marseille shore excursions

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Exclusive Aix En Provence and Marseilles

Highlights of Marseille

A Taste of Marseille

Full Day EBike Tour to the Calanques from Marseille

Marseille and Cassis

Half-Day E-Bike Gadjo Tour

Villages of Luberon

Avignon and Wine

Private Aix En Provence Introduction by Bus

Private Aix En Provence and Marseille by Bus

Private Aix En Provence and Marseille by Minivan

Private Cassis and Marseille

Private Full Day Luberon Village

Private Full Day to Manosque, Valensole, Moustiers Ste Marie and Lake Ste Croix

Private Papal City of Avignon

• 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)
• Arles walking tour
• Van Gogh`s hospital in Arles

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

PREMIUM TOURS

• Custom made itineraries
• Premium Sedans or Vans (Bmw, Tesla, Mercedes, Volkswagen)
• Bottles of water

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Marseille, France

ShoreExcursions.com offers an excellent variety of independent shore excursions in Marseille, France.

Unforgettable Adventures Await in Marseille’s Shore Excursions

Discover the vibrant culture and history of marseille.

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Marseille’s culture and history with our captivating shore excursions. Step ashore and embark on a journey through time as you explore the enchanting streets of this coastal gem. From the iconic Vieux-Port to the majestic Notre-Dame de la Garde, every corner of Marseille tells a unique story.

• Delve into the past: Uncover Marseille’s fascinating history as you stroll through its ancient streets. Visit the renowned Palais Longchamp, a stunning architectural masterpiece, and let its grandeur transport you back to a bygone era.
• Savor local flavors: Indulge your taste buds in the vibrant food scene of Marseille. Sample the mouthwatering bouillabaisse, a traditional Provençal fish stew, or treat yourself to a glass of the exquisite local rosé wine. With every bite and sip, you’ll experience the true essence of this Mediterranean paradise.

Natural Wonders and Breathtaking Landscapes Await

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring natural beauty that surrounds Marseille. Our shore excursions offer a gateway to a world of breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable adventures.

• A journey to Calanques: Brace yourself for a jaw-dropping experience as you set sail on a boat tour to the Calanques. These stunning limestone cliffs, rising majestically from the turquoise Mediterranean waters, create a mesmerizing backdrop that will leave you spellbound.
• Explore the Provençal countryside: Discover the idyllic countryside of Provence as you venture outside Marseille. Wander through picturesque vineyards, soak in the fragrant lavender fields, and revel in the beauty of the charming hilltop villages that dot the landscape.

Unwind and Recharge in Mediterranean Paradise

Allow yourself a moment of relaxation and rejuvenation amidst the azure waters and golden sands of Marseille’s stunning beaches. Our shore excursions offer the perfect opportunity to unwind and soak up the Mediterranean sun.

• Beach bliss: Feel the warm sand between your toes as you bask in the sun on one of Marseille’s pristine beaches. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or an active day by the sea, our excursions cater to your every desire.
• Watersports and marine life: Dive into an underwater paradise and discover the vibrant marine life that inhabits the Mediterranean. From snorkeling to scuba diving, these thrilling activities will bring you face-to-face with an array of colorful fish and fascinating marine ecosystems.

Below are Viator Shore Excursions:

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THE 10 BEST Marseille Shore Excursions

Shore excursions in marseille.

• Ports of Call Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Walking Tours
• 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. Aix-en-Provence, Cassis, Marseille - Private Tour From Marseille

2. Marseille Shore Excursion: Half Day Tour of Marseille by Electric Bike

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

4. Small Group Marseille Shore Excursion: Marseille and Cassis Tour

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

6. Small Group Marseille Shore Excursion: Aix-en-Provence & Cassis

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

8. Guided Day Tour in the Lavender Fields in Provence

9. Electric Bike Tour to the Calanques from Marseille

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

11. Catamaran cruise in the Frioul Archipelago in Marseille

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

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

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

15. Aix en Provence, Marseille & Cassis Private Tour in Minivan

16. Small Group Marseille Shore Excursion: Lavender Tour

17. Marseille private guided tour

18. Marseille E-Bike Shore Excursion to Calanques National Parc

19. Aix-en-Provence, Cassis, Marseille

20. Daytime 13H - 17H Boat cruise on the Archipel & Calanques

21. Spectacular Luberon villages - Gordes to Lourmarin private tour

22. Sunset boat cruise to the Island of Frioul & Chateau d'if

23. Marseille City Private Tour from Marseille Cruise Port or Hotel by Luxury Van

24. Private Day Trip to Arles Les Baux de Provence and Saint Remy de Provence

25. Cannes Shore Tour: Small Group Magic of Monaco, Monte Carlo & Eze

26. Marseille to Cassis by 2CV Citroën

27. Sailing day in the heart of the Calanques

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

29. Marseille Shore Excursion Private Electric Bike Tour

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

What travellers are saying.

• Marseille Shore Excursion: City Sightseeing Tour of Marseille
• Marseille Shore Excursion: Half Day Tour of Marseille by Electric Bike
• Electric Bike Tour to the Calanques from Marseille
• drive from Marseille Cruise to Cassis, La Ciotat, price for 4
• Small Group Marseille Shore Excursion: Marseille and Cassis Tour

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Marseille is the second largest city in France and its largest coastal town. Cave paintings discovered near Marseille date to 27,000 and 19,000 BC. The first permanent Greek settlement (Massalia) dates from 600 BC. At its height in the 4th century BC, the walled city was a major trading center, connecting other ports with its overland routes that reached as far as the Baltic Sea. The city allied with the Roman Republic and remained independent until the rise of Julius Caesar who seized it in 49 BC. In the first century AD, Christianity came to Massalia as the catacombs above the city would indicate. Many believe that Mary Magdalen evangelized here with her brother Lazarus.

Top 5 Marseilles Excursions

• Sightseeing and Walk ($84.99)
• Private Aix en Provence ($484.99)
• marseille/best-city-sightseeing-electric-bike ($89.99)
• Private Avignon ($839.99)
• Calanques Ebike ($104.99)

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• Air-conditioned and licensed round-trip transportation from your Marseille Cruise pier!
• English-certified speaking guide!
• Sightseeing of Marseille!
• Walk through the Vieux Port and Palais Longchamp!
• Visit the Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde!

• Roundtrip private transportation from your Marseille cruise pier!
• Air-conditioned and fully licensed private transportation!
• English-speaking private certified driver/guide!
• Private guided walk in Aix en Provence!
• Free time to explore on your own!
• All parking and highway fees!

• Pick up and drop off from your Marseille Cruise Terminal!
• Ride through 15 miles (25 km) of beautiful Marseille scenery!
• Your choice of available bikes!
• English-speaking, friendly, experienced bike guides (other languages available on request)!
• Safety equipment including helmets and a yellow vest!
• Guided route sightseeing: The Museum, Old Port, Pharo Palace, Vallon des Auffes, Kennedy Corniche, Notre Dame de la Garde, and Joliette district!
• Scenic stops along the route!

• Round-trip private transportation from your Marseille cruise pier!
• Private guided walk in Avignon, Les Baux en Provence, and St. Remy!

• Ride along 24 miles (40 km) of the beautiful Marseille scenery!
• English-speaking, friendly, experienced bike guides!
• Guided route sightseeing: The Museum, Old Port, Pharo Palace, Vallon des Auffes, Kennedy Corniche, Padro beaches, Madrague Montredon, Goude's village, Maronnaise Beach, Callelongue Cove, Borely Park, Notre Dame de la Garde! 
• Swimming and lunch are optional stops!

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.

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Marseille (Provence), France

Description.

The largest port on the Mediterranean, Marseille is France's second largest city and a virtual melting pot of peoples and cultures. It is also a place of striking contrasts, from the fishing boats and pleasure craft of the picturesque Vieux Port to the modern Canebiere. Dominating the harbor is the infamous Chateau d'If, the rocky prison from which Alexandre Dumas' Count of Monte Cristo escaped. Marseille is also your gateway to Provence. Explore the countryside around Arles and Avignon, immortalized in the canvases of Van Gogh, Cezanne, Matisse and Picasso.

Points of Interest

• Aix-en-Provence
• Marseille and Notre Dame de la Garde
• Pont du Gard
• Les Baux de Provence

More about Marseille (Provence), France Points of Interest

The former medieval capital of Provence boasts a 12th-century cathedral, Saint-Sauveur d'Aix, an Archbishop's Palace and a medieval clock-tower. Fun for shoppers, there are many markets and shops to browse.

Avignon is home to the Palace of the Popes, which has been the residence of nine popes from 1309 to 1378, during their exile from Rome, plus the arched Pont d'Avignon bridge, which dates back to 1171.

Enjoy Marseille's Cornice coastal road, the bustling Le Vieux Port, the neo-Byzantine Cathedral de la Major, and the 19th-century Notre-Dame de la Garde, a beautiful Basilica overlooking the city.

This world famous three-tiered ancient Roman aqueduct bridge, dates back to 40 A.D., and crosses the shallow Gard River. It used to carry around 44 million gallons of water a day from Uzès to Nîmes.

Founded by the Roman Emperor Julius Caesar in the year 46 B.C., this picture-perfect town was home to Vincent Van Gogh for nearly one year, during which he painted over 100 canvases from 1888 to 1889.

Lourmarin sits at the foot of the charming Luberon mountain range

One of the prettiest villages of the Luberon range, lively Roussillon is situated in the heart of one of the biggest ochre deposits in the world, boasting cliffs made of yellow, red and white sands..

 It has a spectacular position in the Alpilles mountains, set atop a rocky outcrop that is crowned with a ruined castle overlooking the plains to the south.

31 Excursions

Best of avignon & palace of the popes.

Shopping Opportunities, Moderate Activity, Includes meal

From $ 149.95

Avignon & Le Pont du Gard

Moderate Activity

From $ 104.95

Best of Aix en Provence & Marseille

From $ 144.95

Arles & Les Baux de Provence

Strenuous Activity, Includes meal

Lourmarin & L' Isle-Sur-Sorgue

From $ 134.95

Aix-en Provence & Notre-Dame de la Garde

Strenuous Activity

From $ 119.95

Chateau de Lourmarin & Roussillon

Shopping Opportunities, Strenuous Activity, Includes meal

From $ 169.95

Local Connections: Olive Growing Farm & Tasting with Owner Mill de la Coquille

From $ 184.95

Marseille's Four Main Highlights & Free Time

Shopping Opportunities, Moderate Activity

From $ 89.95

Aix-en-Provence & Lourmarin On Your Own

From $ 79.95

Easy Marseille by Double Decker Bus

Easy Activity

From $ 94.95

City Drive & Notre-Dame de la Garde

From $ 69.95

Easy City Drive & La Corniche

Aix en provence - cheese & wine tasting.

Shopping Opportunities, Moderate Activity, Includes snack

From $ 139.95

Late Riser - Aix en Provence & Marseille

Guided hike in the footsteps of cezanne, luberon villages & lavender museum.

From $ 99.95

Marseille Bike Adventure

National geographic day tours: the story of pastis, an iconic french aperitif, discovery family avignon & palace of the popes, magnificent camargue.

From $ 124.95

Discovery Family: Calanques Exploration by Electric Bike

From $ 269.95

Marseille by Private Vehicle - Van Class Full Day (With Guide)

From $ 1999.95

Marseille by Private Vehicle - Car Class Full Day (With Guide)

From $ 1949.95

Marseille by Private Vehicle - Van Class Half Day (With Guide)

From $ 1399.95

Marseille by Private Vehicle - Car Class Half Day (With Guide)

From $ 1249.95

Marseille by Private Vehicle - Van Class Full Day (Driver Only)

From $ 1599.95

Marseille by Private Vehicle - Car Class Full Day (Driver Only)

Marseille by private vehicle - van class half day (driver only).

From $ 1049.95

Marseille by Private Vehicle - Car Class Half Day (Driver Only)

From $ 799.95

Best of Aix en Provence and Marseille for Small Groups

Moderate Activity, Includes meal