At the end of La Canebière, lies Marseille’s Old Port. Discover the best things to do in and around this emblematic part of the city of Marseille — we guarantee you won’t be disappointed!
Book a train ticket
Book a train ticket
The Old Port of Marseille is an essential part of any trip to the Phocaean city. There you will find sun, an enjoyable ambiance and lovely places to walk!
A walk around the Old Port
If you enjoy walking, opt for the Quai du Port, characterised by its numerous sidewalk terraces belonging to various cafes and restaurants. You will come across the City Hall, from the 17th century. Behind it is the Hôtel Dieu, a former hospital that has been transformed into a luxury hotel.
At the end of the quay is the 13th century Fort Saint-Jean. A boardwalk follows the shoreline. You will find yourself before the MUCEM, the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations, across from the Regards de Provence museum.
On the other side, you can walk along the Quay de Rive Neuve, where the former auction house has been transformed into a theatre. At the end is the 14th century Fort Saint-Nicolas, as well as the Pharo Palace and its gardens.
The Marseille ferry boat
The ferry travels across the port, linking the Place des Huiles and the City Hall. The small boat carries a maximum of 10 people across 283 metres of water, making a round trip in just 10 minutes.
It runs every 10 minutes from 7:30 A.M. to 8:30 P.M. daily and costs just 50 centimes.
Markets and festivities
Fishing boats and yachts are moored just metres away from market stalls bursting with fish and other seafood every morning on the Quai de la Fraternité, tasty delicacies you can also sample in local restaurants.
A Marché aux Santons is set up in the Old Port in December in preparation for Christmas.
The Old Port also welcomes a summer market from July 2nd to August 31st. It’s the perfect occasion to make the acquaintance of a few local producers and artisans.
The Old Port is also the setting for water jousting games and other large public gatherings.
