Getting ashore
Cruise ships use several terminals in Marseille. The main one for larger ships is MPCT, about 8 km from the center. Joliette is closer to town. Check your ship notice for the terminal. You step off near shuttle stops. The walk from the ship to the gate is short.
Watch-outs
From MPCT the walk into the Vieux Port is too long. Use the free shuttle or a taxi. Agree the fare before you leave. The first taxis may be for tours. Walk further for a city ride. The sun can be strong on open paths.
Getting into the city
A free shuttle runs from just outside the port gate to the city every 20 minutes. Cruise shuttles go a bit further but cost about €11. Bus 35 is a 20-minute walk from the port, then change to bus 55. A taxi to the old port is about €17. The path on foot is long and not pedestrian-friendly.
Taxis & ride apps
Taxis wait outside the terminals. A ride to the Vieux Port is about €17. Ride apps work in Marseille. Name the cruise terminal for the return. The rank is outside the gate.
What to do nearby
The Vieux Port has cafes, shops, and the fish market in the morning. Walk the quays. Notre-Dame de la Garde is a longer climb or taxi. This area is the hub and needs no ticket for the waterfront.
Going further
The airport is about 30 km. A shuttle goes to the train station. These take time. Book if you want a guided visit. Stay near the Vieux Port if the ship has a short stay.
Food & shopping
The streets around the Vieux Port have seafood restaurants and shops. Carry small bills. Ask the price if no menu is posted. Many places take cards.
Opening times & connectivity
Shops open about 10 to 7. French is the language, with English in tourist areas. WiFi is available in cafes. Save a map of your terminal offline. Ask staff for the emergency number.
Accessibility & mobility
Do not call the way ashore step-free. The port describes a green line on the ground and, from the J4, a walk of a few minutes into the centre. It does not describe lifts, slopes or gangway equipment. The tourist office puts the walk from the ship to the Gate 4 shuttle stop at about 5 to 12 minutes. RTM publishes which stops are accessible, and the live status of lifts and escalators on metro lines M1 and M2. Check Joliette before you rely on it. The MuCEM says the Fort Saint-Jean lift, between the Vieux-Port courtyard and the place d’Armes, is out of service. Frioul boats and piers are described as accessible, except the Château d’If pier. A short distance on the map is not a step-free route.