About the Port
Founded some 2,600 years ago, Marseille holds the distinction of being France's oldest city, and its layered history still shows in the tangle of lanes around the Vieux-Port, the old harbor at the heart of town. Fishing boats and cafés line the water, and nearby bistros serve bouillabaisse, the saffron-scented fish stew that has long been a local signature. The old port sits within easy walking distance of the pier, making it a natural starting point for a first stroll ashore.
Beyond the city, the Provençal countryside unfolds in rolling hills, limestone ridges, and golden light that once captivated painters such as Cézanne. Excursions inland reach villages, vineyards, and market towns where that same timeless landscape remains largely unchanged. Marseille rewards travelers who split time between its lively urban waterfront and the quieter countryside just beyond, a pairing that captures both the grit and grace of southern France.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Marseille.
Climb to Notre-Dame de la Garde
This gilded basilica crowns the city's highest point and offers sweeping views over the harbor and Mediterranean. A taxi or the petit train covers the steep climb in about 15 minutes.
Wander Le Panier
Marseille's oldest neighborhood is a maze of pastel houses, steep steps, and street art just north of the Vieux-Port. Plan an hour or two on foot to browse artisan shops and soak in the local atmosphere.
Cruise to the Calanques
Board a small boat to explore the dramatic limestone fjords and turquoise coves southeast of the city. Half-day excursions typically depart from the Vieux-Port and are best booked ahead given limited capacity.
Cruise Lines That Call Here
Click a cruise line to see its Marseille sailings and Pavlus pricing.
Cruises That Visit Marseille
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 5, 2026 | Oceania | Oceania Allura | 9 | $7,149 | |
| Sep 6, 2026 | Cunard | Queen Anne | 14 | $2,239 | |
| Sep 6, 2026 | Royal Caribbean | Legend of the Seas | 7 | $2,973 | |
| Sep 7, 2026 | Cunard | Queen Victoria | 14 | $2,699 | |
| Sep 8, 2026 | Viking Ocean Cruises | Viking Vesta | 7 | $5,599 | |
| Sep 10, 2026 | Oceania | Oceania Sirena | 10 | $3,499 | |
| Sep 13, 2026 | Royal Caribbean | Legend of the Seas | 7 | $29,566 | |
| Sep 13, 2026 | Norwegian Cruise Line | Norwegian Epic | 7 | $1,109 | |
| Sep 13, 2026 | Azamara | Azamara Quest | 11 | $2,899 | |
| Sep 14, 2026 | Cunard | Queen Victoria | 14 | $1,489 | |
| Sep 14, 2026 | Cunard | Queen Victoria | 7 | $1,169 | |
| Sep 15, 2026 | Viking Ocean Cruises | Viking Vesta | 7 | $5,399 | |
| Sep 15, 2026 | Viking Ocean Cruises | Viking Sea | 7 | $4,499 | |
| Sep 17, 2026 | Silversea | Silver Ray | 11 | $16,200 | |
| Sep 17, 2026 | Royal Caribbean | Legend of the Seas | 7 | $2,086 | |
| Sep 19, 2026 | Princess | Sun Princess | 7 | $1,069 | |
| Sep 19, 2026 | Tauck River | ms Lumiere | 13 | $11,241 | |
| Sep 19, 2026 | Emerald Waterways | Emerald Liberté | 7 | $5,445 | |
| Sep 20, 2026 | Royal Caribbean | Legend of the Seas | 7 | $6,846 | |
| Sep 20, 2026 | Norwegian Cruise Line | Norwegian Epic | 7 | $1,045 |
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