Private Excursion Cassis and Marseille City Tour - Visiting Marseille’s Iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica

Private Excursion Cassis and Marseille City Tour

Explore Provence's highlights in one day with this private 7.5-hour tour from Marseille, visiting Cassis, Cap Canaille, and the Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica.

If you’re seeking a comprehensive day trip that combines coastal beauty, panoramic views, and cultural highlights in Provence, the Private Excursion Cassis and Marseille City Tour offers an excellent choice. Priced at $1,020.29 per group of up to 8 people, this private tour ensures personalized attention and flexibility, making it ideal for those who want a tailored experience. With an approximate duration of 7 hours 30 minutes, it packs in visits to Cassis, Cap Canaille, and key Marseille sights, all with round-trip transportation included. The tour starts at 9:00 am from Marseille and includes port pickup and drop-off, simplifying logistics for cruise passengers and day-trippers alike.

What makes this tour stand out is its ability to showcase several Provence highlights in a single day. It’s well-suited for travelers who value a personalized itinerary and prefer the comfort of a private vehicle. While food and drinks are not included, the flexible schedule allows extra time at each stop, and the expert guidance ensures a smooth, engaging experience. This tour appeals most to those interested in scenic landscapes, cultural landmarks, and efficient sightseeing — all within a manageable timeframe.

Key Points

Private Excursion Cassis and Marseille City Tour - Key Points

  • Private, customizable tour for up to 8 people at a fixed price of $1,020.29
  • 7.5-hour experience starting at 9:00 am from Marseille
  • Visits Cassis, Cap Canaille, and Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica
  • Round-trip transportation and port pickup/drop-off included
  • No food or drinks included, giving flexibility for personal dining choices
  • Highly praised for knowledgeable guides and stunning views

Starting at Marseille: The Meeting Point and Transport

Private Excursion Cassis and Marseille City Tour - Starting at Marseille: The Meeting Point and Transport

The tour begins in Marseille, with pickup at the port or a designated meeting point. The comfortable vehicle ensures a relaxed journey throughout the day. This setup is particularly convenient for cruise ship passengers, who can provide their ship name, docking, disembarkation, and re-boarding times at booking. The driver/guide leads the group, offering insights and making the movement between stops seamless. The private nature of the tour means a tailored pace without the rush of large groups.

Visiting Marseille’s Iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica

Private Excursion Cassis and Marseille City Tour - Visiting Marseille’s Iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica

The tour’s first stop is Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica, perched on a hilltop that offers spectacular views over Marseille. This symbol of the city is free to enter and provides a great photo opportunity. The 35-minute visit allows time to appreciate the architecture, panoramic vistas, and religious art. Its commanding position makes it a favorite for those wanting a quick but meaningful introduction to Marseille’s skyline.

Exploring the Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal

A brief 30-minute stop at the MPCT ensures that cruise passengers are dropped off conveniently at their ship or a suitable meeting point. This flexibility adds to the tour’s appeal, catering specifically to those arriving via cruise. It’s a practical feature that makes this tour a stress-free option for busy schedules and tight connections.

Discovering the Palais Longchamp

Next, the guide takes visitors to Palais Longchamp, one of Marseille’s most celebrated landmarks. This architectural marvel features a grand fountain and lush gardens, making it a popular photo spot. The 20-minute visit offers a glimpse into Marseille’s cultural scene, with enough time to admire the ornate design and take a few memorable pictures.

The Spectacular Views from Cap Canaille

One of the highlights of this tour is the visit to Cap Canaille, situated within a national park. Known for spectacular panoramas, this site provides breathtaking views overlooking the Mediterranean. The 40-minute stop allows visitors to soak in the natural beauty, capture photos, or simply enjoy the fresh coastal air. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and those wanting to see one of the most impressive vistas in the south of France.

Exploring Cassis: Coastal Charm and Optional Cruise

The free time allocated in Cassis is a major draw of this tour. Visitors can stroll along the picturesque streets, relax on the beach, or go on a short cruise of the coastline at their own expense. While the cruise is not included, this flexibility lets guests decide whether to enjoy leisurely sightseeing or a scenic boat ride. Cassis’s charming harbor, cliffside houses, and lovely waterfront make it a prime location to unwind and take in Provence’s seaside atmosphere.

The Role of the Private Guide

Throughout the day, the driver/guide provides informative commentary and answers questions, making the experience both educational and engaging. The knowledgeable guides, praised in reviews, are attentive to interests and ensure the itinerary runs smoothly. Their personalized approach is part of what makes this tour highly rated.

The Scenic Route Along the Coast

The journey between stops is itself a highlight, with the vehicle navigating scenic roads along the coast and through Provence’s countryside. The spectacular views from Cap Canaille and Cassis, combined with comfortable transportation, make for an enjoyable and relaxed day.

Flexibility and Customization

One of the key benefits of choosing a private tour is the ability to customize the experience. The itinerary can be adjusted to focus more time on preferred stops or include additional sites if desired. This flexibility ensures that the day meets personal interests, whether that’s more sightseeing, relaxing, or photography.

Practicalities: Booking and Cancellation Policy

The tour is most often booked 60 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start date adds peace of mind for planning. Since it’s a private activity, only your group participates, providing an intimate setting. Confirmations are received immediately, and the process is straightforward for both individual travelers and groups.

Private Excursion Cassis and Marseille City Tour: Who Will Enjoy It?

This tour appeals strongly to those interested in scenic coastal views, cultural landmarks, and flexible sightseeing. It’s particularly suitable for cruise passengers needing convenient port transfers, but also for anyone wanting a personalized day trip in Provence. The knowledgeable guide and stunning vistas make it ideal for travelers who value insightful commentary and visual highlights. The 8-person group limit ensures an intimate experience, with plenty of time to explore each site.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour offers ample leisure time at key locations, food and drinks are not included, so travelers should plan accordingly. The **cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise cruise

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Private Excursion Cassis and Marseille City Tour



5.0

(7 reviews)

100% 5-star

“Magnificent views. Entertaining guide. Informative. Recommended for the warmth of Cassis and heights of Marseille.”

— john b, Sep 2022

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Yes, it includes port pickup and drop-off, making it easy for cruise passengers to join and leave the tour without stress.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours 30 minutes, starting at 9:00 am.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica, Palais Longchamp, Cap Canaille, and Cassis.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, as a private tour, it offers flexibility to adjust stops or spend more time at specific locations.

What is included in the price?
The price covers round-trip transportation, fuel surcharge, and a driver/guide. Food and drinks are not included.

How many people can join this tour?
Up to 8 guests can participate, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is there any free time at Cassis?
Yes, there is free time in Cassis to stroll, relax, or optionally go on a coastline cruise (own expense).

What makes this tour special?
Its personalized nature, stunning coastal views, and insightful guides are key strengths.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour involves some walking at stops like Notre-Dame de la Garde and Cassis; travelers should be comfortable with moderate activity.

How do I book or cancel this tour?
You can book in advance with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, offering flexibility in planning.