How to Use Marseille Public Transportation?

Marseille is the second largest city in France, after Paris. It welcomes thousands of tourists every year thanks to its beautiful coast and historical monuments. But how can visitors best get around the city? Fortunately, Marseille has a prosperous and efficient public transportation system. In this post, we will provide an overview of the public transportation options available in Marseille, how to use them, and how to purchase tickets.

Options Available

The public transport system in Marseille is operated by the Régie des Transports Marseillais. It consists of an extensive network of buses, trams, as well as metro and commuter rail services. All modes of transport in this network are integrated, which means that you can use a single ticket to switch from one mode such as a bus to another such as a tram.

The bus network in Marseille runs throughout the day and is the oldest form of public transport in the city. You can find buses at most of the major sights, such as Notre-Dame de la Garde or the Musée des Civilisations de l’Europe et de la Méditerranée. The buses also connect most parts of Marseille to its suburbs.

The tramway was introduced in 2007 and has grown to become one of the public transportation networks’ main arteries. There are 3 tram lines – Tram 1, Tram 2, and Tram 3 – that all run around the city center and out to some of the suburbs.

The metro network consists of two lines, Line 1 and Line 2, both of which run through the city center towards the south. The two lines are separate, but they converge in certain areas such as Place Castellane and St.Charles Station.

The commuter rail service provides connections to the neighboring towns and cities in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur such as Aix-en-Provence or Toulon. Tickets for this service can only be purchased at the railway station.

How to Purchase Tickets

Purchasing tickets for Marseille’s public transport system is easy. You can buy tickets for all available modes at the vending machines located at major stations or you can purchase them online with a debit or credit card in advance. Tickets are also sold at kiosks in some areas, though it is best to check first.

Tickets come in various forms and offer different levels of access depending on how long you need them for:

• Ticket à L’Unité – a single-use ticket valid for 1 hour 30 minutes
• Ticket à L’Une – a single-use ticket valid for 24 hours
• Carte 10 Voyages – a ticket valid for 10 trips on any of the RTM buses, trams, or metro lines
• Carte Jeune & Moi – a discounted ticket for students under 26 years old
• Carte Emploi Provence – a discounted ticket for school or business employees
• Kiosk Abonnement Famille – discounted tickets for families

You can also purchase tickets online, on the RT’s website. This allows you to avoid queues at vending machines during peak times, as well as save some money by buying a bundle of tickets.

It’s also worth noting that you can buy tourist passes like Hello Provence and Hello Paris to get cheaper access to attractions in the area. Lastly, keep in mind that all public transport options accept contactless payments, so you don’t have to worry about carrying spare change with you.

Conclusion

The Régie des Transports Marseillais makes it relatively easy for tourists to use Marseille’s public transport system thanks to its variety of tickets and integrated network. There are options for one-time use as well as for regular trips, discounts for students and families, and tourist passes for better access to attractions in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. In addition, contactless payments and online ticket purchasing make traveling around Marseille easy and fuss-free.

Insider’s Guide to Marseille: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Marseille is a bustling city that boasts a rich history, vibrant culture, and exquisite beauty. With its striking architecture, stunning beaches, spectacular food, and bustling energy, Marseille is a must-visit location for any traveler who wants to experience southern France’s authentic beauty. Here’s an insider’s guide to Marseille to help you get the most out of your trip.

Local Attractions: Discover Hidden Gems

As you explore Marseille, make sure you check out the hidden gems that only locals know about. There are several unique attractions that you won’t find listed in tourist guides. One of these is the Vieille Charité, a magnificent 17th-century building that houses museums and cultural centers. You can find some unique artworks, installations, and exhibitions that will inspire and intrigue you. Additionally, visit Les Goudes and Calanques National Park, a cluster of cliffs, coves, and inlets that will take your breath away. These two locales are perfect for hiking and picnics.

Dining Spots: Savor Local Cuisines

Marseille’s cuisine has a lot to offer. Enjoy a local dish, bouillabaisse, which is a flavourful fish stew made of fresh Mediterranean catch. La Baie des Singes is one of the best restaurants in town where you can savour the best bouillabaisse. If you want to grab a quick lunch, you can dine at Le Café des Épices, an authentic north African café serving aromatic tagine dishes and sweet mint tea. Moreover, head to the Marché de Noailles, a local marketplace where you can try freshly baked traditional Algerian sweets, and taste some of the local fruits and vegetables.

Cultural Experiences: Explore Marseille’s Rich Culture

Marseille houses several cultural venues, events, and festivals that showcase its vibrant local culture. Check out the MuCEM, a unique Museum of Mediterranean Cultures, to learn about the history of the region’s culture and traditions. Music lovers should attend the Marseille Jazz Festival, a lively annual event that’s held during the first week of July. If you love art, head to Le Panier, a neighborhood rich in street art and murals.

Local History: Dive into Marseille’s Fascinating Past

Marseille has a long history, and you’ll come across something fascinating every step of your journey. Check out the Abbaye Saint-Victor, a 5th-century church with rare relics such as the preserved head of Saint Victor. A few other historical landmarks include the stunning Fort Saint-Nicolas, the gorgeous Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, and the Roman Docks museum, where you can learn about Marseille’s history as a vibrant port.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Experience Marseille like a Local

There are several things to do in Marseille that you won’t find in conventional tourist guides and brochures. One of these is to explore the Cours Julien district, a vibrant, alternative neighborhood packed with trendy shops, cool bars, and colorful street art. Another unique and exciting experience is to visit the Marché aux Puces de Marseille, a giant flea market that sells everything from vintage items and Antiques to bric-a-brac and crafts. Finally, try an unusual outdoor sport, Pétanque, a local game that’s a combination of lawn bowling and horseshoes.

In conclusion, Marseille has so much to offer travelers, from its stunning natural beauty to its delicious cuisine and rich culture. This insider’s guide will help you explore the city like a local and make unforgettable memories.