Old port Marseille

Fishing port, but also a marina, the old port of Marseille is one of the must-sees of the Phocaean city. Located near the famous Panier district, the old port is the ideal starting point for discovering the many attractions of the city. What to do in the old port? What to visit around the old port of Marseille? Where to stay?
Here are some tips.

The history of the old port in Marseille

Formerly a commercial port, the old port of Marseille housed the Greek colony of Massilia, then the Roman Massilia and Marshio. Surrounded by limestone blocks that surround the sea, the port is a perfect place to trade safely. Year after year, the small port continues to develop to become a major passage for many cargo ships. Over time, it has been transformed to renovate it and ensure that it offers a layout that meets the expectations of shipowners and shipping companies.

The port we know today is a legacy of the latest works by Norman Foster who, in 2013, created a canopy and also improved traffic on the quays.
Having become one of the strong symbols of the coastal city, it is today a very popular place in the city of Marseille.

What to do in the Old Port of Marseille?

The Old Port of Marseille is one of the great symbols of the city. It is located at the bottom of the Canebière. It is the ideal place to embark on a ferry towards the treasures of the region, such as the Calanques National Park, the Frioul archipelago or the Château d'If.
Apart from these excursions, the simple fact of walking around the Old Port is an activity in itself. Here you can discover the city's maritime heritage, its fishing boats, its imposing ferries, but also the many charming terraces that surround the city.

We advise you to visit the Old Port early in the morning: you will have the privilege of discovering the city's legendary fish market. Coming from fishing on the Marseille coastline and not far in the Mediterranean, the many species of fish sold are fresh and tasty.
The Tuesday and Saturday morning markets offer the opportunity to discover the varied stalls of Marseille merchants, some with the most beautiful varieties of plants and flowers and their delicious scents dress the streets.

What to do near the Old Port of Marseille?

Many monuments and places of interest are located near the port of Marseille. Among them, one of the must-sees of the city, the Notre Dame de la Garde church.
The marina is surrounded by several famous districts of Marseille, such as the town hall district (where the town hall of the 1st arrondissement of Marseille is located), the Opera, Saint-Victor and the Pharo.
The Old Port is also located near the Panier district, a pleasant place to visit, as it is full of good addresses. Parks, shops and restaurants nestle peacefully there, living to the rhythm of the gentle Provençal way of life of the places. Do not hesitate to stop there for some photos: the colorful facades of the houses, typically representative of the buildings of the south of France, are unique.
Finally, if you have time, take a few minutes to visit the Prado district, its beaches, its parks (Borely, Marcel Pagnol) and its Orange Vélodrome stadium.

Where to stay near the Old Port of Marseille?

You will have understood: there is no shortage of activities to practice at the Old Port and on its quays.

Do you want to visit all the buildings, the islands and enjoy all the activities located near the port? We recommend that you book your room in our hotel near the Old Port of Marseille, a comfortable establishment, accessible to all budgets and family-friendly. We welcome you with your loved ones and your pets and offer you many services to make your stay more pleasant. Do you want to visit us? Contact us or book a room without delay in our hotel in Provence!

Do not hesitate and discover all our B&B HOTELS in Marseille at attractive prices!