Marseille in One Day: Cruise Port Guide

Table Of Content

• Cruise Port Terminal Facilities
• Marseille Port Fos cruise terminals
• Find Cruises to France's Provence (Marseille) Port
• Walk Along La Corniche
• Closest Airport to Marseille Cruise Port
• Systra and the Port of Marseille Fos innovate
• A Guide to Marseille Cruise Terminal
• Exclusive Christmas Markets Rhine River Cruise with Transcend Cruises

Her writing is not only an exploration of travel and cruising; it is a testament to her zest for life, her commitment to family, and her love for the ocean. From high-end fashion stores to quirky boutiques and bustling local markets, the city has something for everyone. Visit the city centre and the Old Port area, where local markets sell everything from Provencal fabrics and soaps to local produce and seafood. As the sun sets, Marseille springs to life with an exciting and vibrant nightlife.

Cruise Port Terminal Facilities

You can select the cruise that suits your preferences, whether you prefer a lively or tranquil atmosphere, a large liner or a smaller ship, or a sober or opulent setting. Marseille, the largest city in southern France, nestles majestically along the Mediterranean coast. The city centre hums with life, flaunting the authentic charm of French culture and tradition. But perhaps the most impressive part of Marseille is its cruise port. The Marseille Cruise Port is the city's gateway to the Mediterranean and beyond, welcoming both large and small cruise ships throughout the year. This port, being the largest port in France, serves as an important hub for cruise passengers and marine travellers, offering a perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and captivating views.

Marseille Port Fos cruise terminals

This is where you can easily access the city’s public bus stops and tram stations. No direct connection between Marseille Provence Airport and the Cruise Terminals. The shuttle bus is direct between the airport and the train station. MPCT has six berths that can accommodate up to 6 cruise vessels at a time, regardless of the size.

Find Cruises to France's Provence (Marseille) Port

Big cruise ships dock at the “Gares du Môle Léon Gourret” or the “Stations of Mole Leon Gourret.” Most major cruise lines arrive here, usually at Gate 4. On the other hand, small cruise ships typically dock at J4 Terminal. Navigating through the Marseille cruise port and its surrounding city is a seamless experience for travelers. Free shuttle bus services operate regularly from the port to the city, arriving every 20 minutes.

To meet the shuttles after getting off your cruise ship, follow the green line across the ground, which will take you to the exit from the cruise terminal. At the exit you’ll find an air-conditioned shuttle (free, for cruise passengers who have yet to venture further into the city by using the Metro, taxis, or on foot) that takes you another 15 minutes. Marseille cruise port is part of Marseille Fos Port - France's largest port. Along with its cruise terminals, the port also has ferry terminals that serve the Ro-Ro shipping traffic (cars and passengers) to and from Algeria, Corsica, Sardinia, also Tunisia. Among the port's facilities are also dry docks and shipbuilding yards.

Closest Airport to Marseille Cruise Port

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Although surrounded by many other tourists, you get to enjoy the Old Port restaurants with their heart-stopping view. An automatic ticket dispenser is available at the bus stop at Gate 4 of the port. In the port, keep an eye out for the notice boards, they will tell you which terminal the ship you are boarding is at. Cruise guests looking to explore further afield often opt to visit the artistic and beautiful locations of Arles and Aix-en-Provence. Shore excursions are available and usually cover both these locations, or you can opt to travel independently. Taking a 20-minute ferry ride to Château d’If is a popular choice for many visitors.

Systra and the Port of Marseille Fos innovate

Marseille has become known for its city highlights and local activities that cater to all interests. So whenever you plan your visit to Marseille Cruise Port, rest assured that you’ll have plenty of options to keep you entertained. Excursion experiences also offer visits to local restaurants where you can savor some of the best dishes Marseille offers. The Marseille port's ferry terminals serve all 4 companies leaving out of Marseille to the islands of Corsica and Sardinia, also to north Africa (Algeria and Tunisia).

A Guide to Marseille Cruise Terminal

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Don’t miss out on visiting the bustling fish market for a slice of local life. Find all the practical information to access the Marseille cruise port from the airport, the Saint-Charles train station and also with your personal vehicle. We’ll tell you all about the free shuttle bus that takes you to the Joliette district. Several cruise shuttle options are available to get to the terminal in Marseille.

Most of the larger cruise vessels dock at the piers located on the jetty to the left of the map. It's very close to the city centre but has relatively limited capacity. You’ll most certainly want to make good use of your free time in Marseille but seeing some historic buildings, churches, and neighborhoods.

As a coastal city, Marseille offers ideal weather conditions for visitors throughout the year. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun on the beaches or explore the city’s historic sites and cultural experiences, there is something for everyone in Marseille. Exploring the city’s gastronomic scene is a must-do activity while visiting Marseille cruise port. In the city center, travelers can find restaurants serving mouthwatering cuisine worldwide.

Making a reservation is recommended, since space in the restaurant is limited to only 24 seats. Open for lunch and dinner, all dishes are part of a changing, chef’s choice daily menu, with different price points for different numbers of courses. The Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations only opened in 2013, but it quickly became a premiere cultural institution. Architecturally, it’s one of the most recognizable sights in Marseille, and the entire museum celebrates and honors the anthropological and artistic achievements of the Mediterranean. The port attracts major international cruise companies such as Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, ​​Costa Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line.

The port is also easily accessible by TGV (high-speed trains) from Lyon (90 min), London England (4 1/2 hours) and from Brussels Belgium (5 hours). Compared to the two cruise terminals in Toulon, which have both been recently refurbished, facilities in Marseille are fairly spartan. Alternatively you can catch the airport shuttle bus to Marseille Saint Charles station and continue according to the instructions below. Note that this route is roundabout, complicated and not recommended, especially if you have a lot of luggage. But we’re so glad we signed up for a walking tour because, through our guide, we were able to learn about the city’s history and what makes it unique in Europe, starting with it being the oldest city in France.