A comparative analysis between Marseille and Naples is proposed. Both are strongly urbanised Euro-Mediterranean coastal areas with high socio-cultural and economic values. In the French case, the coast is characterised by strong tensions between logistic-port development and the intense connection between citizens and the urban sea, although projects and actions have been implemented to mend this fracture. In the Italian case, the criticalities are linked to weak coastal planning that clashes with community demands. This work therefore aims to understand whether the city-sea interfaces of Marseilles and Naples can really meet local socio-ecological demands.