Top 20 most beautiful marinas in Provence - Alpes - Côte d'Azur2026 ranking

Unlike other seaside towns, the port of Cassis keeps an authentic and very typical atmosphere with its colorful fishing boats. There are also some really nice bars and restaurants. It is lively without being over the top.

The Port of Nice is a really pleasant place to walk around, even if it is always crowded. I really loved strolling along the docks, admiring the luxury yachts and the lively vibe of the neighborhood. You can also see the ferries leaving for Corsica. The area is nice for a walk, with pretty views and a typically Nice atmosphere. By continuing toward the Promenade des Anglais, you get to enjoy the seaside even more. A lively spot...

I had a few preconceptions about this port, but it is actually very pleasant and still quite typical, if you can look past the yachts. The houses all around are really pretty and add a lot of charm. There are also some very cute little fishing boats. I recommend coming in the off-season for a more local vibe.

This famous Old Port is without a doubt the heart of Marseille! Lively at all hours of the day, there is plenty to do to walk around, eat, or simply stroll along the main path. In summer, the small market is a must-see to browse or let yourself be tempted by a little souvenir. And for a bit more calm and contemplation, you can sit on the edge of the docks to watch the sea and its silver reflections.

I have been to this port several times to stroll around, go sailing, or catch a ferry to Corsica. I do not particularly like the commercial side, which lacks a bit of charm, but I love the Quai des Deux Emmanuels, where you can admire the famous pointus, which are splendid, multicolored traditional boats. The Port of Nice is also home to a few curiosities, like the old prison and a massive, registered Applevage crane, which are worth a look. It also offers several water activities like rowing, sailing, and scuba diving. The atmosphere is always lively and there are some very good restaurants.

For me, this isn't the most charming port in the South of France. I prefer Cassis and Saint-Tropez. However, you still find a pleasant Provençal atmosphere, with colorful buildings, good restaurants, and ice cream shops. A bit sad in the off-season, the place gets really lively in the summer. I like to stroll around there and go there to rent a boat. It really is a great starting point for sailing toward the Calanques and Ile Verte. Plan for a full day for each of these excursions.

The port of Cassis is truly magnificent. I arrived there while participating in the famous Marseille-Cassis race, which finishes right at the port. The vibe is incredible, with so many people there cheering on all the runners. The atmosphere is very pleasant. And what can I say about the setting: Cassis benefits from an exceptional geographical location, right between the sea and the cliffs.

The Old Port is a must-see when visiting Marseille. I loved walking along the docks and checking out all the boats. The atmosphere is very lively and you can really feel the soul of the city. In the summer, it makes sense, it is super crowded. Nearby, the Prado beaches and the Plage des Catalans are also very nice for swimming or relaxing.

I expected a very bling-bling port with all its yachts, but I was pleasantly surprised by the port of Saint-Tropez. The pastel-colored facades are really pretty and the promenade is as nice as it gets. Despite the very chic side that still exists, the atmosphere remains warm and welcoming.

Port Vauban is especially pleasant in any season, with absolutely magnificent views, whether from the ramparts of Antibes, Fort Carré, or the bay of Nice. You will have plenty of time to admire the many yachts, each one more impressive than the last! A very good Italian restaurant to try at the port is Da Vinci, a 5 minute walk from the train station! Or the famous pizzas and ice cream at Gusto, next to the Porte Marine.