Marseille is the oldest city in France, the gateway to the Mediterranean, and a melting pot of diverse cultures. Must-visit attractions include the Old Port of Marseille, the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde (with its golden Virgin Mary statue overlooking the entire city), the Château d'If (the setting for Alexandre Dumas' "The Count of Monte Cristo"), and the Calanques. For local cuisine, the top recommendation is Bouillabaisse, a slow-cooked stew made with various Mediterranean fish, served with rouille sauce and toasted bread. Other must-tries include Pastis anise-flavoured liqueur, Ratatouille, and North African-style street snacks commonly found on the streets.