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Getting around Marseille

Travelling around Marseille
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Published on 25 May 2016
Updated byAsaël Häzaqon 22 July 2024

Marseille, the second most densely populated city in France, has its transport services managed by the Régie des transports métropolitains (RTM), covering buses, metros, streetcars, bicycles, and shuttle boats. Marseille is also an ideal city for those looking to combine their travels with outdoor activities.

The metro in Marseille

Marseille's metro network extends over 20.8 km and comprises two lines covering 29 stations. It operates every day from 4.50 am to 0.34 am (the last departure).

Metro 1 links La Rose to La Fourragère;

Métro 2 connects Gèze to Sainte-Marguerite Dromel.

The Régie des transports de Marseille has embarked on a vast program to modernize and extend the metro. A new fully-automated metro system is scheduled for completion in 2025–2026.

The tramway in Marseille

Marseille's tramway network comprises three lines serving a total of 34 stations over 14.8 km. Streetcars run from 4:50 am to 0:30 am (last departure):

  • line T1: Noailles – Les Caillols;
  • line T2: Arenc-Le Silo – La Blancarde;
  • line T3: Arenc-Le Silo – Castellane.

The tramway and metro networks are integrated, offering a convenient way to navigate Marseille, including areas beyond the Old Port.

Buses in Marseille

Marseille's extensive bus network spans 674.6 km and serves 2,532 stops, 573 of which are accessible to people with reduced mobility. The network extends to neighboring towns such as Allauch, Plan-de-Cuques, and Septèmes-les-Vallons. Buses operate from 4.15 am to 10 pm, varying by route, with 12 routes running exclusively at night. Additionally, eight school bus routes cater to the city's main secondary schools.

Cycling in Marseille

Similar to other major cities, Marseille has established its self-service bicycle network called LeVélo, which includes 2,000 electric bicycles. An app designed for LeVélo allows users to locate an available bike, unlock it, and return it to any station upon arrival.

Car-sharing in Marseille

If you've got a valid driver's license and want to get around the city by car, why not opt for car-sharing? In Marseille, three companies (including Citiz Provence and Getaround) manage a fleet of several hundred self-service vehicles. More than 80 stations are reserved for them.

Cabs in Marseille

Thanks to Taxi Radio Marseille and Taxis Marseillais, you'll never be late! The cab network has 1,560 professional drivers at 80 ranks. Cabs can be booked online or by telephone.

Water cabs in Marseille

The shuttle boat is ideal for travel and sightseeing. It is available from 7:30 am to 8:30 pm every day (except May 1) and links the town hall to the Place aux huiles.

Public transport fares in Marseille

Public transport fares in Marseille depend on factors such as age and income. For detailed information, visit the Régie des transports de Marseille website.

Useful links:

Régie des Transports de Marseille – RTM

Official portal of the city of Marseille – Getting around

We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.

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