A breathtaking European city offering UK flights and balmy 20C temperatures in April has been hailed as the “capital of cool”. Marseille, located in the south of France, secured half a billion euros of investment after being named the European Capital of Culture in 2013.

Since then, this world-renowned port has earned a reputation for being “chic” and “hip”. It offers a blend of history, particularly evident in the bustling Vieux-Port, which is situated at the foot of the Canebière, a kilometre-long main thoroughfare in the city. Visitors can snap a selfie beneath the Ombrière – a massive umbrella at the port – and enjoy a leisurely walk along the quayside before watching the fishing boats set sail. Dominating the port is the historic Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, which provides panoramic views of the magnificent city.

However, the port marries history with modernity, boasting an array of “cutting-edge museums,” according to the Daily Mail, along with “foodie-approved restaurants” and “trendy bars”. The newspaper, which dubs the city 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 particularly popular dish in the city 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 traditionally carved up in front of diners.

Bouillabaisse is then served with rouille or aioli sauces alongside croutons for dipping. The Mediterranean influence is equally apparent in the regional cuisine, with anchoïade, a classic dish prepared with anchovies, capers, olive oil and garlic, said to deliver the “iodine taste of the sea” in “every bite,” reports Ville De Marseille.

Beyond the culinary scene, those visiting Marseille can explore Le Panier, the city’s oldest district which now features intimate café terraces, vibrantly street-art adorned facades, and boutique shops. Having transformed into an “open-air museum” the neighbourhood was originally settled by the Greeks in 600BC.

It gained notoriety for violence and prostitution during the 20th century but has undergone a dramatic transformation over the past 13 years. It is now regarded as among Marseille’s “must-see districts”.

For those drawn to nature, the cliffs of the Calanques have been hailed as a “natural wonder”. The Calanques feature pristine sandy beaches, miniature fjords and crystal-clear turquoise waters.

It proves an ideal destination for those looking to sunbathe or indulge in some 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 expressed: “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 enjoys average temperatures of about 19 to 20C in April. According to Skyscanner, fares from Manchester Airport start from approximately £28.