Fleet of black Mercedes vehicles parked at Marseille cruise port with large cruise ship in background
Aerial view of Marseille's Vieux-Port harbor with boats, colorful buildings, and Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica
Turquoise waters of Cassis calanques with white limestone cliffs and pine trees, French Riviera

Marseille, France

Private Tour: Aix, Marseille and Cassis Shore Excursion

8 hoursMin 1 guests
Duration8 Hours
Group SizePrivate Group
Starts AtYour Cruise Ship Port
LanguagesEnglish, Spanish, French, Italian
Private Shore Excursion

Aix-en-Provence, Marseille, and Cassis: Private Driver Guide Day Tour

Three iconic Provencal destinations, one seamless private journey from the port.


This private shore excursion from Marseille brings together three of southern France's most celebrated destinations in a single, expertly guided day. From the sun-drenched boulevards of Aix-en-Provence to the dramatic sea cliffs above Cassis, each stop delivers a distinct and memorable experience. A dedicated private driver guide accompanies you throughout, ensuring the itinerary adapts to your pace and interests.

Aix-en-Provence rewards visitors with a beautifully preserved old town, a lively Provencal market culture, and deep connections to the painter Paul Cezanne. The city's grand avenues, hidden passages, and cathedral architecture offer a compelling introduction to the art and history of the region. Marseille, France's oldest city, provides a sharp and energetic contrast, with its ancient port, hilltop basilica, and vibrant street life.

Cassis rounds out the day with coastal scenery that is difficult to match anywhere in the Mediterranean. The natural inlets known as the Calanques draw visitors for their turquoise waters and limestone cliffs, while the port village itself invites a relaxed pace. Together, these three destinations offer a well-balanced portrait of Provence and the French Riviera.

Because this is a private tour, your group travels in a dedicated, comfortable vehicle with no shared itinerary constraints. Your guide brings local knowledge and flexibility to each visit, whether you prefer lingering over architecture or seeking out local flavors at a market stall.

Tour Highlights

Walk the elegant Cours Mirabeau in Aix-en-Provence and discover the iconic Rotonde Fountain at the heart of the city.

Visit the Saint Sauveur Cathedral in Aix, a remarkable blend of Gothic and Romanesque architecture spanning many centuries.

Admire panoramic views of Marseille and the Mediterranean Sea from the hilltop Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica.

Explore Marseille's Old Port, where historic maritime heritage meets a lively waterfront atmosphere and fresh seafood.

Take in the breathtaking views from Cap Canaille above Cassis, one of the highest sea cliffs in France.

Discover the legendary Calanques of Cassis by boat, exploring dramatic limestone inlets with brilliant turquoise waters.

Benefit from a fully private and flexible itinerary, guided by a knowledgeable local driver guide throughout the entire day.

Itinerary Overview

1
Departure from Your Ship

Your private driver guide meets you directly at the cruise port. The vehicle is comfortable and exclusively reserved for your group, allowing you to set off without delay toward the first destination.

2
Aix-en-Provence

Arrive in Aix and explore the Rotonde Fountain, the Cours Mirabeau, Albertas Square, and the historic Town Hall Square. Your guide leads you through the winding lanes of the old town and can arrange visits to local artists' workshops or Provencal market stalls depending on your interests.

3
Saint Sauveur Cathedral and Arts Quarter

A dedicated stop at the Saint Sauveur Cathedral allows time to appreciate its layered architectural history. The surrounding arts quarter reflects Aix's enduring connection to Paul Cezanne and the broader Provencal painting tradition.

4
Marseille City and the Old Port

Drive into Marseille and visit the Old Port, where fishing vessels and leisure yachts share the waterfront against a backdrop of historic quays. A stop at Notre-Dame de la Garde offers sweeping views over the city and coastline.

5
Cassis and Cap Canaille

Arrive in the village of Cassis and take in the views from Cap Canaille before descending to the port. An optional boat tour of the Calanques provides close access to the coastal inlets that make this area one of Provence's most visited natural sites.

6
Return to Port

Your driver guide returns you to the cruise ship port in time for embarkation. The return route and timing are managed to ensure a stress-free end to the day.

What Is Included

Included

  • Private driver guide for the full 8-hour excursion
  • Luxury private transportation throughout
  • Guided walking tour of Aix-en-Provence old town
  • Stop at Notre-Dame de la Garde in Marseille
  • Visit to Cassis port and Cap Canaille viewpoint
  • Flexible itinerary adapted to group preferences

Not Included

  • Meals and beverages
  • Optional boat tour of the Calanques (local cost)
  • Museum or cathedral entrance fees
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Gratuities for the guide

Important Information

This is a private shore excursion. Please provide your ship name and expected return time at booking so your guide can plan accordingly.
Duration
Approximately 8 hours, including all three destinations and travel between them.
Meeting Point
Your private driver guide will meet you at the cruise ship terminal. Exact meeting details are confirmed after booking.
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a light layer for cooler interiors such as the cathedral. Bring cash for any optional purchases or boat tours.
Cancellation
Please review the cancellation policy at the time of booking. Private tours often require advance notice for a full refund.
Accessibility
The tour involves moderate walking on cobblestone surfaces in Aix and Cassis. Guests with mobility concerns should contact us before booking to discuss adjustments.
Age Range
Suitable for all ages. The private format makes it easy to adapt the pace and activities for families traveling with children or older adults.

Reserve Your Private Shore Excursion

Secure your private guided day tour through Aix-en-Provence, Marseille, and Cassis. Places are limited to your group only, so book early to confirm availability for your port call date.

Book Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does this shore excursion begin and end?
The excursion begins and ends at your cruise ship terminal in Marseille. Your private driver guide will meet you dockside and return you before your ship's departure.
Is the Calanques boat tour included in the price?
The boat tour of the Calanques is optional and is not included in the base tour price. It can be arranged locally in Cassis at an additional cost, subject to availability on the day.
Can the itinerary be adjusted to spend more time in one city?
Yes. Because this is a fully private tour, your driver guide can adapt the time spent at each destination based on your preferences. Discuss any specific interests at the start of the day.
Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
The old towns of Aix and Cassis include uneven cobblestone surfaces, which may present challenges for travelers with limited mobility. Contact the operator before booking to discuss possible adaptations to the route.
What happens if my ship is delayed and I arrive late to port?
Your private driver guide will monitor the ship's schedule and adjust the meeting time accordingly. It is recommended to provide your ship name and voyage details at the time of booking so the operator can track any changes.
Are entrance fees for sites like Saint Sauveur Cathedral included?
Entrance fees for museums, cathedrals, and paid attractions are not included in the tour price. Your guide can advise which sites have entry costs and help you prioritize based on your available time.
Shore Excursion MarseillePrivate Tour ProvenceAix-en-Provence Day TripCassis CalanquesMarseille Old PortNotre-Dame de la GardeCruise Port TourDriver Guide FranceProvencal CultureCap CanailleFrench Riviera TourCezanne Aix
Last updated: June 2025 | Product ID: shore-excursion-aix-marseille-cassis-private

Activity

Availability

You can book up to the start time, as long as there are places remaining. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Additional Information

Physical: Wheelchair Not accessible

Duration

8 hours

Languages

English - Speaking Guide

Spanish - Speaking Guide

French - Speaking Guide

Italian - Speaking Guide

Additional Information

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Cancellation Policy

Select Date

Meeting Point

Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.

Activity Site

Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.

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