Vieux-Port (Old Port)

Where it is & how to get there

• Metro: Metro 1 to Vieux-Port – Hôtel de Ville.
• From the station: 15 minutes on foot down La Canebière from Gare Saint-Charles, or 2 metro stops.
• Ferry boat: The little Ferry Boat crosses the harbour between the town hall and Place aux Huiles.

The story of the Vieux-Port

Around 600 BC, Greek sailors from Phocaea in Asia Minor landed in this natural inlet and founded Massalia, making Marseille the oldest city in France. For more than 2,000 years the harbour was the heart of trade with the whole Mediterranean.

Two forts guard the entrance: Fort Saint-Jean and Fort Saint-Nicolas, built by Louis XIV, who said the latter was meant to watch over the rebellious city as much as protect it. In 2013 architect Norman Foster added the Ombrière, a 46-metre polished steel canopy that reflects the people beneath it.

Best time to visit

Tips before you go

• Come early for the fish market on the Quai des Belges.
• Look up under the Ombrière mirror canopy for a fun photo.
• Try bouillabaisse, Marseille's famous fish stew, at a recognised restaurant; it is a long meal and usually ordered in advance.

What's around the Vieux-Port

• Le PanierThe oldest neighbourhood, just above the north quay.
• MuCEM & Fort Saint-JeanAt the harbour entrance, 15 minutes on foot.
• Château d'IfThe island fortress of The Count of Monte Cristo, 20 minutes by boat.
• La CanebièreMarseille's historic main avenue.

Questions travellers ask