- Must visit
MuCEM
The Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations is Marseille’s signature museum, combining major exhibitions with striking modern architecture on the waterfront.
Cheapest price
$17
Average price
$18
Fastest journey
52 m
Average duration
54 m
Trains per day
24
Distance
40 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Istres to Marseille is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Istres to Marseille will cost around $18 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $17.
Of the 24 trains that leave Istres for Marseille on Thu, Jun 25, 16 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jun 25 the direct trains cover the 40 km distance in an average of 54 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 52 m .
On Thu, Jun 25 the slowest trains will take 57 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
879727
879707
879723
879703
879719
17701+
879716
879708 · 886557
879704 · 879515
17701+
879716
879704 · 879515Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Istres to Marseille 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 bus which can get you there in 36m. 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 $18.
Distance: 24 miles (40 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$17 Average price Cheapest | $18 Average price | $11 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 26m Average total duration 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 6m Average total duration Fastest 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 49m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Istres to Marseille:
A train is $1 (€1) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Istres to Marseille costing on average $18 (€15).
Other travel options to Marseille take longer:
Train takes on average 56m.
Tickets start at around $17 (€14) compared to roughly $11 (€9) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-5.94 (€-4.92). The journey takes 56m versus 49m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
The table below shows live departures for Istres to Marseille trains for today, Wednesday, June 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 3:14 PM Istres | 0h40 | 3:54 PM Marseille | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 5:54 PM Istres | 1h14 | 7:08 PM Marseille | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Thursday, June 25 | |||||
879703 | 5:50 AM Istres station | 1h18 | 7:08 AM Gare d'Arenc-Euroméditerranée | 0 transfersDirect | |
879703 | 5:54 AM Rassuen | 1h14 | 7:08 AM Gare d'Arenc-Euroméditerranée | 0 transfersDirect | |
879707 | 6:20 AM Istres station | 1h19 | 7:39 AM Gare d'Arenc-Euroméditerranée | 0 transfersDirect | |
879707 | 6:24 AM Rassuen | 1h15 | 7:39 AM Gare d'Arenc-Euroméditerranée | 0 transfersDirect | |
879711 | 6:50 AM Istres station | 1h18 | 8:08 AM Gare d'Arenc-Euroméditerranée | 0 transfersDirect | |
879711 | 6:54 AM Rassuen | 1h14 | 8:08 AM Gare d'Arenc-Euroméditerranée | 0 transfersDirect | |
879704 · 879515 | 7:11 AM Rassuen | 0h57 | 8:08 AM Marseille Saint-Charles | 1 transfer | |
879704 · 879515 | 7:15 AM Istres station | 0h53 | 8:08 AM Marseille Saint-Charles | 1 transfer | |
879715 | 7:20 AM Istres station | 1h20 | 8:40 AM Gare d'Arenc-Euroméditerranée | 0 transfersDirect | |
879715 | 7:24 AM Rassuen | 1h16 | 8:40 AM Gare d'Arenc-Euroméditerranée | 0 transfersDirect | |
879719 | 7:50 AM Istres station | 1h18 | 9:08 AM Gare d'Arenc-Euroméditerranée | 0 transfersDirect | |
879719 | 7:54 AM Rassuen | 1h14 | 9:08 AM Gare d'Arenc-Euroméditerranée | 0 transfersDirect | |
879708 · 886557 | 8:12 AM Rassuen | 0h57 | 9:09 AM Marseille Saint-Charles | 1 transfer | |
879708 · 886557 | 8:16 AM Istres station | 0h53 | 9:09 AM Marseille Saint-Charles | 1 transfer | |
879723 | 8:24 AM Istres station | 1h19 | 9:43 AM Gare d'Arenc-Euroméditerranée | 0 transfersDirect | |
879723 | 8:28 AM Rassuen | 1h15 | 9:43 AM Gare d'Arenc-Euroméditerranée | 0 transfersDirect | |
879727 | 8:50 AM Istres station | 1h18 | 10:08 AM Gare d'Arenc-Euroméditerranée | 0 transfersDirect | |
879727 | 8:54 AM Rassuen | 1h14 | 10:08 AM Gare d'Arenc-Euroméditerranée | 0 transfersDirect | |
879712 · 879527 | 9:12 AM Rassuen | 1h09 | 10:21 AM Marseille Saint-Charles | 1 transfer | |
879712 · 879527 | 9:16 AM Istres station | 1h05 | 10:21 AM Marseille Saint-Charles | 1 transfer | |
879716+ 17701 | 10:12 AM Rassuen | 0h56 | 11:08 AM Marseille Saint-Charles | 1 transfer | |
879716+ 17701 | 10:16 AM Istres station | 0h52 | 11:08 AM Marseille Saint-Charles | 1 transfer | |
879731 | 10:50 AM Istres station | 1h21 | 12:11 PM Gare d'Arenc-Euroméditerranée | 0 transfersDirect | |
879731 | 10:54 AM Rassuen | 1h17 | 12:11 PM Gare d'Arenc-Euroméditerranée | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare bus and train 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.
Trains from Istres to Marseille run on average 19 times per day, taking around 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $16 (€13) if you book in advance.
There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:38, the last at 22:42. The fastest train covers the 24 miles (40 km) distance in 40m.
Distance 24 miles (40 km) |
Average train duration 56m |
Cheapest ticket price $16 (€13) |
Trains per day 19 |
Direct trains 10 |
Fastest train 40m |
First train 5:38 AM |
Last train 10:42 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 14 days |
Discover the best of Marseille — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Marseille trip today.
The Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations is Marseille’s signature museum, combining major exhibitions with striking modern architecture on the waterfront.
An art museum in a restored port health station, known for regional paintings and one of the best terrace views toward the Old Port and cathedral.
Marseille’s city history museum, covering the Greek founding of Massalia through modern times, with notable archaeological remains beside the site.
The historic Old Port remains the heart of Marseille, ideal for strolling, boat watching, and experiencing the city’s maritime atmosphere.
Marseille’s oldest quarter, full of narrow lanes, colorful façades, small squares, and street art, making it a favorite for photographers and walkers.
A scenic coastal road and promenade with sweeping Mediterranean views, especially popular for sunset walks and social-media photography.
Marseille’s iconic fish stew, traditionally made with several Mediterranean fish, shellfish, saffron, and served with rouille and toasted bread. It is the city’s most famous culinary specialty.
A Provençal platter centered on garlic mayonnaise, often served with cod, boiled vegetables, and eggs. It is a classic regional meal strongly associated with southern France.
Fried or baked chickpea flour cakes originating in Marseille, with a crisp exterior and soft center. They are a beloved local street food and aperitif snack.
An acclaimed seafood restaurant overlooking the sea, known for elegant Mediterranean cuisine and a special-occasion atmosphere.
A popular casual seafood spot loved for very fresh fish, daily specials, and a lively local atmosphere.
A celebrated Vallon des Auffes institution known for bouillabaisse and classic Marseille seafood in a picturesque harbor setting.
Moderate by French standards. Budget eats are manageable, but hotels and waterfront dining cost more in peak season.
Service is usually included. Locals may round up or leave 5-10% for good service. Small change is fine in cafes; round up taxis.
Official public transport app
Marseille Saint-Charles, Marseille -> Vieux-Port, Marseille
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Istres to Marseille by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Marseille, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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