The Old Port is the centre of all the action in Marseille and the city's main attraction. The artificial bay is about 200 metres wide and flows inland between the Sain-Jean and Saint-Nicolas forts, about 500 metres inland, right into the city centre.
Pedestrian promenades
Wide pedestrian promenades run all around Vieux-Port, offering views of the calm water, which is literally dotted with hundreds of yachts and boats at anchor.
On the side away from the harbour, the promenades are lined with houses and a large number of restaurants and cafés.
On the central quay, where the Vieux-Port ends, shelter from rain or sun under the huge pavilion, itself a tourist attraction.
Take the ferry across
About one-third of the way across the Old Port from the centre, a small passenger ferry runs across.
The crossing takes about 2 minutes and will cut down on the walking distance between the Mucem Museum and the Le Pharo lookout, unless you take the bus.
The ferry runs every 2 minutes from 7:30am to 8:20pm. One ride costs 0,50 eur or you can use 24-hour and 72-hour tickets for public transport in Marseille here.
Sights around Vieux-Port
In the immediate vicinity of the Old Port you will find many of Marseille's "must-see" sights.
- Fort Saint-Jean
- Fort Sain-Nicolas
- Le Pharo Lookout
- Replica of the Cosquer Cave
- Museum of Mediterranean Civilizations
- Le Panier Quarter
Accommodation near the harbour
Right on the promenades around the harbour you will find several hotels with views of the water and the boats. This particular location is one of the best in Marseille if you want to live in the heart of the action.
- Escale Oceania Marseille Vieux Port *** - A hotel right by the metro station with very reasonable prices from 90 eur
- La Résidence Du Vieux Port **** - luxury hotel with good value for money
- Radisson Blu Marseille Vieux Port **** - a large resort with private gardens and the best views
What to see around
Discover all the places to see in Marseille.