Vieux Port – Old Port

The Vieux-Port of Marseille, cradle of the Phocaean city

More than two thousand six hundred years ago, it is here that the Phocaeans landed to found Marseille. The Vieux-Port is the historic and living heart of the Phocaean city. The Marseille audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this emblematic place, the starting point of the history of the city.

The historic heart of Marseille

The Vieux-Port was the economic centre of Marseille until the middle of the nineteenth century, before the port activity moved towards new basins. Where the Phocaeans landed to found the city, it is today a pleasure port surrounded by the town hall, historic districts and lively quays. It is the beating heart of Marseille, a witness of more than twenty-six centuries of history.

What to see

You admire the pleasure boats, the lively quays, the Ombrière by Norman Foster and the view of Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde and the Fort Saint-Jean. The fish market enlivens the quay each morning. It is the essential starting point to explore Marseille, between history, maritime life and southern way of life.

Practical information

The Vieux-Port lies in the heart of Marseille, reachable on foot and a major transport hub. The quays are public spaces freely accessible, open at all times and on the level; shops and restaurants have their own hours. The fish market is held in the morning on the Quai des Belges, to be checked on site.

Why is the Vieux-Port important in Marseille?

Because it is there that the Phocaeans founded the city more than two thousand six hundred years ago; it was the economic centre of Marseille until the nineteenth century.

What is there to see at the Vieux-Port of Marseille?

The boats, the lively quays, the Ombrière by Norman Foster, the fish market and the view of Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde, in the heart of Marseille.