- 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 trains from Marseille to Istres
Showing times and prices for Aug 09
Cheapest price
$17
Average price
$17
Fastest journey
46 m
Average duration
1 h 7 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
40 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Marseille to Istres is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Marseille to Istres will cost around $17 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $17.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Marseille for Istres on Sun, Aug 09, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Aug 09 the direct trains cover the 40 km distance in an average of 1 h 7 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 46 m .
On Sun, Aug 09 the slowest trains will take 1 h 13 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.
4:38 PM0h46Marseille5:24 PMIstres$171One-way0 transfers- 4:27 PM1h12Marseille5:39 PMIstres$171One-way0 transfers
- 3:27 PM1h12Marseille4:39 PMIstres$171One-way0 transfers
- 5:57 PM1h13Marseille7:10 PMIstres$171One-way0 transfers
- 1:27 PM1h11Marseille2:38 PMIstres$181One-way0 transfers
- 4:38 PM0h46Marseille5:24 PMIstres$171One-way0 transfers
- 1:27 PM1h11Marseille2:38 PMIstres$181One-way0 transfers
- 4:27 PM1h12Marseille5:39 PMIstres$171One-way0 transfers
- 3:27 PM1h12Marseille4:39 PMIstres$171One-way0 transfers
- 5:57 PM1h13Marseille7:10 PMIstres$171One-way0 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 train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$17 Average price Cheapest | $19 Average price | $11 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 30m Average total duration Fastest 1h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 43m Average total duration 1h 13m 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Marseille to Istres is a train with an average price of $17 (€14).
This is compared to other travel options from Marseille to Istres:
A train is $2 (€2) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Marseille to Istres costing on average $19 (€16).
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 train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $17 (€14) compared to roughly $11 (€9) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-6.11 (€-4.96). The journey takes 1h 0m 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.
Live departures
Marseille to Istres train times
The table below shows live departures for Marseille to Istres trains for tomorrow, Sunday, August 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:27 PM Marseille | 1h11 | 2:38 PM Istres | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:27 PM Marseille | 1h12 | 4:39 PM Istres | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train 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
Aug 11
Wed
Aug 12
Aug 12
Thu
Aug 13
Aug 13
Fri
Aug 14
Aug 14
Sat
Aug 15
Aug 15
Why should you book Marseille to Istres trains with Omio?
ZOU! as well as SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 or Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) offer trains services from Marseille to Istres.
Omio is the only official third party seller for ZOU! tickets.
Why book with Omio vs ZOU!?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for ZOU!, but also compare tickets for the likes of SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 or Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) 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 ZOU! with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Marseille to Istres.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Marseille to Istres
FranceFrance
Trains from Marseille to Istres run on average 19 times per day, taking around 1h 0m. 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 05:50, the last at 23:15. The fastest train covers the 24 miles (40 km) distance in 38m.
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
Distance 24 miles (40 km) |
Average train duration 1h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $16 (€13) |
Trains per day 19 |
Direct trains 10 |
Fastest train 38m |
First train 5:50 AM |
Last train 11:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Mon |
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
Train companies: ZOU!, SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) from Marseille to Istres trainsZOU!, SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) trains will get you between Marseille and Istres from $16 (€13). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187
About
SNCF TER (Transport Express Régional) is the regional train service operated by France's national railway company, SNCF. It provides low-cost travel within France's regions, connecting towns and areas not served by high-speed trains. Each French region independently manages its own TER network, offering various ticket types, including discount cards and special fares. TER trains are used by over 800,000 passengers daily and are a popular choice for both commuters and tourists exploring France's diverse landscapes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 11m
Cheapest Price
$17 (€14)
SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 frequency
7 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one suitcase included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at train ends
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack bar or food trolley service on some routes, vending machines available
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for additional fee, included in some first-class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
ZOU!
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
38m
Cheapest Price
$16 (€13)
ZOU! frequency
22 a day
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
59m
Cheapest Price
$17 (€14)
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) 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.
Ulysse 13
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.20
- Day pass
- $null
To the city center
Gare d'Istres -> Place Roger Salengro, Istres
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 8 min
- Buy tickets in advance via the official Ulysse 13 app or sales points, as onboard payment options can be limited.
- Validate your ticket when boarding the bus. Contactless bank card acceptance is not reliably published for Istres buses.
FAQs: Trains from Marseille to Istres
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Marseille to Istres 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 Istres, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Marseille to Istres can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $16 (€13), while the average price is around $17 (€14).
The train from Marseille to Istres takes 38m and runs 19 per day.
The distance by train from Marseille to Istres is 24 miles (40 km).
The first train from Marseille to Istres leaves at 5:50 AM.
The last train from Marseille to Istres leaves at 11:15 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Marseille to Istres.
Yes, there is a direct train from Marseille to Istres. This service operates 10 times per day, provided by ZOU!, SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Marseille to Istres.
The train station in Marseille that goes to Istres is Marseille Saint-Charles, which connects to Istres station.
The cheapest way to get from Marseille to Istres is by train, with a cost of around $16 (€13).
The train journey from Marseille to Istres offers views of the picturesque Provence landscape, featuring rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages, making it a scenic route.
Yes, a day trip from Marseille to Istres is feasible with a travel duration of 38m and a distance of 24 miles (40 km). Trains operate with a frequency of 15 per day, making it convenient for a day trip.
To explore Istres, including its cultural sites like the Archaeological Museum and the Étang de Berre, 2 to 3 days would be ideal for a well-rounded experience.
Yes, you can take the train from Marseille to Istres.
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.
Popular day trips by train from Istres include Avignon, Marignane, Sausset-les-Pins, Miramas, Nîmes.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Marseille to Istres among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Marseille to Istres
Most Marseille to Istres trains use the Marseille Saint-Charles to Istres station pair, with some services arriving at Rassuen. Use this guide to compare Marseille and Istres train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Marseille
Arrival train stations in Istres
Which Marseille station do trains to Istres leave from?
Trains from Marseille to Istres leave from Marseille Saint-Charles. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Marseille city centre at Square Narvik, 13232 Marseille, France.
Marseille Saint-CharlesSquare Narvik, 13232 Marseille, France+33 4950491012
City-centre transport
Getting to Marseille Saint-Charles from Marseille city centre
Bus52, 509, Bm2 · 6m · $2 · every ~4 min
SubwayM2 · 1m · $2 · every ~22 min
Marseille Saint-Charles train station facilities and services
Marseille Saint-Charles has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Caffe San Carlo, DAKAO, Espressamente Illy, EXKi, McDonald's, Monop'Daily, Starbucks, Casa Di Pasta, Chatime, PAUL
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free, unlimited Wi-Fi is available throughout the station. ATMs are located between track M and the bus station at the Honnorat exit.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 09:00 - 18:00. Information desks are located on level -1 of the station, entrances via the station or via Bd Bourdet.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is the lockers are located on Boulevard Bourdet, on level 0 of the station. Service is provided by La Bag Mobile.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Marseille Saint-Charles: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Marseille Saint-Charles: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Marseille Saint-Charles: Accès Plus is a service offered to passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility who need assistance at the station. For more information email [email protected] or call +33 890640650.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Adagio Access Marseille-Saint Charles, Holiday Inn Express Marseille-Saint Charles, Hotel Les Bords De Me.
Arenc-EuroméditerranéeBd Mirabeau, 13002 Marseille, France+33 890 17 75 95
City-centre transport
Getting to Arenc-Euroméditerranée from Marseille city centre
Arenc-Euroméditerranée is 2 km from Marseille city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainTer · 4m · $1 · every ~2 min
Bus83 · 8m · $2 · every ~15 min
TramT2, T3 · 9m · $2 · every ~35 min
T2 · 11m · $2 · every ~19 min
Arenc-Euroméditerranée train station facilities and services
Arenc-Euroméditerranée has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Arenc-Euroméditerranée.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Arenc-Euroméditerranée.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Arenc-Euroméditerranée: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Arenc-Euroméditerranée: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Arenc-Euroméditerranée.
L'EstaqueAv. de Caronte, 13016 Marseille, France
City-centre transport
Getting to L'Estaque from Marseille city centre
L'Estaque is 8 km from Marseille city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainTer · 15m · $2 · every ~4 min
Bus36B, 36 · 28m · $2 · every ~7 min
L'Estaque train station facilities and services
L'Estaque has practical services for this route, including Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at L'Estaque.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at L'Estaque.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at L'Estaque: WC.
Bike and car services
Available at L'Estaque: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at L'Estaque.
Which Istres station do trains from Marseille arrive at?
Trains from Marseille to Istres most often arrive at Istres. Some services arrive at Rassuen, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Istres arrival station.
Istres2 Place Pierre Semard, 13800 Istres, France
City-centre transport
Getting to Istres from Istres city centre
Bus6, 601 · 3m · every ~4 min
Istres train station facilities and services
Istres has practical services for this route, including Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Istres.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Istres.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Istres: WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Istres: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Istres.
Rassuen569 Route de Fos RN, 13800 Rassuen, France
City-centre transport
Getting to Rassuen from Istres city centre
Rassuen is 2 km from Istres city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainTer · 3m · $1 · every ~2 min
Bus6 · 22m · every ~4 min
Rassuen train station facilities and services
Rassuen has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, WC, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Rassuen.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Rassuen.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rassuen: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Rassuen: Bike Parking.
More options for your journey from Marseille to Istres
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Istres and Marseille
Most popular train connections to Istres
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