- Recommended
Centre d'Art Contemporain d'Istres
Major local art venue presenting contemporary exhibitions and cultural events in a modern municipal space.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Marseille to Istres
Showing times and prices for Aug 09
Cheapest price
$0.00
Average price
$-0.01
Fastest journey
1 h 45 m
Average duration
1 h 58 m
Buses per day
9
Distance
40 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Marseille to Istres is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Marseille to Istres without transferring at least once.
8:45 AM2h18Marseille11:03 AMGare IstresFind prices2 transfers- 8:45 AM2h18Marseille11:03 AMGare IstresFind prices1 transfer
- 9:45 AM2h17Marseille12:02 PMGare IstresFind prices2 transfers
- 9:45 AM2h17Marseille12:02 PMGare IstresFind prices1 transfer
- 12:45 PM1h45Marseille2:30 PMGare IstresFind prices1 transfer
- 12:45 PM1h45Marseille2:30 PMGare IstresFind prices1 transfer
- 3:45 PM1h54Marseille5:39 PMGare IstresFind prices2 transfers
- 3:45 PM1h54Marseille5:39 PMGare IstresFind prices1 transfer
- 1:45 PM2h00Marseille3:45 PMGare IstresFind prices1 transfer
- 9:45 AM2h17Marseille12:02 PMGare IstresFind prices2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Marseille to Istres
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Marseille to Istres among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $16. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 0m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $16, and a bus costs an average of $19.
Distance: 24 miles (40 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$19 Average price | $17 Average price Cheapest | $11 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 43m Average total duration 1h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 30m Average total duration Fastest 1h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 49m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Marseille to Istres is a train with an average price of $17.
This is compared to other travel options from Marseille to Istres:
A train is $2 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Marseille to Istres costing on average $19.
The fastest way to travel from Marseille to Istres is by train with an average journey time of 1h 0m.
Other travel options to Istres take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 13m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Marseille and Istres including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Marseille to Istres among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about -1h -24m sooner (1h 13m by bus vs 49m by car) and save roughly $-8.31 compared to fuel and tolls ($19 vs $11). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by BlaBlaCar.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Marseille to Istres Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Lecar Aix-Marseille | Departure Time 06:50AM | Arrival Time 08:36AM | Duration 1h46 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator Lecar Aix-Marseille | Departure Time 07:15AM | Arrival Time 09:12AM | Duration 1h57 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator Lecar Aix-Marseille | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 09:22AM | Duration 1h52 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 08:30AM | Duration 0h30 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $4 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:10AM | Arrival Time 08:20AM | Duration 0h10 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $3 |
Operator Lecar Aix-Marseille | Departure Time 08:15AM | Arrival Time 09:53AM | Duration 1h38 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator Lecar Aix-Marseille | Departure Time 08:45AM | Arrival Time 11:03AM | Duration 2h18 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 09:10AM | Arrival Time 09:30AM | Duration 0h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $4 |
Operator Lecar Aix-Marseille | Departure Time 09:15AM | Arrival Time 10:42AM | Duration 1h27 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator Lecar Aix-Marseille | Departure Time 09:45AM | Arrival Time 11:09AM | Duration 1h24 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator Lecar Aix-Marseille | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 11:40AM | Duration 1h25 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator Lecar Aix-Marseille | Departure Time 12:45PM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 1h45 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator Lecar Aix-Marseille | Departure Time 01:45PM | Arrival Time 03:45PM | Duration 2h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator Lecar Aix-Marseille | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 05:39PM | Duration 1h54 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator SNCF | Autocar | Departure Time 04:15PM | Arrival Time 06:00PM | Duration 1h45 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 05:00PM | Duration 0h30 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $4 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 05:30PM | Duration 0h30 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $3 |
Operator Lecar Aix-Marseille | Departure Time 08:45PM | Arrival Time 06:14AM | Duration 9h29 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Live departures
Marseille to Istres bus times
The table below shows live departures for Marseille to Istres buses for tomorrow, Sunday, August 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:45 AM Marseille | 2h18 | 11:03 AM Gare Istres | 2 transfers | |
| 8:45 AM Marseille | 2h18 | 11:03 AM Gare Istres | 1 transfer | |
| 9:45 AM Marseille | 2h17 | 12:02 PM Gare Istres | 2 transfers | |
| 9:45 AM Marseille | 2h17 | 12:02 PM Gare Istres | 1 transfer | |
| 12:45 PM Marseille | 1h45 | 2:30 PM Gare Istres | 1 transfer | |
| 1:45 PM Marseille | 2h00 | 3:45 PM Gare Istres | 1 transfer | |
| 3:45 PM Marseille | 1h54 | 5:39 PM Gare Istres | 2 transfers | |
| 3:45 PM Marseille | 1h54 | 5:39 PM Gare Istres | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Marseille to Istres by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Sun
Aug 09
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Aug 10
Tue
Aug 11
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Wed
Aug 12
Aug 12
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Aug 13
Aug 13
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Aug 14
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Aug 15
Aug 15
Why should you book Marseille to Istres buses with Omio?
SNCF | Autocar as well as Lecar Aix-Marseille offer buses services from Marseille to Istres.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Marseille to Istres.
Why book with Omio vs SNCF | Autocar?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for SNCF | Autocar, but also compare tickets for the likes of Lecar Aix-Marseille to find the best option for your trip from Marseille to Istres.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare SNCF | Autocar with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Marseille to Istres.
Why book with Omio over Rome2rio?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Marseille to Istres.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Marseille to Istres
FranceFrance
Buses from Marseille to Istres run on average 5 times per day, taking around 1h 13m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $19 but you can travel from only $16 by train.
There are 5 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 12:40, the last at 19:05. The fastest bus covers the 24 miles (40 km) distance in 1h 45m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $16
Distance 24 miles (40 km) |
Average bus duration 1h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price $19 |
Buses per day 5 |
Direct buses 5 |
Fastest bus 1h 45m |
First bus 12:40 PM |
Last bus 7:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 1 day |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $16
Bus providers: BlaBlaCar, SNCF | Autocar, Lecar Aix-Marseille from Marseille to IstresYou can travel by bus between Marseille to Istres with BlaBlaCar, SNCF | Autocar, Lecar Aix-Marseille for as low as $16. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
SNCF | Autocar
About
SNCF, France's national state-owned rail company, also plays a role in bus transportation, often referred to as "Autocar" in Europe. While primarily known for its extensive train network, SNCF Connect, their digital platform, partners with bus companies like FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus to offer affordable bus tickets for both domestic and international routes. Additionally, SNCF's regional TER services include both trains and coaches, providing daily travel options across France. The SNCF Group, through its subsidiary Keolis, operates various modes of transport worldwide, including trams, buses, and metros.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 45m
Cheapest Price
$19
SNCF | Autocar frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
You can take up to two pieces of luggage (max 70 x 90 x 50 cm each) and one hand luggage (max 40 x 30 x 15 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee, and items exceeding standard dimensions or number may incur fines of €50 to €150.
Luggage storage
Automatic or manual luggage lockers are available in many stations.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type and train service, with fees often applied for cancellations made closer to departure.
Refund
If your train is cancelled, you can request a full refund or exchange your ticket free of charge.
Pregnant on board
Being pregnant on board is allowed, and nursery corners with changing tables are available in 2nd class on TGV INOUI trains.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors are authorized, but specific details regarding age and supervision are not provided.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Meals and snacks are available on board, with options to pre-order meals on some services.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are often included with your ticket, but some regional trains may not offer reservations, and certain business fares on specific lines allow boarding a full train without a guaranteed seat.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible buses are available on select routes, and equipment used by disabled persons is not considered luggage.
Bikes
Bicycles are allowed, with specific conditions for folded, disassembled, or unfolded bikes.
Pets
Small pets in carriers (max 45 x 30 x 25 cm, under 10 kg) are allowed for a fee, and larger dogs on a leash must be muzzled and pay half the 2nd class fare.
BlaBlaCar
About
BlaBlaCar is a French online marketplace for carpooling, connecting drivers with empty seats and passengers traveling to the same destination to share costs. Founded in 2006, it operates in Europe and Latin America, boasting 26 million active members. The platform also includes BlaBlaCar Bus, an intercity bus service. BlaBlaCar's name comes from its rating system for drivers' chattiness: "Bla" for quiet, "BlaBla" for talkative, and "BlaBlaBla" for very chatty. The company aims to be the leading marketplace for shared travel, offering affordable and sustainable solutions by combining carpooling with bus journeys.
Luggage & cancellation policy
BlaBlaCar frequency
5 a day
Lecar Aix-Marseille
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 21m
Lecar Aix-Marseille frequency
16 a day
Complete guide to Istres
Things to do in Istres
Discover the best of Istres — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Istres trip today.
La Poudrerie - Espace d'Exposition
Municipal exhibition space hosting rotating visual art shows, a practical stop for current local and regional artists.
Musée de la Mémoire d'Istres
Small heritage display space focused on local history and memory, useful for understanding Istres beyond the lakeside scenery.
- Must visit
Étang de l'Olivier
Scenic lakefront promenade around the town's signature lagoon, popular for walks, sunsets, and views of the famous jet d'eau.
- Must visit
Jet d'Eau de l'Étang de l'Olivier
Iconic lakeside fountain soaring high above the water, one of Istres' best-known sights and a favorite photo stop.
- Recommended
Parc de Trigance
Large public park on an island in the lake, ideal for families, strolling, and relaxing close to the water.
Bouillabaisse
A Provençal fish stew from the Marseille coast, served with rouille and bread. It is a regional classic near Istres and showcases Mediterranean seafood.
- Gluten-free
Soupe De Poissons
A rich fish soup from Provence, often made with rockfish, garlic, tomato, and saffron. Traditional along the nearby coast and lagoons.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Ratatouille
A hearty Provençal vegetable stew of eggplant, zucchini, peppers, tomato, and herbs. It is a staple summer dish across the region.
La Table De L'Olivier
Refined dining spot focused on seasonal Provençal cuisine, careful presentation, and a quieter upscale ambiance.
Le Môle Passedat
Established waterfront restaurant known for Mediterranean seafood and Provençal plates in a relaxed marina setting.
Le Pescador
Well-known local brasserie serving grilled meats, fish, and regional dishes with a casual, dependable atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Istres is moderate for Provence. Hotels and dining cost less than Nice or Marseille centers, while local buses are low-cost and daily tourist spending stays manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.00-3.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for great restaurant service is appreciated. Small change for cafes or taxis is enough, not expected.
FAQs: Bus from Marseille to Istres
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Marseille to Istres by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Istres, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Marseille to Istres can start from as little as $19 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Marseille to Istres is $19 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Marseille to Istres is 1h 45m to travel the 24 miles (40 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Marseille to Istres leaves at 12:40 PM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Marseille to Istres leaves at 7:05 PM.
Yes, there are 5 direct buses a day from Marseille to Istres with BlaBlaCar. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Marseille to Istres, you can count on BlaBlaCar, SNCF | Autocar, Lecar Aix-Marseille for the best way to get you to Istres. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Marseille and Istres and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A day trip to Istres from Marseille is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Marseille to Istres is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Marseille and Istres including taking a train and bus.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Marseille to Istres for bus company SNCF | Autocar.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Marseille to Istres:
- SNCF | Autocar
- Wheelchair accessible buses are available on select routes, and equipment used by disabled persons is not considered luggage.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Marseille to Istres depends on the bus companies:
- SNCF | Autocar
- Cancellation policies vary by ticket type and train service, with fees often applied for cancellations made closer to departure.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company SNCF | Autocar.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Marseille to Istres.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Marseille to Istres:
- SNCF | Autocar
- You can take up to two pieces of luggage (max 70 x 90 x 50 cm each) and one hand luggage (max 40 x 30 x 15 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Marseille to Istres:
- SNCF | Autocar
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee, and items exceeding standard dimensions or number may incur fines of €50 to €150.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Marseille to Istres. The following conditions apply:
- SNCF | Autocar
- Small pets in carriers (max 45 x 30 x 25 cm, under 10 kg) are allowed for a fee, and larger dogs on a leash must be muzzled and pay half the 2nd class fare.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Marseille to Istres with the following bus company: SNCF | Autocar
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Marseille to Istres with the following bus company: SNCF | Autocar.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Marseille to Istres with the following bus company: SNCF | Autocar.
Since both Marseille and Istres are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Marseille to Istres among Omio's users.
France uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most transactions, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small vendors, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Istres, travelers should be cautious of petty theft such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and markets. It's advisable to keep belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables openly. There are no widespread reports of specific scams targeting travelers, but standard precautions like verifying taxi fares before rides and using official transportation services help ensure a safe experience.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
Most popular bus connections from Marseille
More options for your journey from Marseille to Istres
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Istres and Marseille
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