The city’s transportation system is fairly well developed and generally copes well with the needs of France’s second most populous metropolis. Passenger load is distributed between two metro lines, two streetcar lines, regular “sea streetcars” and almost a hundred bus routes, all managed by the RTM campaign.
Metro
Marseille’s subway doesn’t boast of size – there are only 28 stations, 36 trains, and the total length of the tracks is just over 20 kilometers. Line 1 on maps is marked in blue color, it looks like a Latin letter U blocked to the east. Line 2 is drawn in red on the diagrams, it runs along the coast and crosses Line 1 at two points, at Saint-Charles and Castellane. The most congested station is Saint-Charles, where you can transfer not only from branch line to metro line, but also to the TER rail line operated by the SNCF.
Buses
It is on them in Marseille falls the main transportation load. It is quite difficult for a foreigner to navigate the confusing local network, although part of the problem can be solved with the help of RTM website – there you can make a route in advance and get information on it. It is better to avoid Marseille buses during rush hours: they are often packed to the brim, although they continue to run according to the schedule (it changes during school vacations). Don’t forget about the ubiquitous pickpockets, buses are their favorite hunting ground.
Sea streetcars
These small boats are very convenient if you need to get from the Old Port to Cézanne’s famous L’Estaque Bay (it’s the calmest and safest way to the 16th quarter). Traffic intervals are short and a one-way ticket costs only 6 EUR.
Bicycle rental
As in many French cities, you can rent a bike in Marseille. The first half-hour ride is free, then each hour thereafter will cost only 1 EUR. You can buy a weekly pass on the website in advance (a valid credit card is required) or directly at the self-service terminal at the rental point.