If you like to experience a city by strolling around it, you’re spoiled for choice of where to go in Lecce. The city centre is full of sandstone-coloured grand piazzas, – the biggest one is Piazza del Duomo – ruins and ornate baroque buildings that sit in preserved Roman roads.

Visitors also enjoy the southern Italian tradition of the evening passeggiata, when families stroll at dusk to mark the end of the workday.

It is a city rooted in its artisanal culture, with olive oil and wine being Lecce’s main exports. That reflects in the local food and produce, making local eats accessible and fresh. For a truly authentic taste of Lecce, visit Mercato di Piazza Libertini, the lively central market.

You can also enjoy wine tours, cooking classes, and sample peppery olive oil, known for converting doubters into enthusiasts.

Other delicacies include pasticciotto – pastries filled with custard, ricotta, or, in Lecce, vanilla. You’ll easily find them at the multiple bakeries spread across the centre, with reviewers highlighting Pasticceria Natale and Caffè Alvino.

And if you manage to explore the entire place and still have time to spare, guides recommend taking a bus to the nearby beaches of San Cataldo, Porto Cesareo or Punta Prosciutto, reachable in as little as 40 minutes.

To enjoy optimal weather in Lecce, avoid June, July and August – as temperatures can easily go above 40C – but don’t worry about any other month, as temperatures range from 14C to 28C year-round. Avoiding grey skies is easy, as it doesn’t usually rain more than a week per month, but you’ll have the best luck in May, September, and October.

When looking for a place to stay, many like to enjoy Lecce while dwelling in scenic villas that offer a luxurious experience for a slightly higher price – from around £415 a night. If you’re budgeting, you can still have a great experience at local hotels for around £60 per night.

Overall, Lecce is more affordable than Italy’s major destinations but offers the same rich atmosphere, culture, and cuisine.

To reach Lecce, fly from London to Brindisi Airport, a journey of about three hours. From Brindisi, Lecce is approximately 30 minutes away by straightforward bus or car rides that can be booked in advance.

Once you get to the city, you’ll be able to comfortably reach most sites on foot, but public buses are available to help tourists navigate as well as reach neighbouring towns.

Return flights between London Stansted and Brindisi can cost as little as £30 per person during the milder seasons. If flying from London City Airport or Gatwick, fares typically start at £200.

If you’re already planning a trip to Italy, Lecce is a good day-trip option, as frequent trains connect Lecce with major Italian cities, making access easy.