National

The National metro station

The “National” metro station in Marseille is located on line 2 of the Marseille metro, also known as the Red line. It is located in Marseille’s 3rd arrondissement, at the intersection of rue de Lyon and rue Nationale.

The station is decorated with an orange tiled wall and colorful panels on both levels, forming a rainbow on each of the two platforms between the two escalators.

Station inauguration

Marseille’s National metro station was inaugurated in 1987.

Where does the name come from ?

Marseille’s “National” metro station takes its name from rue Nationale, a major thoroughfare located near the station. Rue Nationale is one of the main thoroughfares in Marseille’s 3rd arrondissement, running through the Belle de Mai district. Its name refers to the national character of this thoroughfare, symbolizing its importance for traffic flow and connectivity within the city. The metro station was named after the adjacent Rue Nationale.

Where to go from National ?

From Marseille’s “National” metro station, you can get to many of the city’s places of interest. Here are a few suggestions:

1. The Vieux-Port: Take the metro from National station to Joliette station, then walk to the Vieux-Port. This is one of Marseille’s landmarks, where you can enjoy the restaurants, stores, boats and lively atmosphere.
2. The Joliette district: Get off at Joliette station and explore the Joliette district. Here you’ll find the Mucem (Musée des Civilisations de l’Europe et de la Méditerranée), the Centre de la Vieille Charité, as well as numerous restaurants, cafés and boutiques.
3. Les Terrasses du Port: From National station, you can walk to Les Terrasses du Port, a large shopping center in the Joliette district. Here you’ll find stores, restaurants and a panoramic view of the port.
4. Cité de la Musique: Take the metro from National station to La Timone station, then walk to Cité de la Musique. This is a music complex comprising the Conservatoire à Rayonnement Régional de Marseille and other spaces dedicated to music and the arts.
5. La Friche Belle de Mai: Get off at the National station and walk to the Friche Belle de Mai, an alternative cultural venue that houses exhibitions, art events, creative studios and relaxation areas.

These suggestions are just a few of the many places to visit in Marseille. The city is packed with sights, museums, parks, lively neighborhoods and a rich Provencal culture to discover.

Numerous public transport lines pass through this metro station: buses 88, 89 and 530.

What’s nearby ?

Near the “National” metro station in Marseille, you’ll find many amenities, attractions and points of interest. Here are just a few of them:

1. Belle de Mai market: Right next to the National station is the Belle de Mai market, a colorful and lively market where you can find fresh produce, local products, flowers and much more. It’s a great place to discover the local atmosphere and sample regional specialties.
2. The Joliette district: National station is located close to the Joliette district, an area undergoing rapid development and renewal. Here you’ll find the Mucem (Musée des Civilisations de l’Europe et de la Méditerranée), the Centre de la Vieille Charité, as well as many trendy restaurants, bars and boutiques.
3. Les Docks Village: Not far from National station you’ll find Les Docks Village, a renovated commercial space housed in a former industrial warehouse. It’s an ideal place to shop, enjoy fine dining and discover original boutiques and concepts.
4. Le Silo d’Arenc: Just a stone’s throw from National station is Le Silo d’Arenc, a renowned concert and performance venue. Here you can enjoy a variety of shows, concerts, plays and other cultural events.
5. Gare de Marseille Saint-Charles: The famous Gare de Marseille Saint-Charles is just a few minutes’ walk from the National station. It is one of Marseille’s main railway stations, serving national and international lines, making it a convenient starting point for exploring the region or traveling to other destinations.

These are just some of the amenities and points of interest close to the “National” metro station. As Marseille is a dynamic city, there are probably many more shops, establishments and services to discover in the area.