Getting around Marseille: metro, tram, bus, taxi or private driver?
Marseille is a large, sprawling city, with hills, a coastline several dozen kilometres long and a centre that is often congested. Depending on your journey, your budget and your luggage, the best way to get around is not always the same. Here is an overview to help you choose, whether you are a visitor or a local.
Metro and tram: fast in the city centre
The RTM network has two metro lines (M1 and M2) and three tram lines (T1, T2 and T3). They serve Saint-Charles station, the Old Port, La Joliette, the Prado, the Vélodrome and several northern and eastern districts. It is the cheapest way to get around the city centre at rush hour.
- Pros: low fares, no traffic jams, frequent service during the day.
- Cons: the network does not reach the Calanques, the Côte Bleue or much of the southern coastline; there is no service at night; awkward with large suitcases.
Buses: everywhere, but slower
RTM bus routes extend the metro to the beaches, the hills and the outer districts, with a few night lines. They are handy for the Prado beaches, Les Goudes or Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde, but they get stuck in traffic, especially in summer and in the late afternoon.
The ferry-boat and sea shuttles
The famous ferry-boat crosses the Old Port in a few minutes, between the town hall and Place aux Huiles. In season, sea shuttles also link the Old Port with L’Estaque, Pointe-Rouge and the Frioul islands. It is a lovely way to see the city from the sea, but timetables depend on the season and the weather.
Cycling and walking
The city centre, the Old Port, Le Panier and La Joliette are easy to explore on foot. Self-service bikes are available in the centre. Mind the hills: the climb to Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde or Le Panier is steep, and the summer heat makes long walks tiring.
Taxis: available, but metered
Marseille taxis wait at the ranks at Saint-Charles station, the airport and in the centre. They charge a regulated metered fare, with possible extras: the final price depends on the time spent in traffic. For a detailed comparison, read our article private driver or taxi in Marseille.
Private driver (VTC): door to door, at a fixed price
A VTC (the French term for a private hire vehicle with a driver) is booked in advance, online or by phone. The price is fixed when you book and does not change with traffic. It is the most comfortable option in several situations:
- With luggage: from Marseille Provence Airport, Saint-Charles station or the cruise terminal.
- Early in the morning or late at night, when the metro has stopped running.
- In a group: a van carries up to 8 people, and the price is shared.
- Outside the city: Cassis, Aix-en-Provence, La Ciotat or the Côte Bleue, which are poorly served by public transport.
- On event nights at the Stade Vélodrome, when the streets around the stadium are closed.
At GoTransfert, a ride starts at €20 in Eco. Expect about €43 between the airport and the Old Port. All prices are on our Marseille private driver prices page.
Which transport for which journey?
| Your journey | Our advice |
|---|---|
| In the city centre, no luggage | Metro, tram or walking |
| Airport → city centre with suitcases | Private driver, or shuttle bus then metro if you are alone and travelling light |
| Saint-Charles station → hotel | Private driver with luggage, metro if travelling light |
| To the Calanques, Cassis or the Côte Bleue | Private driver or car |
| Home after an evening out or a concert | Private driver booked in advance |
| Group of 5 to 8 people | Van with driver |
Arriving by plane? See also our guide Marseille airport → city centre.
Frequently asked questions
How do you get around Marseille without a car?
In the centre, the metro, tram and walking are enough. For the beaches and the hills, buses take over. For the airport, the Calanques or journeys with luggage, a private driver is the simplest option.
Does the Marseille metro run at night?
No. The metro stops in the late evening and starts again early in the morning. At night, a few bus lines, taxis and private drivers remain.
How much is a private driver in Marseille?
At GoTransfert, from €20 in Eco. About €43 between Marseille Provence Airport and the Old Port. The exact price is shown before you confirm and does not change afterwards.
Should I book a private driver in advance?
It is recommended, especially for a very early departure, a flight or a train, and on event nights. You can book online or by phone, 24/7.
Book your private driver in Marseille online or call +33 6 32 76 58 47.
Discover all our private driver services in Marseille.
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