Best Cruise Destinations in Marseille, France

Marseille, France, Marseille, Destination & Trip Type Pages, Best Cruise Destinations

Best Cruise Destinations in Marseille, France

1. Calanque de Sormiou

A picturesque cove with turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs, offering a serene and beautiful beach experience.
  • Natural Beauty: Its unique geological formation creates an unparalleled natural landscape.
  • Accessibility by Boat: Easily reachable by cruise ships, making it a convenient destination for travelers.
  • Swimming and Snorkeling Opportunities: Clear waters provide excellent opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.

2. Château d'If

A medieval castle famously used as inspiration for 'The Count of Monte Cristo', offering a unique historical experience.
  • Historical Significance: Offers a glimpse into France's rich maritime history.
  • Access by Cruise Ships: Can be easily visited via cruise ships, providing an opportunity to explore this historical landmark.
  • Guided Tours: Provides guided tours for visitors to learn about its history and legend.

3. Vieux-Port (Old Port)

A vibrant harbor filled with fishing boats, yachts, and historic buildings, offering a taste of Marseille's charm.
  • Authentic Local Experience: Allows travelers to immerse themselves in Marseille's local culture.
  • Cruise Ship Docking: Many cruise ships dock here, providing easy access for tourists.
  • Fresh Seafood: Surrounded by numerous seafood restaurants serving fresh catches daily.

4. Les Grottes de l'If

A network of limestone caves filled with stalactites and stalagmites, offering a unique subterranean experience.
  • Natural Wonder: Features stunning geological formations and underwater passages.
  • Boat Tour Availability: Visitors can take guided boat tours to explore the caves.
  • Historical Connection: Connected to Château d'If, allowing visitors to explore both in one trip.

5. Frioul Islands

A group of four islands offering pristine beaches, unique wildlife, and stunning views.
  • Wildlife Observation: Home to numerous seabirds, seals, and dolphins.
  • Beach Relaxation: Features quiet beaches for relaxation.
  • Access by Cruise Ships: Easily accessible via cruise ships, making it a convenient destination.

6. Notre-Dame de la Garde

A iconic basilica perched atop Marseille, offering panoramic views of the city.
  • Iconic Landmark: One of Marseille's most recognizable symbols.
  • Historical Significance: Built in the 19th century, it symbolizes the city's resilience and spirit.
  • Panoramic Views: Offers breathtaking views of Marseille and the harbor.

7. Musee Regards de Provence

A modern art museum showcasing works from Cezanne, Picasso, and other famous artists.
  • Art Appreciation: Features a vast collection of renowned modern artworks.
  • Cruise Ship Proximity: Located near the Vieux-Port, making it easily accessible for cruise ship passengers.
  • Educational Tours: Offers guided tours and educational programs for visitors.

8. La Canebière

A bustling avenue lined with historic buildings and lively cafes, offering a taste of Marseille's vibrant atmosphere.
  • Shopping and Dining Experience: Features numerous shops, restaurants, and cafes for travelers to explore.
  • Historical Architecture: Showcases several iconic buildings from Marseille's past.
  • Cruise Ship Proximity: Located near the Vieux-Port, making it easily accessible for cruise ship passengers.

9. Palais Longchamp

An ornate palace housing natural history and fine arts museums, showcasing the city's cultural heritage.
  • Cultural Immersion: Offers a deep dive into Marseille's rich cultural history.
  • Architectural Beauty: Features stunning neo-Roman and Baroque Revival architecture.
  • Museum Visits: Includes natural history and fine arts museums for visitors to explore.

10. Les Catalans Beach

A popular urban beach featuring golden sand and clear waters, offering a relaxing beach experience.
  • Relaxation and Sunbathing: Offers ample space for sunbathing and relaxation.
  • Water Sports Activities: Features water sports facilities, such as jet-ski rentals and parasailing.
  • Cruise Ship Proximity: Easily accessible via cruise ships, making it a convenient destination for tourists.

11. Les Terrasses du MuCEM

A rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of Marseille and the harbor, perfect for dining and relaxing.
  • Dining Experience: Features a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine.
  • Panoramic Views: Offers breathtaking views of Marseille and the harbor.
  • Cruise Ship Proximity: Located near the MuCEM museum, making it easily accessible for cruise ship passengers.

12. MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations)

A modern museum showcasing the history, art, and culture of Europe and the Mediterranean.
  • Cultural Immersion: Offers a deep dive into the history and culture of Europe and the Mediterranean.
  • Architectural Beauty: Features a unique, modern design by architect Rudy Ricciotti.
  • Cruise Ship Proximity: Located near the Vieux-Port, making it easily accessible for cruise ship passengers.

13. Les Goudes Beach

A pebble beach offering crystal-clear waters and stunning views of the Frioul Islands.
  • Relaxation and Swimming: Offers a peaceful setting for relaxation and swimming.
  • Scenic Views: Features stunning views of the Frioul Islands.
  • Cruise Ship Proximity: Easily accessible via cruise ships, making it a convenient destination for tourists.

14. Les Maounis Beach

A secluded beach offering pristine waters and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for families.
  • Family-Friendly Environment: Features shallow waters and gentle waves, making it suitable for children.
  • Relaxation and Sunbathing: Offers ample space for sunbathing and relaxation.
  • Cruise Ship Proximity: Easily accessible via cruise ships, making it a convenient destination for tourists.

15. Les Rade de Marseille

A bustling port area offering a unique blend of modern and historic architecture, vibrant nightlife, and various dining options.
  • Dining Experience: Features numerous restaurants serving a variety of cuisines.
  • Nightlife Opportunities: Offers a vibrant nightlife scene with bars and clubs.
  • Historical Architecture: Showcases a mix of modern and historic buildings, including the iconic MuCEM museum.