From Marseille Cruise Port : Marseille and Cassis Tour

Key Points

• Full-day shore excursion lasting 7 hours exclusively for cruise passengers departing from Marseille.
• Visit Marseille’s highlights including Notre-Dame de la Garde and the Corniche Road, with scenic views and historical sites.
• Discover Cassis, a charming fishing port with 3 hours of free time to explore or relax.
• Experience stunning vistas from Cape Canaille, one of the most dramatic viewpoints in the area.
• Transportation is in an air-conditioned mini-bus for small groups limited to 8 participants for a more personalized experience.
• Optional boat trip at Cassis to see Calanques, though tickets are not included and must be purchased on the spot.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Tour Starts at Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal

This tour begins promptly at the Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal, where a guide holding a sign with your cruise ship name will meet you. The small group size of just 8 participants ensures a comfortable and intimate journey. The price of $164 per person covers transportation and guides, making it a convenient way to see the area without the hassle of arranging your own transport.

From the start, the focus is on blending scenic drives, cultural landmarks, and breathtaking views. The tour is tailored for cruise guests, making timing flexible to coordinate with your ship’s schedule.

Scenic Drive Along Marseille’s Coastal Corniche Road

The excursion includes a scenic drive on the Corniche Road, a stretch famed for its opulent 19th-century houses built by wealthy merchants and bourgeoisie. As the mini-bus glides along this coast, you’ll see impressive architecture and enjoy a panoramic view of the coastline.

A photo stop at Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica offers a chance to take in a breathtaking vista of Marseille, the nearby Frioul islands, and the historic If Castle. This iconic viewpoint provides a snapshot of the city’s maritime charm and strategic history.

Visiting Marseille’s Historic and Cultural Sites

The tour includes a drive through Marseille’s city center, with highlights such as the Vieux-Port (Old Port) and the Saint-Victor Abbey. The Abbey dates back to the 11th century and offers a glimpse into the city’s ancient past.

Travel along the Crest Road and see luxurious mansions built by wealthy 19th-century merchants. The driver/guide shares insights into Marseille’s development and cultural significance, enriching your understanding of this vibrant port city.

Discovering Cassis, the Charming Fishing Village

After approximately 2.5 hours of city sightseeing, the group heads to Cassis, a village known for its relaxed fishing port atmosphere and stunning bay views. You’ll have around 3 hours of free time to explore, enjoy local shops, or sit at a café overlooking the water.

While the main visit focuses on appreciating Cassis’s ambiance, there is an optional boat trip available to see 3 Calanques—secluded coves with steep cliffs, hidden harbors, and beaches. However, tickets for the boat trip are not included and can be bought on spot.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting Cape Canaille for Dramatic Views

A 15-minute stop at Cape Canaille offers spectacular views from one of the area’s high points. This is a highlight for those who appreciate panoramic scenery, with sweeping views over the bay of Cassis.

The site is accessible via the Gineste and Crests roads, which are known for their dramatic cliffs and scenic beauty. Be aware that access may be restricted by weather or road closures, and the tour cannot be responsible if certain stops are affected.

Return Journey with Marseille City Panorama

On the way back to Marseille’s cruise terminal, the guide leads a scenic tour of the city, culminating with a photo stop at Notre-Dame de la Garde. This allows guests to capture the best views of the city, the port, and the surrounding islands.

The 7-hour itinerary balances driving, sightseeing, and free time, offering a well-rounded experience suited for those who want an overview without rushing.

Practicalities: Transportation, Group Size, and Booking

The mini-bus used for this tour is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during the 45-minute drive to Cassis and the return trip. The small group of up to 8 participants fosters a more personalized experience, with the driver/guide providing commentary in English and French.

The tour operates only for cruise passengers, with pick-up at the Marseille cruise port. To ensure smooth coordination, travelers should provide their cruise ship name when booking. The tour can be canceled with full refund if canceled up to 2 days in advance.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour offers a rundown, it cannot guarantee access to certain sites like the Calanques boat trip during bad weather or access restrictions on Cape Canaille. The order of visits may change, depending on traffic or operational reasons.

Travelers should prepare with comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, and water, as there are outdoor stops and scenic viewpoints. The tour is not suitable for children under 4 years, individuals with mobility issues, or wheelchair users.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour appeals to cruise passengers who want a convenient, guided experience of Marseille and Cassis within a limited timeframe. It’s ideal for those interested in scenic drives, panoramic views, and cultural highlights without the hassle of organizing separate transport.

The small group format and multilingual guides enhance the experience, especially for travelers who appreciate personalized attention. If you enjoy stunning coastal scenery, historic sites, and the charm of a fishing port, this tour offers a well-balanced day.

Final Thoughts on the Marseille and Cassis Tour

The $164 price covers transportation, guides, and a thoughtfully curated itinerary that highlights maritime views, historic landmarks, and the scenic beauty of Cape Canaille. The 7-hour duration strikes a good balance, offering enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

While some reviews note variable guide quality and the potential for weather-related cancellations, overall, the tour earns a 4.6 out of 5 rating. It’s most suitable for passengers looking for a straightforward, guided day with flexible free time in Cassis.

This experience provides a practical way to see Marseille’s highlights and enjoy the coast’s stunning scenery—a great choice for those wanting a comfortable and scenic day from the cruise port.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and free time in Cassis.

Where does the tour start?
It starts at the Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal, where a guide will meet you holding a sign with your cruise ship name.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation in an air-conditioned mini-bus and a driver/guide. It does not include lunch, boat trip tickets, or entrance fees.

Is the boat trip to the Calanques included?
No, the boat trip tickets are not included and can be purchased on the spot if you choose to take it.

Are children allowed on this tour?
The tour is not suitable for children under 4 years and not accessible for those with mobility impairments or in wheelchairs.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled up to 2 days in advance.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, and water for outdoor stops and scenic viewpoints.

What if the access to Cape Canaille is restricted?
The tour cannot be responsible for closures or weather conditions affecting visits to Cape Canaille or the Calanques.

Is the tour bilingual?
Yes, guides provide commentary in English and French.

How many participants are in each group?
The group is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Who is the tour provider?
The activity is operated by Tylene Transport Tourisme.

Where can I find similar experiences?
Check out other options like boat tours to the Calanques, city sightseeing bus tours, or cruise excursions available through the provided links.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby