Vieux Port

The main harbor and tourist center with restaurants and cafes. Pickpocketing is the real problem, not violent crime. Safer than Le Panier but you need to watch your stuff.

The semicircular harbor at the center of Marseille where fishing boats still unload their catch each morning. Locals get coffee at places like La Samaritaine or Bar de la Marine, while restaurants along the water serve bouillabaisse and seafood at tourist prices. During the day it's busy - people taking photos, street performers, fish market vendors, families walking around. Sitting alone at a cafe with a book is normal here. The main issue is pickpocketing, especially around the fish market and on harbor tour boats. Keep your phone in a secure bag and watch when crowds form around you. At night the port stays more active than Le Panier, with restaurants and bars open late. Stick to the lit-up main quays instead of side streets. Cours Honoré d'Estienne d'Orves on the south side has the most evening action with outdoor seating. Everything costs more here because it's the tourist center, but that's also why it feels safer - there's always activity and police presence.