Location & Transportation
When I visited Marseille, I found getting around can be an adventure in itself. Here’s what you need to know:
- The Marseille-Provence Airport is about 30 km from the city center.
- From the airport, a shuttle bus (fare around €8.50) will take you to the St-Charles railway station. From there, you can catch a taxi straight to your cruise terminal.
- Marseille has two main cruise terminals:
- The Joliette cruise terminals are dedicated to small and medium-size vessels and are close to town.
- The MPCT (Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal) serves larger vessels. Although it’s about 8 km from the center, you can take a taxi (around €17), a shuttle service (approximately €11), or hop on the RTM bus no. 35 followed by a short bus ride.
- Just outside the port gate, there’s a free shuttle running every 20 minutes that gets you slightly closer to the city center.
Nearby Lodging
Marseille offers a variety of hotels and guesthouses, many of which are located near the Vieux Port and historic neighborhoods. When I was in town, I loved staying close to the Old Port for its charming atmosphere and easy access to dining and shopping. Look for accommodations like the InterContinental Marseille - Hotel Dieu or Sofitel Marseille Vieux-Port if you want a bit of luxury, or explore local boutique hotels for a cozier feel.
Nearest Airport
Marseille-Provence Airport is your main gateway by air. It’s modern, well-connected, and only a short shuttle or taxi ride from central Marseille. Whether you choose public transport or a taxi, you’ll be in the heart of the action in no time.
Sightseeing
Marseille’s charm lies in its mix of modern vibrancy and historic depth. Some of my favorite spots include:
- Vieux Port (Old Port): The beating heart of the city, lined with fishing boats, lively cafés, and seafood restaurants. Start your walk here and explore the nearby shopping street, La Canebière.
- Notre-Dame de la Garde: Perched atop a hill, this neo-Byzantine basilica offers panoramic views of the city and sea. It’s a bit of a climb, but the view is worth every step.
- Le Panier: Wander through this ancient, narrow-street neighborhood full of pastel-colored houses, local boutiques, and hidden squares.
- Cours Julien: Known for its bohemian atmosphere, this area is filled with vibrant murals, trendy cafés, and independent shops.
- Ferry Ride: Enjoy a short ferry crossing from the Old Port’s quai de Belges to experience Marseille from a different perspective.
Tours & Excursions
There’s plenty to do if you want to explore beyond a casual stroll:
- Petits Trains Touristiques: After taking the free shuttle from the cruise port, you can hop on one of these small trains that offer guided tours around the city center. They run two circuits:
- Train 1: A 50-minute circuit including Notre-Dame de la Garde, the Vieux Port, and the Abbaye de St-Victor. Operating Jan-Nov, with departures every 30 minutes during summer.
- Train 2: A 40-minute tour through Vieux Marseille, stopping by the Cathédrale, La Vieille Charite, and the Quartier du Panier. (Note: Between 12:00 and 14:00, these trains run only if there are at least 10 passengers.)
- Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: Try the Marseille Le Grand Tour for a flexible way to discover the city’s highlights.
- Château d'If: A short ferry trip (around 20 minutes) from the Old Port takes you to this 16th-century island fortress, famous from Alexandre Dumas’ "The Count of Monte Cristo." It’s a must-see for history buffs.
Shopping
Marseille’s streets are full of surprises for shoppers:
- Stroll along La Canebière and explore local markets where you can pick up unique crafts and souvenirs.
- Wander in Le Panier, where independent boutiques and art galleries offer gifts that capture the city’s creative spirit.
- Don’t miss the fresh seafood and local produce available in the bustling markets around the Old Port.
Dining
Marseille is a food lover’s paradise, especially if you’re a fan of seafood. Some culinary tips from my visit:
- Be sure to try the famous bouillabaisse, a hearty fish stew that is the city’s signature dish.
- Enjoy a meal at one of the many seaside restaurants around the Old Port, where you can savor fresh seafood while watching the boats.
- For a taste of local flair, seek out small bistros and cafés in Le Panier and Cours Julien.
Culture & Local Events
Marseille’s local culture is as vibrant as its streets. Here’s what adds to its charm:
Local Events
- The city hosts a range of cultural festivals and events year-round. From lively music festivals and art exhibitions to special events around the Vieux Port, there’s always something happening.
- Check local listings or the Marseille Tourisme website for up-to-date event calendars during your visit.
Local Insights
- Currency & Payments: France uses the Euro (EUR). While most places accept credit cards, having some cash on hand is useful for small purchases.
- Business & Store Hours: Larger shops and malls typically operate from around 8–9 am to 6:30–7:30 pm Monday through Saturday, with many smaller shops taking a lunch break between 12:30 pm and 2:00 pm. On Sundays, most shops open until noon.
- Communication & Safety: For any emergency, dial 112. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in busy tourist areas around the port and markets.