Marseille : 2-Hour Sidecar Sightseeing Tour

If you’re looking for a unique way to see Marseille’s highlights, this 2-hour sidecar sightseeing tour offers a fun, authentic, and scenic experience. Rather than traditional bus or walking tours, this ride in a vintage sidecar gives you a fresh perspective on the city’s most iconic spots along with some hidden gems. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the combination of scenic views, local charm, and the thrill of riding in a classic sidecar makes this a memorable outing.

What we especially like about this tour is its relaxed pace that allows for plenty of photo breaks, the chance to see both the lively port and tranquil fishing spots, and the guide’s local insights. Plus, the fact that it’s a private experience means you can enjoy a more personalized journey with your group. The only thing to consider is that it runs for only two hours, so if you’re after a deep dive into Marseille’s history, you might want to supplement this with other activities. This tour suits adventurous travelers, photography lovers, and anyone curious to explore Marseille in a playful, immersive way.

Key Points

• Authentic experience riding in a vintage sidecar, offering a different view of Marseille.
• Scenic stops include the Old Port, Notre-Dame de la Garde, and Les Goudes fishing port.
• Personalized private group ensures a flexible and intimate journey.
• Great for photo opportunities, especially from high vantage points.
• Includes hotel pickup, making logistics easier.
• Limited to 2 hours, so perfect for a quick yet rundown.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Marseille in a Vintage Sidecar

This tour offers a lively, open-air adventure that captures the essence of Marseille’s diverse neighborhoods and stunning coastlines. The guide, operating in both English and French, helps you appreciate what makes this city so special—its vibrant streets, historic sites, and breathtaking views all in one compact ride.

Starting Point and Pickup

Your journey begins at either the Teddy Bear Statue near the Vieux Port or from a hotel close by. For hotel pickups, just be ready in the lobby about 10 minutes before your scheduled start. The ease of pickup from central locations is a big plus, especially if you’re staying nearby, and the tour provider even offers a hotel pickup and drop-off service if you are close to the Vieux Port.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Le Vieux Port (Old Port) is your first stop, where you can soak in the lively atmosphere—fishermen unloading their catch, boats gently bobbing, and the vibrant fish market in full swing. Riding through the port’s quayside gives you a feel for Marseille’s maritime soul, and the backdrop of the historic waterfront is perfect for photos.

Next, you’ll venture into Le Panier, Marseille’s oldest neighborhood. This area’s narrow streets are full of colorful street art, small cafés, and boutique shops. The guide might point out some hidden corners and unique spots you could easily miss on foot. Gerard, one of the reviewers, described it simply as “Très bien,” emphasizing how well this part of the tour captures the city’s charm.

From here, you’ll cruise along the Corniche John Fitzgerald Kennedy, a stretch famed for its sweeping views of the sea and surrounding islands. The guide will likely stop here for a quick photo, giving you a chance to capture Marseille’s rugged coastline and sparkling waters.

Visiting Notre-Dame de la Garde

The next major highlight is the Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde, perched high on a hill overlooking the city. From the sidecar, the ascent offers a sense of adventure, and once at the top, you’re rewarded with panoramic 360° views. Inside, the basilica’s ornate architecture and mosaics are worth a quick look, but it’s the stunning vista over Marseille that steals the show.

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A Peaceful Stop at Les Goudes

One of the tour’s most praised stops is Les Goudes, a quiet fishing port about 30 minutes from the city center. Surrounded by hills and sea, this spot offers a glimpse into Marseille’s traditional maritime life. Fishermen still work here, and the scenery is perfect for relaxed photos or a short walk. The rugged landscape and old WWII fortifications add a touch of history and drama.

Additional Highlights

• The Orange Velodrome adds a touch of local sports culture.
• The tour also passes by other sightseeing points, making the most of Marseille’s diverse sights within a short timeframe.

How the Tour Feels and Looks

During the ride, you’ll be comfortably seated in the vintage sidecar, helmeted and gloved, as your guide navigates the city’s streets. The open-air aspect means you get fresh air and unobstructed views, making it ideal for photography and just soaking in the atmosphere.

From reviews, we know that Gerard described the experience as “Très bien,” highlighting the smoothness and enjoyment of the ride. Another reviewer mentioned the “breathtaking views,” and many noted that the stops were well-timed to take in the scenery without feeling rushed.

The Practical Side of the Tour

Duration and group size are designed for a relaxed yet engaging experience—just two hours and private groups. The small group setting means more flexibility in stopping for photos or quick questions, and the guide’s bilingual skills (English and French) ensure clear communication.

Cost and value are not explicitly detailed, but considering the inclusion of hotel pickup, helmet, gloves, and water, the tour offers a good balance of convenience and immersive sightseeing. The private nature also means you won’t be stuck with strangers, making it perfect for couples, small families, or friends.

Accessibility and Considerations

The tour is wheelchair accessible, which broadens its appeal. However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, likely due to safety concerns in the sidecar.

Authentic Experiences from Other Travelers

While only two reviews are available, both are highly positive, with one simply stating “Très bien.” The emphasis on stunning views and the personal touch of a guide make this experience stand out. Reviewers appreciated the chance to explore areas like Les Goudes and Notre-Dame de la Garde in a relaxed, fun way.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This 2-hour sidecar ride is perfect for adventurous souls who want a lively, intimate way of seeing Marseille. It’s ideal for those who enjoy scenic stops, want to capture beautiful photos, or prefer personalized experiences over large bus tours. If you’re traveling with a small group or partner and want a memorable, fun way to explore Marseille’s highlights, this tour delivers.

It’s also a great option for travelers seeking a quick, efficient overview of the city’s must-see spots without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. The combination of stunning vistas, charming neighborhoods, and the thrill of riding in a vintage sidecar makes it a standout activity.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off if you’re staying near the Vieux Port, making logistics very simple.

How long does the tour last? It’s a 2-hour experience, providing a compact but comprehensive look at Marseille’s main sights.

Can I join if I have mobility issues? The tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s not suitable for pregnant women due to safety concerns with the sidecar.

What languages are the guides available in? Guides operate in both English and French, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Is this tour suitable for children? The data doesn’t specify age restrictions, but given the nature of the sidecar ride, it’s best suited for older children who can sit comfortably and hold on.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, booking is recommended, especially since the tour is private and limited to specific times.

What should I wear? It’s advisable to wear comfortable clothing and bring a hat or sunglasses for sun protection, especially since the ride is outdoors.

What’s included in the price? The tour includes helmet, gloves, water, and hotel pickup/drop-off if applicable.

In The Sum Up

This vintage sidecar tour of Marseille offers a lively, personal, and scenic way to see the city’s highlights. Perfect for those who love a bit of adventure, stunning views, and authentic local neighborhoods, it balances fun with cultural insight. The stops at Notre-Dame de la Garde and Les Goudes are particularly memorable, making the two hours feel rich with sights and stories.

Whether you’re traveling alone, as a couple, or with a small group, this experience provides a charming, informal perspective on Marseille’s diverse charm. For anyone wanting to enjoy the city’s coastal beauty and historic streets in a unique and engaging way, this sidecar tour is worth considering.

Overall, if you’re after a light, fun, and scenic exploration with plenty of photo moments and local flavor, this sidecar experience is a delightful choice. It combines the thrill of riding in a vintage vehicle with the rewards of discovering Marseille’s most iconic and picturesque spots.

You can check availability for your dates here: