Savvy travelers know Marseille’s best shopping experiences combine local culture with authentic finds. The city’s shopping tours focus on three main areas worth your time: the bustling Noailles district with its aromatic spice market, the historic center’s artisan shops, and the traditional Provençal markets. I especially love the walking tour through Noailles – it’s where you’ll find the real Mediterranean spirit of Marseille, complete with local vendors and centuries-old food traditions. The Christmas market tours are particularly special, offering a perfect blend of holiday charm and regional crafts. For antique lovers, the day trip combining Avignon and L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue delivers great value, though it’s pricier than city-based tours. Let’s explore the top shopping tours that showcase the best of Marseille’s merchant culture.
Key Points
- The Noailles District Walking Tour offers a 2-hour guided exploration of Marseille’s exotic spice market and oldest stores, providing insights into the city’s Mediterranean culture.
- The Noailles Neighborhood and Market Tour by Planetazur focuses on the unique sights, sounds, and aromas of the lively Noailles market, without being primarily shopping-focused.
- The Christmas Market Walking Tour in Vieux-Port features a 1.5-hour private group tour through 80 wooden stalls offering Marseille soap, regional handicrafts, gifts, toys, and decorations.
- The Luberon Day Trip includes visits to picturesque villages like Gordes, L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, and Roussillon, where travelers can explore local markets and shops.
- The Avignon Tour Highlights private tour from Marseille includes a visit to l’Isle sur la Sorgue, known for its antique dealers and shops.
Market & Perched Villages of the Luberon Day Trip From Marseille
From the bustling Marseille, this day trip whisks travelers away to the charming perched villages of the Luberon region. Over 11.5 hours, visitors explore Gordes, L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Roussillon, Lourmarin, Fontaine de Vaucluse, and Apt, if visiting on a Saturday.
The tour starts at 8 AM from the Radisson Blu Hotel, with a maximum of 8 travelers per group. Highlights include browsing the weekly markets, admiring the stunning views of Gordes, and strolling along the riverside in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue.
In Roussillon, travelers can marvel at the vibrant ochre cliffs, while Lourmarin offers a Renaissance castle and a lunch stop. The tour also includes a photo opportunity at the picturesque Sénanque Abbey during the lavender bloom season.
While entrance fees are covered, lunch and drinks are at the travelers’ own expense. The tour receives positive reviews for its knowledgeable guides and the charming villages visited, although some guests note concerns about itinerary changes and time management.
Read our full review: Market & Perched Villages of the Luberon Day Trip From Marseille Review
Book now: Check availability
Marseille: Noailles District and Market Guided Walking Tour
Visitors to Marseille can enjoy the vibrant culture and rich history of the Noailles district through a guided walking tour. This 2-hour activity takes participants on an exploration of the neighborhood, including its exotic spice market and oldest stores.
The tour is available in multiple languages, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers. Participants will learn about Mediterranean cultures and local history, and discover the origins of France’s national anthem and the first cinema.
They’ll have the opportunity to browse specialty food stores and handcrafted goods, taking in the scents and sounds of the diverse culinary traditions in the area. The tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s not suitable for children under 4 or those with mobility impairments.
With flexible payment options and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Noailles District and Market Guided Walking Tour is a convenient and engaging way to experience Marseille’s vibrant shopping scene.
Read our full review: Marseille: Noailles District and Market Guided Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Avignon Palace of the Popes, Food Market & Isle Sur La Sorgue
This private tour from Marseille takes visitors to explore the rich history and charming countryside of Provence.
The tour includes a visit to historic Avignon, home to the Palace of the Popes, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Travelers will also experience the traditional villages and the Vaucluse region, which boasts Europe’s largest natural spring.
One of the highlights is l’Isle sur la Sorgue, a 12th-century settlement known for its antique dealers.
Throughout the tour, guests will travel in an air-conditioned vehicle and enjoy free bottled water. The tour lasts 8 hours, with a scheduled lunch break.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and allows service animals.
Priced at $398.56 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a lowest price guarantee with options to reserve now and pay later.
Read our full review: Avignon Palace of the Popes, Food Market & Isle Sur La Sorgue Review
Book now: Check availability
Marseille: Christmas Market Walking Tour
Enjoy the enchanting atmosphere of Marseille’s Christmas market as you embark on this 1.5-hour walking tour.
Priced at €275.00 for a private group of up to 15 participants, this English-language experience takes you to the Quai de la Fraternité in the Vieux-Port, where around 80 wooden stalls showcase Marseille soap, regional handicrafts, glass and ceramic gifts, jewelry, toys, candles, and Christmas decorations.
Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy the festive ambiance and have the opportunity to savor the flavors of the season at local bars and restaurants.
Marvel at the beautiful lights and decorations adorning the Old Port, and see the Christmas trees and fair of typical Provençal clay figurines.
The tour also includes a guided visit and the possibility of customization.
With a free cancellation policy and no upfront payment required, this Christmas market walking tour is a convenient and enchanting way to discover Marseille’s holiday offerings.
Read our full review: Marseille: Christmas Market Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Noailles: a Mixed Neighborhood and Its Exotic Market
Nestled within Marseille’s diverse tapestry, the neighborhood of Noailles offers visitors a captivating blend of cultures and traditions.
The “Noailles: a Mixed Neighborhood and Its Exotic Market” tour, operated by Planetazur, provides an immersive glimpse into this vibrant area.
For $21.26 per person, you’ll embark on a walking tour led by the knowledgeable guide, Ezekial (E.Z.), who’ll share insights into the history and diversity of the neighborhood.
The tour can accommodate up to 15 travelers and can be booked with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
While the tour isn’t primarily focused on the market for shopping or food, it does offer a chance to explore the unique sights, sounds, and aromas of this exotic destination.
The meeting point is at 40 La Canebière, and the tour returns to the same location.
Although the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.
Guests are asked to agree to the authorization of photo publication for sustainable tourism promotion on social media.
Read our full review: Noailles: a Mixed Neighborhood and Its Exotic Market Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Marseille offers a variety of shopping tours showcasing the city’s diverse markets and unique neighborhoods. From the bustling Noailles District to the charming Luberon villages, these tours provide an immersive experience of the local culture and cuisine. Whether you’re seeking traditional crafts, seasonal delicacies, or a glimpse into Marseille’s vibrant community, these shopping tours cater to a range of interests and preferences.