Marseille Shore Excursion: Private Marseille and Cassis Tour

While in port in Marseille, experience two highlights of the French Riviera, Marseille and Cassis, on a private shore excursion. Your guide will take you along the stunning Route des Crêtes before stopping for views of the Côte d'Azur from Cape Canailles. Spend time exploring Cassis or take a sightseeing cruise on the Mediterranean of the 'fjords of the French Riviera.' Then return to Marseille for a sightseeing tour of top Marseille attractions like Notre-Dame de la Garde and Abbey of St. Victor while learning about their history from your guide.

When your cruise ship docks at the Marseille port, your guide will meet you to take you on your shore excursion: a private tour of Marseille and Cassis. Traveling by luxury minivan, head south along the scenic Route des Crêtes to the nearby seaside town of Cassis. Stop along the way to admire sweeping coastal views of the Gulf of Cassis from Cape Canaille, the spectacular headland that sits atop France’s highest sea cliffs.

Walk around Cassis' pretty harbor, lined with colorful houses typical of the fishing villages of Provence. You can choose to spend time exploring the village or taking a 45-minute sightseeing boat cruise (own expense). This cruise takes you along the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean to three of the area’s magnificent calanques – the striking limestone rock formations that comprise the so-called ‘fjords of the French Riviera’ along the coastline.

After your time in Cassis, make your way back to Marseille and finish your day with a sightseeing tour. Admire the Neo-Byzantine architecture of Marseille’s Notre-Dame de la Garde church, and enjoy incredible views across the sea of Château d’If – the fortress featured in Alexander Dumas’ novel The Count of Monte Cristo. You'll also see the 11th-century Abbey of St Victor before heading back to the cruise port to board your ship.