Provence at your own pace and at your leisure!

Discover Provence at Your Own Pace from Marseille

This private tour from Marseille offers an ideal way to explore the diverse beauty of Provence with customizable itineraries. Priced at $521.38 per person, the experience typically lasts between 4 to 8 hours, depending on the selected stops and activities. It’s a flexible choice for those who want to tailor their day, whether they prefer to combine city sights, natural landscapes, and culinary delights or focus on specific areas.

The tour is designed to accommodate most travelers, with group discounts and a mobile ticket option, making planning straightforward. The guide, available to tailor the day to individual wishes, is highlighted as knowledgeable and adaptable, which enhances the experience. This is particularly suitable for visitors who want a personalized exploration of Provence without the constraints of a rigid group itinerary.

While the tour covers many highlights, it’s important to note that admission tickets for certain attractions are not included. This means that visits to sites like the Château des Baux or Sainte-Victoire Mountain might involve additional costs. Still, the focus on scenic routes, local towns, and tastings makes this a value-packed option for those seeking a leisurely and flexible day in Provence.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary adaptable to your interests, whether nature, culture, or cuisine
• Private transportation ensures comfort and convenience
• Multiple stops, including Cassis Calanques, Aix en Provence, Gordes, and Fontaine de Vaucluse
• Boat discovery of the Calanques with scenic views (admission not included)
• Wine tastings along the Côtes du Rhône wine route with included alcoholic beverages
• Tour duration ranges from 4 to 8 hours, depending on chosen activities

Starting Point: Marseille’s 12 Rue du Rouet

The tour begins at 12 Rue du Rouet in Marseille, a location near public transportation for easy access. This private tour ends where it started, offering a seamless experience with no need to worry about transport logistics during the day. The group size is limited to your party, providing a personalized feel, and bottled water is included for hydration during your adventures.

Customizable Itinerary: Creating Your Perfect Provence Day

The tour provider, Planetazur, encourages clients to share what they most wish to see or do in Provence. Whether it’s a half-day or full-day experience, the itinerary is flexible. This means you can prioritize sea and mountain views, charming villages, or cultural sites. The guide is available to help craft an itinerary that matches your interests, making your experience truly bespoke.

Exploring the Calanques by Boat at Parc National

One of the most iconic stops is the Parc national des Calanques, where you’ll enjoy a boat ride to discover the creeks and see the big blue from the water. This two-hour activity offers spectacular views but note that admission tickets are not included. The scenic boat ride provides a relaxing way to appreciate the stunning limestone formations and turquoise waters of this protected park.

Taking in Marseille’s Historic Old Port and Neighborhoods

Next, the tour visits Le Vieux Port, the historic harbor of Marseille. Over a three-hour period, you’ll walk through the lively neighborhoods, see the Corniche, and visit notable sites like Notre-Dame de la Garde. This area is rich in atmosphere and history, perfect for those who enjoy exploring urban charm and maritime heritage at a leisurely pace.

Discovering Aix en Provence and Its Artistic Heritage

The tour includes a four-hour stop in Aix-en-Provence, famous for its 1000 fountains, narrow streets, and elegant mansions. You’ll see the Saint Sauveur cathedral, and have the option to visit Cézanne’s workshop. The Lacoste castle and Bimont dam are also nearby attractions. Admission tickets for these sites are not included, but the walk through the town offers vibrant local life and architecture.

Visiting Gordes and the Roussillon Ochres

In Gordes, a medieval hilltop village, you’ll find Saint Firmin cellars and the Sénanque Abbey, surrounded by lavender fields in season. The Roussillon ochre cliffs are a vivid highlight, perfect for those interested in nature’s palette. This four-hour stop allows for exploration of Provence’s quintessential villages and scenic landscapes, with admission costs potentially applying at some sites.

Exploring Fontaine de Vaucluse and L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue

The Fontaine de Vaucluse presents a mystical spring and a small hike accessible to most people, revealing the waters that inspired local legends. Afterwards, the canals of L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue showcase antique shops and waterways, ideal for a relaxed stroll. These attractions are free to enter, making this segment an affordable highlight of the itinerary.

Touring Avignon’s Palais des Papes and Market Halls

The Palais des Papes offers a glimpse into medieval ecclesiastical power, while narrow streets of Avignon provide a lively atmosphere. The tour includes a four-hour visit to the market halls of Place Pie, where a cooking workshop can be added as an extra. Admission tickets are not included, but the area buzzes with local flavor and history.

Exploring Les Baux de Provence and Saint-Rémy

The medieval Les Baux de Provence is renowned for its castle ruins and medieval streets. Nearby, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence and Arles offer additional cultural sights and Roman heritage. Some attractions, like the castle and bullring, involve extra fees. The four-hour segment emphasizes historic and scenic charm.

Tasting the Côtes du Rhône Wine Route

The Gigondas la Cave stop is a highlight for wine enthusiasts. Over six hours, the tour leads through Vacqueyras, Cairanne, Rasteau, and Beaume of Venice, with a sensory journey and tastings included. This admission-paid activity is a major attraction for those interested in local wines, offering an opportunity to sample some of the region’s best.

The Experience with Planetazur

The guide is praised for being knowledgeable and flexible, capable of adjusting the tour for families with children or special interests. The tour’s private nature means your group enjoys a personalized experience, and bottled water along the way keeps everyone refreshed. The option of group discounts adds value if traveling with others.

Practical Considerations and Booking

The tour requires good weather, with options for full or partial day excursions. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind. The meeting point at Marseille’s Rue du Rouet is accessible, and the tour ends at the same location. Be aware that admission fees for certain attractions are extra, so plan accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour

This flexible, private tour best suits those wanting to customize their Provence experience without feeling tied to a rigid schedule. The combination of scenic boat rides, cultural sites, charming villages, and wine tastings appeals to nature lovers, history buffs, and foodies alike. It’s a great choice for families, couples, or small groups seeking a personalized exploration of Provence’s diverse offerings.

Final Thoughts on Provence at Your Own Pace

This tour offers excellent value for a private experience, allowing visitors to choose what interests them most. The ability to adapt the itinerary makes it stand out among guided options, giving you the freedom to focus on natural beauty, historical sites, or culinary experiences. The guide’s flexibility and knowledge help create a relaxed, enriching day.

However, admission costs for some sites are not included, which could add to the overall expense. The scenic boat ride in the Calanques and the wine tastings are memorable highlights that justify the investment. If you appreciate personalized itineraries and want to explore Provence at your own pace, this tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of this tour?
The price covers private transportation, bottled water, and wine tastings during the wine route. Admission tickets for attractions are not included unless specified.

How long does the tour last?
The tour duration varies from 4 to 8 hours, depending on the selected stops and activities.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the guide works with you to create a private, tailor-made itinerary based on your interests and preferences.

Are meals included?
Meals are not included in the tour price, but the tour includes wine tastings and offers options for cooking workshops as an extra.

What stops are included in the tour?
Stops include the Parc national des Calanques, Le Vieux Port, Aix en Provence, Gordes, Fontaine de Vaucluse, Palais des Papes, Les Baux de Provence, and Gigondas for wine tastings.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the guide is capable of adjusting the tour for families with children, making it a flexible option for all ages.

What are the logistics for starting and ending the tour?
The tour begins and ends at 12 Rue du Rouet, Marseille, with private transportation throughout the day.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and any personal items needed for outdoor activities. The tour provides bottled water, but additional snacks or supplies are optional.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you can reschedule or receive a full refund.

How do I book this tour?
Booking is straightforward through Viator, with options for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

This flexible, private Provence tour offers the perfect blend of scenery, culture, and culinary tastings, all tailored to your preferences. It’s an excellent way to experience the region’s diverse charms at your leisure.