Architectural Marseille: Private Tour with a Local Expert

Marseille , France

Architectural Marseille: Private Tour with a Local Expert

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Join a Local Expert for a two-hour exclusive journey through Marseille's architecture, a can't-miss experience where historic heritage meets modern design, and every building tells a story of style and time.

• Enjoy a private and intimate tour, exclusively for your group.
• Discover Marseille’s iconic architecture with the guidance of a Local Expert.
• Uncover how Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde has shaped Marseille's skyline.
• Experience a personalised tour, tailored to your interests.
• Get curated recommendations for further city discovery.

Experience the evolving face of Marseille's horizon, a visual journey of its historical evolution and modern growth.

Available options

Group 9-12 people

Group 3-4 people

Group 5-8 people

Group 1-2 people

What's included

Exclusive Private Tour

Tailored Itinerary

Local Expert Guide

Detailed itinerary

Visit La Major, an iconic cathedral known for its grand size and exquisite Byzantine architecture, a masterpiece on Marseille's skyline.

Discover Mucem, a gateway to Mediterranean cultures with striking modern architecture juxtaposed against ancient ruins.

Experience luxury at Hôtel Dieu, a beautifully restored historical hospital now serving as a premium hotel with spectacular views of the city.

Climb to Notre-Dame de la Garde, revered for its opulent interiors and panoramic views over Marseille from the city's highest point.

Explore the Préfecture district, the administrative heart of Marseille, offering a blend of bustling city life and stately government buildings.

What's not included

Personal Expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Important information

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

This tour is hosted by an independent local.

This is an exclusive private tour.

The itinerary adapts to travellers' interests and walking pace.

Stops may vary depending on weather conditions.

Entry tickets for transportation, museums, and monuments excluded.

Guests with impaired mobility.

Meeting point

We will meet at the main entrance to the Cathédrale Le Major for an exploration of Marseille's architectural marvels.

Important notes

Your Local Expert will reach out to you at least 48 hours before the experience to confirm the meeting location and discuss any further details.

The itinerary and stops may vary depending on the wish of the travellers and the walking pace as well as the weather.

This is a walking tour showcasing city highlights and does not include entry tickets to public transportation, monuments or attractions.

Have your ticket with you to show the Local at the beginning of the Experience.

Please arrive 15 min before the start of the experience. The experience starts on time and for organisational reasons there can be no waiting.

Experience is performed by a Local Host. Local Hosts have in-depth knowledge and offer authentic insights into their city or area. Localbini.com is the leading platform that connects travellers with locals offering authentic city experiences.

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.