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

This shore excursion from Marseille offers a well-organized guided tour of Provence’s picturesque countryside and historical towns. Travelers can explore landmarks like the Basilica of Notre Dame and Château d’If in Marseille, as well as wander the charming squares, markets, and fountains of Aix-en-Provence. With insights into the region’s history and culture provided by a local guide, and the convenience of port pickup and drop-off, this experience promises a seamless and worry-free day for cruise passengers. But the true highlight may lie in discovering the unique character and allure of these Provençal gems.

Key Points

• This full-day shore excursion from Marseille offers a guided tour of the picturesque countryside and historical towns of Provence.
• The tour includes visits to iconic landmarks like the Basilica of Notre Dame and Château d’If in Marseille.
• Guests will have free time to explore the charming squares, markets, and fountains of the town of Aix-en-Provence.
• The tour is led by a knowledgeable local guide who provides insights into the region’s history and culture.
• The excursion includes port pickup and drop-off, as well as transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a worry-free experience.

Tour Overview

This full-day shore excursion from Marseilles takes visitors on a guided tour through Provence’s picturesque countryside and historical towns of Marseille and Aix-en-Provence.

In Marseille, you’ll explore landmarks like the Basilica of Notre Dame and the Château d’If.

Then, you’ll enjoy free time to wander the squares, markets, and fountains of Aix-en-Provence.

Throughout the tour, a local guide will provide insights into the region’s history and culture.

The tour includes port pickup and drop-off, as well as transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

It’s a worry-free shore excursion guaranteed for cruise passengers, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience exploring the highlights of Provence.

Inclusions

The tour includes port pickup and drop-off, as well as transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

It also provides a Worry-Free Shore Excursion Guarantee, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for cruise passengers.

This full-day shore excursion from Marseilles takes guests on a journey to explore the countryside and historical towns of Provence with a local guide.

Highlights include seeing landmarks like the Basilica of Notre Dame and Château d’If in Marseille, as well as enjoying free time to discover the squares, markets, and fountains of Aix-en-Provence.

The tour is available exclusively for cruise ship passengers, providing a convenient and efficient way to make the most of their time in this beautiful region.

Meeting and Pickup

Guests meet the tour guide at the exit of the ship/cruise terminal in Port de Marseille Fos – Porte 4 – Accès croisière & marchandises, where they’ll wait for the start of the excursion.

The meeting point is conveniently located right at the port, making it easy for cruise passengers to find and join the tour.

The guide will be there to greet the group and ensure a smooth start to the day’s activities.

Once everyone has gathered, the tour will depart by air-conditioned vehicle to explore the highlights of Marseille and Aix-en-Provence.

This efficient pickup process sets the tone for a well-organized and enjoyable shore excursion.

Additional Information

Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and the tour may be operated by a multi-lingual guide. Children under 4 aren’t allowed to join the excursion, and the order of visits can change.

Cruise ship passengers must provide their ship details when booking the tour. Should the cruise ship cancel the stop over less than 24 hours before the tour, travelers will be responsible.

The maximum group size is 8 travelers.

This small-group shore excursion offers several advantages:

• Worry-Free Shore Excursion Guarantee, ensuring a stress-free experience
• Air-conditioned vehicle transportation for comfort and convenience
• Port pickup and drop-off, eliminating the need for additional transportation

Marseille Highlights

First, visitors explore Marseille’s iconic Basilica of Notre Dame, a stunning 19th-century Romanesque-Byzantine cathedral perched atop the city’s highest point, offering breathtaking views over the harbor.

The tour then takes guests to the legendary Château d’If, a former island prison made famous by Alexandre Dumas’ novel The Count of Monte Cristo. Visitors can wander the fortress’s eerie dungeons and corridors, imagining the lives of its infamous inmates.

Throughout the excursion, the local guide shares captivating stories and historical insights, bringing Marseille’s rich heritage to life. With its diverse landmarks and captivating narratives, this shore excursion immerses travelers in the vibrant culture and storied past of France’s oldest city.

Aix-en-Provence Exploration

The tour then escorts visitors to the picturesque town of Aix-en-Provence, where they can explore the charming squares, lively markets, and ornate fountains at their own pace. Travelers wander through the old town’s narrow, tree-lined streets, admiring the elegant 17th and 18th-century architecture that defines the city’s distinctive Provençal character. Along the way, they may stumble upon local artisans and cafes, offering a glimpse into the town’s vibrant arts and culinary scene.

Some highlights of Aix-en-Provence include:

• The Cours Mirabeau, a grand tree-lined boulevard with 17th-century mansions and the iconic Fontaine des Quatre-Dauphins
• The weekly open-air markets, featuring local produce, handicrafts, and Provençal specialties
• The Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur, a Romanesque-Gothic cathedral known for its ornate façade and impressive interior

Guaranteed Shore Excursion

This shore excursion offers a worry-free guarantee, ensuring cruise passengers can explore Marseille and Aix-en-Provence with confidence.

The tour provides port pickup and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and a knowledgeable local guide to lead the way.

Cruise ship details must be provided at booking, and the tour may be operated by a multi-lingual guide.

With a maximum of 8 travelers, this small group experience allows for a more personalized and intimate exploration of the region’s landmarks and charming towns.

Guests can also enjoy free time to wander the squares, markets, and fountains of Aix-en-Provence at their own pace.

This shore excursion is exclusively available to cruise passengers.

Customer Reviews

Cruise passengers have overwhelmingly praised this shore excursion, awarding it a Badge of Excellence for Marseille, France based on 56 reviews. Travelers consistently highlighted the knowledgeable and engaging local guides who brought the history and culture of the region to life.

Many noted the seamless logistics, from punctual port pickup to the well-paced itinerary.

Guests appreciated the perfect balance of guided exploration and free time to wander Marseille’s historic landmarks and Aix-en-Provence’s charming squares at their own pace.

Several reviewers remarked on the comfortable air-conditioned transportation, which made the day trip comfortable and stress-free.

The Worry-Free Shore Excursion Guarantee gave participants peace of mind, ensuring the tour wouldn’t be impacted by any last-minute cruise schedule changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is 8 travelers. According to the additional information provided, the tour has a maximum of 8 travelers. The tour may be operated by a multi-lingual guide.

Will the Tour Guide Speak English?

The tour guide may speak multiple languages, including English, as the tour may be operated by a multi-lingual guide. Cruise passengers should confirm the languages spoken when booking the tour.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour description states that children under 4 are also not permitted, indicating the tour is not suitable for bringing any non-human companions. Participants must follow the tour guidelines.

Are There Any Restrictions on Luggage?

The tour has no explicit restrictions on luggage, but participants should bring only what they can comfortably carry. Larger bags or suitcases may be difficult to manage during the excursion. It’s best to pack lightly for convenience and mobility.

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead?

Yes, you can request a private tour. The tour operator typically offers private tours for an additional fee, which allows you to have a more personalized experience with a dedicated guide.

Recap

This Marseille shore excursion offers a well-rounded experience, allowing visitors to explore the historic city of Marseille and the charming town of Aix-en-Provence.

With a knowledgeable local guide, transportation, and a worry-free guarantee, it’s a convenient and informative way for cruise passengers to discover the highlights of Provence’s culture and heritage.

The small group size ensures a personalized tour, making it a great choice for those seeking an authentic and memorable shore excursion.