Marseille
Marseille, France, is a vibrant and multicultural port city on the Mediterranean coast. As France's oldest city, it has a rich history that has been shaped by its status as a major trading hub. Today, it is a bustling, cosmopolitan city with a unique character, known for its lively Old Port, the iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, and a thriving food scene. As a cruise port, Marseille is an excellent destination for those who want to explore a city that is authentic, energetic, and full of life.
⛵ Port Introduction
Your cruise ship will dock at the Port of Marseille Fos, which is a large, industrial port located about 6 miles (10 kilometers) from the city center. You will not be able to walk off the ship and into town. A complimentary shuttle bus service is provided by the port, which will take you from the gangway to the cruise terminal building. From there, you will need to get a bus or a taxi to get to the city center.
⚓ Terminal Information
The Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal is a modern, spacious, and well-equipped facility. You will be greeted by a welcome team of volunteers who can provide maps and information. The terminal has restrooms, a tourist information desk, and a few small shops selling souvenirs and snacks.
🚻 Terminal Facilities
The terminal has restrooms, a tourist information desk with friendly staff, and a variety of small shops. Tour pickups and a taxi stand are located just outside the terminal. The terminal offers free Wi-Fi, which is a big plus.
🗣️ Language
The local language is French. While English is spoken in the main tourist areas, it is not as universally spoken as in some other European ports. It is a good idea to have a few basic French phrases on hand.
A few useful phrases:
Bonjour (bohn-JHOOR) - Hello/Good day
Merci (mehr-SEE) - Thank you
Au revoir (oh ruh-VWAR) - Goodbye
Où sont les toilettes? (oo sohn lay twah-LEHT) - Where are the toilets?
Pardon (pahr-DOHN) - Excuse me
💰 Money
The currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted everywhere, and contactless payments are very common. It's a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases from street vendors or for bus tickets. ATMs are easy to find at the port and throughout the city.
🚗 Transportation
To get from the cruise port to the main city of Marseille, you have a few options:
Shuttle Bus: The port provides a complimentary shuttle bus that takes you to a bus stop outside the port gates. From there, you can take a public bus or a taxi to the city center.
Public Bus: The public bus system is an excellent and affordable way to get around the city. The bus stop is located just outside the port gates, and you can buy a ticket on board. The bus will take you to the city center, which is a 20-25 minute ride.
Taxis: Taxis are available at the cruise terminal. The ride to the city center will cost around €25-€30.
Hop-on-Hop-off Bus: A hop-on-hop-off bus service is also available at the port and is a convenient way to see the city's highlights.
♿ Accessibility
Marseille has an accessibility rating of 5 out of 10. While the cruise terminal and the shuttle bus are generally accessible, the city itself can be a challenge. The historic areas, especially the Le Panier district, have some steep hills and uneven surfaces that can be difficult to navigate. The city's public transportation system is also still a work in progress in terms of accessibility.
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port
The best way to get to the city center from the cruise port is to take a taxi or the public bus. The ride is short and affordable, and it will drop you off in the heart of the city, where you can then explore on foot.
🚽 Toilet
Public toilets are available in Marseille, but they are not very common. Your best bet is to use the restrooms in the cruise terminals, or in cafes and restaurants. Be aware that some places may charge a small fee.
💊 Drugstore
Pharmacie: There are many pharmacies in Marseille, and you will find one on the main streets in the city center.
Pharmacie de la Mairie: 4 Rue de la Mairie, 13001 Marseille, France.
✨ Authentic Experience
Walk the Old Port and Explore the Le Panier District: For a taste of the city's vibrant atmosphere, take a walk along the Old Port. You can see the fishing boats, the local vendors selling fresh fish, and the lively cafes. From there, you can walk to the historic Le Panier district, the oldest part of the city. It is a charming neighborhood of narrow, winding streets and colorful houses.
Dine on Local Bouillabaisse: Marseille is famous for its bouillabaisse, a classic fish stew. Seek out a local restaurant and try a bowl of this delicious and hearty dish. It is a true taste of the city's culinary heritage.
Visit the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde: For a breathtaking view of the city, take a taxi or a local bus to the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde. This stunning basilica sits on a hilltop and offers a panoramic view of the city, the sea, and the surrounding islands.
