Marseille Shore Excursion: City Sightseeing Tour of Marseille
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover the highlights of Marseille on this half-day guided tour. Begin with a visit to the Old Port and the historic city center, where Marseille’s rich past meets its vibrant present.
Continue to the majestic Palais Longchamp, inaugurated in 1869 to celebrate the arrival of water from the Durance River. Its impressive architecture and lush gardens make it a must-see landmark.
Next, ascend to the iconic Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde—affectionately known as La Bonne Mère. Built in 1864 in a striking Roman-Byzantine style, the basilica offers panoramic views over the city and coastline from its hilltop perch.
End your tour with a scenic stop overlooking the legendary Château d’If, made famous by The Count of Monte Cristo, before returning to your cruise terminal or accommodation.
Important Information:
This tour is available for both small and large groups (1 to 40 people).
Available options
Marseille Shore Excursion: City Sightseeing Small Group Tour of Marseille
Hotel Pick up
Duration: 4 hours<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Driver/guide
Transport by air-conditioned minivan/Bus
Port pickup and drop-off
Fuel surcharge
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Notre-Dame de la Garde (literally: Our Lady of the Guard) is a Catholic basilica in Marseille, France, and the city's best-known symbol. The site of a popular Assumption Day pilgrimage, it is the most visited site in Marseille
2
Stop 2
The Palais Longchamp is a monument in the 4th arrondissement of Marseille, France. It houses the Musée des beaux-arts and Muséum d'histoire naturelle de Marseille. The surrounding Longchamp Park (French: Parc Longchamp) is listed by the French Ministry of Culture as one of the Notable Gardens of France.
3
Stop 3
Monaster from the 5th center
4
The oldest bakery in Marseille 1781 to Learn about our local speciality Navette Biscuit
5
Porte d'Aix (also known as the Porte Royale) is a triumphal arch in Marseille, in the south of France, marking the old entry point to the city on the road from Aix-en-Provence.
6
Stop 6
Free Time ,explore by your own the city center of Marseille
What's not included
Food and drinks
Lunch
Gratuities
Tips
Available languages
Audio guide
DE
CMN
IT
FR
ES
Guide guide
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.1
186 reviews
5★
104
4★
29
3★
26
2★
13
1★
14
Tripadvisor
4.4
126 reviews
5★
95
4★
11
3★
5
2★
2
1★
13
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
At time of booking, Cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time
A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated providing the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them board and disembark
Meeting point
depending on where your ship is docked.
Upon disembarking, please follow the green line on the floor leading to the exit. Once outside, continue walking until you see a small gray building on the left.
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
