The Old Port, Marseille

The Old Port harbours some of the most spine-tingling sights that Southern France has to offer.

The Old Port is the historic hub of Marseille. Often called the beating heart of the city, its u-shaped promenade offers a welcoming hug of sun-kissed ships, bustling crowds and mouth-watering foods. In the evening, you can watch the sun plunge into the horizon from one of its many restaurants or bars. For party-goers, the Old Port even provides an unflinchingly lively night-out,  to see you into the morning.

The area is steeped in  history stretching back to antiquity founded by Greek settlers from Phocaea (an ancient city located in present-day Turkey) in 600 BC, it served as the main port of Marseille right up until the 19th century. On the orders of King Louis XIV, two formidable forts, Saint-Nicolas Fort and Fort Saint-Jean, have guarded its entrance since the mid 1700s. Unfortunately, the old port was severely damaged during the Second World War and the ‘transbordeur’, a huge aerial ferry and former landmark of the city, was lost.

Today, the Old Port is a marina, now only harbouring yachts and humbler fishing boats. Alongside  the vibrant local fish market, you can take  a boat trip to nearby islands scattered the French coast. There’s also a stainless steel sun canopy which looms impressively over the Bay. It was designed by the British architect Norman Foster and stands as a heart-stopping monument to crown any snaps of this unforgettably picturesque port.

The Old Port, Marseille
The Old Port, Marseille
The Old Port, Marseille
The Old Port, Marseille
The Old Port, Marseille
The Old Port, Marseille
The Old Port, Marseille
The Old Port, Marseille
The Old Port, Marseille
The Old Port, Marseille
The Old Port, Marseille
The Old Port, Marseille

Opening Hours

Monday:
Open 24 Hours
Tuesday:
Open 24 Hours
Wednesday:
Open 24 Hours
Thursday:
Open 24 Hours
Friday:
Open 24 Hours
Saturday:
Open 24 Hours
Sunday:
Open 24 Hours

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