Marseille from a Cruise: What to See, Do & Capture Forever
Stopping in Marseille or Aix-en-Provence ? You want to Book Your Private Photo Session During Your Cruise Stop ? Here's how to make the most of it — I share the most photogenic spots and advices to capture your day .
Antonin Verley Photography
4/9/20256 min read
One Day in Marseille? Make It Unforgettable With a Personal Photo Experience
Bonjour!
If your cruise with Royal Carribean, Norwegian, MSC, Costa or any other line is bringing you to Marseille or Aix-en-Provence for just one day, get ready — you’re about to discover one of the most vibrant corners of the Mediterranean, even if it’s only for a few hours.
As a local photographer based right here in Marseille, I meet lots of travelers who stop over for a few hours, wanting to see the best of the city, grab a bite of something local… and maybe even take home a memory that’s a little more personal than a fridge magnet. Sound like you? Keep reading.
Your Perfect memories in Marseille with a professional photographer
Cruise stops don’t give you much time, so here’s how to make the most of your few hours in this colorful and lively port city. I propose tailored-made photo session for cruise passengers, perfectly adapted for a family, a couple or a solo traveler who want to discover the city differently and bringing home lasting memories.


Professional photography session for cruise travelers exploring Marseille


As soon as you're off the ship, head toward Le Panier, Marseille’s oldest (and arguably cutest) neighborhood. Think pastel shutters, narrow winding streets, colorful murals, and the scent of espresso in the air. It’s perfect for exploring — and yes, perfect for photos, I love bringing my clients there! It's very close to the MUCEM museum, a must-see architectural master-piece (very great place too for portrait sessions).
We might grab a coffee at Maison Geney, walk through a few hidden corners, and let the colors and textures guide us. The photos we capture here are often the most spontaneous and meaningful.


1) Le Panier, the Soul of Marseille.
2) Le Vieux-Port & the Seaside Vibes
From Le Panier, you can walk down to the Vieux-Port (Old Port). This is Marseille’s beating heart — Fishing boats, street vendors, reflections on the water — it’s full of life and movement.
This is where you feel the pulse of the city. I like to bring clients here when they want something vibrant, dynamic, with a real sense of place. Maybe it’s a solo traveler standing at the edge of the dock, or Marseille’s heart beats around the Old Port. Fishing boats, street vendors, reflections on the water — it’s full of life and movement. Here we'll do a session with a street-photography vibe.
Best photo spots in Marseille for travelers
4) Notre-Dame de la Garde – A View You Won’t Forget
3) Le Vallon des Auffes – A Hidden Gem
This is one of those spots that most cruise passengers never see — but as a professional photographer it’s one of my favorites to shoot family or elegant couple portraits. Vallon des Auffes is a tiny fishing port tucked into the rocks just 10mn driving from the Vieux Port. Think colorful boats, stone arches, fishermen mending their nets, and the sound of waves.
It’s quiet, local, and incredibly charming. If you’re a couple or a family looking for something more intimate and off the beaten path, this is where I’d take you for timeless, postcard-worthy photos — without the crowds.
This basilica sits on top of the highest hill in Marseille — and the view is unreal. From up here, you get the full 360°: the sea, the islands, the rooftops, the mountains in the distance.
Sometimes I bring visitors here. The light is amazing, the air feels different, and it gives your photo session a cinematic, elevated feel. If you want something epic, this is the spot.
And just below the basilica, the little streets are full of surprises — soft pastel houses, dramatic stairways, and views tucked between rooftops. It’s perfect for urban-style portraits with a Mediterranean twist. Quiet, authentic, and totally photogenic
What to do in Marseille from cruise ship ? As a professional photographer based in Provence, I guide travelers like you to some of the city’s most photogenic spots, depending on the photography style you want: urban and colorful, peaceful and hidden, or full-on panoramic.
Here are a few of my favorite locations I often suggest for on-demand photo sessions — you can pick one, mix a couple, or just get inspired.
👉 Click here to check availability and book your photoshoot.






Shore excursion Marseille photo experience
Portrait Gallery
Naturel portraits in the best spots around Marseille












Booking Your Photo Session in Marseille
Custom photo session in Marseille or Aix-en-Provence for families, couples and solo travelers.
Whether you are in Marseille or Aix-en-Provence: capture the moment 📸
How the Photo Session Works
Most sessions last around 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes. That gives us time to shoot in one or two locations at a relaxed pace.
Looking for something more complete? I also offer on-demand sessions — from a half-day to a full-day experience.
The sessions are designed as short walks, not hikes. Each location is chosen so that it’s accessible, scenic, and full of great photo backdrops. We keep things simple: a mix of posed and candid shots, while discovering the charm of Marseille together.
Easy Walks, Beautiful Spots
Duration of the photo session
What to Expect
Personalized photo advices based on your style and preferences (romantic, fun, editorial, relaxed…)
Direction and guidance during the shoot (no need to be a model!)
Light photography editing to keep things natural and premium
A selection of high-resolution photos delivered within a few days, via an easy online gallery








My Photography Approach
When you book a photo session with me in Provence, my goal is to capture the natural energy and beauty of your time in Provence. I adapt my photography approach to your style, whether it's a spontaneous laugh, a quiet moment, or an elegant portrait with a stunning backdrop, each photo is crafted to tell your story — with authenticity.
A perfect blend of candid moments and elegant portraits
Quick & flexible: 30 to 90 minutes fits easily in your day.
Stunning backdrops: From the pastel streets of Le Panier to the seaside charm of the Old Port.
Lasting memories: Something way more personal than souvenir shopping.
English-speaking / Spanish-speaking & local: I know the spots, the timing, and how to make you feel comfortable in front of the camera.
Why do cruise travelers love booking a photo session with me ?
Who AM I ?
I'm a professional photographer based in Marseille, with a sharp eye for natural light and a real love for capturing people just as they are
Alongside private sessions for couples, families, and solo travelers, I also shoot editorial projects, wedding and creative portraits. But for cruise guests stopping in Marseille, my main focus is to offer a premium, relaxed photo experience that fits right into your travel day — and leaves you with unforgettable images.
I regularly work with cruise travelers from the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and many other countries. I speak English, French, and Spanish, so you’ll feel right at home during your session
Book your photo session now if you want to discover the city differently and bringing home lasting memories captured by a professional photographer.


Your Professional Photographer for portrait & lifestyle shots in Marseille
Discover more about Provence
You are looking for things to do in Marseille for cruise passengers ?
If your ship docks early and you want a slightly quieter, more elegant escape, Aix-en-Provence is just 30–40 minutes away by taxi or transfer. Think shaded squares, fountains, lavender-scented boutiques, and a romantic vibe that feels straight out of a postcard. Perfect for couples and solo travelers who want a relaxed stroll, good shopping, and golden Provençal light.
If you're looking to explore even more of Marseille and its surroundings, I recommend checking out some great resources. You can find exciting shore excursions through:
> Costa Cruises here
>Royal Carribean here
>or visit the Official Marseille Tourism site for a full guide to the city's must-see spots and hidden gems here.

