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Les Petits Trains de Marseille: A Whimsical Tour of the City

Discover Marseille's iconic landmarks and hidden gems with Les Petits Trains, offering scenic tours through the city's historic streets and stunning Mediterranean coastline.

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Embark on a delightful journey through Marseille with Les Petits Trains, a charming tourist train service that offers a unique and relaxing way to explore the city's most iconic landmarks. These miniature trains provide a scenic tour, winding through picturesque streets and offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean coastline. With multilingual audio guides, passengers gain insights into Marseille's rich history, culture, and traditions. Whether you're heading to the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde or cruising along the Corniche Kennedy, Les Petits Trains provide an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. A convenient and fun way to discover the city's beauty without tiring yourself out, especially during the warmer months.

A brief summary to Les Petits Trains de Marseille

  • Monday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Friday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-12:30 pm

Local tips

  • Check the weather forecast before your ride; open-air seating is best enjoyed on a sunny day.
  • Purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid long queues.
  • Bring a hat and sunscreen, as the sun can be strong, especially on the Corniche Kennedy route.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you may want to explore the attractions at each stop.
  • Take advantage of the multilingual audio guides to learn about Marseille's history and culture.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Les Petits Trains de Marseille depart from 174 Quai du Port, 13002 Marseille, which is located on the northern side of the Vieux Port (Old Port). If you are already in the Vieux Port area, simply walk along the Quai du Port towards the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall). The departure point is near the harbor, close to many restaurants and shops. Look for the small blue and white trains.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by Metro, take Line 1 to the Vieux-Port Hôtel de Ville station. Exit the station and walk towards the Quai du Port. The departure point for Les Petits Trains is a short walk along the harbor. A single ticket for the metro costs €1.70. Alternatively, several bus lines serve the Quai du Port area. Check the RTM (Marseille Transport Authority) website for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. Bus tickets also cost €1.70 per journey.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Marseille. Simply ask to be dropped off at Quai du Port near the Hôtel de Ville. A taxi ride from the Gare Saint-Charles (main train station) to Quai du Port will typically cost between €15 and €20, depending on traffic.

  • Driving

    If driving, be aware that parking near the Vieux Port can be challenging and expensive. Several parking garages are located within walking distance, including the Vieux Port Hôtel de Ville car park and the Indigo Les Terrasses du Port car park. Expect to pay around €3-4 per hour for parking. From the parking garages, follow signs towards the Quai du Port and the Hôtel de Ville. The departure point for Les Petits Trains is a short walk from either garage.

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Discover more about Les Petits Trains de Marseille

Les Petits Trains de Marseille offer a unique and enchanting way to discover the city's most beloved attractions. These charming tourist trains provide a relaxed and scenic tour, perfect for visitors of all ages and abilities. With multiple routes to choose from, passengers can explore Marseille's rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning coastal scenery, all from the comfort of a whimsical miniature train. The most popular route takes passengers on a captivating journey to the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, an iconic hilltop basilica that offers panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. As the train winds its way through the narrow streets and steep inclines leading to the basilica, passengers are treated to breathtaking vistas of Marseille's skyline and coastline. Upon arrival, visitors can explore the basilica's stunning interior, admire its intricate mosaics and maritime ex-votos, and soak in the unparalleled views from its terrace. Another popular route takes passengers along the Corniche Kennedy, a scenic coastal road that stretches along Marseille's waterfront. This route showcases the city's maritime heritage, with stunning views of idyllic beaches, picturesque coves, and historic seaside villas. Passengers can also admire the iconic Château d'If, a historic fortress located on a nearby island, and the Vallon des Auffes, a charming traditional fishing harbor. For those interested in exploring Marseille's historic heart, Les Petits Trains offer a route that winds through the city's oldest neighborhoods, including Le Panier, a vibrant district known for its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and artisan shops. This route also passes by iconic landmarks such as the Hôtel de Cabre, the Hôtel Dieu, and the Cathédrale de la Major, providing a glimpse into Marseille's rich architectural heritage. Les Petits Trains de Marseille are designed with convenience and accessibility in mind. The trains feature open-air seating, allowing passengers to fully immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the city. Multilingual audio guides provide informative commentary about Marseille's history, culture, and landmarks, ensuring that riders gain a deeper appreciation of the city's rich heritage. The trains' small size makes them well-suited for navigating Marseille's narrow streets and steep hills, providing access to areas that may be difficult to reach by car or bus. The history of tourist trains, in general, dates back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with early versions appearing at world exhibitions. However, the surge in popularity for tourist trains came in the mid-1970s, with electric versions appearing in France in response to ecological concerns. Les Petits Trains de Marseille continue this tradition, offering an environmentally friendly and engaging way to explore the city. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Les Petits Trains de Marseille offer a delightful and memorable way to experience the city's charm and beauty. So hop aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride as you discover the wonders of Marseille from a unique and whimsical perspective. While enjoying the ride, consider these points of interest along the way: * **Vieux Port (Old Port):** The historic heart of Marseille, bustling with activity and lined with restaurants and cafes. * **Fort Saint-Jean and Fort Saint-Nicolas:** Historic fortresses guarding the entrance to the Old Port. * **Palais du Pharo:** A grand palace offering panoramic views of the city and the sea. * **Abbaye Saint-Victor:** An ancient abbey with a rich history dating back to the 5th century. * **Corniche Kennedy:** A scenic coastal road offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. * **Château d'If:** A historic fortress located on a nearby island, made famous by Alexandre Dumas' novel *The Count of Monte Cristo*. * **Vallon des Auffes:** A charming traditional fishing harbor with colorful boats and waterfront restaurants. * **Le Panier:** A vibrant historic district known for its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and artisan shops. * **Cathédrale de la Major:** A magnificent cathedral with a mix of Romanesque and Byzantine architectural styles. * **Hôtel de Cabre:** The oldest house in Marseille, dating back to the 16th century. * **Hôtel Dieu:** A former hospital converted into a luxury hotel, showcasing stunning architecture and design. Les Petits Trains de Marseille provide not just a tour, but an experience, immersing you in the sights, sounds, and stories of this captivating city.

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