Discover the best of Marseille with a private guide. This walking guided tour will allow you to discover one of the oldest districts of the Phocean City. You will have the opportunity to walk along the Old Port, where you will gain a better understanding of why Marseille was a strategic place for the Greeks to build a city. You will see the Old Charity, a former hospital for the poorest people.

You will walk in front of the Cathedral La Major, which will surprise you with its uncommon Byzantine architecture designed by Esperandieu. Let’s not forget the MUCEM, which contrasts with the old architecture of the rest of the district. The Musée des Civilisations d’Europe et de Méditerranée offers numerous permanent or temporary exhibitions (entrance tickets are not included). Admire both Fort St Jean and Fort St Nicolas which stood proudly at the entrance of the Old Port. 

Meet your English speaking licensed tour guide

Your English speaking local guide will come and pick you up at your centrally located hotel or accommodation in central Marseille. If you are coming from out of town, it will be possible for us to organize a dedicated meeting point in Marseille such as in front of the Marseille tourism office.

The Old Port

The Vieux Port represents the birthplace of Marseilles. This is where the city began as a Greek port around 600 BC. Surrounded by serene blue waters, the Old Port is located in the west of Marseille near the Canebière boulevard.

The Old port of Marseille was completely renovated in 2013 and the district is without a doubt the heart of the City. The whole area became semi-pedestrianised as part of a big redevelopment project designed by the British architect Norman Foster to open up the space for bars and restaurants, vendors and public events.

This is where all the major events of Marseille take place and where the crowds meet when they celebrate their football team’s achievements. In the morning, one should not miss the very lively fish market.

The Panier District

Your guided tour continues in the Panier district, which is another area that one should not miss when visiting Marseille. This popular neighborhood is topped by the Old Charity and is composed of small but steep streets, crossed by multiple stairways and lined with elevated buildings and their colorful façades. Here, spend time to stroll through the narrow streets and reach Moulin’s square where numerous art galleries, restaurants, cafés and designer boutiques have settled.

The 'Vieille Charité' hospital

In accordance with the royal policy of “the great confinement of the poor”, in 1640 the City Council decided to “confine Marseille’s native poor to a clean and specific place.” In 1670, a charity within the Magistrate Council commissioned Pierre Puget, the Marseille-born king’s architect, to build a General Hospital to accommodate beggars and the poor. The first stone was laid in 1671 of what would be one of Pierre Puget’s most beautiful architectural designs.

The hospital was completed in 1749 with four wings of buildings enclosed on the outside and opened by a 3 floor corridor on an internal rectangular courtyard to access the vast communal work and residential spaces separating men and women. The chapel built in the centre of the courtyard between 1679 and 1707 is a stunning architectural piece with an ovoid dome, the epitome of Italian baroque. The current façade wasn’t built until 1863 and echoes the Charité’s mission.

The Mucem Museum

Built on the historical site of the Fort St-Jean, Marseille’s most recent cultural offering bridges the gap between the city and the sea. The Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations (MuCEM) opened its doors in June 2013 while Marseille was European Capital of Culture.

The building was designed by architect Rudy Riciotti and it was the first museum entirely dedicated to Mediterranean culture, which has played such a major role in European and in African history. Resolutely contemporary, the architecture combines raw materials and shapes that play with the light and shadow of the south of France. It is listed among the world’s 50 most visited museums.

The Cantini Museum

This museum visit can be a great option if you would like to enhance your guided walking tour of Marseille. Art lovers will appreciate the superb collection of modern and contemporary art displayed within a 17th-century hôtel particulier (mansion). The local art collector Jules Cantini bought this elegant house in 1888, and he bequeathed it to the city of Marseilles in 1916.

The Musée Cantini boasts one of the country's most extensive assortments of modern art created between 1900 and 1960. Highlights of the collection include works by Raoul Dufy, Wassily Kandinsky, Max Ernst, Joan Miró, and Pablo Picasso.

Your local guide is flexible, so if you wish to see some other highlights of the City such as the Corniche or the Football stadium then you will need to inform your guide who will adapt the tour to your requirements as long as the timing is not an issue. If you would like to visit Notre Dame de la Garde, please let us know as we will need to adapt your itinerary and program accordingly.

Unveil the Allure of Provence and Cassis village

Embark on a captivating journey that seamlessly combines the natural wonders and cultural delights of Provence. Our exclusive private tour from Marseille to Cassis promises an unforgettable day of exploration, discovery, and indulgence.

We will organize a pick up from your hotel where you'll be warmly welcomed by our knowledgeable guide. The adventure begins with a comfortable transfer to Cassis, a village that exudes charm and authenticity.

Step into the heart of Cassis village, where cobblestone streets wind around colorful buildings, inviting boutiques, and charming cafes. Immerse yourself in the Mediterranean ambiance that seems to infuse every corner, inviting you to slow down and savor the moment.

The highlight of your excursion is a captivating boat ride (tickets not included) through the Calanques National Park. For an hour, you'll be immersed in a breathtaking panorama of towering limestone cliffs, secluded coves, and the shimmering expanse of the Mediterranean Sea. Each twist and turn of the coastline reveals a new vista that leaves you in awe.

After your boat ride, our expert guide will lead you on a leisurely walking tour of Cassis. With a wealth of knowledge and stories to share, they'll paint a vivid picture of the village's history and its connection to the surrounding landscape.

Lunch time arrives, offering a chance to savor the flavors of Provence at a local restaurant (at own expense). Delight in authentic regional cuisine that tantalizes your taste buds and nourishes your soul.

No visit to Cassis would be complete without experiencing its renowned wines. At a prestigious local winery, you'll have the opportunity to engage in a wine tasting session. Sip on the fruits of the land, each sip a testament to the terroir and expertise that make these wines truly exceptional.

As the day draws to a close, you'll be transported back to your hotel in Marseille, a heart full of memories and a newfound appreciation for the beauty and flavors of the Mediterranean coast.

Immerse yourself in the essence of Cassis, from its charming streets to the majestic Calanques, and from the delectable cuisine to the world-class wines. This private Provence day trip promises not just a tour, but an experience that engages all your senses and leaves an indelible mark on your journey. Secure your spot now and anticipate a day filled with beauty, culture, and the pleasures of the palate.

Embark on an unforgettable Private Wine Tour in Provence from Marseille, exploring the renowned Vineyards of Cassis and Bandol. This tailor-made tour offers an exclusive pick-up service directly from your Marseille hotel.

Discover the Charm of Provence and Cassis Wine Country

Begin your day with a warm welcome from your professional, English-speaking driver/guide, who will outline the day's bespoke itinerary. Step into a luxurious, air-conditioned vehicle, setting off on a scenic journey to the prestigious Côtes de Provence wine region, celebrated for its exceptional Cassis vineyards.

Experience the Renowned Cassis Wine Producing Area

Venture into the Cassis wine region, distinguished by its Protected Appellation (AOP) status since 1936, marking it as one of the initial vineyards in Provence to achieve this esteemed classification. Unlike its neighbors with Greek heritage, Cassis boasts unique Ligurian origins, nestled in a village that thrives under 3,000 hours of sunshine annually and benefits from the cooling maritime breezes – perfect conditions for extraordinary winemaking.

Savor the Unique Wines of Provence

Immerse yourself in the unique viticulture of Cassis, the sole region in Provence specializing in white wine production, predominantly from the Marsanne grape, ensuring an aromatic finesse and elegance. The addition of Clairette grapes introduces a refreshing acidity, complementing the Marsanne's richness. Not to be overlooked are the robust rosé and select red wines, crafted from blends of Cinsault, Grenache, and Mourvèdre.

This exclusive tour affords you the chance to taste these exquisite local wines, visiting a handpicked domain to explore a variety of bandol and cassis wines. Engage in a guided tasting session, uncovering the history and nuances of the estate's wine selection.

Explore the Enchanting Village of Cassis

Conclude your day with leisure time in the charming Cassis Village. Seize the opportunity to indulge in local cuisine, enjoy a leisurely coffee, or select from a variety of Provencal souvenirs to commemorate your visit. Your personal guide will ensure you discover all the key sights and attractions this picturesque village has to offer.

Book Your Private Provence Wine Tour Today

Secure your spot on this exclusive journey through Provence's wine country, from the luxury of Marseille to the vineyards of Cassis. Experience the beauty, history, and flavors that make this region a must-visit destination for wine aficionados and explorers alike.

Embark on a private day tour from Marseille to Visit the charming small town of Aix en Provence.

Pick up at your Hotel in Marseille

Today, we will come and pick you up directly at your hotel in Marseille. Meet your English speaking driver/guide who will go over the itinerary and program of this private tour with you. Then board your premium A/C vehicle and begin to make your way to the town of Aix en Provence.

Arrive in Aix en Provence

In the morning depart for your private small group full day tour from Marseille to Aix en Provence. The charming small town of Aix en Provence is known as the City of Water and City of Fine Arts. The number of fountains that are located in Aix is quite unusual and about 30 of them are considered to be Architectural highlights.

Fontaine des Trois Ormaux, Fontaine Miollis or the amazing Fontaine Moussue - covered with moss - all date back to the 17th century. Your guided tour of Aix en Provence historical city center will certainly include some fountains and show you how important water is to the town.

Visit the Historical City Center

During your walking tour, you will also visit the historical old town of Aix en Provence. Admire the finesse of wrought iron sculpted on the balconies of the Houses that line Cours Mirabeau, Albertas square and the 17th century town hall. Other landmarks include Saint Sauveur Cloister and the nearby Cathedral.

Or follow the footsteps of french painter Cézanne

Aix en Provence is also home to Fine Arts. One can follow the footsteps of famous Post Impressionist painter Paul Cézanne. Born in Aix en Provence, the painter is also buried here in the Saint Peter cemetery. It is possible today to visit his Painting Studio where one can still admire furniture, equipment and tiny details that will connect you with his life.

Another great option,  experience a Gourmet Food & Wine Experience

If History, Culture or Art is not your priority while on a shore excursion then another great option is to opt for a gourmet food & wine tour of Aix en Provence. The town is known for its large number of culinary specialties and the Provence wine region is just a few kilometers away.

If you choose this option, your guide will show you the seasonal produce, meet local farmers at the farmers market, taste pastries, macaron and candied fruits which are a local delicacy. You will also have the opportunity to stop for a well deserved drink and what better than local rosé wi

Wine tasting in a local Côtes de Provence Winery

Côtes de Provence wines originate from the Provence region in southeastern France, known for its picturesque landscapes and Mediterranean climate. These wines are primarily rosé, although red and white varieties are also produced. Côtes de Provence rosés are especially renowned for their pale pink hues, delicate aromas, and refreshing, crisp flavors. They often exhibit notes of red berries, citrus, and floral undertones, making them perfect for warm weather and light cuisine. 

The region's terroir, which includes a combination of rocky soils, maritime influences, and abundant sunshine, contributes to the distinctive character of Côtes de Provence wines. These wines are widely enjoyed for their elegance, versatility, and ability to evoke the relaxed ambiance of the Provençal lifestyle.

As you make your way back to Marseille, we will stop in a local winery of the Côtes de Provence wine region. Here, taste local red, white or rosé wines. After your tasting session, we will take you back to your Cruise Ship and that will be the end of our services.

Experience a private full day guided tour from Marseille to the town of Arles and the authentic Provence villages of Saint-Remy and Les Baux de Provence.

Explore 3 stunning gems on this full day tour to Arles, listed by Unesco as a World Heritage Site because of the number of Roman Monuments, the village of Saint-Rémy de Provence, where Van Gogh lived for a year and the village of Les Baux de Provence medieval village.

Meet your English speaking local guide

In the morning, we will come and pick you up at your centrally located accommodation in Marseille. We can also pick up from a centrally located meeting point if you are staying in a rental accommodation. Meet your English speaking driver/guide who will go over the itinerary and program of the day with you. Then board your premium A/C vehicle and begin your private tour led by a local guide.

Arles Town Visit

Upon arrival in Arles, it is possible to choose from different types of walking tours of this charming small town. Discover the Historic city of Arles, a fortified town listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Participate in a walking tour of the historic center to visit the most emblematic monuments of the town including the Amphitheater, the Antique Theater or Saint Trophime church.

The Roman City & Sites

If History and Culture are of interest, then this option is the one you should choose. Arles underwent an urban revolution following the foundation of the Roman Colony of Arelate in 46 BP. Most of the Roman monuments that can be visited in Arles date back to the 1st Century though. The Roman Amphitheater was built at the end of the 1st century to the North of the town.

It is part of a general extension of Arles and was built at the same period of time as the baths. It is larger than the one located in Nîmes and could welcome up to 25.000 spectators. Antique Games will be held within until the fall of the Roman Empire.

The building of the Antique Theatre was requested by Emperor Auguste. It could welcome up to 10.000 spectators at a time. Only part of the Theater remains but it is still one of the most well preserved in France.

Used as a Theater until the beginning of the 5th century, it was then used as a quarry for the construction of the paleo-christian church of Saint Stephen. In the 17th century the famous Venus of Arles was discovered during early archeological digs.

The Roman Forum

Located at the intersection of the Cardo (north-south axis) and the Decumanus (east-west axis), the Roman Forum of Arles is made up of a great square of which only two fragments still exist. What is interesting about the Forum in Arles are the foundations as it is built on a cryptoporticus, which is a covered corridor or passageway.

The cryptoporticus were known to be used as storage areas in other towns but the one in Arles is, however, too damp for prolonged storage and may have served as a barracks for public slaves.

On the Footsteps of Vincent Van Gogh

If you are attracted to painting and wish to learn a bit more about the life of Van Gogh in Arles, then this option is perfect. During his stay in Arles between February 1888 and May 1889, Vincent Van Gogh executed about 300 paintings and drawings. The places in the city where the artist set up his easel are marked with panels representing his paintings. 

During this tour, your guide will take through the town of Arles on the footsteps of Van Gogh to show you the setting of where some of the most famous paintings of the artist were done. To enhance this tour, it is also possible to purchase the tickets to the Arles Van Gogh Foundation during the booking process.

Saint-Rémy de Provence

Along the way, before reaching the small village of St Remy, enjoy a photo stop on the Plateau des Antiques to admire the Roman triumphal arch and Mausoleum. Visit Saint-Paul de Mausole where Van Gogh stayed a year. This lunatic asylum is where the artist voluntarily admitted himself after his breakdown in December 1888 that resulted in the self mutilation of his left ear. It is during his stay here that he will achieve some of his most famous paintings including the starry night.

Arrive in Saint Remy de Provence, one of the prettiest villages of the area. The village is known to be a summer hot spot for chic parisians, yet it is still possible to find some quiet areas within the village, as there are many small squares scattered all over. After the visit, free time for personal discovery and lunch. For your information, there is a beautiful Provence Market on Wednesdays.

Les Baux de Provence

Drive to the Alpilles mountain region that is famous for its vineyards and olive trees. Reach the medieval hilltop village of les Baux-de-Provence built on a rocky spur and from where you will have a breathtaking view of the surrounding Provence Countryside. Enjoy some free time to stroll and explore the narrow streets, Art galleries and the remains of a 10th century fortress.

Visit the Carrières de Lumières, a unique light and sound show in Europe located in an ancient limestone quarry (entrance ticket can be purchased during the booking process) where the natural 14 meter high limestone walls act like giant screens.

In the historic site of Les Baux de Provence in the heart of the Alpilles, the former quarries dug out by the hands of man since the Roman era today offer the visitor a magical world of entrancing images and music.

From these quarries was extracted the white limestone used to build Les Baux and its citadel. In the 19th century, industrial development increased the demand for building stone and des Baux exploited a large number of quarries, including the Grands Fonds, today the Carrières de Lumières.

After the visit of Les Baux de Provence village, we will return to Marseille and that will be the end of our services.

Enjoy a private full day trip from Marseille to visit the town of Avignon. This will be followed by a Provence wine tour in the Châteauneuf du Pape wine producing region.

Meet your English speaking driver guide

In the morning, we will come and pick you up at your accommodation in Marseille. We can also pick you up at a central meeting point, AirBnb or at the St Charles train station. Meet your English speaking driver/guide who will go over the itinerary and program of your private tour from Marseille. 

Then, board your comfortable air conditioned minivan and travel from Marseille to begin your day tour in the Provence.

Visit Avignon

Reach the Unesco World Heritage town of Avignon. Upon arrival, enjoy a walking tour with your guide. During the guided tour you will admire the fortifications and mighty ramparts of the town, the famous Saint Benezet Bridge, Notre Dames des Doms cathedral, church and gardens and have some time to visit the Pope's palace on your own (entrance fees not included). Lunch will be on your own in Avignon and you will also have some free time to explore the historical city center.

Wine Tasting Tour in Châteauneuf du Pape

The Châteauneuf du Pape Appellation was one of 6 to be labeled as the first AOC wines of France in 1936. The vineyards, planted by the Romans, were extended and developed by the Pope's residing in Avignon popes during the 14th century.

As you reach this famous wine producing region, discover the village and its ancient castle that was the summer residence of the Pope's during their stay in the area. Here, you will enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view on the valley. 

Then, you will have some free time to roam around and enjoy a wine tour of Châteauneuf du Pape wines in the old 14th century pope cellars. Depending on your wishes, it will be possible to taste more wines in the local wineries that your guide can point to.

After the wine tasting tour, we will take you back to Marseille and that will be the end of our services. Please note that we also organise private sightseeing tours to the Pont du Gard and the nearby Lavender fields, cultural tours that will have you follow the footsteps of famous painters such as Van Gogh or Cézanne, regional tours of southern France that include the French Riviera and Monte Carlo.

Embark on a vibrant private day trip from Marseille to visit the most beautiful villages of the Luberon. Let our Expert local guides introduce you to one of the most stunning regions of Provence.

Pick up at your Hotel in Marseille

Today we will come and pick you up at your Hotel in Marseille. Meet your English speaking driver/guide who will go over the itinerary and program of this private tour. Then, board your air conditioned vehicle and begin to make your way to the Luberon villages of Provence.

There are a number of villages that can be visited on this full day trip from Marseille. Below is our selection of Villages du Luberon that are worth a stop. It will be your driver/guide on the day of your tour that will go over this selection with you.

Depending on your wishes, your Expert guide will adapt the itinerary to your wishes. You will also have some free time in most villages so that you may explore on your own and lunch will be taken at your own expense in one of the villages on the way.

Our selection of Luberon Villages:

Gordes

Gordes is without a doubt the most famous of all Luberon villages. The downside to this is the high number of visitors that come to visit the village so we advise that if you do choose to visit this village, you should go there immediately so as to arrive early.

Classified as one of the most beautiful villages of France and facing the Luberon mountain range, the village is composed of small paved streets, known as calades, where it feels so nice to get lost in. To mostly appreciate this unique village, magic operates in spring and autumn as summer is very crowded by the number of visitors.

Lourmarin

The village of Lourmarin is quite unique. As you stroll the winding streets, the architecture in the village reveals its many riches: from the Renaissance to the Baroque period, from Classicism to the 19th century, the houses in Lourmarin highlight the incomparable know-how of those builders often little known to the general public. 

Located in a gorgeous setting that is surrounded by olive and almond trees, the village has attracted numerous artists and writers such Henri Bosco and Albert Camus. Again, enjoy some time in the village where options include the visit of its ancient castle. The village was the source of inspiration for Peter Mayle’s “A year in Provence”.

Roussillon

The village of Roussillon is a typical hilltop village located just above a rock formation called the “Provencal Colorado“. Here, you will have some time for personal discovery that will allow you to stroll down the village or walk along the “ochre cliffs path", a 30 minute walk.

Bonnieux

The architecture of Bonnieux, papal town for about 500 years, testifies to the prestige of its inhabitants over the centuries: ecclesiastical dignitaries, counts, lords... up until the modern times of the 19th century. The village has kept all its authenticity, its steep sloping streets, its fountains and washhouses, its old church - or upper church, a mix of Romanesque and Gothic

As Provence Specialists, please note that we also conduct private tours, shore excursions, wine tasting tours departing from Toulon. Other important destinations to discover provence include the town of Aix en Provence, the Pont du Gard, the village of Les Baux de Provence, Chateauneuf du Pape for the wines, Van Gogh tours, the lavender fields, l'Isle sur la Sorgue River and village and so much more. For more information please contact our reservations team.

Provence Wine Tasting

On this private tour from Marseille, it is also possible to include a wine tasting session of Provence Wines. During the booking process, it will be possible for you to choose the number of villages in the Luberon that you would like to include. If you would like to include a wine tasting session, please only select the visit of 2 villages so that we have time to include the winery visit.