Drive a Cabriolet from Marseille to Cassis La Ciotat

Planning a trip to the French Riviera? If you’re looking for an experience that combines scenic drives, charming villages, and a touch of luxury, this cabriolet tour from Marseille to Cassis and La Ciotat offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a standout way to see the region.

What we love about this experience: first, the opportunity to drive or ride in a classic convertible—a fun and immersive way to enjoy the landscape. Second, the stunning viewpoints along the Route des Cretes, which promise breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the Calanque massif. Third, the authentic stops in picturesque villages and natural sites, giving travelers a genuine taste of Provençal life.

A possible consideration? The tour’s duration of 5 to 7 hours means it’s quite full, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a packed schedule and multiple stops. It’s perfect for travelers eager for an active, scenic, and flexible day out rather than a passive sightseeing bus ride. Ideal for cruise passengers, couples, or small groups craving a personalized adventure, this experience seems to excel at crafting memorable moments.

Key Points

• Authentic driving experience in a convertible, with options for VW Beetles or Fiat 500s.
• Includes multiple scenic stops like the Route des Cretes and Calanques National Park.
• Guided escort sharing anecdotes for safety and local insights.
• Ideal for cruise passengers looking to maximize their time with a flexible, personalized tour.
• Comprehensive itinerary covering cultural, natural, and scenic highlights.
• Good value for money considering the included stops, private vehicle, and guide service.

A Detailed Look at the Marseille to Cassis La Ciotat Cabriolet Tour

This tour, hosted by Aixellcars, offers a truly immersive way to explore some of the most beautiful parts of the French Riviera. With a reputation backed by 166 reviews and a perfect 5.0 rating, it’s clear that travelers find this experience both enjoyable and memorable.

Starting Point: Marseille Cruise Port

Your day begins with a pickup at the Marseille Cruise Port. This is especially convenient for cruise passengers—your guides are prepared to welcome you directly from your ship, making it a hassle-free start. The tour is private, meaning you’ll be traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle with just your group, up to 4 people, ensuring comfort and personalized attention.

The Convertible Experience: A Unique Way to See France

Driving a vintage VW Beetle, Fiat 500, or a Cabriolet in the French Riviera means feeling the wind and embracing the sunshine while cruising along iconic roads. Multiple reviews mention how much fun it is to tool through winding streets and scenic mountain roads. You’re not just sitting on a bus; you’re in the driver’s seat or riding right next to it, making it a dynamic and engaging experience.

Guests often mention guides Denis and Virginia, whose knowledgeable and friendly manner adds a lot of value to the trip. As one reviewer puts it, “Denis and Virginia were the most fun tour guides,” and their enthusiasm really shines through.

The Itinerary – A Well-Balanced Mix of Nature, Culture, and Views

This tour has a lengthy, thoughtfully curated list of stops, each offering a unique perspective on the region. Here’s what you can expect:

Stop 1: La Corniche in Marseille

The journey kicks off along the Corniche Kennedy, a stunning boulevard hugging the Mediterranean. It’s a popular spot for both travelers and locals, with a nearly 3 km long concrete bench that provides sweeping sea views. The walk itself only takes about 30 minutes, but the scenery is so stunning that many guests find themselves lingering.

Reviewers highlight its long history, dating back to the 19th century, and the iconic status of this coastal stretch. The panoramic views here set the tone for the rest of the day.

Stop 2: La Calanque de Figuerolles

Next, it’s time to explore a real gem—the Calanque de Figuerolles. This cove, with its turquoise waters and puddingstone cliffs, is postcard-perfect. Visitors can enjoy a small pebble beach, perfect for swimming or just soaking in the scenery. The short, straightforward path of 87 steps makes it accessible, though it’s busy during summer.

One reviewer raved, “The vibrant colors and atmosphere inspired many artists, including Georges Braque,” which hints at the inspiring beauty of this site. Plus, there’s a restaurant, Chez Tania, with views to match the landscape.

Stop 3: Port de Cassis

Cassis is the quintessential Provençal fishing village—colorful houses, cobbled streets, and a lively port. Here, you’ll have about an hour to explore, enjoy local cuisine, or simply relax by the water. Think of it as the perfect pit stop to breathe in that Mediterranean charm.

Many reviews mention how much they loved the town’s authentic vibe, and one noted, “The port of Cassis is ideal for enjoying local specialties while admiring the sea.”

Stop 4: Marseille’s Highlights

The tour also includes a brief visit to Marseille itself, with landmarks such as the Vieux-Port and the Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde basilica. While only about 15 minutes are allocated, this allows for a quick taste of the city’s diverse cultural tapestry.

Scenic Drives: Route des Cretes & Cap Canaille

One of the tour’s main attractions is driving along the Route des Cretes, a 15-kilometer stretch offering jaw-dropping views of the coastline, cliffs, and the Calanques. Guests often mention how the views from this route are “spectacular,” especially the views of Cap Canaille—France’s highest sea cliff at 394 meters.

A stop at Cap Canaille allows for memorable photos of the rugged coastline. Reviewers describe it as “a place of inspiration for artists,” emphasizing its wild beauty. Keep in mind, access can be restricted during high winds or extreme heat, but generally, it’s a highlight.

Calanques National Park

The tour also includes a stop in the Calanques National Park, a UNESCO-listed site. You’ll see towering limestone cliffs and turquoise waters, with options for hikes or water activities. The park’s biodiversity, with roughly 1,000 plant species and 200 protected species, makes it a serious ecological treasure.

Guests love how close they can get to nature—many mention swimming and water-based experiences, but even simply walking around offers stunning vistas.

Authentic Villages and Coastal Towns

The itinerary covers charming spots like La Ciotat, famous for its cinema history, and Cassis, for its vineyards and colorful harbor. The stops here are about more than sightseeing—they’re about feeling the vibe of Provençal life, tasting local wines, or shopping for souvenirs.

In particular, reviews highlight how leisurely and friendly these stops feel. One reviewer said, “Cassis is a small picturesque port that’s worth a visit,” and many appreciated the opportunity to wander, eat, or shop at their own pace.

End of the Day: Flexibility and Comfort

The tour concludes back at the Marseille Cruise Port, generally between 3 pm and 4:30 pm, depending on your ship’s schedule. Guests consistently mention the comfort of the vehicle, the personalized service, and the friendly guidance from Denis and Virginia.

Although the tour is tailored to cruise passengers, many reviews show that it offers a rare mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and driving fun. The private vehicle, coupled with small-group intimacy, ensures you won’t be just another face in a crowd.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This experience is more than just sightseeing—it’s about feeling the wind in your hair, capturing stunning photos, and truly experiencing the landscapes with knowledgeable guides. The value for money is evident when considering the included stops, the private vehicle, and the personal guidance.

It’s a fantastic pick for couples, small groups, or families cruising through the region. If you love scenic drives, authentic villages, and panoramic mountain vistas, you’ll find this tour hits all the right notes.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

• Cruise passengers seeking a flexible, memorable excursion outside the typical bus tour.
• Photographers and Instagram lovers who want breathtaking scenic shots.
• Nature lovers eager to explore the Calanques and coastal parks up close.
• Couples or small groups looking for a personalized, fun day with a mix of culture, scenery, and adventure.
• Anyone wanting to experience France’s Riviera in a relaxed, authentic way—no cookie-cutter tours here.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children? Children under 7 years old cannot participate unless under full parental responsibility, mainly due to safety considerations.

What is included in the price? All fees and taxes are covered, along with an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and the guided escort. Stops at major sites are included.

How long does the tour last? Expect approximately 5 to 7 hours, depending on traffic and the time spent at each stop.

Can I drive the car myself? Yes, you can drive if you hold your national driver’s license, and the tour encourages self-driving in the convertible.

What are the main stops? Highlights include La Corniche, Calanque de Figuerolles, Cassis, Marseille city highlights, Route des Cretes, Cap Canaille, Calanques National Park, La Ciotat, and the Old Port.

Are there any optional activities? Water activities like swimming and diving are possible at the Calanques, but they are not included in the tour price.

What about the vehicle? The cars are described as “immaculate and comfortable,” with options for VW Beetles or Fiat 500s, adding a nostalgic touch to your adventure.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers? Since it’s a private tour for up to 4 people, solo travelers would need to book as a single group or find a similar experience.

What is the cancellation policy? You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How do I book? You can reserve via Viator, with most bookings made 82 days in advance, and the experience is confirmed immediately upon booking.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a day filled with scenic drives, scenic stops, and a touch of French Riviera glamour, this drive in a convertible from Marseille to Cassis and La Ciotat is hard to beat. It blends the thrill of open-top cruising with authentic visits to small villages and natural parks, all guided by friendly, knowledgeable hosts.

Perfect for cruise passengers, couples, or small groups wanting to explore at their own pace, this tour promises unforgettable views, cultural richness, and a dash of fun. The only real drawback might be the length of the day, but with so much to see and do, it’s well worth the effort.

In summary, this tour offers a fantastic mix of scenic beauty, cultural discovery, and driving fun—making it an ideal choice for those who want more than just the usual sightseeing experience in southern France. If you love nature, picturesque towns, and the freedom of a convertible, this adventure is likely to be a highlight of your trip.