Guide to Traveling from Marseille to Cannes + Map

Thinking of traveling from Marseille to Cannes with the least amount of logistical headache? Or the most amount of cute scenic stops?

Well, I’ve done this travel route a few ways, and below, I’ll recommend how to get from Marseille to Cannes by car, bus, train, and plane – as well as which is the best deal with the pros and cons of each mode of transportation. 

And because I’m a traveler myself, I’ll include links so you can quickly book what makes sense for your travel plans and answers to some frequently asked questions.

All that said, this little road trip from one end of southern France to another is quite a popular and fun one – the little towns along the way are adorable, and the region is filled with great restaurants and vineyards begging you to stop in for a drink (with reservation of course). 

So let’s dive into this logistics guide so you can check this part off your planning list.

Where is Marseille Located? 

Marseille (sometimes spelled as Marseilles) is a city located in the southern part of France. It is situated on the Mediterranean coast and is the second-largest city in the country after Paris. 

Marseille serves as a major port city in the country and is the capital of the Bouches-du-Rhône and the region of Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. 

A few quick hitters about Marseille so you know what this city is known for:

• Culture: Marseille has a long history of immigration and trade, which has led to a rich mix of cultures, traditions, and cuisines. The city’s cultural diversity is reflected in its architecture, museums, theaters, festivals, and art galleries, some of which are a must to check out!
• Mediterranean location: Marseille is situated along the Mediterranean coast of France. This makes it a gateway to the popular area of Provance, a region known for its stunning landscapes, picturesque villages, lavender fields, and vineyards. 
• Historical significance: Marseille is one of the oldest cities in Europe, with a history dating back over 2,600 years. It has been a strategic port city since ancient times, and its historical landmarks, such as the Old Port (Vieux Port), Fort Saint-Jean, and Notre-Dame de la Garde, attract history buffs and architecture admirers. This is the perfect city to join a walking tour in.
• Food: French cuisine is famous worldwide, and Marseille is no exception. The city offers a fun blend of traditional Provençal dishes, Mediterranean seafood, and North African influences due to its historical connections with neighboring regions. The local cuisine, including dishes like bouillabaisse (a fish stew) and pastis (an anise-flavored aperitif), are must-try! Why not join a food tour in Marseille and let the inner Bourdain out?

Where is Cannes Located?

Cannes is a city located in the French Riviera, which is situated along the southeastern coast of France. It is part of the Alpes-Maritimes area in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region. 

Cannes is known for its glamour, luxury, and its significance in the world of cinema and entertainment. Several aspects make Cannes special:

• Cannes Film Festival: The Cannes Film Festival is one of the most prestigious and renowned film festivals in the world. Established in 1946, it attracts filmmakers, celebrities, and industry professionals from around the globe. The festival showcases a wide array of films and awards prestigious prizes like the Palme d’Or to the best film.
• Promenade de la Croisette: Cannes is famous for its stunning waterfront promenade, known as Promenade de la Croisette. Lined with palm trees, luxury hotels, high-end boutiques, and restaurants, the promenade offers beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea and is a popular spot for leisurely walks.
• Luxurious Accommodations: Cannes is known for its luxurious hotels, which have hosted numerous celebrities and VIPs during the film festival and other events. These establishments offer top-notch amenities and services, contributing to Cannes’ reputation as a glamorous and upscale destination.
• Yachting and Nautical Activities: Fun fact here, but Cannes is a favored destination for yachting enthusiasts due to its marinas and proximity to beautiful islands and coastal locations.

Overall, Cannes’ allure lies in its blend of opulence, cinema, cultural significance, and natural beauty, making it a truly special and sought-after destination to visit.

The Distance from Marseilles and Cannes

The distance from Marseilles to Cannes is about 173km (about 110 miles for the Americans in the room).

Depending on the purpose of your travel, there are many ways to get from one city to the other, most taking about 2 hours time.

How Long Does it take to get to Cannes from Marseilles?

How long it takes to get from Cannes to Marseilles depends on your mode of transportation. Here is the breakdown:

• By Car:  Driving distance of 178 km and 111 miles  and takes1 hour, 45 minutes
• By Train: Journey time about 2 hours
• By Bus: About 2 hours
• By Plane: no direct flights, don’t recommend

All The Ways To Go From Marseilles to Cannes

There are a few ways to get from Marseilles to Cannes. Below are the most common ways.

By Car

Renting a car and driving is my favorite way to get from one city to the other. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the route you take. 

One of the best routes is using the A8 motorway (also known as La Provençale) connects Marseille and Cannes. This is also considered to be the fastest and most direct route. 

But who takes direct routes when you can turn this 2-hour drive into a scenic road trip?!  

So unless you are on a mission to make it the fastest trip, might I suggest you stop in some of these idyllic French towns? 

Here are some of the stops to make day trips and things to do in southern France between Marseilles and Cannes. 

Cassis

Located just east of Marseille, Cassis is a beautiful fishing village known for its Calanques National Park and pretty turquoise waters. Take a paddle board tour if you have the time to explore the limestone cliffs and secluded coves.

Port de Cassis: Quai des Moulins, 13260 Cassis, France

Stay: HPC Suites

Bandol

Famous for its wine production, Bandol is a lovely seaside town with sandy beaches and a chill atmosphere. My favorite part of this little stop is walking around and drinking Rose at one of the waterfront restaurants.

Port de Bandol: All. Alfred Vivien, 83150 Bandol, France

Stay: Hôtel Provençal

Sanary-sur-Mer

The little coastal town of Sanary-sur-Mer boasts colorful houses, a bustling market, and a cute harbor. Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets and enjoy the Mediterranean air.

Port Sanary-sur-Mer: Port de, 83110 Sanary-sur-Mer, France

Stay: O Petit Monde

Saint-Tropez

A glamorous destination, Saint-Tropez attracts celebrities and visitors from around the world – so why not you!? You might remember Saint Tropez if you watched Emily in Paris!

I loved exploring the little old town and port and walking around window shopping at the Chanels of the world!

Port de Saint-Tropez: All. du Quai de l’Epi, 83990 Saint-Tropez, France

Stay: Villa Sant-Anna

Grimaud

A medieval village perched on a hill, Grimaud offers amazing views of the surrounding countryside and the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. I recommend wandering through the cobblestone streets and visiting the historic Grimaud Castle.

Fontaine Monumentale Grimaud: 3 Pl. Neuve, 83310 Grimaud, France

Stay: Clos des Oliviers Grimaud – Meublé de Tourisme

Port Grimaud

Often referred to as “Little Venice,” but then again, what little canaled towns aren’t these days, Port Grimaud is a picturesque town built on canals. Not a must-stop, but super pretty!

Port Grimaud: 667 Rue de l’ Amarrage, 83310 Grimaud, France

Stay: Nova Lodges

Cannes

Finally, you’ll arrive in Cannes, known for its prestigious film festival and more luxury shopping. Stroll along the Boulevard de la Croisette, visit the Palais des Festivals, and relax on the city’s sandy beaches. I recommend one of their beach clubs for an extra sassy ambiance!

Remember to consider traffic and the time of year you’re traveling, as some areas might get busy during peak tourist seasons on the French Riviera!

Port de Cannes: Jetée Albert Edouard, 06400 Cannes, France

Stay: Residence Veles Plage

By Train

The train is a popular and efficient option for traveling between these two cities. You can take a regional train (TER trains) or a high-speed train (TGV trains) from Marseille Saint-Charles station to Cannes station. 

On the fastest train, the journey takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on the type of train. This is the most popular way, outside of doing a road trip, to get from Marseille to Cannes because there are many trains per day.

I always find cheap train tickets on websites such as Omio or Trainline. Ticket prices average at about $40 – $100, to find the best price, start your search early.

If you spring for a first-class seat that will cost a bit more. Check Rates & Availability

Pros of taking the train:

• Free Wi-Fi and power outlets
• Freedom to drink wine along the way
• Time efficient
• Environmental Friendly
• No Traffic

Cons

• ​Cost of train tickets 
• Limited Privacy
• No last-minute day trips are possible
• Luggage Constraints
• Possible overcrowding

By Bus

There are also bus services that operate between Marseille and Cannes. In Marseille, the bus station is St Charles bus station. 

If you are looking for bus tickets, companies like FlixBus and other regional operators offer regular bus routes between the two cities for about $10. This is likely the cheapest way to get between the 2 cities with the cheapest tickets found on Flixbus. 

The travel time is longer than the train, usually around 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

By Plane

While there is no direct connection via flight between Marseille and Cannes, you can consider flying from Marseille Provence Airport to Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, which is the closest major airport to Cannes. From Nice, you can take a train, or bus, or rent a car to reach Cannes, which is around 30 kilometers away. 

That being said, with the distance being so short and the time you have to spend in an airport pre-boarding, this will likely be the most time-costly option, and I don’t recommend it. 

Is it possible to do a Marseille to Cannes day trip?

It is absolutely possible to turn the 2-hour drive from Marseille to Cannes into a day trip. Here are a few quick stops you can make in one day: 

• Cassis: Located just east of Marseille, Cassis is a beautiful fishing village. If you have time before lunch, take a boat tour to explore the limestone cliffs and unwind.
• Bandol: My favorite part of this little stop is walking around and drinking rose at one of the waterfront restaurants.
• Saint-Tropez: I loved exploring the little old town and port and walking around – try to grab dinner here before making the rest of the drive to Cannes!
• Cannes: Finally, you’ll arrive in Cannes, known for its prestigious film festival and more luxury brands & shopping. 

Final Thoughts: The best way to go from Marseilles to Cannes

To wrap us up on the best way to get from Marseille to Cannes, here are the transportation options with a quick and dirty view of time and cost:

• Train: Taking the train is a popular and convenient option. There are frequent train services between Marseille and Cannes, and the journey takes around 2 to 2.5 hours. The trains are comfortable and offer scenic views along the way. Costs range from $40 – $100.
• Bus: Buses also operate between the two cities, providing a more budget-friendly option. The travel time is usually longer than the train journey, around 2.5 to 3.5 hours, and costs about $10.
• Car: If you prefer a more flexible option and want to explore the region at your own pace, renting a car is a good idea. The drive from Marseille to Cannes takes around 2 hours via the A8 highway, depending on traffic conditions. But this can also be turned into a road trip to southern France and the Provance region.
• Plane: While I don’t recommend this, you could consider taking a flight from Marseille to Nice (which is close to Cannes) and then using local transportation to reach Cannes. However, keep in mind that considering airport waiting times and transportation to/from the airports, the overall travel time might not be significantly shorter than other options.

Please note that transportation options and schedules may change, so it’s always a good idea to check for the latest information closer to your travel date. 

Websites like SNCF and Omio (for trains), FlixBus (for buses) can provide up-to-date information on travel options and schedules.

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