La Résidence du Vieux Port occupies one of the long, stone-faced apartment blocks built along the north quay in the post-war rebuilding of the Old Port, and it has made the most of the era. Inside, the style is colourful, arty and chic, inspired by the 1950s, with bold primary colours, period-style furniture and a playful, retro mood. The real luxury, though, is the outlook. The hotel faces south, so its rooms and suites have sunny balconies that look directly across the harbour to Notre-Dame de la Garde on its hill, a view that is spectacular at sunset and when the basilica is lit at night. There are 48 rooms including nine suites, rated four stars, and three rooms are adapted for guests with reduced mobility. On the ground floor, Le Relais 50 restaurant has a terrace on the quay, ideal for a long lunch watching the boats. Rooms are soundproofed and air-conditioned, there is a lift, a concierge and room service, and pets are welcome. The hotel holds the Green Key eco-label.
Location and getting around: the hotel is at 18 Quai du Port in the 2nd arrondissement, on the sunny north side of the Vieux-Port, between the town hall and the Quai des Belges. Le Panier rises immediately behind, the fish market is a few minutes along the quay, and the Mucem and Fort Saint-Jean are a short walk west. Vieux-Port metro station is within easy walking distance, and the shuttle boats to the Château d’If and Frioul leave from the head of the harbour.
Rooms: every room has the Marseille view that people dream of, but the balcony suites are worth the upgrade for a longer stay or a special occasion. The design is bright and fun rather than minimalist. Soundproofing helps with the life of the quay outside, though summer evenings on the port are lively.
Who it suits: couples, design lovers and first-time visitors who want the postcard view from their own balcony and everything on foot, without the price of a full-service palace.
Good to know: breakfast is charged separately. There is no on-site parking, but public car parks are nearby, so check the best option with the hotel before you drive in. Rates vary widely by season and view, so compare room types when you book. A local tourist tax is added per person per night.
Why stay here
- ✓Balconies facing Notre-Dame de la Garde
- ✓1950s-inspired design
- ✓Le Relais 50 restaurant with quay terrace
- ✓Soundproofed, air-conditioned rooms
- ✓Lift and concierge
- ✓Room service
- ✓Accessible rooms
- ✓Pets welcome
Good questions
Do all rooms at La Résidence du Vieux Port have a view?+
The hotel faces south across the Old Port, and its rooms and suites have sunny balconies looking towards Notre-Dame de la Garde. The suites have the most generous balconies.
Is breakfast included?+
Breakfast is charged separately unless your rate includes it. Le Relais 50 on the ground floor also serves lunch and dinner on the quay.
Is there parking at the hotel?+
There is no on-site parking, but public car parks are nearby. Ask the hotel for the most convenient one before you arrive.
