Port Guide | France | Dive Deep
La Ciotat
Isabella Moreno | Editor
Published on 2025-08-21
Congratulations-you've wisely sidestepped the cinematic cliches of Cannes and the crowded boutique boredom of Saint-Tropez, arriving instead at La Ciotat, Provence's scruffily charming, maritime-inflected little sister. Famous for two delightfully peculiar things-hosting the Lumiere brothers as they terrified early cinema-goers with the first-ever motion picture ("Train Pulling into a Station," riveting stuff), and perpetually bickering with neighboring Cassis over who can claim birthright to the majestic calanques-the city wears its historical oddities proudly. As your floating home docks at this overlooked gem on the Mediterranean, ready yourself for fresh-caught seafood feasts at unpretentious seaside cafes, sun-soaked strolls along beaches blissfully devoid of influencers, and, if the scheduling stars align, joining the infectious mayhem of a local festival celebrating anything from sardines to sailing. Shake off the land-legs, order a chilled glass of white provencal rose, and plunge into the casual charisma of a town blissfully unconcerned with its own reputation.
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Notes from the Editor
La Ciotat is famous for its lovely beaches, calanques, and maritime history. Be sure to explore the local cuisine, especially seafood. Watch out for local festivals during the peak season for a richer cultural experience.
Where do cruise ships dock in La Ciotat?
Port Name La Ciotat
Country France
Region Southern France, Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur
Ship Terminal Port de La Ciotat
Port Type Dedicated port
Accessibility The port is located approximately 1 km from the city center, easily accessible by foot or a short taxi ride. Public transport options are also available.
What's the weather like in La Ciotat?
Best Season to Visit Spring to early fall (April to October) is the most likely season for cruise visits.
Climate Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
Weather Notes The summer months can be very hot with minimal rainfall. Visitors should stay hydrated and wear sunscreen during peak summer.
Temperature Range 68F to 85F (20C to 29C)
High Temp 93F
Low Temp 34F
Average Temp 61F
What do I need to know about La Ciotat?
Language French
Currency Euro (EUR)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population 34,000
Timezone CET (UTC+1)
How do I get around La Ciotat?
Taxis, local buses, and car rentals are available nearby. Bicycle and scooter rentals are also popular.
What are The Best Things to do in La Ciotat?
Discover what you should do while you're in La Ciotat.
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Parc du Mugel Exploration
Chemin du Mugel, 13600 La Ciotat
A picturesque coastal park featuring rare Mediterranean botanical gardens, ideal for strolls, picnics or swimming in the turquoise Mediterranean waters.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
Water Sports in Calanque de Figuerolles
Route de Figuerolles, 13600 La Ciotat
Adventure into kayaking or paddle boarding in a breathtaking Calanque with uniquely Southern French landscapes.
Distance from Terminal: 1.5 miles
Hiking Azure Trails in Parc national des Calanques
N/A
Adventure hiking renowned azure trails uniquely carved by limestone cliffs and Mediterranean vegetation.
Distance from Terminal: 6.5 miles
Historical and cultural landmarks
Cinema Eden-Theatre Visit
25 Boulevard Georges Clemenceau, 13600 La Ciotat
Visit the world's oldest cinema still operating today, recognized as the birthplace of cinema screenings by Lumiere brothers.
Distance from Terminal: 0.5 miles
La Ciotat Shipyard Historical Tour
46 Quai Francois Mitterrand, 13600 La Ciotat
Discovering the significant maritime heritage and shipbuilding legacy of La Ciotat, a pivotal hub for Mediterranean shipbuilding.
Distance from Terminal: 0.3 miles
Visit Citadelle de Saint-Tropez
1 Montee de la Citadelle, Saint-Tropez
Tour historical fortress overlooking luxurious port of Saint-Tropez.
Distance from Terminal: 57 miles
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Calanques de Cassis Boat Tour
Port de Cassis, Quai Saint-Pierre
Exploring pristine coastal inlets aboard a traditional Provencal boat, exclusive to this Mediterranean coastline.
Distance from Terminal: 7 miles
Wine Tasting at Domaine du Paternel
11 Route Pierre Imbert, 13260 Cassis
Sampling unique appellation Cassis wines at a celebrated local vineyard.
Distance from Terminal: 8.5 miles
La Ciotat's Traditional Petanque Game
Place de la petanque, 13600 La Ciotat
Join locals for petanque-a traditional Provencal game said to originate right here in La Ciotat.
Distance from Terminal: 0.4 miles
A Little Extra
Visit Le Marche de La Ciotat
Place Evariste Gras, 13600 La Ciotat
Enjoying vibrant Provencal markets with olive-based products, lavender items, and exclusive regional crafts.
Distance from Terminal: 0.7 miles
Local Cooking Class
Various locations in Old Town
Learn Provencal cuisine secrets from experienced chefs, featuring local herbs, olives, and seafood.
Distance from Terminal: 0.6 miles
Local Pastis Tasting
Various bar locations
Enjoy Pastis, a classic Provencal liquor, at lively local bars.
Distance from Terminal: 0.6 miles
Overnight Trips
Perfume Creation Workshop
Grasse city center
Craft personal fragrances in Grasse, the perfume capital of the world.
Distance from Terminal: 103 miles
Lavender Fields Tour
Plateau de Valensole
Seasonal overnight trip to stunning lavender fields in full bloom, an iconic image of southern France.
Distance from Terminal: 77 miles
La Garde Adhemar Village Tour
N/A
Experience a charming medieval perched village featuring typical Provence architecture and beautiful valley views.
Distance from Terminal: 108 miles
France Regional Tip
Medications containing pseudoephedrine or codeine These medications require a doctor’s prescription and clear labeling; travelers should carry documentation.