Marseille Cruise Port Guide: Top 13 Things to Do

LAST UPDATED May 29, 2025 BY Katarina Komazec

Marseille is a regular stop on Western Mediterranean cruises and one of the busiest cruise ports in France.

Ships dock at the Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal (MPCT), located around 8 km (5 miles) from the city center. Some smaller ships may dock closer, at the Joliette terminals, near the Old Port.

Marseille is the second-largest city in France and the capital of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region. It’s known for its vibrant Old Port, historic landmarks, and nearby sights like Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, Cassis, and the Calanques National Park.

I haven’t visited Marseille on a cruise yet, but I’ve been to the port and spent a couple of days exploring the city, which helped me create this handy guide for fellow cruisers. 🙂

Here’s what you’ll find inside:

• Marseille cruise port and terminals overview (and how to get to the city)
• 13 best things to do in Marseille for cruise passengers
• Shore excursions to nearby towns and national parks

Marseille Cruise Port Overview

Officially known as Marseille Fos Port, Marseille is one of the largest ports in France and a major hub for cruises and ferries in the Mediterranean.

It has two cruise terminals: the centrally located La Joliette Cruise Port (operated by Port of Marseille Fos) and the larger Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal (MPCT), run by M.P.C.T.

Joliette cruise terminals

Located near Place de la Joliette, this port area is just a 15-minute walk from the Vieux-Port (Old Port) and the main tourist sights. Joliette serves smaller cruise ships, tenders, ferries, and mega yachts under 200 meters in length.

Cruise ships that dock here usually use the J4 Terminal, but most larger vessels are too big and instead dock at MPCT (see below).

The terminal also handles regular ferry services to Corsica, Sardinia, and North African ports including Algeria, Tunisia, and Morocco.

MPCT (Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal)

Also known as the Marseille Provence Cruise Center (MPCC) or Môle Léon Gourret, this is the main cruise terminal in Marseille. It’s located in the industrial port zone, about 8 km (5 miles) or a 15-20-minute drive from the city center.

MPCT has six berths and can handle up to six large cruise ships at once. The terminal area includes Terminals A, B, C, D, E, and F, all offering modern facilities such as check-in areas, luggage drop-off, car parks, ATMs, a tourist info desk, and a cafeteria.

MPCT serves as both a port of call and embarkation port.

How to Get from Marseille Cruise Port (MPCT) to the City Center

• Local Bus 35T: Leaves from Porte 4 at the port exit and ends at La Joliette terminal, linking both cruise terminals. However, it’s a 10–20 minute walk (800 m to 2 km) from your ship to the bus stop, depending on your berth. Follow the green line painted on the ground. From Joliette, it’s about 15 minutes on foot to the Old Port (Vieux-Port).
• Free Port Shuttle: Occasionally available, this free shuttle bus for cruise passengers runs every 30 minutes from MPCT to Joliette, stopping at Les Terrasses du Port mall. Schedules vary based on the season and ship traffic. Queues can get long on busy days. Cruise lines rarely advertise it.
• Cruise Line Shuttle: Paid shuttles to the Old Port are usually offered, around €20 round trip. The ride takes about 20 minutes.
• Taxis: Taxis are available at the terminal. For groups, sharing a taxi is often cheaper than buying individual shuttle tickets.
• Guided tours: You can also book a shore excursion through your cruise line or an independent operator.

🚍 Getting Around Marseille from the Cruise Port

🧭 Public Transportation in Marseille

Public transport in Marseille is operated by RTM and includes buses, trams, and metro. A single ticket costs €1.70 and is valid for 1 hour, including return trips. The best option for cruise passengers is a day pass for €5.20, which allows unlimited rides on all RTM lines.

Tickets and day passes can be purchased at the bus stop near the cruise terminal. You can find more info on the official RTM website.

🚖 Getting from Marseille Airport to the Cruise Port

Marseille Provence Airport is located about 20 km (12.5 miles) from MPCT, around a 20–30 minute drive depending on traffic.

Some cruise lines offer transfers, but they usually come at an extra cost. If you’re traveling independently, the easiest option is to take a taxi or book a private transfer to the cruise terminal.

While it’s possible to take the airport shuttle to Saint-Charles train station, then metro line 2 to Joliette, followed by bus 35, this route is not recommended—it’s time-consuming and not convenient with luggage.

👉 Book a private transfer to/from Marseille cruise port

🚆 Marseille-Saint-Charles Train Station

Saint-Charles station is the city’s main railway hub, located about 2 km (1.2 miles) or a 10-minute drive from both the Vieux-Port and Joliette terminals. Trains are operated by SNCF, and you can check timetables and fares on the official website.

🚂 Tourist Transportation in Marseille

• Petit Train de Marseille
  This small tourist train offers a commentated ride through Marseille with three different circuits. The full ride takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. If you want to visit Notre-Dame de la Garde, make sure to take Circuit 1. Trains depart from the Old Port (174 Quai du Port).
  👉 Visit the official website
• Colorbüs Marseille (Hop-on Hop-off)
  This hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus covers the main sights of Marseille with 25 stops. You can choose between the Red Line, Blue Line, or a combined pass. Buses depart from Vieux-Port (86 Quai du Port).
  👉 Check Colorbüs tours and tickets on Viator
  👉 Or browse Colorbüs on Get Your Guide

🎟️ Marseille City Pass

The Marseille City Pass (available in 24h, 48h, and 72h) includes:

• Access to top attractions and museums
• Public transport
• Petit Train, boats, guided tours, and more

👉 Buy Marseille City Pass

🏨 Other Useful Info for Cruise Visitors

• Currency: Euro (€). Cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are available at the cruise terminal and around the city.
• Language: French is the official language, but English is understood in most tourist areas.
• Wi-Fi: Many cafes and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi. You’ll also find free Wi-Fi at the cruise terminal.
• Tipping: Tipping isn’t mandatory in France, but it’s common to round up the bill or leave 5–10% in restaurants if service was good.

When I visited Marseille, I stayed at MEININGER Marseille Centre la Joliette, just a short walk from La Joliette terminal and close to the Old Port. I loved the location — it was clean, convenient, and within walking distance of everything.

👉 Explore tours and activities in Marseille
👉 Rent a car in Marseille
👉 Check out hotels in Marseille

👉 Watch my YouTube video on Marseille Cruise Port and the best things to do in Marseille! I show what the port looks like, how to get to the city, and highlights you shouldn’t miss during your stop.

📘 Planning a Mediterranean Cruise?

Before diving into the best things to do in Marseille, don’t miss my Mediterranean Cruise Port Guide — a 200-page PDF packed with practical info, expert tips, and must-see highlights for 45 Mediterranean ports, including Marseille.

Whether you’re planning your first cruise or your fifth, this guide will help you make the most of every stop.

👉 Grab your copy here

1. Vieux-Port de Marseille (Old Port)

The Old Port is the historic heart of Marseille and one of the city’s main highlights. Located at the base of La Canebière, the city’s main avenue, it’s where Marseille’s story began over 2,600 years ago.

Flanked by Fort Saint-Nicolas and Fort Saint-Jean, the port is always buzzing with life, from open-air cafes and seafood restaurants to boats, markets, and tourist services.

Here you’ll find the fish market (Marché aux Poissons), the 17th-century City Hall (Hôtel de Ville), and departures for Colorbüs, Petit Train de Marseille, and ferry boats.

It’s also one of the best places to try local seafood, with plenty of dining options right along the waterfront.

From the Old Port, stroll up La Canebière, a historic 1 km-long street lined with shops, cafes, and elegant facades, ending at the St. Vincent de Paul Church.

👉 Check out Old Port tours and activities

2. Notre-Dame de la Garde – Iconic Hilltop Basilica

Perched on Marseille’s highest hill, Notre-Dame de la Garde is the city’s most famous landmark and a symbol of local pride.

Known as “La Bonne Mère” (“The Good Mother”), this 19th-century Romano-Byzantine basilica was built on the foundations of an old fort and dominates the city skyline.

The church is crowned by a grand bell tower topped with a golden statue of the Virgin Mary, visible from all over Marseille. Inside, you’ll find a richly decorated interior with mosaics, ex-votos, and maritime motifs.

The hilltop offers breathtaking 360° views of Marseille, the Old Port, and even the Frioul Islands.

It’s located about 2.5 km (1.5 miles) or a 35-minute walk from the Old Port. You can hike up (involves stairs) or take bus no. 60, which stops right in front of the church. Entry is free.

👉 Explore Notre Dame de la Garde tours and activities

7. Orange Vélodrome – Must-Visit for Football Fans

If you’re a football fan, don’t miss the chance to visit the Orange Vélodrome, home of Olympique de Marseille.

With a capacity of over 67,000, it’s the largest club football stadium in France and has hosted major events including the 1938 and 1998 FIFA World Cups.

The stadium is located about 3.7 km (2.3 miles) south of the Old Port — around a 10-minute drive. You can also reach it via metro line M2 (stop: Rond-Point du Prado).

Guided tours are available and give you access to the pitch, locker rooms, and behind-the-scenes areas.

🚗 Best Day Trips from Marseille Cruise Port

8. Château d’If – The Island Fortress from The Count of Monte Cristo

Just off the coast of Marseille lies Château d’If, a 16th-century fortress made famous by Alexandre Dumas’ novel The Count of Monte Cristo. Located on the smallest island of the Frioul archipelago, it sits about 1.5 km offshore and 5.5 km (3.5 miles) from the Old Port.

Originally built for defense, the château later became a notorious prison for political and religious prisoners. Its isolated location and thick walls made it almost impossible to escape, adding to its legend.

Today, the fortress is a historic site open to visitors, offering impressive views of Marseille and a glimpse into centuries of history.

Ferries to Château d’If depart regularly from the Vieux-Port, and the ride takes about 20 minutes.

👉 Check out Château d’If tours and activities

9. Calanques National Park – Nature’s Best Along the Coast

If you’re a fan of spectacular scenery, hiking, or just want to see some of the bluest water in France, don’t miss the Calanques National Park.

Stretching about 20 km (12 miles) between Marseille and Cassis, this protected area is known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden coves, and turquoise waters.

The most popular spots include:

• Calanque de Sormiou – great for rock climbing
• Calanque de Sugiton – a favorite for hiking
• Calanque de Morgiou, En-Vau, and Port-Miou – known for stunning views and crystal-clear water

Outdoor lovers can enjoy kayaking, snorkeling, sailing, swimming, or even scuba diving in this natural wonder.

Daily boat tours depart from the Old Port of Marseille and offer an easy and scenic way to experience the Calanques without the long hike.

👉 Explore Parc National des Calanques tours and activities

10. Frioul Islands – Beaches, History, and Coastal Views

Just 4 km (2 miles) off the coast of Marseille, the Frioul Islands (Îles du Frioul) are a group of four scenic islands within Calanques National Park. The archipelago includes Pomègues, Ratonneau, Tiboulen, and If (home to the famous Château d’If).

The islands are known for their crystal-clear coves, hidden beaches, and historic ruins, including fortresses and old ramparts. You’ll also find local cafes, shops, and walking paths.

Pomègues and Ratonneau are connected by a causeway and can be easily explored on foot in a few hours.

Ferries depart regularly from the Vieux-Port and take about 15 minutes each way. Boats dock at Port du Frioul, the perfect starting point for a relaxed walk or a swim.

Don’t miss Calanque de la Crine, often called the archipelago’s most beautiful cove, along with Saint-Estève and Morgiret beaches.

👉 Check out Frioul Island tours and activities

11. Cassis – Colorful Port Town and Gateway to the Calanques

Located about 27 km (17 miles) east of Marseille, Cassis is a charming seaside town known for its dramatic cliffs (falaises), calanques, local wines, and laid-back coastal vibe. It’s a popular day trip from Marseille and a favorite stop along the French Riviera.

Stroll through the picturesque harbor, lined with cafes and colorful buildings, or relax on the nearby pebble beaches like Plage de la Grande Mer and Plage du Bestouan. Don’t miss the lively Cassis Market (Marché de Cassis) if you’re in town on a market day.

Cassis is also a great base for exploring Calanque de Port-Miou, the easternmost of the Calanques, easily reachable on foot from the harbor.

👉 Check out Cassis tours and activities

12. Aix-en-Provence – Art, History, and Elegant Streets

Located about 32 km (20 miles) north of Marseille, Aix-en-Provence is a university town rich in art, history, and Provencal charm.

It’s famously the birthplace of Paul Cézanne, and his legacy lives on in local museums, Atelier Cézanne, and the city’s artistic atmosphere.

Wander through museums, galleries, and historic landmarks, or relax on Cours Mirabeau, a tree-lined avenue filled with cafes, shops, and the ornate Fontaine de la Rotonde.

Aix is divided into the old medieval town, with its narrow streets and the impressive Aix Cathedral, and the newer Quartier Mazarin, known for its elegant 17th-century architecture.

The city is mostly walkable, but its cobblestone streets can be uneven, so wear comfortable shoes. While not the easiest for wheelchair users, Aix is one of the most atmospheric and refined towns in Provence.

👉 Check out Aix-en-Provence tours and activities

13. Avignon – Papal History and UNESCO Landmarks

Located about 100 km (62 miles) northwest of Marseille, Avignon is a medieval city on the Rhône River, known for its rich history and stunning architecture. From 1309 to 1377, it served as the seat of the Catholic popes, leaving behind an impressive legacy.

The city’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to landmarks like the Palais des Papes (Papal Palace), Avignon Cathedral, and the iconic Pont d’Avignon bridge.

Avignon is also famous for the Festival d’Avignon, one of Europe’s most important performing arts festivals, held every summer.

With its medieval streets, historic sites, and vibrant cultural life, Avignon makes for a memorable day trip from Marseille, especially for history lovers and architecture fans.

👉 Explore Avignon tours and activities

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Marseille Cruise Port

1. How far is the Marseille cruise port from the city center?

The main terminal (MPCT) is located about 8 km (5 miles) from the Old Port. It takes around 15–20 minutes by taxi, depending on traffic. Smaller ships that dock at La Joliette are already close, within walking distance of the Old Port and the city center.

2. What’s the best way to get from the cruise port to the city?

From MPCT, you have a few options:

• Free port shuttle (if available) runs about every 30 minutes to Joliette, near the city center. It’s offered on cruise days but not always advertised by cruise lines.
• Cruise line shuttle buses usually go directly to the Old Port and cost around €15–€20 round trip, depending on the line.
• Bus 35T connects the port exit (Porte 4) to Joliette Metro Station. From there, you can walk to the Old Port or continue by metro.
• Taxis are available at the terminal and cost around €20–25 to get downtown.

If your ship docks at La Joliette, you’re just a short walk from the Old Port and main attractions.

3. Is Marseille walkable for cruise passengers?

Yes — once you’re in the Old Port area, most top attractions like Le Panier, Notre-Dame de la Garde, and the Cathedral are walkable. If you’re docked at MPCT, it’s best to take a transfer into town before exploring on foot.

4. Can I store luggage at the Marseille cruise port?

There’s no luggage storage at the cruise terminal itself. However, you have a few options nearby:

• Luggage storage apps like Stasher, LuggageHero, and Radical Storage have locations in the city center and near the Old Port.
• Saint-Charles train station offers lockers and luggage storage services.
• Bag Mobile can collect your luggage from the port and deliver it to the train station later in the day.

5. How do I get from Marseille Airport to the cruise terminal?

There’s no direct public transport. You can:

• Take the airport shuttle to Saint-Charles station
• From there, use Metro Line 2 to Joliette and bus 35T to MPCT
  This option is not ideal if you have luggage. A private transfer or taxi is much easier and faster.

🧭 Helpful Resources for Your Visit

• MPCT Google Maps Location: Find the exact location of the cruise port of Marseille.
• Find the location of La Joliette Cruise Terminal
• Cruise Ship Schedule: See when ships are in Marseille and plan your visit.
• Marseille Port Authority: Get fresh updates on cruise terminals.
• Marseille Tourism Office: Discover more about the top attractions and places to see.
• Local Weather Forecast: Get the latest weather updates to prepare for your day.

Planning a stop in Marseille? These cruise ports are often part of the same Western Mediterranean itinerary:

• Barcelona cruise port – A major homeport packed with iconic landmarks and culture
• Palma de Mallorca cruise port – Known for beaches, UNESCO Old Town, and its Gothic cathedral
• Cannes & Villefranche cruise port – Great for exploring Nice, Monaco, and Antibes
• Livorno & La Spezia cruise port – Gateways to Florence, Pisa, and the Cinque Terre
• Ajaccio cruise port – Discover Corsica’s landscapes and Napoleonic history
• Valletta cruise port – Medieval streets, stunning views, and a beautiful natural harbor
• Naples cruise port – Visit Pompeii, Capri, and the Amalfi Coast
• Civitavecchia cruise port – The main port for Rome

You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Northern Europe, USA & Canada, Australia & New Zealand

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