Old Port of Marseille (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Old Port of Marseille?
What makes it 82% Kids-Friendly: Kids can ride the Petit Train, play with Ombrière reflections and hop the 3-min Ferry-Boat, yet parents must watch harbour edges and expect few on-site toilets with child-height sinks.
![[4K] Walking in Old Port of Marseille, FRANCE 🇫🇷](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/wk9XnVdlFog/hqdefault.jpg)
Positives:
- Family-focused activities: Rides and boat trips are designed to delight children aged 3–12.
- Easy access: Quays and ferry boats are smooth and stroller-friendly.
Challenges:
- Midday crowds: The port gets busy around lunch, which may be overwhelming for younger kids.
- Limited shade: Few covered areas on the quays; pack hats and sunscreen.
What is Old Port of Marseille?
- A harbor that has served as Marseille’s primary maritime gateway since its founding by Greek settlers in the 6th century BC
- A concave waterfront basin bordered by limestone quays, fortified strongholds, and rows of historic vessels
- A seafront district anchored by landmarks such as Fort Saint-Jean, the mirrored Ombrière canopy, and the traditional fish market quays
What is so special about Old Port of Marseille for with kids?
- Open-air train and boat rides built for kids
- Smooth paths and ferry decks for strollers
- Interactive museum exhibits with a family ticket
- Short island trip to Château d’If for adventure
- Flexible 1–3 hour visit that suits varied ages
Recommended visit duration: 1-3 hours
Why 1-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for rides, a market stroll and a short island ferry without tiring younger children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Old Port of Marseille
Petit Train de Marseille:
Open-air tourist train that climbs from the Old Port to Notre-Dame de la Garde via key viewpoints.
Tip: Book tickets online or at the departure point (174 Quai du Port) to skip the line; seats are first-come.
Fish Market & Ombrière Roof:
Morning stroll along the Quai des Belges fish stalls, then play under the mirrored Ombrière canopy.
Tip: Arrive around 9 am to see fishermen unloading and get the best photo reflections.
Ferry Boat Crossing:
3–4 minute electric boat ride between Quai du Port and Quai Rive-Neuve.
Tip: Pay on board (€0.50 per person); bring a stroller—the boat is smooth and barrier-free.
Mucem Family Visit:
Interactive exhibits and outdoor concerts at the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations.
Tip: Buy the family ticket (€18) for 2 adults and up to 5 kids; let children explore the dedicated play area.
Château d’If & Frioul Islands:
Round-trip ferry to the historic prison island and nearby Frioul for easy hiking and swimming.
Tip: Take the earliest ferry to secure seating; pack water and a picnic for the islands.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Old Port of Marseille
- Arrive early: Start before 10 am to enjoy cooler temperatures and shorter lines.
- Pack snacks: Bring water and small snacks to keep kids happy between stops.
- Plan a loop: Combine the Petit Train, fish market and ferry ride to keep variety and momentum.
Reviews of Old Port of Marseille
Vanessa Aurelia
At sunset, it's definitely worth it. Many people were sitting within the harbor walls, enjoying the spectacle ;)
Ivy Huong Nguyen
The Old Port of Marseille is the vibrant heart of the city — a lively mix of history, culture, and seaside charm. Surrounded by cafes, seafood restaurants, and colorful boats, it’s the perfect place to soak up the Mediterranean atmosphere. From here, you can watch fishermen sell their daily catch, admire the reflections of historic buildings in the water, or hop on a boat to explore the Calanques....
Tezza J
we walk around the old port at 7am and it was spectcular. the crowd build up slowly. evening sunset is also nice but busier.
Seokjin Ham
The port is the historic and symbolic heart of the city. Originally established around 600 BCE as the harbor of the ancient Greek colony of Massalia, it later became a strategic center for Mediterranean trade and military operations during the Roman Empire. Throughout the Middle Ages and early modern period, the port was a key departure point for Crusaders and a hub for maritime commerce. It under...
ilox
The Vieux-Port of Marseille is truly the heart of the city—vibrant, historic, and full of life. Whether you're walking along the harbor, watching fishing boats come and go, or enjoying a coffee at one of the many cafés, the atmosphere is unforgettable. The views are stunning, especially at sunset when the sky reflects beautifully over the water. Street performers, local markets, and the iconic Not...
When is the best time to visit Old Port of Marseille (Marseille, France)?
Summer mornings are less crowded and cooler. In spring and fall you’ll find mild weather and quieter quays. Winters are calm but check ferry schedules.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Petit Train de Marseille tickets | EUR 34 |
| Ferry Boat crossings | EUR 2 |
| Mucem family ticket | EUR 18 |
| Château d’If ferry tickets | EUR 37 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 91 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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