Port information & tips for La Ciotat
La Ciotat is a hidden gem on the French Riviera, boasting authentic charm between Marseille and Toulon. This Mediterranean town enchants visitors with its deep-rooted maritime history, azure waters, and relaxed Provençal atmosphere. Impressive highlights include the exotic Parc du Mugel, the spectacular Calanque de Figuerolles with its striking rock formations, and the historic Eden Théâtre, which is considered the oldest still-operating cinema in the world. Cruise ships usually dock right in the heart of the city at Quai de Ganteaume in the Vieux Port, allowing travelers to reach the picturesque old town, charming cafés, and the lively waterfront promenade in just a few minutes' walk thanks to the excellent location.
Arrival & Departure
Getting around
Highlights & Districts
Useful tips
Returning to the ship
La Ciotat, located on the picturesque Côte d'Azur, is a charming destination that also serves as a cruise port. Thanks to its central location at the Quai de la Corderie, the port is easily accessible and allows guests to immerse themselves directly into the lively city center and the beaches.
Car
For those arriving by car, La Ciotat can be reached easily via the A50 motorway by taking exit 9 "La Ciotat" or, if coming from Toulon, exit 10 "Saint Cyr Les Lecques." Several parking options are available directly near the port, including the covered Vieux-Port parking garage (INDIGO Neo), just a few minutes' walk from the terminal, as well as the Port de Plaisance parking lot with video surveillance. In many places, the first two hours of parking are free, and parking in surface-level lots is often free 24/7 from October 1 to April 30.
Train
The nearest train station is La Ciotat - Ceyreste, which is approximately 3 to 5 kilometers from the city center and the port. From the station, you can easily reach the Old Port by taxi in about 6 minutes, with costs ranging between 17 and 22 euros. Alternatively, the local bus line 352 connects the station with the center (République stop) in about 15 to 23 minutes, with hourly departures.
Airplane
The nearest airport is Marseille Provence Airport (MRS), located at a distance of around 40 to 55 kilometers from La Ciotat. A direct taxi ride or a private transfer will take you to the port in about 45 to 52 minutes and costs between 70 and 150 euros. For budget-conscious travelers, shuttle services are available, taking about 1 to 1.5 hours and costing between 20 and 40 euros per person. A combination of bus and train via the Marseille Saint-Charles station is also possible, but takes a total of around two hours.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents will typically provide a fixed time slot for check-in, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan accordingly and allow sufficient time for your journey to the port, keeping in mind that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is generally scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times may change at short notice.
