Private Full Day Wine Tour in Provence From Marseille cruise port

Discover the Charm of Provence’s Wine Region with a Private Full-Day Tour from Marseille

If you’re docking in Marseille and craving a taste of Provence’s legendary wines, this private full-day wine tour offers a seamless, enriching experience. It promises to whisk you away from the bustling port to explore two distinctive wineries, indulge in tastings of Grenache, Cinsault, and Syrah, and enjoy a scenic drive through some of France’s most picturesque countryside.

What we love most? The personalized attention from expert guides, the chance to sample authentic local wines, and the opportunity to explore charming towns like Cassis, Lourmarin, or Aix-en-Provence. The only caveat? The tour clocked at around 6 to 8 hours, so it requires a full day’s commitment—perfect for those eager to pack in a lot.

This experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate good wine, cultural sights, and scenic drives, especially if you prefer a flexible, intimate setting over crowded group tours. For those looking to combine wine tasting with a taste of Provence’s beautiful towns, this is a fantastic choice.

Key Points

• Personalized Private Tour: Up to 8 guests, ensuring intimacy and flexible pace
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable English-speaking guides who double as wine aficionados
• Authentic Tastings: Visit two private wineries for educational and delicious tasting sessions
• Scenic Town Exploration: Free time in towns like Cassis, Lourmarin, or Aix-en-Provence
• Comfortable Transportation: A clean, air-conditioned minivan for a smooth journey
• Reliable Timing: Guaranteed on-time return to your cruise port, with flexible scheduling

An In-Depth Look at the Provence Full-Day Wine Tour

Why Choose a Private Tour?

Unlike large group excursions, this tour offers a private setting, meaning your group will enjoy personalized attention and the opportunity to ask questions about wine production, regional varieties, and Provence’s cultural nuances. The guides, such as Eric and Stephane, are noted for their extensive knowledge and friendly demeanor, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. Reviewers specifically mention guides being “very knowledgeable,” “warm,” and “personable,” qualities that elevate the whole day.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour kicks off at 9 am (or a time suited to your cruise schedule), with pickup at the Marseille cruise pier in a well-maintained, air-conditioned minivan. The journey to the wineries is both comfortable and scenic, giving you a taste of the lush French countryside almost immediately.

First Winery Visit:
Expect a private, educational tasting session at one of Provence’s charming wineries. You’ll learn about the wine-making process, visit aging rooms, and sample a variety of local wines. Multiple reviews highlight guides’ ability to tailor the experience to your knowledge level, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned connoisseur.

Second Winery Visit:
The pace remains relaxed, with the guides ensuring you have ample time to enjoy each tasting. Expect to try wines crafted from Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah, and other regional varieties. As Monique and Sandra mention, guides like Eric and Lores make these visits both fun and informative, giving insights into France’s wine traditions.

Lunch and Town Exploration:
After the morning tastings, the tour heads towards one of the picturesque towns—Cassis, Lourmarin, or Aix-en-Provence. The choice depends on your preferences and availability that day. A highlight from reviews is the included lunch in Cassis, where travelers describe it as “wonderful,” with some reviewers praising the scenic views and good food. You’ll have about two hours of free time to stroll, browse shops, or simply relax with a café.

Afternoon Scenic Drive:
On the way back, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive, with stops at overlooks offering panoramic views of the sea and countryside. Stéphane, in particular, is praised for taking guests to stunning viewpoints, making the return journey as memorable as the tasting sessions.

The Wines and Tastings: Authentic and Varietal

From Grenache to Syrah, you’ll get to sample wines that are representative of Provence’s terroir. Reviewers have noted the quality and authenticity of the wines—many describing the tastings as “delicious” and the wineries as “beautiful.” The private visits mean you can ask questions and learn about the nuances of each varietal directly from your guide.

Transportation: Comfort and Reliability

Transport is in a clean, air-conditioned minivan that comfortably fits up to eight people. This small-group size keeps the experience intimate and allows for flexible stops and a relaxed pace. Several reviewers mention the guides being punctual, friendly, and safe drivers, which is reassuring given the busy roads of Provence.

Pricing and Value

At $475.25 per person, this tour offers a high level of personalized service, expert guidance, and the opportunity to visit multiple wineries and a charming town. While it’s not the cheapest wine tour in the region, the private nature and high-quality tastings deliver significant value. Many reviewers praise the guides’ knowledge and the well-organized logistics, which elevate the experience beyond just sipping wine.

Who Will Love This?

This tour shines brightest for travelers who value personalized, educational experiences and enjoy exploring both wineries and local towns. It’s especially suited for those who prefer a relaxed pace and want to avoid large crowds. Families with older children (over 10) who are interested in wine or cultural sights will find it especially rewarding.

What the Reviews Tell Us

The overwhelmingly positive feedback highlights the professionalism and friendliness of guides like Eric and Stéphane. Guests appreciate the knowledgeable commentary, which makes wine tasting more meaningful. Several mention the stunning views and scenic drives—these are truly highlights that elevate the day beyond just wine.

A common theme is the delicious lunch in Cassis or other towns, with many describing it as “wonderful” and “scenic,” especially if you opt for the rural lunch at Le Relais de Saint Ser. The flexibility to choose the town for lunch or sightseeing is a big plus, allowing you to tailor the day to your interests.

Another notable point: pacing. Guests with travel companions of varying ages, including a 94-year-old, found the tour manageable, thanks to the considerate pace and accessible stops.

Additional Practical Details

• Duration: 6 to 8 hours, perfect for a full day without feeling rushed.
• Booking: Recommended 90 days in advance; the tour is popular.
• Weather: Operates in all weather conditions; dress appropriately.
• Children: Not suitable for children under 10 unless arranged in advance.
• Pickup: Only from Marseille cruise port, so plan accordingly.
• Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before, ideal if your schedule might change.

The Sum Up

This private full-day wine tour in Provence offers a well-rounded experience for those seeking a personalized, authentic taste of France’s wine country. The combination of expert guides, scenic drives, private winery visits, and free time in charming towns makes it a rewarding choice for those eager to deepen their appreciation of Provence’s wines and culture.

If you’re a lover of good wine, beautiful scenery, and relaxed pacing, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for travelers who value quality over quantity and prefer a more exclusive, tailored experience. The carefully curated itinerary, combined with high praise from past guests, shows it’s a reliable and delightful way to explore Provence beyond the usual.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
While the tour is generally accessible, the itinerary involves some walking in towns and winery visits. It’s best to contact the provider directly if you have specific mobility concerns.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers private visits and tasting fees, transportation in an air-conditioned minivan, an English-speaking wine guide, and pick-up/drop-off at Marseille cruise port. Lunch or snacks are not included but can be arranged in the towns visited.

Can I customize the departure time?
Yes, the tour typically starts at 9 am, but the start time can be adjusted based on your cruise schedule. Confirm your preferred timing after booking.

Will I get to taste a variety of wines?
Absolutely. Expect a selection of Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah, and other locally produced wines. Past guests praise the quality and authenticity of the tastings.

What towns will we visit?
The specific town for lunch and exploration depends on availability and your preferences, with options including Cassis, Lourmarin, or Aix-en-Provence.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s not suitable for children under 10, but older children and teenagers interested in wine and culture will likely enjoy the experience.

In summary, this private full-day wine tour is a fantastic way to savor Provence’s wines, enjoy scenic views, and explore charming towns—all with the comfort of expert guides and personalized attention. Whether you’re a wine novice or an aficionado, it offers a memorable, authentic slice of Provence life.