Cruise from Marseille – the essential guide

If you’re starting your cruise from Marseille, France, you’re in for a treat. As France’s oldest city and a bustling Mediterranean port, Marseille has a unique blend of history, culture, and seaside charm. Make the most of your trip by exploring this vibrant city before you set sail.

If this is your first visit, watch the inspiring video by the official Tourist Office of Marseille here to get an overview of what to expect. To pick up maps of the city, you can visit the tourist office at 11 La Canebière in the 1st district, close to the Old Port, in the heart of the city.

Getting from Marseille Provence Airport to the city center

If you’re flying into Marseille Provence Airport (MRS), located about 16 miles northwest of the city, there are several convenient options to reach the city center.

Airport shuttle

The airport’s official shuttle bus service, Navette Marseille Aéroport, runs every 10 minutes during the day and every 20 minutes during the evening. Buses leave from the bus station located between terminals 1 and 2.

The journey takes about 25 minutes and drops you off at Saint-Charles train station, Marseille’s main transportation hub. You can easily catch a taxi to your hotel from there.

Buy your ticket at the ticket office or directly from the driver using a credit card or cash.

By taxi

Taxis are available just outside the arrivals hall and, depending on traffic, take 25-30 minutes to reach the city center. Expect to pay a flat fare for the journey, generally between €50-60.

By train

If you prefer the train, take a free shuttle from the airport terminal (platform 5) to the Vitrolles Aéroport Marseille Provence train station. From there, you can catch a regional TER train to Saint-Charles station, which takes about 20 minutes.

You can buy your ticket using a credit card at the SNCF vending machines or at the ticket office at the train station. You can also buy train tickets online with our travel partner, Omio, and download the tickets onto the Omio app on your smartphone before you leave home.

If you plan to see more of the south of France during your stay in Marseille, easy day trips by train from Saint-Charles station can take you to towns such as Antibes (2 hours), Nice (2 hours and 40 mins), the town of Eze (3 hours and 10 mins), and Monte Carlo (3 hours and 20 mins).

Where to stay before your cruise from Marseille

Marseille offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets, with many hotels centrally located for easy access to the cruise terminal, top attractions, and excellent dining. Here are some of our favorites:

• InterContinental Marseille – Hotel Dieu
  For a luxurious stay, this hotel offers stunning views of the city and the Old Port. It’s located in a beautiful 18th-century building and provides a peaceful retreat with luxury amenities.
• Radisson Blu Hotel, Marseille Vieux Port
  This comfortable, modern hotel is right on the Old Port, offering excellent views, a rooftop pool, and easy access to restaurants and cafes.
• NH Collection Marseille
  A stylish mid-range hotel located in the trendy La Joliette district, close to shops, dining, and within easy reach of the port. This is a good choice if you want comfort and convenience.
• Ibis Budget Marseille Vieux Port
  This affordable, no-frills option is within walking distance of the Old Port and many attractions, offering a great budget option for travelers looking to keep costs down.

Four must-do experiences in Marseille before your cruise

Marseille is filled with things to see and do, and even a short stay will give you a taste of its history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are four experiences not to miss:

1. Explore the Old Port (Vieux Port)

The Old Port is the heart of Marseille and the best place to start your visit. Wander around the bustling harbor, where you’ll find fishing boats, market stalls, and cafes. Grab a coffee with a view of the water or sample some fresh seafood. For a memorable treat, try bouillabaisse, the city’s famous fish stew.

2. Visit Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde

This iconic basilica sits on a hill overlooking Marseille and offers panoramic views of the city and coastline. Built in the 19th century, it’s a stunning piece of architecture with beautiful mosaics and a golden statue of the Virgin Mary. You can reach it by bus, or if you’re up for a challenge, enjoy a scenic uphill walk from the Old Port.

3. Discover Le Panier District

Le Panier is Marseille’s oldest neighborhood, known for its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and artistic vibe. You’ll find small shops, galleries, and cafes tucked into its winding alleyways. This historic district is perfect for a leisurely stroll, and it’s a fantastic spot to pick up unique souvenirs from local artists.

4. Experience MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations)

The MuCEM is a striking modern museum on Marseille’s waterfront, dedicated to Mediterranean history and culture. The museum building itself is a work of art, and inside, you’ll find fascinating exhibits on everything from ancient history to modern culture. The terrace offers stunning views of the harbor and Fort Saint-Jean, perfect for photos.

Savor Marseille’s culinary scene

Its seaside location and diverse Mediterranean heritage influence Marseille’s food culture. Here are some of our favorite spots to enjoy local flavors:

• Le Miramar: Located at the Old Port, Le Miramar is famous for its bouillabaisse, the iconic seafood stew of Marseille. It’s a must-try for seafood lovers, although a bit pricey.
• Chez Fonfon: Tucked into the small fishing port of Vallon des Auffes, this restaurant offers traditional Mediterranean cuisine with stunning seaside views. It’s a fantastic spot for fresh seafood.
• La Boîte à Sardine: A casual, charming restaurant specialising in fresh fish dishes. The menu changes daily based on the catch, and the atmosphere is friendly and laid-back.
• Brasserie OM Café: Located near the Old Port, this casual eatery serves classic French dishes with Mediterranean influences. It is perfect for a relaxed meal in a vibrant setting.

Exploring Marseille’s food scene will give you a delicious taste of its local culture before you embark on your cruise.

8 fantastic day trips from Marseille

Marseille, with its prime location in Provence, is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, historic towns, and stunning coastal gems, making it the perfect base for memorable day trips. Whether you rent a car or join a guided tour, here are some of the most popular day trips from Marseille to inspire your travels:

1. Aix-en-Provence

Just a 30-minute drive or train ride from Marseille, Aix-en-Provence is known for its elegant architecture, tree-lined boulevards, and vibrant market squares. Visitors enjoy strolling through the historic old town, exploring local markets, and visiting the impressive Saint-Sauveur Cathedral. Aix is also famous for its connection to painter Paul Cézanne; you can see his former studio and sites that inspired his work.

2. Cassis and Calanques National Park

The charming fishing village of Cassis and the stunning Calanques National Park is only about 45 minutes from Marseille. Cassis is famous for its scenic harbor, seafood restaurants, and picturesque beaches. The Calanques, with their breathtaking limestone cliffs and turquoise waters, offer incredible hiking, boat tours, and swimming opportunities. The scenic boat tours from Cassis provide up-close views of these fjord-like inlets.

3. Avignon

An hour’s drive or train ride from Marseille, Avignon is famous for its historic architecture and connection to the Catholic Church. The UNESCO-listed Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes) is the city’s main attraction, showcasing Gothic architecture and centuries of history. You can also visit the famous medieval bridge, Pont Saint-Bénézet, nearby. Avignon’s old town is a joy to explore with its cobbled streets and lively cafes.

4. Arles and the Camargue

Arles, about an hour’s drive from Marseille, is renowned for its well-preserved Roman monuments and its association with Vincent van Gogh. The city has a spectacular Roman amphitheater, ancient baths, and other ruins. Just beyond Arles lies the Camargue region, famous for its wild landscapes, salt flats, pink flamingos, wild horses, and unique cowboy culture. The Camargue Regional Nature Park offers great opportunities for wildlife viewing and experiencing nature.

5. Luberon Villages (Gordes, Roussillon, Lourmarin)

For a quintessential Provence experience, head to the Luberon region, about 1.5 hours from Marseille. Here, you’ll find some of France’s most picturesque villages. Gordes is a stone hilltop village with stunning views; Roussillon is known for its red ochre cliffs and colorful buildings; Lourmarin is charming with its cafes and Renaissance castle. A Luberon day trip is perfect for scenic drives, wine tasting, and immersing in Provence’s rural charm.

6. Les Baux-de-Provence and the Alpilles

Les Baux-de-Provence is a medieval village on a rocky hilltop with impressive ruins and panoramic views of the Alpilles mountains. It’s about an hour from Marseille and offers sites like Château des Baux and the immersive art experience at Carrières de Lumières, a former quarry turned digital art museum. The Alpilles region also has olive groves and vineyards to explore.

7. Nîmes and the Pont du Gard

Nîmes, around 1.5 hours from Marseille, is known for its remarkably preserved Roman monuments, including the Nîmes Arena (amphitheater) and the Maison Carrée, a Roman temple. Not far from Nîmes is the Pont du Gard, a spectacular ancient Roman aqueduct spanning the Gardon River. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-see for history enthusiasts and is surrounded by a scenic area perfect for picnicking, kayaking, and hiking.

8. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Wine Region

About an hour and 20 minutes from Marseille, Châteauneuf-du-Pape is one of France’s most celebrated wine regions, known for its robust red wines. You can visit local wineries, tour vineyards, and participate in wine tastings while learning about the region’s unique wine-growing methods and traditions.

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How to get to the Port of Marseille

Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal, or MPCT, is a few miles north of the city center. Here’s how to get there. You can also find more details and local tips on the official Marseille tourism website.

By taxi

Taxis are readily available from most parts of Marseille, including the Old Port and major hotels. The ride to the cruise terminal takes around 15 minutes from the city center, and it’s a convenient option if you have luggage. Confirm the fare with your driver before you begin, as rates can vary.

By bus and shuttle

The city offers a direct shuttle service to the cruise terminal from the Saint-Charles train station, Marseille’s central transportation hub. This inexpensive and convenient shuttle runs several times daily on cruise departure days. You can also take the 35 T bus line from the city center, which stops near the terminal.

By train

If you’re arriving from other parts of France, the high-speed TGV train brings you to Marseille’s Saint-Charles station, about a 15-minute taxi or shuttle ride from the cruise terminal. For travelers coming from Paris, the TGV journey takes just over three hours, making Marseille an easy destination to reach.

Which cruise ships set sail from Marseille Port?

If you’re planning a cruise from Marseille, you’re in for a treat! This bustling port city is a favorite starting point for some amazing Mediterranean adventures, and there’s a ship for every type of traveler – whether you’re cruising with kids, as a couple, or with a group of friends.

• MSC Cruises: Known for its family-friendly vibe, MSC offers ships like MSC Splendida, MSC World Europa, and MSC Lirica, with exciting routes to places like Genoa, Rome, Malta, and Barcelona. With tons of onboard activities, there’s always something for everyone!
• Royal Caribbean International: Expect big fun on ships like Wonder of the Seas. Their Mediterranean routes often include stops in beautiful cities like Marseille, Palma de Mallorca, Naples, and Rome, making it easy to experience a lot in one trip.
• Celebrity Cruises: For those looking for a bit more elegance with family-friendly touches, Celebrity’s ships like Celebrity Constellation are perfect. They even offer itineraries through the French Riviera, blending luxury with laid-back charm.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian Viva and other fleet ships offer a fun, casual vibe, flexible dining, entertainment, and activities for all ages. They’re a great choice for families!

If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, some high-end cruise lines, like Regent Seven Seas and Seabourn, depart from Marseille. These are perfect for a special family trip with a touch of indulgence.

Whether you’re looking for a non-stop adventure or a more relaxed experience, Marseille is a fantastic place to start your journey across the Mediterranean.

Start Planning Your Cruise from Marseille

If you’re ready to start planning your Marseille cruise, our website offers a variety of resources and tips for selecting the right cruise, preparing for embarkation, and making the most of your travel experience. And if you have any questions, feel free to reach out at info@cruisetrail.com.