Wine Tour Bandol & Cassis from Marseille

Explore Marseille’s Premier Wine and Village Excursion for $191.17

This 7 to 8-hour small-group wine tour from Marseille offers an engaging day through some of Provence’s most picturesque spots. Priced at $191.17 per person, it departs from the Radisson Blu Hotel at Marseille Vieux Port at 9:00 am. The tour is designed for those who appreciate wine tasting, scenic drives, and charming villages, with round-trip transportation included.

While the experience features local wineries and free time in Cassis and Le Castellet, it does come with some limitations—such as the absence of included lunch, which is at personal expense. The tour suits travelers seeking an intimate, personalized exploration of Provence’s wine culture, with a maximum of eight participants ensuring a more tailored experience.

Key Points

• Small-group experience with a maximum of 8 travelers for personalized attention
• Includes wine tastings at two different wineries in Bandol and Cassis
• Stops in Le Castellet and Cassis, two of Provence’s most picturesque villages
• Round-trip transport from Marseille’s Vieux Port ensures convenience
• Flexible timing with free time in each village and opportunities for exploring at your own pace
• Cost of $191.17 per person makes it accessible for those wanting an authentic regional experience

Starting Point and Tour Duration in Marseille

The tour begins promptly at 9:00 am in front of the Radisson Blu Hotel at Marseille Vieux Port. From this central location, a comfortable minibus takes the group on a scenic drive through Provence’s landscape. The entire experience lasts between 7 to 8 hours, allowing ample time at each stop without feeling rushed.

This timing makes it ideal for day-trippers who want to maximize their sightseeing while enjoying a relaxed pace. The round-trip transportation means no need to worry about navigating or parking, adding extra convenience.

Visiting Bandol’s Renowned Wineries

The first stop takes place at a local winery in Bandol, known for its distinctive wines and beautiful vineyard settings. Guests have the opportunity to sample multiple wines during a tasting session, gaining insight into the region’s acclaimed wine production.

This initial tasting lasts about one hour, giving enough time to appreciate the wines and ask questions. The setting in Bandol is often praised for its scenic vineyards, which add to the overall enjoyment of the experience.

Lunch and Free Time in Le Castellet’s Charm

After wine tasting in Bandol, the tour visits Le Castellet, a perched village famed for its medieval charm and stunning views. Here, guests have about two hours of free time to explore the narrow streets, browse local shops, or find a spot for lunch on their own.

While lunch isn’t included in the tour price, this break allows for a personalized experience—whether you prefer a quick snack, a sit-down meal, or simply wandering the historic streets. Le Castellet’s atmosphere offers a peaceful retreat and a chance to capture memorable photos.

Afternoon in Cassis with Vineyards and Portside Walks

The afternoon is dedicated to Cassis, a bustling port town famous for its cliffs and calanques. The group has free time to stroll around the port, enjoy the views, and soak in the lively maritime atmosphere.

Plus, a second wine tasting occurs at a vineyard in Cassis, lasting about one hour. This visit offers a deeper look into Cassis’s wine-making traditions and a chance to taste another set of local wines, often praised for their freshness and distinctive character.

Guides, Transport, and Small-Group Dynamics

The tour is led by a driver/guide, who provides background information and ensures smooth logistics. Several reviews highlight Florence as an especially knowledgeable and personable guide, making the journey both informative and engaging.

Transport is provided via a comfortable minibus, which facilitates easy movement between locations. The small group size creates an intimate atmosphere, allowing for personalized attention and more flexibility during stops.

What’s Included and What to Budget for

The wine tastings are included in the price, but lunch is not covered—guests should plan to bring some money for meals or snacks. The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so travelers need to meet at the specified starting point.

The transportation and driver/guide services are part of the package, ensuring a hassle-free experience. The mobile ticket makes for easy access, and most travelers find the timing and pacing to be well-balanced.

Considerations Based on Reviews

While the majority of reviews praise the personalized service, natural scenery, and wine quality, some comments point out disappointing guide behavior or value concerns. One reviewer found the guide rude and felt the experience was not worth the price, highlighting the importance of a friendly guide for a positive impression.

On the other hand, many emphasize Florence’s knowledge and the beautiful villages, suggesting that guide quality can significantly impact the experience. The small group size is frequently appreciated for making the tour feel more exclusive and relaxed.

Final Thoughts on the Provence Wine Tour from Marseille

This tour offers a solid introduction to Provence’s wine culture, paired with visits to charming villages like Le Castellet and Cassis. The including wine tastings and round-trip transport provide good value, especially for those keen on local wines and scenery.

While lunch is on your own, the flexible free time allows for personal preferences, whether for dining, shopping, or sightseeing. The small-group setting and professional guide—particularly if led by someone knowledgeable—enhance the overall experience.

This tour suits adults aged 18 and over, especially wine enthusiasts, small groups, or those wanting a relaxed, scenic day exploring Provence. It’s well-suited for travelers who value personalized attention and local insights but should be considered carefully if guide behavior is a priority.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included; guests should plan to buy their own meal during the free time in Le Castellet.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 8 travelers, creating an intimate experience.

Are wine tastings included in the price?
Yes, wine tastings at both the Bandol and Cassis wineries are part of the tour fee.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, round-trip transport is included, operated via a minibus.

Can children join this tour?
Children must be accompanied by an adult and must be at least 18 years old to participate in wine tasting.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Radisson Blu Hotel, Marseille Vieux Port and ends at the same location.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made about 19 days in advance to secure spots.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for village walking and some cash for meals or souvenirs.

Is there a refund policy?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start time for a full refund.

How knowledgeable is the guide?
Many reviews highlight Florence and Sébastien as knowledgeable and engaging guides, making the experience more enjoyable.

This full-day wine and village tour from Marseille combines scenic drives, cultural stops, and wine tasting in a relaxed, small-group setting—ideal for anyone wanting an authentic taste of Provence.