Cabriolet Adventure: From Marseille to Cassis La Ciotat

Discover the charm of Provence’s coast in style with the Cabriolet Adventure from Marseille to Cassis La Ciotat. This 7-hour tour offers a vibrant mix of breathtaking scenery, authentic small-town charm, and the fun of cruising along one of the most scenic routes in the Mediterranean. Whether you’re a lover of panoramic views, a road trip enthusiast, or simply eager for a unique way to explore this part of France, this experience aims to deliver.

What makes this tour stand out are three key elements: the convertible drive along Route des Crêtes, stunning vistas of the Bay of La Ciotat, and the chance to wander through the charming fishing port of Cassis. All of this is wrapped up in a relaxed, private group setting with knowledgeable guides. One thing to keep in mind is that the route can change if weather causes high winds, which is worth considering if you’re visiting during stormier seasons. Most importantly, this experience is ideal for travelers looking for a blend of scenic beauty, fun driving, and small-group intimacy.

Key Points

• Scenic Route: Experience the famous coast road of Route des Crêtes, renowned for its breathtaking views.
• Convertible Experience: Drive a Volkswagen Beetle convertible, adding fun and style to your sightseeing.
• Authentic Stops: Visit the tranquil fishing port of Cassis and enjoy ample time exploring.
• Panoramic Views: Capture spectacular vistas from high vantage points like Notre Dame de la Garde.
• Flexible Scheduling: A 7-hour experience structured around your cruise schedules.
• Group Size: Private group setting for a personalized experience, with the guide driving a shuttle ahead.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Scenic Journey Along the French Riviera’s Best Kept Secrets

We loved the way this tour combines the thrill of open-air driving with the chance to truly see the coast of Provence. The sensation of cruising in a classic Beetle convertible, with the wind in our hair and panoramic views all around, immediately elevates the experience beyond typical sightseeing.

This tour is as much about the journey as the destinations. You’ll start from Marseille, a vibrant city with its own character, and then wind along the coast on the famed Route des Crêtes. This road is considered one of the highest near the Mediterranean coast, offering sweeping vistas of the sea, cliffs, and mountains. Most travelers find the views mesmerizing, and many reviews mention how the elevated perspective makes the scenery feel even more impressive.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Pickup and Starting Point

The tour begins with convenient pickup options either at the InterContinental Marseille Hotel Dieu or the Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal. As the tour is tailored for cruise travelers, the timing is flexible, designed to match your ship’s arrival and departure, which adds a layer of convenience.

Marseille: A Brief Guided Walk

Before hitting the coast, your guide will lead a 70-minute walk through Marseille’s streets. This introductory segment offers a taste of the city’s vibe, with insights into its history and local life. The guided walk helps set the context for the scenic adventure ahead.

More Great Tours Nearby

Cassis: The Fishing Port and Its Charm

The first major stop is Cassis, famous for its picturesque fishing port and vibrant market stalls. You’ll get roughly 2 hours to explore, take photos, and enjoy the tranquil harbor atmosphere. Many visitors comment on how authentic and peaceful Cassis feels, offering a stark contrast to the busier city life. The views from the port, with colorful boats and rugged cliffs in the background, make it one of the most photogenic spots on the tour.

La Ciotat: A Quick Photo Break

Next, a short 20-minute stop at La Ciotat provides a chance to snap some quick photos of the charming seaside town, known for its history in shipbuilding and its beautiful coastline.

The Highlight: Route des Crêtes

The core of the adventure is the drive along Route des Crêtes, the highest road near the Mediterranean coast, at about 350 meters (1,148 feet) above sea level. Here, you’ll pass stunning creeks, rugged cliffs, and sweeping bays, with many reviewers noting that the views are simply breathtaking.

One guest shared, “The drive along this ridge was exhilarating, and the views of La Ciotat from above were unforgettable.” The guide, often praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, will point out notable sights and ensure everyone gets plenty of photo opportunities.

Notre Dame de la Garde: City Panorama

The tour concludes with a visit to Notre Dame de la Garde, Marseille’s highest point. Standing on this rocky outcrop, you’ll be rewarded with a 360-degree view of the city and sea. This spot is perfect for memorable photos, especially with the basilica’s iconic golden statue visible from afar.

Return to Marseille

After a full day of exploring, your guide will lead you back to the cruise terminal or your hotel, ensuring your timing aligns with your travel plans.

What Makes This Tour Unique

The blend of driving in a classic convertible, the expert guidance, and the carefully curated stops make this a standout experience. Many reviewers mention that the guide’s local knowledge adds richness to the trip, sharing stories and details that you wouldn’t find in a guidebook.

The vehicle itself is a big draw. The Volkswagen Beetle is not just nostalgic but practical — the automatic transmission means you can relax and enjoy the scenery rather than worry about shifting gears, especially if you’re not used to manual cars. The ability for up to four people to share the car makes it intimate yet comfortable.

Considerations and Practicalities

While the experience is mostly seamless, there are a few points worth noting. The tour’s route can change if the Route des Crêtes is closed due to high winds, which sometimes happens in stormier seasons. The guide will suggest an alternative, but the scenic quality might differ slightly.

Since food and drinks are not included, you might want to bring some snacks or plan to grab a bite in Cassis or La Ciotat. The tour is designed to be flexible around cruise schedules, so confirm your timing ahead of booking.

Participants need to have a valid driver’s license, and the tour is not suitable for children under 8 or those with mobility impairments. The group is private, which provides a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere but limits the size to just your party.

Price and Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, the tour includes vehicle rental, a guided drive, and multiple scenic stops, making it good value, especially considering the personalized nature and unique vehicle experience. The fact that you can claim flexibility with pay later adds peace of mind, especially for travelers with unpredictable schedules.

Final Thoughts

This Cabriolet Adventure is perfect for travelers craving an authentic, stylish way to see Provence’s spectacular coast. It balances the thrill of open-air driving with comfort, guided insights, and stunning vistas. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate scenic drives, want memorable photos, and enjoy a relaxed, small-group experience.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group of friends, this tour offers a memorable slice of the French Riviera. The attention to detail, the knowledgeable guides, and the breathtaking scenery place it among the most distinctive ways to explore this beautiful corner of France.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 8 years old, likely due to safety and comfort considerations in the vehicle and stops.

Can I drive the Beetle myself?
No, you are a passenger and will follow your guide in a shuttle. The guide drives a 9-seater shuttle while you enjoy the convertible drive.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, driver’s license, sunglasses, and a sun hat for protection against the sun.

What if the Route des Crêtes is closed?
If the route is closed due to weather, the guide will take an alternative route, which might slightly alter the scenic experience.

How long is the guided walk in Marseille?
The guided walk lasts approximately 70 minutes, offering a quick but insightful glimpse into Marseille’s surroundings.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. It’s advisable to bring some snacks or plan to eat in Cassis or La Ciotat.

What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is offered in French, Italian, and English.

How flexible is the timing?
The tour duration is approximately 7 hours, and it’s designed to adapt to your ship’s schedule, with pickup and drop-off at cruise terminals.

Is there a limit on vehicle capacity?
Yes, the Beetle can accommodate 1 to 4 people. For larger groups, up to 5 Beetles can be rented for the tour.

This Cabriolet Adventure captures the essence of Provence in a fun, stylish, and genuine way — a memorable journey along France’s stunning coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: