Marseille cruise port excursions

Welcome to MonTataneTour (MTT) and to your dedicated page: « Marseille cruise port excursions ».

My name is Sarah (also known as Miss Tatane 😛), a cruise lover just like you. Here, I share my best tips and real experiences so that you can make the most of your cruise stopover or embarkation in Marseille.

💡 Don’t forget to bookmark our site if you’re planning your next cruise! MTT (your community) is updated weekly with fresh articles, insider advice, and new destinations from our latest journeys at sea.

On this page, I’ve selected two trusted partners offering the best-value tours and activities in Marseille: Civitatis 🔴 and GetYourGuide 🔵. I compared prices for you and highlighted the most affordable options for each experience — so you don’t have to waste time searching.

Enjoy your reading, have an amazing cruise… and above all: make the most of every moment! ONE LIFE!!!

How to get to downtown Marseille from the cruise port?

The secret that 90% of cruisers don’t know about…

When you dock at the Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal (MPCT), there’s one simple (and free!) way to reach downtown: the official port shuttle. This is the smartest way seasoned cruisers travel between the ship and the city — no extra cost, no hassle.

Port → Joliette	From your ship, just follow the green line painted on the ground. Walk around 5–12 minutes to reach Gate 4. There, you’ll find a well-marked stop with the free shuttle bus waiting for cruise passengers.
Joliette → Port	Head to 9 Quai du Lazaret, right between the Terrasses du Port mall and the ferry terminal. Next to the Five Guys restaurant, look for a large white iron gate. Enter through the pedestrian door by simply showing your cruise ticket.
Schedule & Tips	🕐 Runs every day when cruise ships are in port. 💡 Perfect for reaching the city center or returning to your ship without spending a dime!

Things to do in Marseille on a cruise

Welcome to Marseille! The famous « Bonne Mère » (Notre-Dame de la Garde) is already watching over you from her hilltop. With limited time during your stopover, every minute matters. That’s why I’ve listed the must-see attractions and local highlights that truly capture the spirit of this Mediterranean city. Get ready to explore a mix of history, culture, and authentic Southern French vibes — all within your cruise schedule.

Notre-Dame de la Garde

you can’t visit marseille without climbing up to see the famous bonne mère. visible from almost everywhere in the city, perched on her hill, she has been watching over sailors and locals for generations. this is the most iconic monument of marseille and an absolute must during a cruise stopover.

once at the top, the reward is immediate: a 360° panoramic view of the mediterranean sea, the old port, the frioul islands, and on clear days even the calanques. it’s one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in all of marseille.

the inside of the basilica is also worth a visit: decorated with stunning mosaics and filled with ex-votos (ship models and offerings from sailors), it reflects the deep connection between the city and the sea. you’ll instantly feel the marseillais attachment to their « bonne mère ».

whether you come by bus, the little tourist train, or even on foot, the climb is part of the experience. once you arrive, it’s easy to understand why this place is the symbol of marseille.

ℹ️ practical information

access – bus 60 from the old port, tourist train, or metro (line 2 → castellane stop, then 8 minutes on foot). hop-on hop-off bus also available.
from the cruise terminal, take bus 35t towards joliette (approx. 15 minutes).
from joliette, switch to tram t2 or t3, or take bus 55 towards roucas blanc and get off at sadi carnot (2 minutes).

Free guided tour

Marseille cruise port excursions

Want to explore Marseille for free during your cruise stop, accompanied by a super friendly guide? Here’s how to do it:

How to get to the City Hall from the cruise terminal (MPCT)

To reach your meeting point at Marseille City Hall from the Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal (MPCT – Gate 4, Môle Léon Gourret), follow this route:

ℹ️ practical information

From the cruise terminal, take bus 35T toward Joliette
– Duration: about 15 minutes
At Joliette stop, switch to tram T2 or T3, or take bus 55 toward Roucas Blanc and get off at Sadi Carnot stop (2 minutes).
Then walk about 6 minutes (around 400 meters) to City Hall.

ticket – free tour

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 87 reviews

the marseille sightseeing bus is a convenient way to explore the oldest city in france. best part: you can hop on and off at any stop, giving you total freedom to discover the city at your own pace.

price per person → free

✅ check availability – book now

Old port

Marseille cruise port excursions

The old port has been the beating heart of marseille since antiquity. iconic and lively, it’s where fishing boats, luxury yachts, and the famous morning fish markets all come together. strolling along the quays is the best way to feel the authentic and vibrant atmosphere of the city.

as you walk, admire the colorful facades of historic buildings, bustling cafés and restaurants, and enjoy unique views of fort saint-nicolas and fort saint-jean. it’s also the perfect spot for photos and people-watching to see everyday life in marseille.

the old port is also the main departure point for many excursions, including trips to the frioul islands, cruises to the calanques, or local markets. its mix of tradition, culture, and gastronomy makes it an essential stop for every visitor.

ℹ️ practical information

address – vieux-port, 13001 marseille
access – walking distance from downtown, tram line 2 (vieux-port stop), or by bus from train stations and the cruise terminal.
opening hours – open all day, best visited in the morning or late afternoon.

Sightseeing bus

When you disembark in marseille, the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus is the best option for cruisers who want to save time and explore as many highlights as possible in just a few hours.

from the old port to the majestic notre-dame de la garde basilica, passing by the mucem, la major cathedral, the corniche kennedy, and the vallon des auffes every stop has its own charm, and the bus takes you everywhere.

how to easily reach the sightseeing bus from the cruise terminal?

On Foot	Walk about 1 km to exit the port (15–20 minutes) – Follow the path indicated from MPCT
City Bus 35T	Take bus 35T from the port to Joliette – Central stop, quick access to the tourist bus
Arrival at Joliette	You will find the tourist bus stop for easy boarding
Free Shuttle	Alternative option: free shuttle between Cruise Port (Gate 4) and Joliette – ideal for those who want to avoid walking or taking the bus

Ticket – marseille sightseeing bus

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 115 reviews

the marseille sightseeing bus is a convenient and flexible way to explore the oldest city in france. the best part? you can hop on and off at any stop to discover marseille at your own pace.

price per person → $26.99

✅ check availability – book now

La Canebière

Marseille cruise port excursions

La Canebière is Marseille’s most famous avenue, a cultural and historical symbol of the city. Stretching from the Vieux-Port to Palais Longchamp, it has long been the city’s economic and social heart. Strolling along La Canebière is a journey into Marseille’s history.

The avenue is lined with cafés, shops, and historic buildings that reflect the city’s evolution. It’s also a perfect spot to experience Marseille life, with pedestrians, street performers, and occasional markets. The lively atmosphere offers a genuine taste of the city.

Don’t miss the architectural details, such as building façades, wrought-iron balconies, and commemorative plaques along the avenue. La Canebière is also a great starting point to explore the Vieux-Port and the Panier neighborhood.

How to reach la Canebière from the cruise terminal

ℹ️ Practical information

Address – La Canebière, 13001 Marseille
Access – From Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal (MPCT): take bus 35T toward Joliette (~15 min), get off at Colbert, then walk 6 minutes to Réformés Canebière.
Alternative: direct tourist bus
Activities – Walking, shopping, cafés, architecture, starting point for Vieux-Port and Panier

Mucem

Marseille cruise port excursions

MUCEM is a must-visit museum located at the entrance of Marseille’s Vieux-Port, next to Fort Saint-Jean. It showcases European and Mediterranean civilizations through fascinating exhibitions. Its modern architecture, combining concrete and latticework, also makes it an iconic city landmark.

Explore rich collections, walk along the suspended bridges connecting the museum to Fort Saint-Jean, and enjoy panoramic views of the Vieux-Port and the Mediterranean. MUCEM is perfect for combining culture with a pleasant stroll.

ℹ️ Practical information

Address – MUCEM, 7 Promenade Robert Laffont, 13002 Marseille
Access – From Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal (MPCT): take bus 35T toward Joliette (~15 min), get off at Colbert, walk 2 min to Mucem St Jean, then bus 49 to Mucem (~4 min).
Alternative: direct tourist bus
Hours – Open every day except Tuesday, 10:00–18:00 (July–August until 19:00)

Ticket – MUCEM

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 615 reviews

Save time with these skip-the-line tickets for the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations (MUCEM) in Marseille and learn more about the history and culture of the Mediterranean basin.

Price per person → $13

✅ Check Availability & Book

The Corniche Kennedy

Marseille cruise port excursions

The Corniche Kennedy runs along the Mediterranean coast, offering spectacular views of turquoise waters, the Frioul Islands, and Château d’If. It’s a must-see walk along the seaside in Marseille.

The route stretches from Prado to Vallon des Auffes, a small fishing port with colorful boats gently swaying. Along the way, benches and viewpoints let you enjoy the panorama and fresh sea air. You’ll also see historic villas and buildings reflecting the city’s 20th-century seaside development.

ℹ️ Practical information

Address – Corniche Kennedy, 13007 Marseille
Access – Bus 35T from MPCT → Joliette, then Bus 55 → Amédée Autran. Tourist bus also available
Hours – Open all day
Duration – 30 to 60 min
Tip – Bring water or a hat in summer

The Vallon des Auffes

Marseille cruise port excursions

The Vallon des Auffes is a picturesque small fishing port nestled between rocks, just minutes from the city center. With its colorful boats, traditional cabanons (fishermen’s huts), and peaceful atmosphere, it feels frozen in time.

Popular with both locals and visitors, it’s perfect for a stroll, taking photos, watching the sunset over the sea, or enjoying a bouillabaisse at one of the renowned local restaurants.

Situated under a large stone arch bridge, Vallon des Auffes perfectly embodies Mediterranean charm, blending maritime tradition with scenic beauty.

ℹ️ Practical information

Address – Vallon des Auffes, 13007 Marseille
From Old Port – Bus 83 toward Rond-Point du Prado → get off at Vallon des Auffes (≈15 min)
From Joliette – Walk to Quai du Port (≈9 min) → Bus 83 toward Vallon des Auffes
Alternative – Tourist bus from the port
Duration – 15–20 min depending on starting point

Bike from the port

Marseille cruise port excursions

For the sporty, or even the less sporty!
Why not get moving after enjoying an all-you-can-eat buffet and cocktails? 😂
How about a bike ride directly from the port (bike included, delivered to the cruise terminal)? Here’s all the info!

Itinerary:

It all begins with your pickup at the cruise terminal at the port of Marseille. From there, we’ll pedal to the Old Port, where you can explore the local market and admire the fishing boats docked.

We’ll continue on electric bikes to the Jardin des Vestiges, a park in the heart of the city where you can admire the remains of the Roman era. Next, we’ll visit the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations (MUCEM) before reaching the stunning Marseille Cathedral, a magnificent example of local architecture.

The tour will also take us through the famous Le Panier neighborhood, the oldest in the city, with its charming squares, Provençal buildings, and little shops. We’ll then climb up to the Palais du Pharo, located on one of the highest hills in the city, for a spectacular panoramic view of Marseille.

Next, we’ll pass through the neighborhoods of Bompart and Vauban, before concluding our journey with the majestic Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica, perched 150 meters above sea level, offering a breathtaking view of the city and the sea.

After 4 hours of cycling exploration, we’ll part ways with the memory of a wonderful Marseille adventure.

Included:

Pickup at the cruise terminal at the port of Marseille
Drop-off at the end of the tour
Electric bike and helmet rental
French-speaking guide

Practical Information:

Duration	4 hours
Language	Guided in French and other languages
Meeting Point	Cruise terminal at the port of Marseille
Price	$55 per person
Difficulty	Easy to moderate – suitable for beginners and families
Includes	Electric bike, helmet, guide, and drop-off at the cruise terminal

Marseille cruise port excursions Ticket – Bike from the port

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 21 reviews

This e-bike tour of Marseille is perfect for cruise passengers who want to visit the city’s monuments in a comfortable way without missing a beat.

Price per person → $86

✅ Check Availability & Book

The castle d’If

Marseille cruise port excursions

The Château d’If can only be visited by ferry from the Old Port of Marseille (15–20 min crossing). On site, you can explore the ramparts, cells, and enjoy views of the harbor and the Frioul Islands. Multiple ferry companies offer regular departures, making it easy to fit into your schedule.

This site is perfect for a short cultural and sightseeing stop, combining maritime views with a visit easily organized from the city center or the cruise terminal.

ℹ️ Practical information

Access – From MPCT: Bus 35 → Old Port (Arenc Mirabeau) → ferry to Île d’If (multiple companies available)
Hours – April to September: 10:30 AM → 6:00 PM
October to March: 10:30 AM → 5:15 PM
Closed on Mondays
Price – Ferry $11 + Château $6
Duration – Approx. 50 min crossing

Ticket – Château d’If

⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 85 reviews

Located on an island across from Marseille’s port, the Château d’If once held one of the most feared prisons. Learn its fascinating history by booking a skip-the-line ticket to explore the interior.

Price per person → $7

✅ Check Availability – Book Now

Panier district

Marseille cruise port excursions

Discover the authentic charm of the Panier district in Marseille during your cruise stop! The Panier, the city’s historic neighborhood, immerses you in a true labyrinth of picturesque streets. Enjoy a unique Mediterranean experience.

With its bohemian vibe, street murals, and local artisans, the Panier offers a real journey back in time. Experience an authentic escape and taste the very essence of Marseille in this vibrant, history- and culture-rich district. A must-see stop for unforgettable memories!

ℹ️ Practical information

Address – Panier District, 13002 Marseille
From the cruise terminal – Bus 35 to Place Joliette → 9 min walk (≈25 min total)
Tourist bus – Board at Joliette for a comfortable and economical visit (≈$23)
Taxi – $14–$17 for a fast and direct trip

Ticket – Guided your – Panier district

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 7 reviews

Discover the beauty of Marseille on a pleasant walk starting from Joliette. Learn all about the modernization of the Phocean city and France’s oldest district: the Panier. 2600 years of history and two tastings await!

Price per person → $35

✅ Check Availability – Book Now

Cathedral of Major

Marseille cruise port excursions

The Major Cathedral, officially called Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-Majeure, is one of Marseille’s architectural gems. Located just a few steps from the Old Port, it impresses with its massive size and unique Romanesque-Byzantine style.

Admire its striped white and green marble facades, majestic domes, and stunning interior mosaics. Every detail reflects Marseille’s rich history and the fusion of Mediterranean and Western influences.

Visiting the Major Cathedral is perfect for a cruise stop, as it is easily accessible on foot from the Old Port and offers a fascinating glimpse into Marseille’s history and culture.

ℹ️ Practical Information

Address – Place de la Major, 13002 Marseille
Access – Bus 35T → Joliette, then Bus 49 → Gare Maritime Internationale
Hours – 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Admission – Free
Duration – 30–45 min

Orange Vélodrome

Marseille cruise port excursions

Discover the iconic venue that has hosted legendary matches over the years and step into the history of France’s greatest football club. The Orange Vélodrome is more than just a stadium: it’s a symbol of Marseille, a football temple, and home to France’s only Champions League trophy.

During your visit, explore this iconic stadium at your own pace and go behind the scenes: players’ locker rooms, tunnel, and press room. Admire the club’s trophies and dive into anecdotes and archives that tell the fascinating story of Olympique de Marseille.

Whether you’re an OM fan or just curious, this immersive experience gives you a unique look at the passion, culture, and legend of Marseille’s club.

ℹ️ Practical Information

Included – Stadium entry, access to locker rooms, tunnel, and press room.
Optional – Photos and souvenirs available for an additional fee.
Starting point – Gate 18, at the top of the stairs at parvis Jean Bouin, boulevard Michelet.
Prohibited – Smoking, food & drinks, bicycles, alcohol & drugs, glass items.
Duration – Self-guided visit at your own pace (approx. 1–1.5 hours).

Ticket – Orange Vélodrome Tour

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 646 reviews

Explore the behind-the-scenes of the Orange Vélodrome and Olympique de Marseille. Visit the locker rooms, press room, and trophy hall.

Price per person → $25

✅ Check Availability – Book Now

Aix-en-Provence and Cassis

Marseille cruise port excursions

Panoramic tour of Aix-en-Provence and Cassis. During this panoramic tour of Aix-en-Provence and Cassis departing from Marseille, we will visit these two beautiful towns as well as the Calanques National Park. Their landscapes will captivate you!

Ticket – Panoramic Tour of Aix-en-Provence and Cassis

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This panoramic tour of Aix-en-Provence and Cassis from Marseille will take you through these two beautiful towns and the Calanques National Park, whose landscapes will leave you enchanted!

Price per person → $134

✅ Check Availability – Book Now

Where to swim in Marseille

During your cruise stop, you can enjoy a swim in the sea. For a quick and efficient itinerary, choose beaches close to downtown, easily accessible from the Old Port.

Catalans beach

For a quick swim, this is the easiest option. Just a 20-minute walk from the Old Port, Catalans Beach is a popular sandy beach with locals. It’s well-equipped with showers, restrooms, and restaurants.

Access from the Old Port:
- On foot – Enjoy a 20-minute walk along the waterfront.
- By bus – Take lines 82, 82S, or 83 to reach Catalans Beach.

Vallon des Auffes

For a more authentic and picturesque experience, head to Vallon des Auffes. It’s not a sandy beach, but a charming small fishing port where locals swim from the rocks or piers. The atmosphere is unique, away from the city bustle.

Access from the Old Port:
- On foot – About a 25–30 minute walk along Corniche Kennedy, passing Catalans Beach.
- By bus – Bus 83 from the Old Port goes directly to Vallon des Auffes.

Prado beaches

If you have more time and want a larger beach to relax, the Prado Beaches are an excellent choice. This vast coastal area has several sandy and pebble beaches—perfect for sunbathing and swimming in a larger space.

Access from the Old Port:
- By bus – Take Bus 83 along the Corniche to Prado. About a 20-minute ride.
- By bike – Public bike stations are available for a more active coastal ride.

Tip for cruise passengers: Catalans Beach and Vallon des Auffes are the best options for a short stop. Always allow extra time for returning to your ship.

How to get to the cruise port from Marseille airport (MPCT)

Airport → Cruise port transfer

Are you embarking on a cruise from Marseille and arriving by plane? If you want to avoid public transport as described above, you can book your transfer directly to the port.

✅ Check availability – Book now – Civitatis

How to get to the cruise port from Marseille airport (MPCT)

Marseille cruise port excursions

Public transport transfer
Note: There is no direct connection between Marseille Provence Airport and the cruise terminals.

Transfer	Details
Airport Shuttle → Saint-Charles Train Station	Direct shuttle every 15 min – Duration: 25 min (up to 50 min during peak hours)
Saint-Charles Train Station → Cruise Terminal (MPCT)	Take Metro Line 2 (Red) toward “Capitaine Gèze” → get off at Joliette → walk to Place de la Joliette → take Bus 35T to Cruise Terminal (Gate 4) → expect 0.37–1.55 miles (600 m–2.5 km) walking depending on the dock
ℹ️ Important	Bus 35T runs only on cruise stop days. Check that your ship is in port before departure.

Ticket – The island of Frioul

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Depart from Marseille’s Old Port and explore the Frioul Islands by boat. Swim in turquoise coves and enjoy a relaxing experience with our professional skippers. A unique moment at sea!

Price per person → $73

✅ Check Availability – Book Now

Activities

Make the most of your stopover in Marseille by discovering the city’s top activities. From cultural visits to historic walks and gourmet experiences, there’s something for everyone. Whether you stay in the city center or explore the surroundings, your stopover will be rich and memorable.

Popular activities for cruise passengers with Get Your Guide:

Old Port (Vieux-Port) – Walk along the port, local market, departure point for ferries and excursions.
La Canebière – Iconic avenue with shops and historic cafés.
Cathedral of La Major – Remarkable architecture, mosaics, panoramic views.
MUCEM – Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations, permanent and temporary exhibitions.
Corniche Kennedy – Sea views and the Frioul islands, accessible by bus from the cruise terminal.
Vallon des Auffes – Picturesque small port, seafood restaurants, accessible by bus from Old Port or Joliette.
Château d’If – Ferry crossing from the Old Port ($12) + castle visit ($7), with a view of the bay.
Le Panier District – Old streets, artisanal shops, cultural visits, accessible by bus or taxi.
Hop-on Hop-off Bus – Discover all main sites at your own pace, departing from Joliette.

Prefer booking with Civitatis? So do we!

Discover all the tours and guided visits they offer for your Marseille stopover.

✅ Check Availability – Booking – Civitatis

FAQ – Marseille cruise port excursions

Questions you ask us

❓ Visit the Old Port or go further?

If this is your first visit to Marseille, focus on the Old Port and Le Panier. You’ll find the heart of Marseille’s history, culture, and atmosphere there. For repeat visitors or those wanting scenic coastal views, go for Corniche Kennedy, Vallon des Auffes, or Château d’If.

❓ Traveling with kids, which option?

Old Port / Le Panier – Perfect for curious kids, walkable, markets and small streets.
Château d’If – Fun ferry ride for the family and an easy historical visit.
Beach / Corniche – Ideal to relax and enjoy the sea.

❓ How to reach La Canebière from the port?

From the Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal (MPCT), take Bus 35T to Joliette, then walk about 6 minutes to Réformés Canebière stop. You’re directly on this iconic avenue. Alternative option: taxi or rental car for more comfort.

❓ How to get to Château d’If?

From the Old Port (reachable via Bus 35 from the cruise terminal), take the ferry to Château d’If ($12 + $7 for the visit). Crossing takes about 15–20 min. Check schedules; the castle is closed on Mondays.

❓ Can multiple sites be combined in one stopover?

Yes, for example Old Port + Le Panier + La Canebière in 3 hours, or Corniche Kennedy + Vallon des Auffes + Château d’If in 4–5 hours. You can use Bus 35T and the ferry, or the Marseille Hop-on Hop-off Bus ($23) to visit several sites easily without worrying about transfers.

❓ Where to find restaurants near the port?

The Old Port and Joliette district offer a wide range of restaurants, from typical brasseries to fine dining with port views. You can also explore the small streets of Le Panier for local spots.

❓ How to quickly reach scenic viewpoints?

To easily access Corniche Kennedy or Vallon des Auffes, use Bus 55 from Joliette, or the Marseille Hop-on Hop-off Bus ($23). Taxi remains a fast but more expensive option.

❓ How much time should I plan to visit Marseille on a stopover?

For a quick visit: 3–4 hours for Old Port, Le Panier, and La Canebière. To add Corniche Kennedy, Vallon des Auffes, and Château d’If, plan 5–6 hours. The Hop-on Hop-off Bus allows you to cover multiple sites without getting tired.