Marseille cruise port excursions

Welcome aboard this comprehensive guide to “Marseille cruise port excursions”.
I’m Sarah ( or Miss Tatane 😛), passionate about cruising and a cruiser just like you. I’m here to share my experiences and advice with you, so that you can experience each destination to the full.
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Marseille cruise port excursions

How to get around and what to do

When you arrive at the Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal (MPCT), here’s how to exit the port: once outside the terminal, you can take bus line 35T, which will take you directly to Place Joliette, a large square in the center of Marseille.
From there, you’ll have several options to explore the city.
But what 90% of cruise passengers don’t know is that there is a free shuttle available!

• Free shuttle between the cruise port (Gate 4) and Joliette
• You can hop on the tourist bus, which offers several stops throughout the city.
• You’ll also find metro connections and other bus lines that make it easy to reach top attractions like Notre-Dame de la Garde, the Panier district, or the Old Port.

This solution allows you to discover Marseille at your own pace and access the city’s main points of interest easily.

Free shuttle between the cruise port and Joliette

Marseille cruise port excursions

Good news! The Grand Port Maritime de Marseille provides a free shuttle on cruise ship stopover days at Gate 4 of the cruise terminal (MPCT).
It is available for transit, embarking, and disembarking passengers.

🔁 Cruise port → Joliette route

• From your ship, follow the green line painted on the ground.
• Walk about 5 to 12 minutes to reach Gate 4.
• You’ll find a clearly marked stop: that’s where the free shuttle awaits you.

🔁 Joliette → Cruise port route

• Go to 9 Quai du Lazaret, between the Les Terrasses du Port shopping center and the ferry terminal.
• Just after the Five Guys sign, look for a large white iron gate.
• Enter through the small pedestrian gate by showing your cruise ticket.

🕐 Frequency: daily when cruise ships are docked
💡 A perfect way to reach the city center or return to your ship at no cost!
💡 A perfect way to reach the city center or return to your ship at no cost!

Things to do in Marseille

Notre-Dame de la Garde

When you arrive in Marseille, whether for a few hours or a full day, you can’t leave without visiting Notre-Dame de la Garde. Located on top of a hill 150 meters above sea level, this iconic basilica has been watching over the people of Marseille for more than 150 years… as well as every visitor who takes the time to discover it.

Affectionately nicknamed “la Bonne Mère” (the Good Mother) by locals, it’s much more than a monument: it’s a symbol of identity, protection, and deep emotion. Once at the top, you’ll be amazed by the spectacular 360° view over the Old Port, the Frioul Islands, the Mediterranean, and the entire city spread out below.

The interior of the basilica is also well worth visiting: its golden mosaics, hanging ex-votos, model boats offered in gratitude, and the unique atmosphere filled with devotion and poetry. Every corner tells a story, and it’s not uncommon to see a local simply stopping by to greet the Bonne Mère.

• Free entry
• Open daily

How to get to Notre-Dame de la Garde from the cruise terminal (MPCT)?

Stopping in Marseille and want to visit the unmissable Notre-Dame de la Garde?
Here’s how to reach it easily from the MPCT – Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal (Gate 4, Môle Léon Gourret, 13015 Marseille):

→ Metro option from Joliette stop

If you are already in the city center or have arrived at Joliette (for example, via bus 35T from the port), you can continue by metro:

1. Take line 2 from Joliette station, direction Sainte-Marguerite Dromel.
2. Get off at Castellane (about 12 minutes).
3. From there, walk about 8 minutes to Notre-Dame de la Garde — the climb is a bit steep, but the view is totally worth it!

If you prefer, the tourist bus will also take you there.

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:

• 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.

→ Currently, tours are offered in English, Spanish, or Italian. A French-speaking guide is coming soon!

Old port 

Marseille cruise port excursions

The Old Port (Vieux-Port) is one of the most iconic places in Marseille — the true beating heart of the city where history meets modernity. This is where Marseille’s story as a commercial port began, and to this day, the area remains lively, lined with cafés, restaurants, and markets. You’ll see fishing boats, yachts, and enjoy beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea.

It’s also a perfect starting point for exploring the rest of the city — the Panier district, local markets, or even taking a boat tour to the Frioul Islands. The Old Port is the nerve center of Marseille, where you can truly feel the soul of the city.

How to get to the Old Port from the cruise terminal

From the Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal (MPCT), here’s how to easily reach the Old Port:

1. Take bus 35T from the cruise terminal toward Joliette. The ride takes about 15 minutes.
2. At Joliette, take tram T2 heading to Sadi Carnot.
3. Get off at Vieux-Port stop, which is located right by the Old Port of Marseille. The tram ride takes about 6 minutes.

This route will get you quickly to this vibrant district — the perfect place to soak up the spirit of Marseille.

• If you want to take the little tourist train up to Notre-Dame de la Garde, you’ll find it at the Old Port.
• If you prefer, the tourist bus will also take you there.

Tourist bus

Marseille cruise port excursions

When you arrive in Marseille, to make the most of your time and visit as many must-see spots as possible, the tourist bus is the best option for us cruise passengers.

From the Old Port to the majestic Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica, passing by the Mucem, La Major Cathedral, the Corniche Kennedy, or the Vallon des Auffes, every neighborhood has its charm — and the bus takes you to all of them!

But how can you enjoy all of this without stress, especially with limited time during a cruise stop?
👉 The tourist bus is THE ideal solution!

Why choose the Hop-On Hop-Off tourist bus?

✅ Convenient and flexible
You can hop on and off the bus as many times as you like at every stop. No need to worry about public transport schedules or connections. You explore the city at your own pace, based on your interests.

✅ All the must-see places
One single ticket gives you access to Marseille’s top attractions:

• Notre-Dame de la Garde
• The Old Port
• La Major
• The Mucem
• Vallon des Auffes
• Corniche Kennedy
• Saint-Victor Abbey
• La Canebière
  …and many more!

How to easily reach the tourist bus from the cruise terminal?

Once you disembark at the MPCT – Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal, just follow these simple steps:

• Walk about 1 km to exit the port (15 to 20 minutes)
• Take bus 35T to Joliette (central stop)
• At Joliette, you’ll find the tourist bus stop

→ Free shuttle available between the Cruise Port (Gate 4) and Joliette

La Canebière

Marseille cruise port excursions

La Canebière is one of the most famous and iconic streets in Marseille. It stretches from the Old Port to La Plaine and stands as a true symbol of the city’s history and daily life. Along this lively avenue, you’ll find shops, cafés, restaurants, and many historic buildings. It’s a must-do walk to soak up the city’s vibrant and cosmopolitan vibe.

How to get to La Canebière from the cruise port

From the Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal (MPCT), here’s how to easily reach La Canebière:

1. Take bus 35T from the cruise terminal toward Joliette. The ride takes about 15 minutes.
2. At Joliette, get off at the Colbert stop.
3. Then walk for about 6 minutes to the Réformés Canebière stop. You’ll find yourself on one of the city’s main boulevards, ready to explore this emblematic area.

This route will lead you straight to La Canebière, a must-see location to experience the true spirit of Marseille.

→ If you prefer, the tourist bus will also take you there.

Mucem

Marseille cruise port excursions

The MUCEM is one of the most innovative and exciting museums in Marseille. Located across from the Old Port, this fascinating museum explores the history and culture of the civilizations that have shaped the Mediterranean region. The MUCEM stands out not only for its rich collection of artifacts, but also for its spectacular contemporary architecture that blends seamlessly into Marseille’s waterfront.

How to get to the MUCEM from the cruise port

From the Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal (MPCT), here’s how to easily reach the MUCEM:

1. Take bus 35T from the cruise terminal toward Joliette. The ride takes about 15 minutes.
2. At Joliette, get off at the Colbert stop.
3. From there, walk about 2 minutes to the Mucem St Jean stop, then take bus 49, which will bring you to the MUCEM stop in about 4 minutes.

You can also opt for a tourist bus, which will drop you off directly at the MUCEM without the need to change transportation.

The Corniche Kennedy

Marseille cruise port excursions

The Corniche Kennedy is one of the most picturesque and spectacular walks in Marseille. This panoramic route runs along the coast, offering a magnificent view of the sea, the calanques, and the city center. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing stroll to discover the natural beauty of Marseille and admire its iconic maritime landscape.

How to get to the Corniche Kennedy from the cruise port ?

From the Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal (MPCT), here’s how to easily reach the Corniche Kennedy:

1. Take bus 35T from the cruise terminal towards Joliette and get off at the Joliette stop.
2. From Joliette, take bus 55 towards Amédée Autran. The ride takes about 14 minutes.
3. Get off at the Amédée Autran stop and walk a bit to reach the Corniche du Président John Fitzgerald Kennedy.

The Corniche Kennedy is perfect for a relaxing walk with a panoramic view of the sea.

→ If you prefer, the tourist bus will also take you there.

The Vallon des Auffes

Marseille cruise port excursions

The Vallon des Auffes is a picturesque fishing port, nestled between the rocks, just minutes away from the bustling city center. This authentic and peaceful corner of Marseille seems frozen in time, with its colorful boats, traditional cabanons (small fishermen’s houses), and serene atmosphere.

It’s a place greatly appreciated by both Marseillais and visitors. People come here to stroll, take beautiful photos, admire the sunset over the sea, or enjoy a bouillabaisse in one of the city’s most renowned restaurants.

Located under a large stone arch bridge, the Vallon des Auffes perfectly embodies Mediterranean charm, blending maritime traditions with the poetry of the landscape.

🚌 How to get there from the Old Port:

1. Take bus 83 towards “Rond-Point du Prado”.
2. Get off at the Vallon des Auffes stop.
3. Travel time: about 15 minutes.

From Joliette:

1. Walk to Quai du Port (about 9 minutes on foot).
2. Take bus 83 towards the Vallon des Auffes.

→ If you prefer, the tourist bus will also take you there.

Discovering Marseille by bike from the port

Marseille cruise port excursions

For the sporty, or even the less sporty!
Why not move a bit after enjoying an all-you-can-eat buffet and cocktails? 😂
How about a bike ride directly from the port (bike included, brought to the port)? 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 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: The tour is guided in French and other languages

A unique experience to discover Marseille in a different way and make the most of your stop!

The Château d’If

Marseille cruise port excursions

During your stop in Marseille, don’t miss a must-visit: the Château d’If. Located on an island facing the port of Marseille, this former prison has marked the history of the region, especially through the famous novel The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas. Enjoy a skip-the-line ticket to explore its mysterious halls and ancient cells.

Why visit the Château d’If?

Dive into the fascinating history of this fortress, which housed the most feared criminals of the kingdom. From the breathtaking view over the Mediterranean to the legends of famous prisoners like Edmond Dantès, every corner of the castle hides a mystery. With the booklet provided with your ticket, explore at your own pace the various rooms and ramparts while enjoying an exceptional panoramic view of the Marseille coastline.

Visiting hours:

• From April 1st to September 30th: daily from 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM.
• From October 1st to March 31st: daily from 10:30 AM to 5:15 PM.

How to get to the Château d’If from the cruise terminal?

From the cruise terminal, the easiest way is to take the bus line 35.
Get off at the Vieux-Port stop (Arenc Mirabeau stop), where you’ll find several options to reach the Château d’If by ferry. From Vieux-Port, three maritime companies offer crossings to If Island.

Price for the Marseille – Château d’If crossing:

• Crossing: €11 for the ferry, plus €6 for entry to the castle.
• Duration: The crossing lasts about 50 minutes.

Important information:

• Crossings take place every day of the week, with regular departures.
• Note: The Château d’If is closed on Mondays.
• You can choose from three companies for the crossing, offering flexibility depending on the schedule.

Don’t miss:
In addition to visiting the castle, enjoy a spectacular view of the Marseille Bay during the crossing. A unique opportunity to see the city from another perspective!

Panier district

Marseille cruise port excursions

Discover the authentic charm of the Panier district in Marseille during your cruise stopover! Le Panier, a historic district of the city, immerses you in a true labyrinth of picturesque streets. Immerse yourself in a unique Mediterranean experience.

With its bohemian atmosphere, murals, and local artisans, Le Panier offers a true journey through time. Enjoy an authentic escape and experience the very essence of Marseille in this vibrant neighborhood, rich in history and culture. A must-visit for unforgettable memories!

→ How to reach the Panier district from the cruise terminal for just 2 euros:

• Take bus 35 to Place Joliette, then walk 9 minutes (total time: around 25 minutes).
• For a comfortable and affordable tour of the city (23 euros), hop aboard the tourist bus at Joliette.
• For a quick and direct option, a taxi is available for 12-15 euros. Choose the option that suits you best and explore Marseille with ease.

Cathedral of Major

Marseille cruise port excursions

Known also as Sainte-Marie-Majeure or simply “La Major”, this unique cathedral is a must-see. It is the only cathedral built in France in the 19th century, and one of the largest erected after the Middle Ages!

Its neo-Byzantine style impresses with its vast domes, mosaics, and its majestic location between the port and the Panier district. Arriving by sea, it is unmissable: it symbolizes the strength and elegance of Marseille.

📍 Good to know:

• Free entry
• Listed as a historic monument
• Can accommodate up to 3,000 people

How to reach from the cruise terminal (MPCT):

• Walk 4 minutes to the Cathedral of Major.
• Take bus 35T to Joliette.
• From Joliette, take bus 49 towards Gare Maritime Internationale.
• Get off at Gare Maritime Internationale stop.

→ Alternatively, the tourist bus will also take you there.

Snorkeling in Marseille

Marseille cruise port excursions

Come enjoy snorkeling in Marseille! You will discover the magnificent landscapes of Endoume and its Mediterranean coastline. You’ll be enchanted!

Itinerary

The gentle breeze, the Mediterranean sun shining on the city… it’s not just a postcard!
To enjoy this with your own eyes, meet us at the agreed time on Avenue Kennedy, in the Endoume district. This seaside neighborhood is perfect for recharging while staying close to the city, yet far from the hustle and bustle.

We will then cool off by going snorkeling in the Endoume coves.
Equipped with masks, snorkels, and fins, we will explore the extraordinary underwater landscapes of the region. Will we see some fish? Definitely!

After the snorkeling experience, we will regain our strength with a picnic lunch in the heart of nature. In this unique setting, the meal will taste even better! After lunch, we will guide you on how to return to central Marseille by public transport.

ℹ️ Details

• Duration: 5 hours
• Language: Activity led by an English-speaking guide.

Included:

• English-speaking guide
• Picnic lunch (fruit juice and bottled mineral water)
• Snorkeling equipment

Not Included:

• Public transport ticket for Marseille (€2 for a one-hour trip)

Aix-en-Provence and Cassis

Marseille cruise port excursions

Panoramic tour of Aix-en-Provence and Cassis. During this panoramic tour from Marseille, we’ll visit these two beautiful towns as well as the Calanques National Park. Their stunning scenery will win you over!

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.

Recommended itinerary:

Airport shuttle → Saint-Charles train station

• Direct shuttle every 15 minutes
• Travel time: 25 minutes (up to 50 minutes during rush hour)

From Saint-Charles station → Cruise terminal (MPCT)

• Take metro Line 2 (Red) towards “Capitaine Gèze”
• Get off at Joliette
• Walk to place de la Joliette (near the Docks Village)
• Take bus 35T to the cruise terminal (Gate 4) stop
• Expect to walk between 600 meters and 2.5 kilometers depending on your embarkation dock

ℹ️ Important: Bus 35T only runs on cruise stopover days. Check your ship’s presence at port before your trip.

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.

The island of Frioul

Marseille cruise port excursions

<p align=”center”><strong>The Frioul Islands</strong>, made up of four main islands – Pomègues, Ratonneau, If, and Tiboulen – are a true invitation to escape. Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast, a fan of scuba diving, or simply seeking to relax on idyllic beaches, these islands will meet all your expectations.</p> <ul> <li><strong>Pomègues and Ratonneau</strong>. These two islands, connected by a causeway, offer scenic hiking trails with breathtaking panoramic views. Hidden coves and sandy beaches invite you to swim and unwind.</li> <li><strong>Île d’If</strong>. Home to the famous Château d’If, made legendary by Alexandre Dumas’ novel *The Count of Monte Cristo*, this island offers a deep dive into Marseille’s history. A visit to this historic monument is a must for culture and history lovers.</li> </ul>

Must do activities on the Frioul islands

<ul> <li><strong>Hiking and Wildlife Watching</strong>. Explore marked trails and discover a well-preserved Mediterranean flora. Nature lovers can spot various species of seabirds native to the region.</li> <li><strong>Diving and Snorkeling</strong>. The crystal-clear waters of the Frioul Islands are perfect for exploring marine life. Several diving clubs offer excursions for all levels.</li> <li><strong>Visit the Château d’If</strong>. Step into history by touring this imposing fortress. Guided tours recount the legends and captivating stories surrounding this mythical prison.</li> </ul>

How to get to the Frioul islands

<p>From Marseille’s Old Port (Vieux-Port), regular ferry services take you directly to the Frioul Islands. The 20–30 minute crossing offers spectacular views of the Marseille bay and surrounding coastline.</p>

Mediterranean cruise port excursions

MTT wishes you the most beautiful cruise stopover in Marseille