Marseille Provence Airport (MRS)

Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) offers a relatively accommodating policy for smokers, providing designated areas both before and after security checkpoints. This is a welcome feature for travelers, especially given the strict indoor smoking bans prevalent across France and the European Union. The airport strives to balance passenger comfort with public health regulations by clearly demarcating where smoking is permitted. Before passing through security, passengers will find that smoking is strictly limited to clearly marked designated areas located outside the terminal buildings. These outdoor zones are easily accessible to all passengers, visitors, and staff. It's crucial to use these specific areas to avoid any potential fines or issues, as smoking is prohibited anywhere else within the airport's indoor premises. Travelers departing from MRS should plan their smoking breaks accordingly, ensuring they have ample time to re-enter the terminal and proceed through security without rushing. These outdoor areas are typically found near the main entrances and exits of the terminal buildings. For those who have already cleared security and passport control, Marseille Provence Airport also provides options. A significant update from July 2024 confirms the presence of a dedicated smoking area located after security and specifically towards gates 10 to 18. This indoor designated zone offers a convenient spot for a final cigarette before boarding, particularly for passengers on international flights requiring passport checks. To locate this area, passengers should follow the signage directing them towards gates 10-18 after completing all security and immigration procedures. Additionally, reports suggest the existence of other smoking areas within the airport, specifically one in Hall 1 and two separate areas in Hall 4. While the exact nature (indoor/outdoor) and precise location (before/after security) of these Hall 1 and Hall 4 areas are not detailed, travelers in those respective halls should look for clear signage indicating 'Espace Fumeur' or 'Smoking Area'. Vaping policy is not explicitly mentioned in the available information, but typically, airports treat vaping similarly to traditional smoking in designated areas. It is always advisable to use the designated smoking zones for vaping as well, to avoid any misunderstandings or penalties. Overall, MRS makes an effort to cater to smokers, but adherence to the designated areas is paramount. Always look for official airport signage to guide you to the nearest permitted smoking spot, and remember that smoking outside these zones is strictly forbidden. French law prohibits smoking in all enclosed public spaces, making these designated areas the only legal option.