The Old Port of Marseille, or Vieux-Port, is the historic and cultural heart of the city of Marseille, located on the Mediterranean coast of southern France. The port dates back to ancient times when the Greeks founded Massalia, the city that would eventually become Marseille.
Today, the Old Port is a bustling area with restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops lining the waterfront. Visitors can watch the fishermen bring in their daily catch, take a boat tour of the harbor, or simply stroll along the water and take in the views.
One of the most iconic features of the Old Port is the two historic forts that guard its entrance: Fort Saint-Nicolas and Fort Saint-Jean. Both forts were built in the 17th century to protect the city from naval attacks.
The Old Port also serves as a major transportation hub for the city, with ferries departing to nearby islands and coastal towns, as well as cruises departing for destinations throughout the Mediterranean.