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Marseille Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Marseille. We've got 100 adventures going to Marseille, starting from just 4 days in length, and the longest tour is 34 days. The most popular month to go is September, which has the largest number of tour departures.

100 Marseille tour packages with 170 reviews

• Sightseeing
• Wine tasting

Cycle Provence

There were problems in getting correct tour information from tourradar/Explore and in trying to pay for the tour. Erwin was a very good tour leader, enthusiastic and helpful.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• In-depth Cultural
• Food & Culinary
• Christmas & New Year

Discovery of the Hinterland of Provence

I had a really wonderful time on this holiday. Aix is beautiful and the hotel was fantastic, perfectly situated in the middle of Aix. The daily excursions were excellent. Travelling in an 8 seater is a great way to get to know people. The guides were amusing and encouraged us to talk. Restaurant meal was excellent. Altogether a brilliant 5 days. Great for a recharge of batteries. Lots of variety without being exhausted. Thank you Simon for your organisation. Only glitch was the beginning when the taxi driver from the station was held up and I wasn’t sure what to do, also a little mix up with the hotel about payments. These were soon solved by contact with Simon who was very helpful. Thanks for everything.

Cultural and Gourmet Tour in Provence

This trip is ideal if you want to admire the Provence region off the beaten track; its small villages, its gastronomy, its colors and its smells... What a week!

• Coach / Bus

Romantic France ( 9 days )

Cote d Azur and Burgundy

• River Cruise

Lyon to the Tip of Provence on the Rhône and Saône Rivers (port-to-port cruise)

We thoroughly enjoyed our cruise down the Rhone. All of the crew aboard Croisie's Van Gogh were delightfully helpful, the food excellent, and the scenery captivating. Special thanks to (Purser) Julie and the Chef and all waiting staff for attempting to manage an eating disorder one of us has.

Sensations of Lyon & Provence (Start Lyon, End Marseille)

Paris and Côte d'Azur (the French Riviera) - Paris, Marseille & Nice in 8 Days

8 Days in Rome, Pisa, Nice, Lyon and Paris.

The tip of Provence to Lyon on the Rhône and Saône Rivers (port-to-port cruise)

Idyllic Rhône (Start Marseille, End Lyon)

Mediterranean Flavors

We covered a lot of places and Billy did a great job preparing us before we visited and then at the sites. Madrid tour guide was poor hard to understand and unfriendly. Don’t use Ibis hotels due to lack of porters. Hard for elders to haul their luggage. Visit Portofino and only one Cinque Terre village. Train on/off too difficult and time consuming.

Rhône Route Méditerranée 2024 - A-ROSA STELLA (including Marseille)

• Walking Adventure

Burgundy & Provence (2025) (Arles to Lyon, 2025)

Burgundy & Provence (2025) (Lyon to Arles, 2025)

What people love about marseille tours.

Overall amazing experience! Met some amazing people and enjoyed some beautiful views. While it was the hottest time of the year, our team had a great support system to ensure everyone was well hydrated. The bikes were nice and sturdy, especially climbing up some of those monstrous hills and the paniers were very handy! I would recommend this trip to anyone looking to enjoy the countryside and south of France!

Tours starting from Marseille

• for 10 Days (6)
• for 7 Days (5)
• to Europe (14)
• to France (11)
• France Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 10 Day France Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 7 Day France Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

DISCOVERY MARSEILLE TOUR

Discovery marseille tour + mucem, discovery marseille tour + om stadium tour, discovery marseille tour • between land & sea.

• THE MUST-SEE PLACES
• THE GOOD ADDRESSES
• PRIVATIZATION
• Ticket office

Get some height

and visit Marseille differently!

Discover the city of Marseille with Colorbüs, the only open-air tour of Marseille.

Our fun and authentic tour allows you to discover the culture and beauty of Marseille with incredible ease.

Hop on board our panoramic buses and minibus convertibles and discover facts and anecdotes about the city’s most iconic monuments . You can get off as many times as you like at our various stops to explore the city, then join the tour whenever you like.

Our Thematic

Must-See Places

To Discover Marseille

You only have a day or two to visit Marseille? Don’t waste your time because every minute is precious to admire as much as possible of the city.

Its must-see places, its ideal beaches, its cultural heritage, its sunny weather and its legendary football club… All this in the heart of a city rich in culinary specialities and traditions.

Discover, enjoy, let yourself be guided!

VALLON DES AUFFES • AUTHENTIC PORT OF MARSEILLE

FORT SAINT-JEAN • OLDEST MONUMENT OF MARSEILLE

Notre-dame de la garde • emblem of marseille.

CITY HALL • MAYOR OF MARSEILLE’S OFFICE

CONSIGNES SANITAIRES • FORMER CUSTOMS OF MARSEILLE

La major cathedral • architectural jewel of marseille.

LA CANEBIÈRE • MARSEILLE’S LEGENDARY STREET

LA CRIÉE • NATIONAL THEATRE OF MARSEILLE

PLACE AUX HUILES • HISTORIC ESPLANADE OF MARSEILLE

LE PANIER • OLDEST DISTRICT OF MARSEILLE

COSQUER MÉDITERRANÉE • PREHISTORIC CAVE

MUCEM • NATIONAL MUSEUM OF MARSEILLE

See all the must-see places in Marseille

The Best Places

to stay in Marseille

A stay in Marseille is synonymous with sunshine, the Mediterranean and authenticity. But the city has much more to offer, with its many restaurants, boutiques and other trendy spots.

There’s something for everyone: from those who prefer to relax, to those who love a good meal, to those who like to have an aperitif or buy little wonders…

We’ve put together a small selection of the best places to go in Marseille.

LES NAVETTES DES ACCOULES • ARTISANAL BISCUIT FACTORY

PAIN À L’AIL • SPECIALIST IN PROVENÇAL STREET FOOD

MX MAISON YELLOW • ATYPICAL PLACE AROUND ANIS

LE MÉTROPOLE • ARTISANAL ICE CREAMS IN MARSEILLE

DALLOYAU • PASTRY RESTAURANT ON THE TERRACES OF THE PORT OF MARSEILLE

PRADO SHOPPING • SHOPPING CENTER IN MARSEILLE

1860 LE PALAIS • BISTRONOMIC RESTAURANT

THE RHUL • BOUILLABAISSE RESTAURANT IN MARSEILLE

MIRAMAR • RESTAURANT SPECIALISING IN BOUILLABAISSE

GRANDES HALLES DU VIEUX-PORT • MARKET & STREET FOOD AREA

Discover the best places in Marseille

Climb aboard our panoramic buses and discover facts and anecdotes about the city’s most iconic monuments . You can get off as many times as you like at our various stops to explore the city, then rejoin the tour whenever you like.

DOCKS VILLAGE • URBAN LIFESTYLE CENTER IN MARSEILLE

See all the best places

Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Marseille with our informative and entertaining audio guide direct to your smartphone with the Rewind application.

Please bring your earphones or headphones.

• Marseille Free tour – Old Town
• Marseille à la carte – Private tour
• What to do in Marseille

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MARSEILLE Free Walking Tour

HIGHLIGHTS OF MARSEILLE FREE TOUR (Le Panier)

Meeting point – marseille old port.

  Vieux Port exit - Metro 1

Greek ruins – Where it all started

  Marseille is the oldest city in France

Republique avenue

  And its beautiful architecture

Hôtel de Cabre + 2nd World War facts

  The oldest civil building of Marseille

Hôtel Dieu + Place Bargemon

Le panier disctrict.

  Among History, street art and local culture

Marseille cathedral

  La Major

Mucem + Villa Méditerranée

Fort st jean, all our tours.

FREE TOUR Marseille

Pub Crawl Marseille

Fun guaranteed !

Cultural Marseille

Montpellier Free Tour

Aix-en-Provence Free Tour

Follow us on instagram.

marseillefreewalkingtour

The best walking tour in Marseille - Join us to discover Marseille Old Port and the historic neighborhood !

WHAT TRAVELLERS SAY ABOUT US

Great way to discover marseille.

My mom and I took this tour when we visited in Marseille in April. This tour was an awesome way to learn about the immense history of Marseille. We learned about everything from the city’s Greek founding to Vichy collaboration to its current cultural renaissance. Angie also told us how the locals drink pastis and how to recognize authentic Marseille soap. This was an excellent tour and covered a lot of ground, and was a great way to get familiar with the city. I would highly recommend!

Outstanding Walking Tour

I have been so lucky to take Free Walking Tours in a number of cities, and this was one of the best. Nyam (hope I am spelling his name correctly) was fun, informative, responsive and funny. He was a wonderful story teller and really brought the history of Marseille alive as well as addressing current issues and concerns. He had tourists from many countries and kindly tried to make everyone feel acknowledged and included. Thanks Yam!

Tour was fantastic

Our guide was fantastic and am truly grateful we chose to go for this free walking tour! We learned so many interesting things about Marseille, which we would have otherwise not found out by ourselves. Our guide was amazing and was so well informed and had many great recommendations. Had a great time on the tour and would recommend it to everyone visiting Marseille for the first time!

Super geil!

The tour was very informative, and the length perfect. We went through the oldest district and we discovered great places. You could notice how much Ezi loves the city and its history, which was contagious! We had a great time, laughed and learned a lot! 10/10 would recommend!

Excellent !

Get in touch, +33.7.67.42.43.95, [email protected].

Home » Marseille

Private Tours of Marseille

Private tours, free refunds & rescheduling, customizable itineraries, customized experiences in marseille, designed for you.

The second-largest city in France and also its oldest, Marseille is brimming with  gorgeous coastlines, fascinating museums and galleries , and thousands of years of history that has created a rich cultural melting pot. Join your private guide to discover an authentic taste of life in this bustling port city.

Our guided tours of Marseilles’ most famous landmarks are just the tip of the iceberg of what we can reveal to you on your private tour. We like to get amongst the people and tell the stories of what gives Marseille its unique cultural flavor as we stroll through the city’s alleys, churches, museums, cafes, and distinctive culturally diverse neighborhoods.

Our tours are completely customizable and tailored to your exact requirements  so simply get in touch letting us know how long you would like to spend on tour, whether its a couple of hours or a couple of days, and our tour advisor will begin crafting a unique custom tour itinerary to make the most of your time in the city.

What makes our private tours of Marseille so special?

Marseille is a truly enchanting and enthralling city, and to visit the city with a private guide is the ideal way to truly understand what makes it so vibrant and flourishing and how the millennia of history have helped shape its modern character.

Our local, qualified, and impeccable English-speaking guides have been selected for their unmatched experience, vast and insightful local knowledge, and their storytelling ability. Having spent the last 20 years displaying the charms of Marseille to our guests from all around the world we can assure you that you will leave your guided tour feeling a closeness and a connection to the city that simply would not be possible without an expert guide.

Moreover, our tours are totally customizable to make sure you get to experience and discover more of the things that you are passionate or curious about. If you are unsure of the best way to explore the city then your tour advisor will draft up a custom itinerary at no extra cost that can combine elements of:

• Sightseeing & monuments
• Walking tours of the city
• Food & drink experiences
• Exploring the traditional marketplaces
• Driver-guided tours
• Boat cruises
• Day trips to other destinations & regions

Sites to see in Marseille with your private guide

Marseille was founded all the way back in 600 BC by ancient Greek sailors, and over the course of the following centuries, it has developed a Mediterranean culture quite distinct from the rest of France.

This is perhaps most pronounced in the city’s old town, a picturesque neighborhood just a short walk from the Vieux Port which we would describe as an essential visit for anyone seeking to understand the city and its heritage on your private tour. 

Amongst the most famous landmarks is the spectacular Notre Dame de la Garde Cathedral sitting iconically atop a hill overlooking the city and staring out to the sea. Read more about the Cathedral below and find out about the other must-see locations to include in your private tour.

Why book with Luxury France Tours?

Free custom itineraries, built for you.

Let our tour advisors create a complimentary tour itinerary to suit your needs

Discover France with your private guide

We ensure our guests create lasting & cherished memories of their French tour experience

Flexible booking & cancellations

Choose how much you want to pay to reserve your tour dates & cancel up to 7 days before your tour

Meet your personal tour planner

Salut from France! I’m Debbie, founder of Luxury France Tours.

Having developed into a Francophile on a trip to the French Alps many years ago while still in school, I moved to France after a career traveling the world led to me meeting my (now) French Husband in Johannesburg. I created Luxury France Tours as a way of sharing my love of France & igniting this passion in others.

Email Debbie

[email protected]

+1 (856) 888-4286

Fill in the form below with as much details as you can about your tour of France

One of our experts will be in touch within 24 hours with your tailor-made itinerary

Customize your tour to suit you & pack your bags for your France vacation!

Request your custom tour itinerary of Marseille

Relax and let us do all the planning for you! We guarantee that no one knows Marseille better than us so just let us know how long you wish the tour to last and what type of things you would like to see and do then leave the rest up to us.

Let us know your questions!

US ‎+1 (856) 888-4286

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Boat tours Marseille​

• Activities Marseille
• Nautical activities in Marseille​
• Boat tours in Marseille​

Discover all of our boat trips in Marseille: another way to discover the city from the sea!

Boat trips in Marseille

Sailboat trips in marseille.

Spend an unforgettable day on board a beautiful sailboat in Marseille! Discover Marseille by sea! Sail aboard the schooner Alliance all day and visit the Calanques National Park, between Marseille and Cassis. Aperitifs, lunch, swimming and a lazy atmosphere will be on the agenda. A wonderful souvenir of Marseille.

Catamaran trips in Marseille

Fancy a brunch in the Calanques National Park? Or an evening watching the Marseille sunset? Come aboard the Levantin Catamaran! Visit Marseille and its impressive natural heritage. An unforgettable boat trip in Marseille!

Visit Marseille by boat

Private boat rentals in marseille.

Privatize a boat in Marseille and spend an unique moment with family or friends thanks to Croisière Marseille Calanques. Visit the Calanques National Park with a private boat and your skipper!

Ecological boat trips in Marseille

Come aboard with Eco Calanques! An ecological boat, respectful of the environment, which will make you discover in one day the National Park of the Calanques. An awareness of the protection of this magnificent environment with a captain who will make you relive the history of Marseille.

Boat trips to the Frioul archipelago

Sail with the captain of Localanque, who loves the city of Marseille! Visit the harbour of Marseille and discover the most beautiful places of the city: the Vallon des Auffes, the Château d’If and the archipelago of Frioul. An unforgettable guided tour on the history of Marseille! In summer, swim around the Frioul archipelago!

Discover our activities and visits

Marseille inspires you

• Professionals
• Marseille Experience

Marseille   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Deejpilot | Getty Images

9 Best Things To Do in Marseille

Updated February 11, 2021

Meandering through Marseille's past, whether it's through the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde or the Le Panier and Vieux Port districts – or even the mysterious island on which Château d'If sits – is one of the best ways to experience France's

• All Things To Do

Le Panier Le Panier free

Le Panier – or the Basket – gives a glimpse of Old Marseille and real Marseille culture. From its narrow winding streets that spill into squares to its restaurants, ateliers (worskshops) and terraced homes, Le Panier is a delightful place to meander. It's also convenient to attractions, such as MuCEM and Cathedrale de la Major , among others.   

Visitors say that this district is full of character, highlighting the street art and local restaurants and boutiques. Others describe it as charming and a great place to wander for a few hours.

Vieux Port Vieux Port free

Vieux Port started docking ships and boats back in 600 B.C., and it was a vibrant hub of the city until steamboats became the preferred mode of transport and Vieux Port was considered too shallow. Later in WWII, the Germans bombed the port, and it was left in disrepair until the mid-1900s when a revitalization project restored the port. These days, it is back to its former self, with scores of bobbing sailboats and an array of restaurants, bars and shops located just ashore. 

Recent visitors said you could easily spend hours strolling through Vieux Port, perusing various shops and restaurants to satisfy any taste – and even hopping aboard a Ferris wheel. History buffs will be entertained here too, as there are several historical structures still standing, including Église Saint-Ferréol les Augustins, a Roman Catholic church that dates back to the 12th century. 

Abbaye Saint Victor Abbaye Saint Victor free

Abbaye Saint Victor is a working Catholic church, which was founded back in the 11th century as an abbey and named for the Roman soldier and Christian martyr Victor of Marseille. Much of the abbey was destroyed in 1794, with the austere church and crypts remaining.

Visitors call the abbey simple – and somehow stunning in its stark design. Others highly recommend paying the 2 euros for access to the unique crypts. 

Popular Tours

Small Group Marseille Shore Excursion: Marseille and Aix-en-Provence

(50 reviews)

from $ 153.57

Marseille Shore Excursion - Private Full Day Wine Tour in Provence

(17 reviews)

from $ 411.36

ride from the Marseille Cruise port to Cassis La Ciotat with your family

(113 reviews)

from $ 537.50

Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde free

The Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde – translated as Our Lady of the Guard – was built in the 1850s on the foundation of Marseille's ancient fortress. Today, this working Catholic basilica – filled with stunning marble, murals and mosaics – is a symbol of the city, the crowning point of its skyline and likewise, a wonderful place to enjoy sweeping views of the city below. You'll probably be able to spot it from the harbor, as a large, gilded statue of the Virgin Mary sits atop the bell tower. 

Some visitors called the climb up to the top "tough," but the views worth it. Although travelers admit that the church is beautiful, they were most impressed with the panoramic views. However, several reviewers also warned of heavy crowds and potential pickpockets. 

Fort Saint-Jean Fort Saint-Jean

Built in 1660 by Louis XIV, Fort Saint-Jean is a well-preserved fortress guarding Marseille at the entrance to the Old Port . Interestingly, it was built not to keep invaders at bay but to tamp down a local rebellion. Later, in the 19th and 20th centuries, it was used by the French military until German military forces occupied it during WWII. Today, the storied fort is a tourist attraction, where travelers stretch their legs and relax rather than prepare for battle. 

Travelers of all ages rave about the peaceful atmosphere of Fort Saint-Jean and the wonderful views from the top. They also note that it's surprisingly accessible, with ramps and elevators. 

Parc National des Calanques Parc National des Calanques

Visualize jagged limestone cliffs dropping into secret pebble beaches, which are lapped by the aquamarine waters of the Mediterranean Sea, and you'll start to get a picture of the Parc National des Calanques. Although many travelers view this national park from the sea, others say the hiking is absolutely magical too.  

Recent visitors said pictures don't do the Parc National des Calanques justice, swooning that its cliffs, inlets and beaches are breathtaking. While tourists mentioned seeing locals sunbathing on the secluded beaches, rock climbing and rappelling, and hiking, travelers short on time might have to limit themselves to a boat tour. The tourism board recommends a number of operators , including Croisieres Marseille Calanques and Levantin . These boat tours range in price: For instance, a brunch tour with Levantin costs 69 euros in the winter low season and 79 euros in summer high season. 

Mucem Mucem

The Musée des Civilisations de l'Europe et de la Méditerranée, which goes by its acronym Mucem, is Marseille's history and cultural museum that leads visitors on an anthropological journey through Mediterranean history. Architect Rudy Ricciotti designed the contemporary building, which connects to the 13th-century Fort Saint-Jean via a footbridge. 

Travelers say this museum gives you a great understanding of the region's past all the way up to present-day. They also highlight the Mucem's rooftop gardens, saying that the views from these vantages are some of the best. 

Cathédrale de la Major Cathédrale de la Major free

Where the Abbaye Saint Victor is unembellished in its design, the Cath é drale de la Major is ornate. But it's also younger: The Cathédrale de la Major was built in the mid- to late 19th century, and its unique Byzantine design reflects a period in time where Marseille port was "the gateway to the east." Inside, visitors will find mosaics, statues and side chapels. 

Recent visitors said the Cath é drale de la Major is as impressive inside as it is outside. They also appreciate its location in Le Panier, near other top attractions, such as MuCEM and Fort Saint Jean. 

Calanques Trilogy Electric Bike Tour from Marseille

(254 reviews)

from $ 65.82

Marseille Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience

(295 reviews)

from $ 108.60

Small Group Marseille Shore Excursion : Avignon & Chateauneuf du Pape Wine Tour

(13 reviews)

from $ 164.54

Château d'If Château d'If

Château d'If is a 16th-century fortress, commissioned by King Francois I, set atop the smallest island in the Frioul archipelago less than a mile from Marseille. It was later used as a prison, considered ideal for its isolated, escape-proof location (similar to San Francisco 's Alcatraz ). Visitors to Marseille often travel by boat to this beautiful and mysterious monument, especially since it inspired the prison setting of Alexandre Dumas' famous book, "The Count of Monte Cristo." 

Once on the island, visitors are free to wander Château d'If at their leisure. Recent travelers described the experience as interesting, both for the ancient history exhibited here, as well as for the stellar views of the bay and Marseille in the distance. Since the island boasts only one outdoor cafe, some wish that there was more in the way of eateries or gift shops – even as a place to shelter from the cold winds of the island and kill time before boarding the ferry back to the city. 

Explore More of Marseille

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THE 10 BEST Marseille Wine Tasting Tours

Wine tasting tours in marseille.

• Ports of Call Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out

• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Full-Day Wine Tour around Luberon from Marseille

2. Cassis Wine tour : mer, falaises et vignes

3. Small Group Marseille Shore Excursion : Avignon & Chateauneuf du Pape Wine Tour

4. Short Day Tour around Aix en Provence and Wine Tasting

5. Full day: Wine tour of the Cassis vineyards

6. Marseille Shore Excursion - Full Day Wine Tour in Provence

7. Wine Elegance: Discovery at Château La Coste and La Gaude

8. Avignon's history, local culture & the wines of Châteauneuf du Pape private tour

9. Marseille Shore Excursion - Private Full Day Wine Tour in Provence

10. Aix-en-Provence, Cassis, Marseille

11. Rosé All Day Tour !

12. Highlights of Provence : food, wine and seaside in Cassis and Aix

13. Les Baux de Provence : Wine day Tour : 8 hours

14. Wine Tour Bandol & Cassis from Marseille

15. Full private day Avignon Chateuneuf du pape wine tasting

16. Aix-en-Provence old town, wine & art of Châteaux Beaupré & Bonisson private tour

17. The Original Marseilles Backstreets Tour

18. Baux and Saint Rémy de Provence: Culture and Landscapes

19. Côtes de Provence Wine Day Tour : 8 hours

20. Food Tour Excursion in Provence !

21. Provence - Mont Sainte Victoire in search of Cézanne private wine tour

22. Aix en Provence Wine tour "Cézanne and the winegrowers"

23. Luberon Wine and Charm: Explore the Flavors of the South

24. Bandol Wine Tour - 4 hour Private tour

25. Provence Picnic Tour

26. Heritage, wines and gastronomy - 3-day tour

27. Château de Beaupré, La Verrerie, Bonisson intense wine experience

28. Private Day Excursion in Provence with Transfer

What travelers are saying.

• Full-Day Wine Tour around Luberon from Marseille
• Full-day Wine Tour around Bandol & Cassis from Marseille
• Avignon's history, local culture & the wines of Châteauneuf du Pape private tour
• Short Day Tour around Aix en Provence and Wine Tasting
• Full day: Wine tour of the Cassis vineyards
• Provence Amazing Tours
• Provence Experience Tours
• COLOR GROUP EXPERIENCE
• Protis Tours

• Private tours up to 8 people per van. Meeting point next to the ship
• Easily pay online by credit card or PayPal
• Cruise Critic, Facebook groups, contact us and book with 100€ deposit
• No fee if you cancel at least 48 hours prior the departure of the tour, or if the ship cannot dock
• GARANTEED BACK TO THE SHIP ON TIME POLICY

Private Shore Excursions from the Cruise Terminal in the Port of Marseille

Aix-en-Provence, Cassis & Marseille

• Aix-en-Provence walking tour and free time
• Everyday food market
• Cassis - free time
• Cap Canaille (weather permitting)
• Notre Dame de la Garde in Marseille

Cassis & Marseille

• Notre Dalme de la Garde
• Palais Longchamp
• Calanque boat trip (tickets not included)

Aix-en-Provence, Le Baux de Provence, Carrières des Lumières

• Les Baux de Provence - free time
• Carrières des Lumières
• If there is extra available time, stop at Saint Paul de Mausole (Van Gogh's mental asylum)

850€ +15€ pp

Aix-en-Provence & Arles

• Cezanne and Van Gogh in Provence
• Cezanne's studio (atelier, tickets not included)
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Avignon, Saint Remy & Les Baux de Provence

• Palace of the Popes (tickets not included)
• Saint Rémy de Provence
• Van Gogh’s mental asylum & countryside
• Les-Baux-de-Provence
• Free time in each stop

Arles, Les Baux de Provence & Saint Rémy

• Les-Baux-de-Provence - free time
• St-Rémy
• Van Gogh’s mental asylum (tickets not included)

Luberon Villages

• Gordes (or Senanque Abbey)

Aix-en-Provence, Arles, Les Baux de Provence

• Arles walking tour and free time

Aix-en-Provence & Wine Tasting

• Wine tasting in a Chateau

Cassis & Wine Tasting

• Village of Cassis
• Cap Canaille seacliff (weather permitting)
• Boat-trip (optional, tickets not included)
• Wine tasting
• If time available, tour can continue in Marseille

Avignon, Pont du Gard & Arles (or Les Baux)

• Avignon - free time
• Pope's Palace (optional, tickets not included)
• Pont du Gard

Lavender fields in Valensole, city of Aix-en-Provence

• Lavander fields in Valensole
• Village of Valensole
• Lavander distilleries
• Aix-en-Provence walking tour
• Free time in each places

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Cruise Port of Marseille | 12 Best Things To Do in Marseille, France

Welcome to the cruise port of Marseille, France! (Post updated: March 2024)

Marseille is the second most populated city in France and the capital of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region. It is a colorful and diverse city known for its magnificent architecture, unique culture, vibrant Vieux-Port (Old Port), beaches, and a variety of historic landmarks. It is also a gateway to the popular cities of Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, and a breathtaking Calanques National Park. In this article, read about:

• Marseille cruise port (Marseille cruise terminal, getting around)
• Top 12 things to do in port Marseille (including Marseille shore excursions to Cassis, Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, Parc National des Calanques)

Visit also our cruise guides for Cannes , Villefranche , Ajaccio , Valencia , Barcelona , Cagliari ,   Palma de Mallorca

Cruise Port of Marseille

Officially called Marseille Fos Port , the port of Marseille is one of the leading ports in France and one of the major transit ports for cruises and ferries in the Mediterranean. It consists of two cruise ship terminals: La Joliette Cruise Port (operated by Port of Marseille Fos) and Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal (operated by M.P.C.T).

1. Joliette cruise terminals

This cruise port is located near Place de la Joliette and within walking distance of the Vieux-Port de Marseille (Old Port), the main tourist district where the city’s main landmarks and attractions are located. La Joliette cruise terminal has several berths and is dedicated to small and medium-sized vessels including cruise ships, tender boats, cargo ships, mega yachts and ferries with lengths less than 200 m/565 ft.

Small cruise ships usually dock at J4 Terminal, however, the majority of the cruise vessels are too big to dock here, so they dock at MPCT (read more below). Joliette cruise port also serves ferries to Corsica, Sardinia and North Africa (Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco).

2. MPCT (Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal)

This cruise ship terminal is also known as MPCC (Marseille Provence Cruise Center) or Môle Léon Gourret piers. MPCT is located in the industrial zone northwest of the Vieux-Port de Marseille, approximately 8 km/5 miles (a 20-minute drive) from the city center.

MPCT has six berths that can accommodate up to 6 cruise vessels at a time, regardless of the size. There are six cruise terminals (Terminals A, B, C, D, F, E) with modern cruise terminal buildings offering embarkation/disembarkation facilities, luggage drop-off, check-in areas, and large car parks. MPCT is both an embarkation port and a port of call. You will also find a cafeteria, a tourist information office point, and several ATMs.

The motorway A55 connects MPCT and the Vieux-Port de Marseille. To get to the cruise terminals from the city center, you need to drive along A55 and take Exit 5 (Sortie no 5) – Porte 4 (Gate 4) after a few kilometers. Porte 4 is the port entrance/exit and here you’ll find bus stops for bus lines 35, 36 and 36B (the nearest stop is “Terminal Croisières”). You have a few options to get to the Marseille city center from MPCT:

• The first option is to take bus 35 which leaves from the port exit (Porte 4). There is a considerable amount of walk to reach Porte 4 from the terminal buildings, from 800 m to 2 km, depending on where your ship docks. You can either take a taxi for a short drive or simply walk up to 20 minutes following the green line to reach it. Once you arrive at Porte 4, look for the “Terminal Croisières” bus stop and take the bus to the Joliette terminus. Once you arrive at Joliette, you can either take a 15-minute walk to the Vieux-Port de Marseille or catch a tram (line T2 or T3), bus, or metro line 2 to all points within the city center (tram and metro station are both located around 250 m from the Joliette terminus).
• Alternatively, the port of Marseille may offer a free shuttle bus service exclusively for cruise passengers. The shuttle bus runs approximately every 30 minutes between the Môle Léon Gourret (you’ll find the shuttle bus stop on the way to the port exit) and Joliette terminus, stopping at the vast Les Terrasses du Port shopping mall along the way. The schedule of these free shuttles may vary based on the season and the number of ships in port. You may encounter long queues on busy days. Cruise lines normally don’t advertise this option to the passengers to avoid their competitors (cruise lines tend to sell their shore excursions/paid shuttle buses).
• Cruise lines normally offer paid shuttle bus service to Marseille city center which may cost up to 20€ round trip depending on the cruise line. It takes around 20 minutes drive to reach Marseille downtown.
• Taxis are available in the terminal area. It is more convenient to share a taxi if you travel with a group than to buy individual shuttle bus tickets. The taxi costs roughly 20-30€ per vehicle one way.
• You can always book a shore excursion by your cruise line/independent tour operator if you opt for a guided option.

Getting Around Marseille Port

• The currency in Marseille France is EURO (€). Local currency and credit cards are widely accepted. ATMs are available at the cruise terminal and in the city.
• Marseille Provence Airport (Aéroport Marseille Provence) is located around 20 km/12.5 miles (a 20-30 minute drive, depending on the traffic) from MPCT. The distance to the Joliette cruise terminal is 23 km/14 miles (a 20-25 minute drive). The distance from the airport to the Vieux-Port de Marseille is roughly 25 km/15.5 miles (25-30 minutes drive).
• Since MPCT is also a turnaround port (cruises start and end here), you may need a transfer from the airport to the cruise terminal . Some cruise lines offer transfer options for a fee. Alternatively, to get to MPCT from the airport you can take the airport’s shuttle bus to Marseille Saint-Charles station and then take public transport (metro line 2 to Joliette and then bus 35) or a taxi to the cruise terminal. However, this option is very time-consuming and complicated, and it’s better to arrange a private transfer or take a taxi directly from the airport. Book a private transfer to/from Marseille cruise port
• Public transport in Marseille (bus, tram, metro) is operated by RTM (Régie des transports métropolitains). The ticket purchased at the terminal costs 1.70€ and is valid for 1 hour of connection (including round trip) throughout the RTM network. However, keep in mind that you are limited to only one access to the metro. You can recharge the same ticket later, so make sure you keep it. There are other packages available which you can check online or with the tourist information office at the cruise terminal. Visit the official RTM website here https://www.rtm.fr/
• Marseille-Saint-Charles train station (Gare de Marseille-Saint-Charles) is the main railway station in Marseille, located 8 km/5 miles (20 minutes drive) southeast of MPCT and around 2 km/1.2 miles (10 minutes drive) from Vieux-Port de Marseille and Joliette terminals. Trains in France are operated by SNCF (National Railway Network) and you can check the departures and fares on the official website https://www.sncf.com/en
• Petit Train de Marseille (Train Touristique de Marseille) is a little tourist train that allows you to have a commentated train ride through the city with stops at major tourist attractions. The trains depart from the Old Port (Vieux-Port de Marseille), at 174 Quai du Port. There are 3 different routes and the duration of each one is around 30-40 minutes. You can find all the necessary information on the official website https://petit-train-marseille.com/
• Colorbüs is a Marseille Hop on Hop off sightseeing bus that allows visitors to hop on and off at 25 stops in the city as many times as they want. There are a Red line, Blue line and Combined pass (Red+Blue) that cover all main Marseille attractions including the seaside and the city suburbs. Colorbüs Marseille also departs from the Vieux Port de Marseille (86 Quai du Port). Check out Colorbüs tours and tickets on Viator and Get Your Guide
• Marseille City Pass (24h, 48h and 72h) allows access to dozens of attractions, museums, Little Train Tour, boats, guided tours, unlimited public transport tickets, and more. Buy Marseille City Pass
• Explore Marseille tours and activities
• Rent a car in Marseille
• Check out the best hotels in Marseille

12 Best Things to Do in Cruise Port of Marseille

Before I share the best things to do in Marseille, I invite you to grab your copy of the “ Mediterranean Cruise Port Guide” , the most comprehensive guide to 45 Mediterranean cruise ports (including Marseille) , packed with practical information, expert tips & unforgettable experiences! (PDF format/200 pages)

1. Vieux-Port de Marseille (Old Port)

The Old Port of Marseille is located at the bottom of the famous  Canebière , the main shopping street of Marseille. Guarded by two massive forts (Fort Saint-Nicolas and Fort Saint-Jean), the iconic Old Port is the oldest part of the city and the place where the history of Marseille began. Vibrant, colorful and bustling with people, the Old Port has been the beating heart of the city for centuries and is nowadays a symbol of Marseille.

Besides promenades packed with cafes, restaurants and shops, here you can find a fish market (Marché aux Poissons) on Quay des Belges, the picturesque Sainte Marie lighthouse , the 17th-century Baroque building of the City Hall (Hôtel de Ville), a metro station, Colorbüs hop on hop off bus station, ferry boats, Petit Trains de Marseille and many other attractions.

If you are interested in the arts, history and culture of Marseille, in the surrounding streets, you’ll also find a few museums and churches including the Marseille History Museum ,  The Marseille Soap Museum  and others. Old Port is also one of the main places to eat in Marseille, so make sure you try out delicious local seafood specialties.

Check out Marseille Old Port tours and activities

2. Notre Dame de la Garde

Built in the 19th century on the foundations of an ancient fort on the top of the city’s highest hill, Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde (known as “la Bonne Mère” – “the Good Mother” among the local population) is the symbol of Marseille and the city’s most visited landmark.

The impressive Romano-Byzantine basilica is famous for its lavish interior and grand bell tower capped with the golden statue of the Virgin Mary. The church dominates the city skyline and can be seen from downtown. It is located at approximately 2.5 km/1.5 miles (a 35-minute walk) from the Old Port and you can reach it on foot (multiple stairs involved) or via bus (bus no. 60 stops in front of the basilica). Access to the church is free.

Explore Notre Dame de la Garde tours and activities

3. Le Panier (Marseille’s Old Town)

Le Panier neighborhood is Marseille’s Old Town, located just north of the Vieux-Port. The Panier is famous for its steep alleys, artistic ambiance, colorful murals, old and tall buildings, historic squares and hilly streets filled with authentic cafes, eateries and shops. Some of the major city landmarks are located in Le Panier such as:

• Marseille Cathedral – Also known as Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-Majeure de Marseille and Cathédrale de la Major , this stunning cathedral built in the Byzantine and Roman Revival styles dates back to the early 19th century and is renowned for its magnificent interior lined with murals, mosaic and marble. The cathedral overlooks La Joliette cruise port.
• Vieille Charité (Centre de la Vieille Charité) – Situated in the heart of Le Panier, only 600 m from Marseille Cathedral, this exceptional building was designed by the Marseille-born architect Pierre Puget and built between 1671 and 1749. Originally built as an almshouse (a charitable housing for the city’s poor and beggars), this domed architectural gem today houses the Marseille International Poetry Centre, the Museum of Art of Africa, Oceania and Amerindia, research centers, art galleries, museums and a bookshop.
• Église Saint Laurent – The 12th-century church of Saint Laurent and the adjoining 17th-century chapel of Sainte-Catherine dominate La Joliette, Le Panier district and the Old Port from a hilltop.
• Mucem – Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean – A museum stands at the entrance to the Vieux-Port and offers an amazing insight into the civilizations of the Mediterranean.
• Musée Regards de Provence – This classic and modern art museum overlooks La Joliette wharves and is located across Mucem, next to Marseille Cathedral.
• Église Notre-Dame-des-Accoules – Another beautiful place of worship located right behind the City Hall, a few blocks away from the Vieux-Port.
• Place de Lenche – One of the most famous squares where you’ll find numerous eateries and cafes.

Check out Le Panier tours and activities

4. Vallon des Auffes

Located in the 7 th arrondissement of Marseille, 2.5 km/1.5 miles (a 30-minute walk) southwest of the Vieux Port, Vallon des Auffes is a small Provençal fishing village and a fishermen’s paradise. Nestled between two cliffs, at a stone’s throw from the Catalan beach, this charming village boasts picturesque fishermen’s huts and small traditional fishing boats scattered on both sides of Pont du Vallon des Auffes , a concrete arched bridge built in the 19th century, during the construction of the Corniche of President John F. Kennedy.

Vallon des Auffes is a true hidden gem of Marseille and if you are looking for a peaceful oasis and fresh fish specialties, this is the place to go!

Explore Vallon des Auffes tours and activities

5. Palais Longchamp

The breathtaking Palais Longchamp is located in the 4 th arrondissement of Marseille, roughly 2 km/1.2 miles (a 30-minute walk) east of the Vieux-Port. This impressive historical monument was constructed in the 19th century to bring water to the city and nowadays is home to the Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des beaux-arts de Marseille, east wing of the palace) and Natural History Museum of Marseille (Muséum Histoire Naturel de Marseille, west wing).

The palace is surrounded by a wonderful park filled with animal sculptures and an imposing fountain with cascades (known as château d’eau or “water castle”). Palais Longchamp area is open to the public and is a true green oasis in the middle of the bustling city.

Check out Palais Longchamp tours and activities

6. Château d’If

The iconic Château d’If is a fortress and former prison famous for being one of the settings of Alexandre Dumas’ adventure novel “The Count of Monte Cristo”. Château d’If is located about 1.5 km/1 mile offshore from Marseille and 5.5 km/3.5 miles from the Vieux-Port. It is the smallest island in the Frioul archipelago known for being entirely fortified and centered around the “château”, a square, three-story building flanked by three towers with large gun embrasures.

The château was built in the 16th century for military and defensive purposes, however, it was mainly used as a dumping ground for political and religious detainees throughout the centuries. Today, Château d’If is a historic monument and a tourist attraction that can be visited by ferry from the Vieux-Port.

Check out Château d’If tours and activities

7. Park National des Calanques

The Calanques National Park is a paradise for nature lovers and those of you who seek breathtaking landscapes. Calanques are narrow, steep-walled inlets found along the Mediterranean coast and the most beautiful examples of this formation can be found in the Massif des Calanques, in the Bouches-du-Rhône department.

The Calanques of Marseille extends for 20 km/12 miles in length along the coast between Marseille and Cassis, culminating in Mont Puget. In this beautiful national park, you can admire unique flora and fauna, spectacular landscapes and dramatic cliffs overlooking mesmerizing turquoise waters. If you are an adventure seeker, there are many activities offered such as kayaking, rock climbing, snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing and swimming among others!

The most popular coves are Calanque de Sormiou (the biggest calanque, known for rock climbing), Calanque de Sugiton (popular for hikers), Calanque de Morgiou, Calanque d’En-Vau and Calanque de Port-Miou (near Cassis). If you are taking a tour from the Marseille port (MPCT), you’ll reach the Calanques National Park in about 45 minutes drive (20 km/12 miles). If you are coming from Marseille downtown, it takes around 35 minutes drive (14 km/8.7 miles).

Explore Parc National des Calanques tours and activities

8. Frioul Islands

The Frioul Islands (Îles du Frioul) are a French archipelago located within the protected area of the Calanques National Park, about 4 km/2 miles off the coast of Marseille. Frioul archipelago is made up of four scenic islands including Pomègue, Ratonneau, Tiboulen, and If, where the legendary Château d’If is located.

The islands are home to endemic flora and fauna and boast a rich historic heritage with fortresses, ramparts, beautiful beaches, hidden coves, and a variety of restaurants and shops for tourists. L’île de Pomègues is connected to l’île de Ratonneau via a causeway and both islands can be visited on foot within a couple of hours.

There are ferry boat rides organized from Vieux-Port de Marseille. The ride takes 15 minutes each way and the boat disembarks passengers at Port du Frioul, from where you can explore the two islands on foot. While there, make sure you visit the beautiful coves (calanques) of Saint-Estève and Morgiret, as well as Calanque de la Crine, often considered the most beautiful cove of the archipelago.

Check out Frioul Island tours and activities

Located 27 km/17 miles (a 45-minute drive) east of Marseille, Cassis is a charming port town and the French Riviera’s popular tourist destination. This lovely town is known for its falaises (cliffs) and the Calanques (sheltered inlets), renowned wines, pebbly beaches, and a picturesque harbour filled with seafront cafes and restaurants.

While there, make sure you visit Cassis Market (Marché de Cassis), Plage de la Grande Mer , Plage du Bestouan , Cassis harbour and its wonderful calanques such as Calanque de Port-Miou .

Check out Cassis tours and activities

10. Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a university city in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region situated 32 km/20 miles (a 40-minute drive) north of Marseille. The birthplace of Post-Impressionist painter Paul Cézanne, Aix-en-Provence has always been an inspiration for painters, writers and musicians who used to live and work in the city. Nowadays, you can visit the city’s numerous museums, art galleries, artists’ studios ( Atelier Cézanne ) or explore its historic monuments, fountains and squares.

One of the most lively places in the city is Cours Mirabeau , a beautiful tree-lined avenue where you’ll find cafes, eateries and the impressive, 19th-century Fontaine de la Rotonde with its extravagant sculptures. The city is divided into two parts: the new part called Quartier  Mazarin and the old, medieval part of the city with its narrow streets and the iconic Aix Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur d’Aix-en-Provence) dating from the 12th century, one of the main city’s symbols.

Aix-en-Provence is a historic city with many cobblestone areas that are not wheelchair-friendly. Make sure you make comfortable shoes while exploring the city.

Check out Aix-en-Provence tours and activities

11. Avignon

The medieval city of Avignon is located roughly 100 km/62 miles (a 1h 15-minute drive) northwest of Marseille. Set on the Rhône River, Avignon is best known for being the seat of Catholic popes from 1309 to 1377. The historic center of Avignon, which includes the massive Palais des Papes ,  Avignon Cathedral and the famous Pont d’Avignon (The Bridge of Avignon), was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995 due to its outstanding architectural and historic value.

Besides a large number of historic monuments and landmarks, Avignon is also famous for Festival d’Avignon , an annual arts festival that attracts tourists and art lovers from all across Europe.

Explore Avignon tours and activities

12. Orange Vélodrome

Last but not least, if you are a football fan you can visit Stade Vélodrome, home to the Olympique de Marseille football club. This massive, multi-purpose stadium has been a venue for the 1938 and 1998 FIFA World Cups and is the largest club football ground in France, with a capacity of 67.394 spectators.

Stade Vélodrome is located 3.7 km/2.3 miles (a 10-minute drive) south of Vieux-Port de Marseille. Guided tours are available.

Visit also our cruise guides for  Malaga , Alicante , Ibiza , Naples , Florence (Livorno) , Rome (Civitavecchia) , Cinque Terre (La Spezia) , Palermo (Sicily)

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Best things to do and see in Marseille

Did you know that Marseille is one of the most populated cities in France? This beautiful city, located on the Costa Azul has one of the largest ports in the country and is a mandatory destination for any traveler. A pay-what-you-please walking tour will help you to get to know this city, its many monuments, and also its lifestyle, the curiosities, its history and most importantly, all its lesser-known tourist attractions so that you can really get the full experience and make some lasting memories of Marseille. 

The free walking tours in Marseille cross the city each day, with options available in English and Spanish, along with some other languages, as well as having options to book your tour for the morning, afternoon, or evening. If you have any questions about the tour, the route, the guide, or the quality, you can check out what other walkers have said in their reviews online , so you can choose the best tour for you. When you’re in Marseille, you should really consider getting a tour that takes you to check out Marseille’s Old Port, Fort Saint-Jean, the Cathedral of Marseille, Vieille Charite, The Palace or “Palais” of Longchamp or the Basilica Notre Dame de la Garde among many others! 

Other walkers who reviewed guru walks in Marseilles also found interesting walking tours to do in nearby cities such as Nice, Bordeaux, Nantes o Paris. You can see them all one GuruWalk’s page and reserve your tour for free. 

Free walking tour near Marseille

Others cities to visit after marseille, find other guruwalks in marseille, where are you traveling to.

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The 5-minute essential guide to the Tour de France

Inspiration

Cycling Tourism Sporting Activities

Reading time: 0 min Published on 8 January 2024, updated on 18 April 2024

It is the biggest cycling race in the world: a national event that France cherishes almost as much as its Eiffel Tower and its 360 native cheeses! Every year in July, the Tour de France sets off on the roads of France and crosses some of its most beautiful landscapes. Here’s everything you should know in advance of the 2018 race…

‘La Grande Boucle’

In over a century of existence, the Tour has extended its distance and passed through the whole country. Almost 3,500 kilometers are now covered each year in the first three weeks of July, with 22 teams of 8 cyclists. The 176 competitors criss-cross the most beautiful roads of France in 23 days, over 21 stages. More than a third of France’s departments are passed through, on a route that changes each year.

A little tour to start

The first ever Tour de France took place in 1903. It had just six stages – Paris-Lyon, Lyon-Marseille, Marseille-Toulouse, Toulouse-Bordeaux, Bordeaux-Nantes and Nantes-Paris – and 60 cyclists at the start line. At the time, the brave cycled up to 18 hours at a stretch, by day and night, on roads and dirt tracks. By the end, they’d managed 2,300 kilometers. Must have had some tight calves!

Mountain events are often the most famous and hotly contested. Spectators watch in awe as the riders attack the passes and hit speeds of 100 km/h. In the Pyrenees and the Alps, the Galibier and Tourmalet ascents are legendary sections of the Tour, worthy of a very elegant polka dot jersey for the best climber…

The darling of the Tour

In terms of the number of victories per nation, France comes out on top, with 36 races won by a French cyclist. In second place is Belgium with 18 wins, and in third is Spain with 12. The darling of the Tour remains Eddy Merckx, holding the record of 111 days in the yellow jersey. This Belgian won 5 times the Great Loop as Jacques Anquetil, Bernard Hinault and Michael Indurain.

‘Le maillot jaune’

The yellow jersey is worn by the race winner in the general classification (calculated by adding up the times from each individual stage). This tradition goes back to 1919. It has nothing to do with the July sunshine or the sunflower fields along the roads; it was simply the colour of the pages of newspaper L’Auto, which was creator and organiser of the competition at the time.

The Tour de France is the third major world sporting event after the Olympic Games and the World Cup, covered by 600 media and 2,000 journalists. The race is broadcast in 130 countries by 100 television channels over 6,300 hours, and is followed by 3.5 billion viewers.

The Champs-Élysées finish

Each year the Tour departs from a different city, whether in France or in a neighbouring country. Since 1975, the triumphal arrival of the cyclists has always taken place across a finish line on Paris’ Champs-Élysées. It’s a truly beautiful setting for the final sprint.

And the winner is…

Seen from the sky and filmed by helicopters or drones, the Tour route resembles a long ribbon winding its way through France’s stunning landscapes: the groves of Normandy, the peaks of the Alps, the shores of Brittany and the beaches of the Côte d’Azur. In 2017, it was the Izoard pass in Hautes-Alpes that was elected the most beautiful stage, at an altitude of 2,361 metres. Which one gets your vote?

Find out more on the official Tour de France site: https://www.letour.fr

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9 Places to See the Summer Olympics Without Setting Foot in Paris

You may have trouble finding accommodations or tickets to events in Paris, but other destinations around France are hosting sports like soccer, sailing, basketball and surfing.

By Sophie Stuber

For sports fans, Paris will be the center of the universe this summer — and with 15 million Olympic and Paralympic visitors expected, it will feel like it, with crowds and high prices. But Paris isn’t the only Olympic site in France: Nine destinations outside the metro region are also hosting events, giving travelers a way to catch some action without getting caught up in the crush.

In places like Bordeaux, Marseille and even Tahiti, you can watch top athletes compete in soccer, basketball, sailing and surfing. (Tickets have been added in batches, so if the ones you want aren’t available, keep checking the ticketing site, tickets.Paris2024.org . If all else fails, the official resale platform opens on May 15 .)

And when you’re not watching sports, you can take advantage of museums, parks, design centers, and fresh food and wine options. In Nantes, you can even ride a mechanical elephant.

Here are some ideas for planning your own alternative Olympic trip.

Basketball: July 27 to Aug. 4; tickets from 50 euros ($54).

Handball: Aug. 6 to 11, tickets from €45.

Start with a stroll around Vieux-Lille and a coffee in the Grande Place, taking in the colorful facades of this city near the Belgian border. Head over to the St.-Sauveur area to see the Art Deco belfry and exhibitions at Gare St.-Sauveur , a former train station. On Sundays, at the rambling Wazemmes market , about 400 vendors offer produce, fish, plants, fabrics, textiles and leather goods. Head out to Parc du Héron , east of the city, to see the LaM museum (€7), with works by the likes of Pablo Picasso, Amedeo Modigliani and Joan Miró. Lille is better known for beer than for wine, and the Brasserie Gobrecht offers brewery tours every Saturday (reservations recommended).

Where to stay: Hotel de la Paix (€354 per night); Hotel Carlton (€406).

Soccer: July 24 to Aug. 2; tickets from €24.

Capital of a region best known for its wine, this small southwestern city sells local wine-walk maps at its tourist office. Stop by the Marché des Capucins , a local indoor market that also houses Bistro Poulette , a slightly chaotic and very delicious spot serving moules-frites, or mussels with fries. In the afternoon, check out the Bassins des Lumières (€15), the largest digital art center in the world, and the Cité du Vin (€21), which offers wine-tasting experiences. To wind down in a quiet wine bar, try Yarra , or for a cocktail, Symbiose . If you have time for side trips, spend a day in St.-Emilion, about 27 miles away, where you can sample great wines. Or check out the nearly 340-foot-high Dune du Pilat , the tallest sand dune in Europe — about 37 miles southwest of Bordeaux, near the beach town of Arcachon.

To stay: Les Chambres de Marie (€170); La Maison Galiène (€259); Yndo Hotel (€355); Le Palais Gallien Hôtel & Spa (€419).

Soccer: July 24 to Aug. 8; tickets from €24.

The street signs in Nantes are in both Breton and French, reflecting the city’s historical ties to Brittany. Start at Talensac Market for picnic supplies, especially radishes, local cheeses and strawberries. Pick up local delicacies like Gâteau Nantais (almond poundcake) and Far Breton (flan with Armanac-soaked prunes). Take your picnic lunch to the courtyard of the Château des Ducs de Bretagne , a medieval castle and museum (courtyard is free; museum is €9). On the Île de Nantes, a former shipyard has been transformed into a wild mechanical theme park. The Machines de l’Île mixes Jules Verne’s stories with Leonardo da Vinci’s designs in the form of a ridable mechanical elephant and sea creatures (€9.50 for the elephant ride or gallery visit). The Mémorial de l’Abolition de l’Esclavage (free) covers Nantes’s history as the most active slave-trading port in 18th-century France. The artists behind the glass-and-concrete memorial, Krzysztof Wodiczko and Julian Bonder , aimed to create “a metaphorical and emotional reminder of the primarily historical, but also very current, struggle for the abolition of slavery.”

To stay: Hotel Voltaire Opéra (€103); Hotel de la Cité (€120).

Châteauroux

Shooting: July 27 to Aug. 5; tickets from €24.

The small city not far from the Loire Valley is named for Château Raoul , the 10th-century castle that’s now part of a local official’s private residence. The best view of the château is from the Gütersloh Bridge. Follow the “coulée verte” — or green corridor — along the banks of the Indre River, stopping by Parc de Belle-Isle , which has a lake for swimming, with kayaks and stand-up paddle boards to rent, as well as a beach, playgrounds and camping. The Franciscan Cordeliers Convent (free), which dates to the 13th century, today offers contemporary art exhibits and miles of gardens, and the Bertrand Museum (free), a former 18th-century townhouse, showcases diverse collections in each of its 26 rooms, including the plaster original of the Camille Claudel sculpture “Sakuntala.”

To stay: Au Lys Blanc (€138); Les Rives du Château (€210 for a two-bedroom apartment).

Lyon and St.-Étienne

Soccer: Lyon, July 24 to Aug. 9; tickets from €24. St.-Étienne, July 24 to 31; tickets from €24.

It will be easy to catch soccer matches in either Lyon or St.-Étienne, only an hour apart by train or car in east-central France. In Lyon, often called the gastronomic capital of France, visit the majestic Notre-Dame de Fourvière Basilica , then savor an ice cream at La Fabrique Givrée . Explore the city’s network of covered passageways, called traboules — originally for workers to transport textiles and later used during World War II by the French Resistance for clandestine meetings. Then climb up to the Pentes de la Croix-Rousse neighborhood, with its tiny streets, shops and views of Lyon below. On a clear day, you can even see Mont Blanc. The Lugdunum museum (€7) and the nearby Roman theater (€4) take visitors back to 43 B.C., when Lyon was known as Lugdunum, and La Maison des Canuts (€9.50), covers the city’s history as a capital of silk.

Between Lyon and St.-Étienne, Pilat Regional Natural Park offers more than 900 miles of rocky terrain for hiking and biking, culminating at the summit of 4,700-foot Crêt de la Perdrix , with views of the Alps and Massif Central range.

St.-Étienne, about 40 miles southwest of Lyon, is transforming its historical industrial identity into one of design and innovation. At the heart is the Cité du Design (€4.50), the former site of a weapons factory, which has served as a center for art and research since 2010. The complex, now a key economic force in the city, is open to the public year-round and hosts art and design exhibitions.

To stay in Lyon: Fourvière Hotel (€189); Hôtel du Théâtre (€323).

To stay in St.-Étienne: Le Parc 42 (€113); Le Golf Sauna (€269).

Sailing (including windsurfing, kitesurfing and more): July 28 to Aug. 8; tickets from €24.

Soccer: July 24 to Aug. 6; tickets from €24.

This Mediterranean port city mixes urban grit and natural beauty. Start by visiting Le Panier, the village-like oldest part of the city. Try navettes , a traditional orange flower biscuit, and sample some sardines or panisses , traditional chickpea fries, on a sunny terrace. Detour through the touristy but pleasant Old Port on the way to Mucem (€11), the first major museum dedicated to Mediterranean civilization and cultures. Have a pick-me-up at Deep Coffee Roasters , a specialty roaster tucked away between touristy shops. At sunset, climb up to Cours Julien , a hip neighborhood with beautiful views for your apéro. Don’t miss the Cité Radieuse , a UNESCO-listed apartment complex that shows off the architect Le Corbusier’s Modernist mastery (you can stay at the hotel in it). And just southeast of the city, the Calanques , a series of small, narrow coves , offer miles of oceanside trails and rocky scrambles along turquoise water.

To stay: Hotel Le Corbusier (€229); Maison Juste (€300).

Soccer: July 24 to 31; tickets from €24.

Summer is peak season in Nice, the queen city of the French Riviera, where the mountains meet the Mediterranean. Run, bike or in-line skate along the Promenade des Anglais , a four-mile seaside path. Then climb up to the Colline du Château , a rocky hill east of the promenade with views of Nice and even as far as the Alps. For a longer walk, follow the trails from Coco Beach to the Cap de Nice along the coves. Then head to Cours Saleya , a pedestrian section of the Old Town, with flower stands, antiques and local food like the socca , a chickpea pancake. The Musée de Préhistoire Terra Amata (€5), constructed on top of an excavation site, reveals what Nice was like up to 400,000 years ago. Or just enjoy one of Nice’s pebbled beaches in a lounge chair.

To stay: Hôtel Rossetti (€186); Yelo Mozart (€238).

Teahupo’o, Tahiti

Surfing: July 27 to 31 ( events could shift through Aug. 4, depending on surf conditions); fan zones free.

For surfing’s second Olympics since its debut in Tokyo, the competition takes place far from mainland France in Tahiti, part of French Polynesia. Since the wave is offshore, there will be two ticket-free fan zones — Taharu’u Beach and Paofai Gardens — to watch the events on large screens. A third fan zone at PK0 beach in Teahupo’o will have free tickets but limited access. Tahiti offers white sands and turquoise lagoons in addition to near-perfect waves. For snorkeling, try the lagoon near Maui Beach , five miles from Teahupo’o. For black volcanic sands, head to Taharu’u Beach, about 20 miles northwest of Teahupo’o. About 45 miles from Teahupo’o, Papeete, the capital of French Polynesia, with a population of about 26,000, offers a variety of local delicacies like poisson cru: raw fish with lime juice and coconut milk, served with rice. Sample local fare, including steak frites and skewered veal heart, from food trucks, called roulettes, at Place Vai’ete, on the waterfront, near the Papeete Market.

To stay: Kia Ora Lodge (€265, seven miles from Teahupo’o); Punatea Village (€73, six miles from Teahupo’o).

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An earlier version of a picture with this article was published in error. The image showed the French town of Cassis, not Marseille, where several Olympic events will take place this summer. It has been replaced.

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