Marseille Private Tour - Highlights & Hidden Gems with a Local

Marseille , France

Marseille Private Tour - Highlights & Hidden Gems with a Local

Active

2h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore Marseille through a local lens on this private walking tour designed entirely around you. Begin at the Old Port before winding through the colorful backstreets of Le Panier, climbing toward Notre-Dame de la Garde for sweeping city views, and slipping into lively markets or quiet courtyards. With your host shaping the day to match your pace and interests, you will experience a perfect balance of Marseille’s iconic highlights and authentic, tucked-away corners, ending with sea views along the Corniche.

-A fully personalized walking tour of Marseille with a local host
- See iconic sights such as the Vieux-Port and Notre-Dame de la Garde
- Discover Le Panier’s painted staircases, artisan shops, and cafés
- Explore markets, courtyards, and neighborhoods off the beaten path
- End with sea views along Marseille’s Corniche or Vallon des Auffes

Available options

Marseille Walking Tour - 3hour

Duration: 3 hours<br/>Pickup included

Marseille Walking Tour - 6hour

Duration: 6 hours<br/>Pickup included

Marseille Walking Tour - 2hour

Duration: 2 hours<br/>Pickup included

Marseille Walking Tour - 4hour

Duration: 4 hours<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Flexible durations and start times—choose your preferred time when booking

Hotel pickup can be arranged from any centrally located hotel

Pre-tour questionnaire to tailor the experience to your preferences

Private and personalized walking experience with insider tips from a passionate local

Direct communication with your host for itinerary planning and local recommendations

Detailed itinerary

With your local host, this private experience flows at your pace, balancing major landmarks with hidden corners. After booking, your host will reach out to tailor the route to your interests. Here’s a sample of what you might explore:

Begin at Marseille’s vibrant harbor, where fishing boats, ferries, and waterfront cafés set the tone. Your host will share stories from the city’s seafaring past as you take in the lively rhythm of this historic setting.

Step into Marseille’s oldest neighborhood, a maze of painted staircases, colorful façades, and quiet courtyards. Explore artisan workshops and local cafés that reflect the area’s creative spirit.

Make your way up to the city’s most iconic landmark. Along the ascent, your host will point out panoramic viewpoints and sailor traditions associated with the basilica before reaching sweeping views of Marseille and the sea.

Immerse yourself in Marseille’s daily life at this vibrant market. Depending on the day, you may see stalls overflowing with spices, fresh produce, and street food, all reflecting the city’s Mediterranean and multicultural roots.

Enjoy a scenic seaside walk along the Corniche, where the Mediterranean coastline offers a calmer side of the city. It’s a great spot for fresh air, relaxed moments, and photo opportunities.

Stop 7 Pass by

Conclude your experience in this hidden fishing port beneath the Corniche. With its colorful boats and peaceful waters, it’s a beloved local place to pause, reflect, and enjoy serene sea views.

What's not included

Food, drinks and tickets to any attractions

Transportation (primarily a walking experience, public transport may be used at an additional cost)

Gratuities (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

After booking, you'll receive a short questionnaire to share your interests, preferences, and must-sees. Your guide will personally reach out to craft a fully customized itinerary that suits your style—whether you love history, food, hidden gems, or cultural experiences.

This private tour is a walking experience. A private vehicle is not included.

Public transportation or local taxis may be used to transfer between sites. Exact transportation costs can be discussed with your host after your reservation is finalized.

Meeting point

Your host will meet you under the mirrored canopy at the Vieux-Port, Marseille’s bustling harbor and a central starting point for exploring the city. This is a great central point to meet your host if your hotel is not listed.

Important notes

Once you've booked your experience, your local host will personally reach out to tailor the adventure to your interests. Whether you're seeking authentic food spots, cultural insights, or hidden gems, we ensure your journey is immersive, personalized, and uniquely yours, transforming your tour into a meaningful connection with the city.

About Marseille

Marseille, the oldest city in France, is a vibrant port city known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning Mediterranean coastline. With its bustling Vieux Port, historic architecture, and nearby Calanques National Park, Marseille offers a unique blend of urban and natural attractions.

Top Attractions

Vieux Port (Old Port)

The heart of Marseille, the Vieux Port is a bustling harbor surrounded by restaurants, cafes, and shops. It's a great place to start your exploration of the city.

Historical 1-2 hours Free to explore

Calanques National Park

A stunning coastal park with turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and hidden beaches. Perfect for hiking, swimming, and kayaking.

Nature Half-day to full day Free entry

Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde

A iconic basilica offering panoramic views of Marseille. A symbol of the city and a must-visit for its architecture and views.

Religious 1-2 hours Free entry

MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations)

A modern museum exploring the history and culture of the Mediterranean region. The building itself is an architectural marvel.

Museum 2-3 hours €11 for full access

Château d'If

A historic fortress and prison, made famous by Alexandre Dumas' novel 'The Count of Monte Cristo'. Accessible only by boat.

Historical Half-day €10 for the boat and entry

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bouillabaisse

A traditional Provençal fish stew made with various types of fish and shellfish, served with rouille and toasted bread.

Dinner Contains seafood, gluten (in the bread)

Navettes

Small, orange-blossom flavored biscuits shaped like boats, a specialty of Marseille.

Snack Vegetarian, contains gluten

Tapenade

A spread made from olives, capers, and anchovies, typically served with bread or crackers.

Appetizer Vegetarian option available (without anchovies)

Popular Activities

Hiking in Calanques National Park Kayaking in the Mediterranean Scuba diving at the Riou Islands Sunbathing at Plage des Catalans Spa treatments at a luxury hotel Strolling along the Vieux Port Visiting museums and galleries Attending a performance at the Grand Théâtre de Marseille

Best Time to Visit

June to September

This is the best time to visit Marseille for beach activities and outdoor exploration. The weather is warm, and the city is lively with festivals and events.

20°C to 30°C 68°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: French
Widely spoken: English, Arabic, Italian
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Marseille is generally safe for tourists, but like any large city, it has its share of petty crime. Exercise caution, especially in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.

Getting there

By air

Marseille Provence Airport • 25 km from city center

By train

Marseille Saint-Charles

By bus

Gare Routière Saint-Charles

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is efficient and easy to use, with two lines connecting key destinations.

Taxis

Available • Apps: G7, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Le Panier La Canebière Cours Julien

Day trips

Aix-en-Provence

30 km • Half-day to full day

A charming university town known for its elegant architecture, vibrant markets, and proximity to the Luberon region.

Cassis

25 km • Full day

A picturesque coastal town known for its stunning calanques, white cliffs, and vibrant port. Ideal for swimming, hiking, and boat tours.

Arles

80 km • Full day

A historic town with Roman ruins, medieval architecture, and a rich artistic heritage. Arles is known for its connections to Vincent van Gogh.

Festivals

Fête de la Musique • June 21 Marseille Jazz Festival • July Festival de Marseille • June to July

Pro tips

Visit the Calanques early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photography.
Take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Provençal dishes like bouillabaisse and tapenade.
Explore the city's street art scene in the Cours Julien and Panier neighborhoods.
Try local specialties like navettes, panisse, and socca at the markets and street food stalls.
Take a boat tour to the Château d'If for a unique perspective on the city and its history.