Toulon offers more than just a scenic port; it’s a perfect base for full-day tours that reveal the region’s lesser-known villages, exquisite wines, and authentic Provençal charm. Unlike bus-heavy, cookie-cutter excursions, these experiences focus on small groups and personalized attention, making your day more relaxed and memorable. We particularly love the Private Full Day Wine Tour in Provence because it combines wine tasting with exploring charming towns like Cassis or Hyeres—an ideal way to see the countryside without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
If you’re looking to escape the crowds and discover hidden treasures, Toulon’s full-day tours deliver just that. From private vineyard visits to strolls through medieval villages, each tour offers a distinct taste of Provence’s beauty and flavor. Below, you’ll find a detailed look at the two standout options that capture the region’s essence.
1. Full-Day 3 Village Tour of Provence: Splendid & Secret
At number 1 on our list, this private tour takes you through three charming villages—Ollioules, Le Castellet, and Sanary-sur-Mer—each with its own story. What sets this tour apart is its focus on lesser-known sites that many travelers miss, like wandering through Ollioules’ medieval streets and visiting the hilltop castle at Le Castellet. The tour starts with Ollioules, a village renowned for its arts and crafts scene, where you can stroll past over thirty shops, admire ancient houses, and take in views of the Mediterranean from the castle’s vantage point.
Next, you’ll stop at Maison des Vins de Bandol for a wine tasting dedicated to the famous Bandol appellation. This region’s red wines are exclusive to this area, with grapes that thrive only here, giving them a unique flavor profile. The final stop is Le Castellet, a picturesque feudal village famous for its racing history and narrow streets. The guide emphasizes personalized attention, making this tour ideal for small groups seeking an intimate experience.
Highlights include a relaxed pace, authentic Provençal lunch options, and the chance to learn about regional wines from passionate local producers. With a perfect 5-star rating from 20 reviews, travelers praise the knowledgeable guide Sarit and the flexibility this tour offers. Priced at $556.15 for up to 4 people, it provides an excellent value for a private, personalized day exploring hidden gems.
Bottom line: If you prefer a tailored, small-group experience that shows you local villages not overwhelmed by travelers, this private Provence village tour hits the mark.
2. Private Full Day Wine Tour in Provence from Toulon Cruise Port
For around $462.73 per person, this full-day wine tour offers an immersive experience into Provence’s renowned vineyards and scenic towns. Designed for cruise passengers, the tour is flexible—your guide adjusts departure times to fit your ship’s schedule, ensuring a smooth day from port to vineyards and back.
The journey begins at the Toulon cruise port, where a friendly guide welcomes you into a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan. You’ll visit two wineries in the morning, where you’ll see the wine production process in action. The focus is on tasting a variety of wines—rosé, red, and white—and learning what makes Provencal wines so unique. The tour is tailored based on your knowledge level, making it perfect for both wine novices and enthusiasts.
After the vineyard visits, you’ll enjoy about two hours of free time for lunch in a picturesque town, such as Cassis or Hyeres. The guide suggests options like seaside restaurants or small cafes, giving you a taste of local cuisine. The afternoon includes a visit to a nearby town—whether it’s the lively streets of Aix-en-Provence or the charming harbor of Cassis—before returning to Toulon in time for your ship’s departure.
This tour earns rave reviews for its knowledgeable guide, Frank, who shares insights into the winemaking process, regional history, and local culture. It’s especially suitable for travelers interested in wine and wanting a flexible, intimate experience that fits within a cruise schedule.
Bottom line: This tour is best for cruise passengers eager to experience Provence’s wine culture without sacrificing sightseeing time, especially if they want a small-group, educational experience.
How to Choose Your Ideal Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and priorities. The Full-Day 3 Village Tour of Provence is perfect if you want a personalized, slow-paced exploration of charming villages and wine tasting at a private vineyard. It’s suited for those who enjoy authentic local encounters and less touristy spots.
On the other hand, the Full Day Wine Tour from Toulon Cruise Port is ideal if wine tasting is your main goal and you prefer a more structured, flexible schedule that fits with a cruise itinerary. If you love learning about wine production and want to combine it with a bit of sightseeing in towns like Cassis or Hyeres, this tour offers a fantastic balance.
Both tours offer excellent value, but the private nature of the first provides a more tailored experience. Meanwhile, the second’s focus on wine and regional scenery makes it a strong choice for wine lovers and cruise passengers wanting hassle-free port logistics.
Final Thoughts
Toulon is a fantastic starting point for full-day tours that reveal Provence’s authentic charm, whether through exploring hidden villages or savoring exquisite regional wines. For those seeking a completely private journey, the Full-Day 3 Village Tour of Provence provides personalized attention and insider insights. If your main interest is wine, then the Private Full Day Wine Tour offers expert tastings and picturesque towns, all tailored around your cruise schedule.
Booking early is wise, especially if you want to secure a private guide or specific departure times. Whichever you choose, these tours promise a deeper connection to Provence’s culture, scenery, and flavors—making your time in Toulon truly memorable.
