Hôtel LIFE Marseille Vieux-Port

The property is in an old, reconditioned building with entrance from the street but reception on first floor with no elevator so don't come with big suitcases ( like we did!!). Tiny spaces from breakfast and reception area to rooms - minimal space to deposit suitcase and clothes, small everything but the bathroom was ok. Reception staff a bit confused, they double charged one of the rooms, they told us children don't pay breakfast up to 11 yo, after that, they charged even the 6 yo, and when asked they took it back and said children over 3yo are charged full bkf price. The hotel could be great but it needs to improve these hiccups and of course to pay some attention to details like staff friendliness and room decor. We stayed in a room on 4th floor with an elevated bed area (mattress on the floor/podium) but even if idea was nice the execution was poor, the plywood was left (on purpose??!) not painted, the room lacked attention even though it had great potential. Great views over the port for those rooms overlooking it. The other side rooms (the "classic" ones - curious what was classic in that) were another story - overlooking a wall of a neighboring building in ruins. Oh, yeah, and if you are a bad sleeper, get prepared or bring yr own pillow - their pillows are some small cushions, deflated and offering no support to head/neck. I had to put rolled clothes under it to be able to sleep. They have 1 extra pillow of same category and if you ask for one extra the answer is NO!!

The hotel itself is very well situated ,right on the Old port and you can walk to anywhere on the city ,with a variety of restaurants ,shops and things to see. Very clean,modern and Eco friendly. Loved the concept of the dining area being like home away from home . Nice breakfast too. However we will point out a few things: 1. The entrance to the hotel is between 2 busy restaurants so not straightaway visible to the unknown eyes 2.once in the building its 3 flights of Stairs up before reaching reception so could be tricky if you have big suitcases and childrens buggie ,or even for.people with mobility issue. The lifts only start from reception level. 3.The Aircon unit in the rooms are locked outside of summer season so one needs to come to reception each time so they adjust room temperatures.

Nice hotel & location. Our room for family of three was way too small however. Literally could hardly open door to get in/out. Sure this was due to couch pullout bed taking all space beside the platform bed. Bathroom was very nice. Would be nice room for 2 people. Don’t feel they should be selling it to accomodate more as we are experienced travellers with only one 29” suitcase for all of us and it was impossible to access it unless laying on a bed while doing so! Nice place - too small for 3+