Bar de la Marine is a historic harbour bar at 12 Quai de Rive Neuve on the south side of the Vieux-Port in Marseille, France, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. Dating from 1929, it is best known as the setting associated with Marcel Pagnol's Marius, the first part of his Marseille trilogy, which gives the café a place in the city's literary and cinematic memory. The south quay, known as Rive Neuve, is lined with bars and restaurants and is a traditional evening gathering area. The crowd is a blend of locals, harbour-side regulars, fans of Pagnol and visitors passing along the quay. The atmosphere is that of a classic Marseille café-bar, with period decor, a zinc-style counter feel and terrace seating facing the water. There is no strict dress code, and casual clothing is the norm. Patrons are generally adults of all ages. Music is incidental. The drinks programme follows French café tradition: pastis and other aperitifs, beer on tap, wine by the glass, simple cocktails, coffee and soft drinks. Pastis is the local signature, usually served with a jug of water for dilution. Prices follow Vieux-Port levels, with a beer or pastis commonly around €4-7 (~$4.60-8.05) and cocktails higher. Opening hours were not confirmed in the sources found; the bar is reported to open late, and times can vary by season, so checking locally is advisable. There is no cover charge, and reservations are not normally required, though a terrace table on a summer evening can take some patience. The bar suits visitors who want a historic setting and a harbour view rather than a club night, and it works well as a first stop before moving to other venues along Quai de Rive Neuve, including nearby late-night clubs. Fans of Pagnol's work often combine a visit with a walk along the quay.
| Hours | Hours not published in sources found; reported late-night opening, so confirm locally. |
|---|---|
| Address | 12 Quai de Rive Neuve, 13007 Marseille |
Good to know
- Signature
- Historic 1929 harbour bar linked to Marcel Pagnol's Marius
Location
12 Quai de Rive Neuve, 13007 Marseille
43.2930, 5.3708 View on map
Highlights
- Harbour bar dating from 1929 on Quai de Rive Neuve
- Associated with Marcel Pagnol's Marius and the Marseille trilogy
- Terrace seating facing the Vieux-Port
- Classic café drinks including pastis and draught beer
- Starting point for a south-quay evening
Tips for visiting
- Order a pastis, the traditional Marseille aperitif, served with a carafe of water.
- Terrace tables are most in demand on warm summer evenings; arrive early.
- Hours are not confirmed, so check on the spot before planning a late visit.
- Combine with a walk along the quay toward the clubs further along Rive Neuve.
- Keep to the quayside and watch belongings in crowded evening periods.
When to visit
Early evening on a warm day for a terrace aperitif; spring and early autumn avoid the summer crush.
Accessibility
The bar fronts the flat quayside, so the terrace is generally reachable on level ground, though interior step access is not confirmed; phone or visit to check.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Bar de la Marine famous?
It dates from 1929 and is linked to Marcel Pagnol's Marius, the first play of his Marseille trilogy, which gives it literary and film heritage.
Where is Bar de la Marine?
At 12 Quai de Rive Neuve, 13007 Marseille, on the south quay of the Vieux-Port.
Is it a nightclub?
No. It is a café-bar for aperitifs and evening drinks, though it is reported to open late.
Is there an entry fee?
No cover charge is associated with the bar. Drinks are paid for individually.