The
Old Port of Marseille is one of those romantic and perfectly scenic spots that makes for lifelong memories and magic moments. If you have found a
vacation rental in Marseille, you should definitely set aside some time to visit this must-see star of the city and to go wander, experience all that it has to offer the discerning tourist, maybe grab a bite or a drink, and, ideally, time it to take in the sunset over this historic part of this city in
France, the boats clustered around, and the glittering waters.
Located at the end of the Canebière, the main street of Marseille, the pedestrianised area that is the Old Port has been the natural harbour of the city since antiquity and remains a spiritual hub of Marseille as one of its most iconic areas. When the city was first founded by Greek settlers in 600BC, they originally built up their settlement around what is now the Old Port. It was the centre of maritime activity until the 19th century when new harbour moles, quays and docks were built to the north-west of the city, eventually resulting in the Grand Port Maritime de Marseille. While the Old Port was left in ruins after bombing by the Nazis in World War II, it has since been restored and is now a marina and a terminal for local boat trips, as well as a local fish market. In 2013, it was largely pedestrianised and renovated extensively under Michel Desvigne Paysagistes, with Foster and Partners following an international competition.
