Marseille Vieux Port & Wine Tasting – Private Tour

Marseille’s historic Vieux Port and the surrounding wine regions offer a captivating blend of cultural riches and oenological delights. This private tour immerses guests in the city’s iconic harbor, then whisks them away to idyllic vineyards where they can savor the flavors of acclaimed Provençal wines. From panoramic vistas to picturesque medieval villages, this exclusive experience promises to unveil the multi-faceted charm that has long drawn travelers to this vibrant French destination.

Key Points

• Explore the historic Vieux Port area of Marseille, including the Abbey of St. Victor, Marseille Cathedral, and the Palais de la Bourse.
• Visit the iconic Notre Dame de la Garde basilica, offering panoramic views of the Vieux Port, Château d’If, and Calanques National Park.
• Discover the picturesque Le Panier neighborhood, the oldest district in Marseille, with its charming cobblestone streets.
• Enjoy a guided wine tasting experience in the renowned Coteaux d’Aix and Sainte Victoire wine regions, known for their delicate Provençal wines.
• Explore the medieval village of Le Castellet, with its preserved architecture and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Marseille Vieux Port & Wine Tasting – Private Tour provides an in-depth exploration of the historic Vieux Port area of Marseille and a curated wine tasting experience across renowned Provençal vineyards.

Priced from £1,009.54 per group, the 8-hour tour accommodates up to 8 participants and is available in English and French.

It’s wheelchair accessible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Guests can expect scenic views, visits to cultural sites, and tastings at Coteaux d’Aix, Ste Victoire, Cassis, and Bandol wineries.

Transportation, a professional guide, meals, and entry fees are all included.

Exploring the Vieux Port

Starting at the historic Vieux Port, the tour introduces guests to the iconic waterfront area at the heart of Marseille.

The group explores the bustling harbor, lined with colorful fishing boats and surrounded by 17th-century architecture.

Key sights include:

• The Abbey of St. Victor, a historic church dating back to the 5th century

• The Marseille Cathedral, an impressive example of Romanesque-Byzantine architecture

• The Palais de la Bourse, a grand 19th-century stock exchange building

• The Quai des Belges, a lively promenade along the harbor

• The picturesque Le Panier neighborhood, the oldest district in Marseille.

Panoramic Views From Notre Dame De La Garde

Atop the city’s highest point, the imposing basilica of Notre Dame de la Garde commands sweeping views over Marseille’s skyline and the sparkling Mediterranean. Visitors ascend to the observation deck for a panoramic perspective of the Vieux Port, the Château d’If, and the Calanques National Park. The basilica’s striking bell tower and gilded statue of the Virgin Mary are iconic landmarks visible from miles around.

| View | Direction | Description |

|——|———–|————-|

| Vieux Port | South | Historic harbor and bustling center of the city |

| Château d’If | East | Infamous island fortress featured in The Count of Monte Cristo |

| Calanques National Park | Southwest | Dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise coves |

Discovering the Calanques of Cassis

Venturing from the panoramic vistas of Notre Dame de la Garde, the tour now heads southwest to explore the captivating Calanques of Cassis.

This stunning coastal landscape features:

• Dramatic limestone cliffs plunging into the turquoise Mediterranean waters

• Picturesque fishing villages nestled between the towering formations

• Hiking trails and boat tours offering unique perspectives of the Calanques

• Opportunities to spot rare wildlife, including the Peregrine falcon

• Picnicking and swimming in the serene coves, accessible only by foot or boat

This natural wonder provides a scenic backdrop for the next stop on the wine tasting adventure.

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Wine Tasting in Coteaux D’aix & Ste Victoire

After exploring the captivating Calanques, the tour heads northeast to the Coteaux d’Aix and Sainte Victoire wine regions.

These renowned vineyards produce exceptional Provençal wines, renowned for their delicate flavors and distinctive terroir. The guide leads guests through tastings at carefully selected wineries, allowing them to discover the nuances of the local varietals.

Visitors learn about the winemaking process and have the opportunity to purchase bottles to take home. The stunning Sainte Victoire mountain provides a picturesque backdrop, complementing the flavorful wines and enhancing the overall experience.

Visiting the Bandol Wineries

Next, the tour heads southward to the renowned Bandol wine region. This area is known for its exceptional red wines made primarily from the Mourvèdre grape variety.

The group will visit several wineries to sample these acclaimed vintages:

• Domaine Tempier, a historic estate producing rich, complex Bandol wines

• Château Pibarnon, which offers stunning views of the Mediterranean coastline

• Domaine Ott, renowned for its rosé wines with a distinctive minerality

• Domaine la Suffrène, known for its elegant, age-worthy red blends

• Château de Pibarnon, boasting a picturesque setting and award-winning cuvées.

Exploring the Medieval Village of Le Castellet

What once served as a stronghold for the Counts of Provence, the medieval village of Le Castellet now beckons visitors with its charming cobblestone streets and well-preserved architecture.

Nestled atop a hill, the village offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Tourists can stroll through the historic center, admiring the blend of Romanesque and Gothic structures.

The tour also includes a visit to the village’s olive groves, where guests can witness the traditional methods of olive oil production.

With its rich history and picturesque setting, Le Castellet provides a glimpse into the past and a tranquil respite from the bustling city of Marseille.

Enjoying the Olive Groves and Quarry Art in the Baux De Provence

As the tour continues, visitors are transported to the picturesque Baux de Provence, a medieval village nestled in the heart of the Alpilles mountain range.

This historic site offers a unique glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage, featuring:

• Sprawling olive groves, where visitors can learn about the traditional cultivation and pressing of olives

• Awe-inspiring quarry art, with ancient rock carvings and sculptures carved directly into the limestone cliffs

• The Château des Baux, a well-preserved medieval castle offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside

• Charming cobblestone streets lined with quaint shops and local artisanal workshops

• The opportunity to explore the village’s winding alleyways and soak in the authentic Provençal atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Type of Transportation Is Provided During the Tour?

The tour provides transportation via a minivan with air conditioning and Wi-Fi. The minivan accommodates the group and ensures a comfortable and convenient way to travel between the various locations during the tour.

Is the Tour Suitable for Wheelchair Users?

The tour is wheelchair accessible. The minivan used for transportation has air conditioning and Wi-Fi, and the guide ensures the itinerary accommodates the needs of all participants, including those using wheelchairs.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Activities?

The tour can be customized to include additional activities like extra wine tastings or shopping opportunities in Cassis or Le Castellet, based on the group’s interests and preferences.

How Early Should Participants Arrive at the Meeting Point?

Participants should arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time. This allows the tour guide to greet everyone, provide any necessary instructions, and ensure a prompt departure for the scheduled activities.

Are There Any Dress Code Requirements for the Tour?

There are no formal dress code requirements for this tour. However, participants are recommended to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes to ensure they can fully enjoy the activities and settings throughout the day.

The Sum Up

This private tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the charm of Marseille’s historic Vieux Port, admire panoramic views from Notre Dame De La Garde, and explore the picturesque wine regions of Coteaux d’Aix and Sainte Victoire. Theres some good guided wine tastings, discover the Calanques of Cassis, and visit the medieval village of Le Castellet, all in a comfortable, wheelchair-accessible setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: