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.
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
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.