Small Group Marseille Shore Excursion: Marseille And Aix-en-Provence

Embark on an unforgettable small group tour that showcases the best of Marseille and Aix-en-Provence. Explore Marseille’s vibrant city center, marveling at the iconic Vieux Port and the grand Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde. Then, venture to the charming Aix-en-Provence, where you’ll wander through picturesque streets lined with 17th and 18th-century buildings, discover lively squares, and learn about the city’s captivating atmosphere. But the adventure doesn’t stop there – prepare to be enchanted by the stunning Provençal countryside, where rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves, and fragrant lavender fields await. This small group tour offers a unique opportunity to uncover the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of this remarkable region.

Key Points

Explore Marseille’s vibrant city center, including the iconic Vieux Port, Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, and the historic Le Panier neighborhood.
Admire Marseille’s historic architecture, such as the impressive Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde and the well-preserved 17th and 18th-century buildings.
Experience the charming atmosphere of Aix-en-Provence, with its picturesque streets, vibrant squares, and bustling open-air markets.
Discover the picturesque 17th and 18th-century architecture and the stunning Cathedrale Saint-Sauveur in Aix-en-Provence.
Immerse in the stunning Provençal countryside, with its rolling hills, vibrant vineyards, ancient olive groves, and fragrant lavender fields.

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Exploring Marseille’s Vibrant City Center

The tour begins with a visit to Marseille’s vibrant city center, where travelers can admire the iconic Vieux Port (Old Port) and its bustling waterfront lined with lively cafes, seafood restaurants, and local vendors selling fresh produce and handicrafts.

Nearby, the impressive Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde stands atop a hill, offering stunning panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.

The guide will lead the group through the narrow streets of the historic Le Panier neighborhood, showcasing the charming architecture, quaint shops, and local artisan studios.

Visitors can soak in the lively atmosphere and get a taste of Marseille’s rich cultural heritage.

Admiring Marseille’s Historic Architecture

After exploring the vibrant city center, the tour then leads visitors to admire Marseille’s historic architecture.

Travelers will marvel at the impressive Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, an iconic landmark perched atop a hill that offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.

The group will also visit the historic Vieux-Port, or Old Port, which has been the heart of Marseille for centuries. Here, they’ll see the iconic Fort Saint-Jean and the Palais de la Bourse, both impressive examples of Marseille’s rich architectural heritage.

Throughout the tour, the knowledgeable guide will provide insights into the city’s history and the significance of its architectural landmarks.

Discovering Aix-en-Provence’s Charming Atmosphere

Discovering Aix-en-Provence’s charming atmosphere, the tour then transitions to the historic city of Aix-en-Provence, known for its vibrant squares, elegant fountains, and bustling open-air markets.

Visitors wander the picturesque streets, admiring the well-preserved 17th and 18th-century architecture and soaking in the city’s leisurely pace and refined ambiance.

The guide leads the group through the Cours Mirabeau, a grand tree-lined boulevard lined with cafes, boutiques, and the iconic Fontaine des Quatre-Dauphins.

Guests have time to explore the city’s renowned weekly markets, perusing stalls brimming with local produce, handicrafts, and Provençal specialties.

The tour concludes with a visit to the Cathedrale Saint-Sauveur, a Romanesque-Gothic cathedral known for its impressive facade and ornate interior.

Strolling Through Aix-en-Provence’s Picturesque Streets

Visitors can’t help but admire Aix-en-Provence’s picturesque streets, lined with quaint 17th and 18th-century buildings and bustling with locals and travelers alike.

As you stroll through the Old Town, you’ll discover charming squares, like the Cours Mirabeau, with its tree-lined promenades and lively cafes. Stop to browse the colorful local markets, where you can find fresh produce, artisanal crafts, and regional delicacies.

The Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur is a must-see, with its striking mix of architectural styles, from Romanesque to Gothic. Nearby, the Hôtel de Ville, or town hall, impresses with its ornate facade.

Throughout your exploration, you’ll be captivated by Aix-en-Provence’s timeless elegance and vibrant atmosphere.

Experiencing Provence’s Stunning Countryside

As the shore excursion departs Marseille, the coach winds through Provence’s picturesque countryside, offering glimpses of rolling hills, vibrant vineyards, and charming hilltop villages.

The lush landscape is dotted with ancient olive groves and fragrant lavender fields, a feast for the senses.

Along the way, the guide points out historical landmarks and shares insights into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Passengers gaze out the window, captivated by the idyllic scenery that epitomizes the Provençal way of life.

The tranquil drive provides a peaceful contrast to the bustling energy of Marseille, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the natural beauty of this beloved corner of France.

Highlights of the Small Group Tour

The small group tour kicks off with a visit to Marseille’s iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica, perched atop the highest natural point in the city and offering panoramic views over the harbor and Mediterranean Sea.

Next, guests will explore the lively Old Port, strolling along the waterfront and admiring the historic buildings and bustling markets.

The tour then ventures to Aix-en-Provence, a charming university town known for its tree-lined boulevards, historic fountains, and vibrant cafes.

Visitors will have the opportunity to wander the narrow streets, admire the Baroque architecture, and soak up the lively atmosphere of this picturesque Provençal city.

Cruise Ship Passenger Considerations

For cruise ship passengers, the tour company provides a worry-free shore excursion guarantee, ensuring a seamless experience from port pickup to drop-off. Passengers must provide their ship details at the time of booking to secure their spot on the tour. The tour may be multi-lingual, accommodating a diverse group of travelers. However, the tour is not wheelchair accessible, and children under 4 are not allowed.

Inclusions	Exclusions
Port pickup and drop-off	Lunch, food, and drinks
Air-conditioned vehicle transportation	Hotel pick-up/drop-off
Local guide

The order of visits can change, and the tour company is not responsible if the cruise ship cancels the port stop. The shore excursion offers a hassle-free way for cruise passengers to explore the highlights of Marseille and Aix-en-Provence.

Tour Meeting Point and Directions

The tour meets at the Port de Marseille Fos – Porte 4 – Accès croisière & marchandises, located at 13015 Chem. du Littoral, 13015 Marseille, France. Cruise ship passengers can easily find this meeting point as it’s directly accessible from the cruise terminal.

The location is conveniently situated, making it a straightforward starting point for the shore excursion.

Passengers will be met by the local guide, who’ll be holding a sign to identify the tour group.

Once everyone has arrived, the group will depart in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle to begin the day’s exploration of Marseille and Aix-en-Provence.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Available for Non-Cruise Ship Passengers?

No, the tour is only available for cruise ship passengers. The tour details specify that it is a "Shore Excursion" and "Tour available for cruise passengers only". Non-cruise passengers cannot book this particular tour.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Individual Preferences?

The tour is not customizable to individual preferences. It’s a pre-arranged small group shore excursion strictly for cruise ship passengers. The order of visits and itinerary are fixed, and there’s no option to personalize the tour.

Is There an Option for Hotel Pickup and Drop-Off?

Unfortunately, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included in this tour. The tour only offers port pickup and drop-off for cruise ship passengers. It does not provide transportation from or to hotels in the area.

Can the Tour Be Booked for a Private Group?

This tour can be booked for a private group, though hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. The excursion is limited to cruise ship passengers and takes place in an air-conditioned vehicle with a local guide.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer discounts for children or seniors. The inclusions cover port pickup/drop-off, transportation, and a local guide, but food, drinks, and hotel transfers are additional costs. The tour is only available for cruise ship passengers.

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Recap

This small group shore excursion offers a well-rounded experience, allowing visitors to explore the vibrant city centers of Marseille and Aix-en-Provence, admire their historic architecture.

It also allows visitors to venture into the stunning Provençal countryside.

With convenient cruise ship pickup and drop-off, this tour provides an efficient and comprehensive way to make the most of your time in the region.