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The Old Port of Marseille is a lively waterfront area with a variety of activities to enjoy. You can stroll along the harbor, visit local seafood restaurants, and take boat tours around the bay. A visit to the historic forts, such as Fort Saint-Nicolas, is also highly recommended. Don't miss the chance to visit the fish market and the local shops offering unique Marseille products.
Located in Marseille, France, the Old Port is the birthplace of Marseille, offering a truly authentic experience of the city. It is home to numerous leisure boats, approximately 300 in total. Nearby are numerous historic sites, including the Castle of Saint-Jean and the Castle of Saint-Nicolas. The Old Port is also the center of life and entertainment for the people of Marseille, brimming with the laid-back atmosphere unique to southern France. The Old Port area is a popular foodie destination, with a daily fish market at the pier. The renowned local dish, "bouillabaisse," is a specialty.
Temperate maritime climate, May-September
St. John's Castle, St. Nicholas' Castle, 1 day
free
All day
The Old Port of Marseille, known as Vieux-Port, has been the heart of the city's maritime history for over 2,600 years. It has been a key point for trade, exploration, and cultural exchange. The port has seen significant changes over the centuries, from a bustling trade hub in ancient times to a popular tourist destination today. It is also home to iconic landmarks like the Château d'If and the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde.
The Old Port is located in the center of Marseille, easily accessible by metro (Vieux-Port station on Line 1), bus, or taxi. It's also a great area to explore on foot, as many attractions are within walking distance. The port is right near the city center and other popular areas like Le Panier and the Canebière.
The Old Port is open 24/7, but the best times to visit are during the day for a walk along the waterfront or in the evening to experience the vibrant nightlife. The area is particularly lively in the summer, with many restaurants, bars, and boat tours available.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Old Port itself. However, boat tours and visits to nearby attractions like the Château d'If and Fort Saint-Nicolas may have entry fees. Tickets for these can be purchased online or at the port's ticket kiosks.
For boat tours or visits to nearby forts, it’s recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Booking a few days ahead is advisable to secure your spot, particularly for popular tours like the one to Château d'If.
To fully explore the Old Port, including walking around the harbor, enjoying the shops and restaurants, and taking a boat tour, you should allocate around 2 to 3 hours. If you plan to visit nearby attractions like the forts or museums, plan for an additional hour or two.
Key highlights include the historic port itself, Fort Saint-Nicolas, the fish market, and the nearby Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde. The view of the harbor from the Fort Saint-Nicolas and the surrounding area is stunning, and the waterfront is perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Guided tours are available for boat tours around the harbor and to nearby landmarks such as Château d'If. Audio guides are also available in multiple languages including French, English, Spanish, and Italian.
The best viewpoints for photography are from the top of Fort Saint-Nicolas, offering panoramic views of the Old Port and the surrounding coastline. The view from the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde also provides stunning vistas of the port and the city. For a great shot of the harbor, head to the main promenade along the waterfront.
Start by strolling along the waterfront and taking in the sights of the harbor. Visit the fish market to see the local catch of the day. Then, explore Fort Saint-Nicolas for panoramic views. If time allows, take a boat tour to Château d'If or visit nearby museums such as the Musée des Civilisations de l'Europe et de la Méditerranée (MuCEM).
The Old Port is a great place to visit in the evening, with many restaurants and bars offering views of the harbor. While there are no light shows, the area comes alive at night with street performers and a lively atmosphere. Some boat tours may also be available at night for a different perspective of the city.
The Old Port can be crowded, especially in the summer and on weekends. For a quieter experience, visit in the early morning or late afternoon, particularly during the off-season (fall or spring).
The area around the Old Port is equipped with public toilets, numerous cafés and restaurants, and shops selling local souvenirs. There are also several rest areas along the waterfront to sit and enjoy the view. You’ll find plenty of water fountains as well.
The Old Port is generally accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors, with wide walkways and plenty of benches to rest. However, the area around the port can be hilly, so some areas may be more challenging for those with mobility issues. Many of the boat tours are wheelchair accessible, and the nearby Fort Saint-Nicolas has some accessibility features as well.
Most businesses around the Old Port accept credit cards and mobile payments. Cash is still commonly used in some local markets, especially for smaller purchases, so it’s recommended to have some euros on hand for small transactions.
Nearby restaurants include Le Miramar, known for its seafood, and La Cuisine de Comptoir, offering a more casual dining experience. There are plenty of cafés around the port offering great views of the harbor, such as Café des Épices and Le Palais des Baux.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at many of the nearby restaurants, including salad bars and plant-based dishes. Halal food can also be found in some local restaurants in the city center, especially in multicultural neighborhoods.
Hotels near the Old Port include InterContinental Marseille – Hotel Dieu, Radisson Blu Hotel, and Hôtel Carré Vieux Port. These are all within walking distance and offer various levels of comfort and price points.
Nearby attractions include the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, Fort Saint-Nicolas, and the MuCEM. You can also explore the historic district of Le Panier or take a boat trip to the Calanques National Park.
There are several souvenir shops around the Old Port selling items such as Marseille soap, local art, and nautical-themed souvenirs. You can also find specialty stores selling local lavender products, herbs, and Provence wines.
After visiting the Old Port, you can easily continue your trip by taking the metro, bus, or taxi to other parts of Marseille. The port is well-connected by public transportation, and you can also take boat tours or hire a car for day trips outside the city.
