MARSEILLE Shore Excursion : Taste of Provence Aix and Cassis

Discover the essence of Provence on this captivating shore excursion. Explore the charming towns of Aix-en-Provence and Cassis, where you’ll savor local flavors and learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage. With comfortable transportation and an expert guide, you’ll uncover breathtaking coastal vistas and gain a deeper appreciation for the unique beauty that has long enchanted visitors to this remarkable corner of France.

Key Points

• Explore the highlights of Marseille and Provence, including the Old Port, Notre Dame de la Garde, and picturesque towns of Aix-en-Provence and La Ciotat.
• Enjoy a scenic drive along the Corniche with stunning coastal views.
• Experience a personalized tour tailored to your interests with a professional guide and comfortable air-conditioned transportation.
• Indulge in a included lunch and have access to free Wi-Fi during the tour.
• Benefit from a hassle-free experience with port pickup and drop-off, wheelchair and stroller accessibility, and infant seats available.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This 7-hour private tour explores the highlights of Marseille and the surrounding Provence region.

You’ll visit Marseille’s charming Old Port and the iconic Notre Dame de la Garde basilica.

Then, enjoy a scenic drive along the Corniche, taking in stunning coastal views.

Venture to the picturesque towns of Aix-en-Provence and La Ciotat to admire their breathtaking scenery.

Throughout the day, the tour is tailored to your interests, providing a personalized experience.

With complimentary transportation, Wi-Fi, and bottled water, you’ll travel in comfort as you discover the best of Provence.

Transportation and Comfort

Travelers journey through Marseille and the Provence region in an air-conditioned Mercedes minivan, ensuring a comfortable ride.

The tour provides:

• Free Wi-Fi (on demand) to stay connected

• Bottled water to stay hydrated

• Port pickup and drop-off for convenience

• Wheelchair and stroller accessibility

• Infant seats available for families

The modern, well-equipped vehicle allows guests to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic coastal views in comfort.

Guests can sit back, relax, and absorb the scenic coastal views in the comfort of the modern, well-equipped vehicle.

The transportation is designed to prioritize passengers’ needs and enhance the overall enjoyment of the Taste of Provence shore excursion.

Inclusions and Additional Services

The Taste of Provence shore excursion includes a professional guide who provides live commentary on board the air-conditioned Mercedes minivan.

Bottled water is provided for your convenience, and free Wi-Fi is available upon request.

The tour package also covers the cost of your lunch and gratuities.

Plus, entrance fees to any museums or attractions visited during the tour are included.

This comprehensive excursion is designed to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free experience, allowing you to fully learn about the stunning landscapes and charming towns of Provence.

Meeting and Pickup Information

Pickup points for the Taste of Provence shore excursion include the Marseille port or a designated meeting point.

Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking.

Cruise ship passengers must provide their ship name, docking time, disembarkation time, and re-boarding time.

The tour is wheelchair accessible and stroller accessible, with infant seats available.

To ensure a smooth experience, travelers are advised to provide these details when making the reservation.

• Marseille port or designated meeting point

• Confirmation within 48 hours of booking

• Details required for cruise ship passengers

• Wheelchair and stroller accessible

• Infant seats available

Reviews and Feedback

According to the available reviews, the overall rating for the Taste of Provence shore excursion is 4.0 out of 5 stars, based on 3 total reviews.

The feedback is mixed, with some comments regarding the guide’s expertise and engagement level. Travelers noted the beautiful lavender fields and Aix-en-Provence church as highlights.

However, the reviews suggest that those seeking a more knowledgeable guide may want to consider alternative options.

Exploring Marseille’s Old Port and Notre Dame De La Garde

As the tour begins, visitors explore Marseille’s vibrant Old Port, a bustling hub of activity where fishing boats and yachts line the waterfront.

Nearby, the iconic Notre Dame de la Garde basilica stands atop its commanding hilltop perch, offering stunning panoramic views of the city and Mediterranean coast.

Highlights of this portion of the tour include:

• Admiring the neo-Byzantine architecture of Notre Dame de la Garde

• Taking in the sweeping vistas from the basilica’s observation deck

• Strolling along the lively Old Port promenade and watching locals go about their daily lives

• Browsing the outdoor markets for fresh seafood and local produce

• Discovering the historic charm of Marseille‘s oldest neighborhood.

Scenic Drive and Coastal Discoveries

After leaving the bustling Old Port, the tour proceeds with a scenic drive along the famous Corniche coastal route. Passengers are treated to breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the rugged cliffs that line the coastline. The drive offers a chance to admire the natural beauty of the region, with stops at several picturesque viewpoints along the way.

| Corniche Highlights | Description |

| — | — |

| La Corniche | Scenic coastal road with panoramic vistas |

| Cap Canaille | Towering limestone cliffs with sweeping sea views |

| Calanques | Dramatic limestone inlets and coves |

| Picturesque Villages | Quaint seaside towns like La Ciotat and Cassis |

The tour then continues to the charming town of Aix-en-Provence and the seaside village of La Ciotat, allowing participants to enjoy the unique coastal landscapes of Provence.

FAQ

How Long Is the Drive Between Marseille and Aix-En-Provence?

The drive between Marseille and Aix-en-Provence takes approximately 30 minutes. The distance is around 35 kilometers, and travelers can expect a smooth, scenic journey along the well-connected roads in the region.

Can We Stop for a Wine Tasting During the Tour?

Yes, the tour allows for optional wine tasting stops along the way. However, this would need to be communicated with the driver in advance to ensure it fits within the tour schedule and your interests.

Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?

Yes, the tour can be customized to include a wine tasting. The private nature of the tour allows for flexibility to adjust the itinerary based on the traveler’s interests and preferences.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no formal dress code, but it’s recommended to wear comfortable, casual clothing and sturdy walking shoes. The tour involves some outdoor activities, so dressing for the weather and terrain is advised.

Can We Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended if needed. Travelers should discuss this with the tour provider in advance, as additional fees may apply for extending the tour beyond the standard 7-hour schedule.

Sum Up

This "Taste of Provence" shore excursion offers an immersive experience into the heart of Provence. Visitors can explore the charming towns of Aix-en-Provence and Cassis, taking in stunning coastal views and rich cultural heritage. With comfortable transportation and a knowledgeable guide, guests can savor the beauty of Provence while enjoying local cuisine and breathtaking landscapes.