Marseille City Tour Half-Day

Marseille, France’s oldest city, boasts a vibrant culture and rich history that enthralls visitors. This half-day city tour promises an immersive experience, transporting guests to iconic sites like the Vieux Port and Basilica of Notre Dame de la Garde. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour explores the stunning Palais Longchamp, offering ample photography opportunities. While not included, lunch and entrance fees allow travelers to customize their adventure. Discover why Marseille’s artistic heritage captivates those who venture beyond the cruise terminal.

Key Points

• A 4-hour private tour of Marseille’s top attractions, including the Vieux Port, Palais Longchamp, and Basilica of Notre Dame de la Garde.
• Tour cost of $589.49 for up to 8 participants with transportation in an air-conditioned minivan.
• Guided exploration of Marseille’s historical center and cultural renaissance, with opportunities for photography.
• Visit to the 19th-century Palais Longchamp, featuring Romanesque and Neo-Byzantine architecture and housing museums.
• Tour conducted in English by a knowledgeable driver-guide, with some customer feedback on minor issues with language barriers and sound systems.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This Marseille City Tour Half-Day is a private 4-hour experience that allows visitors to explore the city’s rich history and cultural renaissance.

The tour starts at the Marseille cruise terminal and costs $589.49 for up to 8 participants. It’s conducted in English, with a knowledgeable driver-guide providing commentary.

This private 4-hour Marseille City Tour starts at the cruise terminal and costs $589.49 for up to 8 participants, with an English-speaking driver-guide.

The tour includes stops at the historic Vieux Port, the grand Palais Longchamp, and the iconic Basilica of Notre Dame de la Garde. Guests can enjoy photography opportunities at these sites.

Lunch and entrance fees aren’t included, but port pickup and drop-off, as well as transport in an air-conditioned minivan, are provided.

Itinerary Highlights

As visitors embark on this Marseille City Tour, they’ll first explore the historical center and Vieux Port, which has been a hub of maritime activity since the 19th century.

The tour then takes them to the Palais Longchamp, built in 1869 to connect Marseille to a new waterway network and now housing a natural history museum and fine arts museum.

Next, they’ll discover the Basilica of Notre Dame de la Garde, consecrated in 1864 and featuring Romanesque and Neo-Byzantine architecture.

The tour offers these highlights:

• Visit the historical center and Vieux Port

• Explore the Palais Longchamp

• Discover the Basilica of Notre Dame de la Garde

• Opportunity for photography at iconic sites

• Guided exploration of Marseille’s cultural renaissance

Exploring the Historical Center

Visitors begin their exploration of Marseille’s historical center by discovering the captivating Vieux Port, a thriving maritime hub since the 19th century. Lined with shops and restaurants, the bustling port offers a glimpse into the city’s seafaring past.

The tour then leads to the majestic Palais Longchamp, a 19th-century water castle that houses the city’s Natural History Museum and Museum of Fine Arts. Nearby, the awe-inspiring Basilica of Notre Dame de la Garde, with its Romanesque and Neo-Byzantine architecture, stands atop the city, offering panoramic views.

| Site | Significance |

| — | — |

| Vieux Port | Maritime hub since 19th century |

| Palais Longchamp | 19th-century water castle, natural history and fine arts museums |

| Basilica of Notre Dame de la Garde | Iconic cathedral with Romanesque and Neo-Byzantine architecture |

Visiting Palais Longchamp

The Palais Longchamp, a magnificent 19th-century water castle, stands as a testament to Marseille’s artistic and architectural heritage.

This iconic landmark was built in 1869 to celebrate the connection of Marseille to a new waterway network.

Today, it houses the Natural History Museum and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, offering visitors a rich cultural experience.

Visitors can explore:

• Breathtaking Romanesque and Neo-Byzantine architecture

• Ornate fountains and intricate sculptures adorning the facade

• Expansive gardens and courtyards perfect for leisurely strolls

• Fascinating natural history and fine art exhibits

• Stunning views of the surrounding city skyline.

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Discovering Basilica of Notre Dame De La Garde

Standing tall atop the highest point in Marseille, the Basilica of Notre Dame de la Garde commands breathtaking views of the city and its surrounding landscape.

Consecrated in 1864, this iconic Roman Catholic church features a blend of Romanesque and Neo-Byzantine architecture.

Visitors can explore the basilica’s ornate interior, which is adorned with intricate mosaics, gilded details, and a striking bell tower topped by a gilded statue of the Virgin Mary.

The basilica’s elevated position and distinctive design make it a renowned landmark and a must-see during any tour of Marseille.

Marseille’s Cultural Renaissance

Although long known for its thriving port and maritime history, Marseille has undergone a remarkable cultural renaissance in recent decades. The city was recognized as the European Capital of Culture in 2013, reflecting its vibrant artistic scene.

Key highlights of Marseille’s cultural resurgence include:

• Establishment of new contemporary art museums and galleries

• Revitalization of historic neighborhoods with trendy shops and restaurants

• Hosting of major festivals and events showcasing music, film, and the performing arts

• Investment in public spaces and infrastructure to enhance the city’s livability

• Promotion of Marseille’s diverse cultural heritage and traditions.

Walking Tour of Vieux Port

One of the highlights of the Marseille City Tour is the walking tour along the Vieux Port, a vibrant hub of maritime activity since the 19th century.

Visitors stroll along the lively waterfront, lined with shops, seafood restaurants, and fishing boats. The guide points out the historic architecture, including the Town Hall and the iconic Fenêtre du Maire (Mayor’s Window).

Participants have the opportunity to capture stunning photos of the port’s iconic landmarks and soak in the bustling atmosphere.

This walking tour provides an immersive glimpse into Marseille’s rich maritime heritage and its role as a commercial center.

What’s Included and Customer Feedback

The tour package includes a driver/guide for the duration of the tour, as well as pick-up and drop-off at the Marseille cruise terminal.

The tour includes a driver/guide and pick-up/drop-off at the Marseille cruise terminal.

Transport in an air-conditioned minivan is provided, but lunch and entrance fees aren’t included.

According to customer reviews:

• Some participants experienced language barriers with the drivers.

• A few cited issues with malfunctioning sound systems during the tour.

• Certain customers felt the private guide experience didn’t meet their expectations.

However, most praised the guides for being pleasant and accommodating.

The tour overall received a 4/5 rating based on 4 reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Many People Can Participate in the Private Tour?

The private tour can accommodate up to 8 participants. According to the tour overview, the price is quoted for a group of up to 8 people.

Are Child Discounts Available for the Tour?

The tour information doesn’t mention any child discounts. As a private tour for up to 8 participants, the price is likely fixed and doesn’t offer reduced rates for children. Customers should check with the tour provider for any child pricing details.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Specific Interests?

The tour can be customized to include specific interests. Customers can request alterations to the itinerary and focus areas to cater to their unique preferences, subject to guide availability and feasibility.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Customers can request to add more time to explore Marseille’s highlights in more depth or to include additional sites based on their interests. Tour customization options are available for a personalized experience.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

The tour allows for ample photography opportunities at the iconic sites. While there are no explicit restrictions, visitors should be respectful and mindful of others during the walking tour through the historical center and Vieux Port.

The Sum Up

This half-day tour of Marseille offers cruise ship passengers a chance to enjoy the city’s vibrant culture and rich history. Visitors will explore iconic landmarks, marvel at Palais Longchamp, and discover the Basilica of Notre Dame de la Garde. With ample photography opportunities and a knowledgeable driver-guide, this private tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into Marseille’s artistic heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: