Marseille is a fantastic port for shore excursions. Its lively old town, scenic coastal views, and nearby Provençal countryside mean there’s plenty to see and do. What really sets Marseille apart is the way it combines urban culture with natural beauty. We love the Half Day Tour of Marseille by Electric Bike, because it offers a lively, hands-on way to explore top sights like Notre Dame de la Garde and the Vallon des Auffes. Plus, cycling along the Corniche Kennedy with panoramic views makes for a memorable experience—especially if you like getting around on two wheels.
Some tours lean toward cultural highlights like museums and historic neighborhoods, while others focus on scenic landscapes and wine. Below, we’ve put together a list of the best options, from half-day city tours to full-day excursions into Provence’s vineyards. Each offers a different way to enjoy your time ashore, depending on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend exploring.
Types of Tours Featured
This list includes a variety of cycling adventures, wine tastings, coastal cruises, and full-day cultural trips. For example, the Full Day Wine Tour in Provence is perfect for wine lovers who want to understand local wines firsthand. Or, if you prefer active exploration, the Electric Mountain Bike Tour of Calanques National Park offers an exhilarating off-road ride through limestone cliffs. For a more comprehensive experience, the Small Group Marseille and Cassis Tour combines city sights with stunning coastal scenery, including a boat cruise if you choose.
Now, let’s explore each of these top shore excursions in detail.
1. Marseille Shore Excursion: Half Day Tour of Marseille by Electric Bike
At number 1, this electric bike tour makes city exploring fun and efficient. It’s a 4-hour trip that covers Marseille’s highlights, like Notre Dame de la Garde, with plenty of time to soak in the panoramic views over the French Riviera. The bikes are in great shape, and most reviewers mention how easy it is to navigate city streets and bike lanes, even in traffic.
Your guide shares insights about Marseille’s history and local life while you pedal along coastal roads and through the historic Panier district. The Vallon des Auffes tiny harbor is a highlight, along with scenic stops at the Palais du Pharo and the daily fish market. Reviewers praise the organization, the knowledgeable guide, and the opportunity to combine exercise with sightseeing. The price is reasonable for a small-group experience, especially for those who want to see the city actively rather than just riding in a bus.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want to cover a lot of ground with local insights, and enjoy some stunning views in the process.
2. Marseille Shore Excursion – Full Day Wine Tour in Provence
For around $196, the Full Day Wine Tour in Provence combines a scenic drive with expert-led tastings at two top wineries. Led by a wine sommelier, the tour takes you to renowned vineyards where you’ll learn about grape varieties, terroir, and wine-making techniques. The tasting fees are included, so you can indulge in reds, whites, and rosés—each with its own story.
The itinerary includes exploring charming towns like Cassis, Lourmarin, or Aix en Provence, with about 2 hours of free time for lunch and wandering. Guests often comment on the friendly, knowledgeable guide and the opportunity to sample wines you might not find elsewhere. The small group size makes it feel intimate and personalized, while the scenic countryside scenery adds to the experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to learn and taste in a relaxed setting, with beautiful Provençal landscapes as the backdrop.
3. Small Group Marseille Shore Excursion: Marseille and Cassis Tour
This 7-hour tour hits many of the highlights of Marseille and nearby Cassis. You’ll travel along the Route des Crêtes for breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, then explore the quaint fishing port of Cassis, famous for its cliffs and inlets. There’s an option to cruise the Calanques—spectacular fjord-like inlets carved into limestone cliffs—if you want a boat ride (not included).
Back in Marseille, the tour covers Notre Dame de la Garde, Saint Victor’s Abbey, and other main sights. Reviewers consistently praise the friendly guide and the balance of sightseeing and free time. The route offers a mix of coastal scenery, small town charm, and city history, perfect for those wanting a comprehensive day without rushing.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a mix of city and coast, with flexible options for cruising or walking.
4. Small Group Marseille Shore Excursion: Marseille and Aix-en-Provence
At number 4, this 7-hour tour combines the scenic beauty of Provence with a visit to Aix-en-Provence. Your guide drives you through lush countryside to the elegant town of Aix, where you’ll enjoy free time to explore its fountains, markets, and charming squares. Later, a panoramic tour of Marseille highlights Notre Dame, Château d’If, and the Corniche.
Guests often remark on the well-organized itinerary and the opportunity to see both the countryside and two very different towns in one day. The personal guide offers insights into Provence’s artistic and culinary traditions, making it particularly appealing for culture buffs.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those wanting a balance of history, beauty, and local flavor within a manageable timeframe.
5. Marseille Shore Excursion: City Sightseeing Tour of Marseille
This 4-hour tour is ideal for travelers who want a quick but thorough overview of Marseille. It covers key sights like Notre Dame de la Garde, the Old Port, and Palais Longchamp. You’ll get a good sense of the city’s vibrant neighborhoods and sea views.
Reviews mention that the guide explains the sites well and that the pace is comfortable for a half-day tour. The round-trip transportation from the port is convenient, making this a solid option if you’re short on time but still want to see the essentials.
Bottom Line: Perfect for first-time visitors who want a concise, informative look at Marseille’s highlights.
6. Marseille: Calanques Shore Excursion Electric Bike Day Tour
This full-day electric bike tour is a favorite among active travelers. It tours the Calanques National Park, with a guide leading you through limestone cliffs, hidden coves, and rugged trails. The e-bikes make off-road riding accessible, even on steep sections.
Guests rave about the scenery and the expert guide who shares interesting facts about the geology and wildlife of the park. The tour is well-suited for those comfortable with cycling in varied terrain. Expect to visit parts of the park that are only accessible by bike, making it a truly immersive experience.
Bottom Line: Best for active explorers who want an off-the-beaten-path adventure in the Calanques.
7. Marseille Shore Excursion Private Electric Bike Tour
For those seeking a personalized experience, this private electric bike tour offers four hours of customized sightseeing. Accompany your guide through picturesque neighborhoods like Vallon des Auffes and along the waterfront, with the freedom to focus on your interests.
Many reviewers appreciate the flexibility and the chance to go off the typical tourist trail. The guide shares tailored insights into Marseille’s local culture and history, making it especially appealing for travelers who want a more intimate experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families or small groups wanting personalized attention and flexible itineraries.
8. Small Group Marseille Shore Excursion: Aix-en-Provence & Cassis
This 7-hour trip offers a relaxed visit to both Aix-en-Provence and Cassis, perfect if you want to see two very different sides of Provence in one day. You’ll explore Aix’s fountains and markets, then drive to Cassis, a charming fishing port with stunning cliffs.
Reviewers love the smooth logistics and the excellent guide who provides cultural insights. It’s especially good for travelers who want a deeper taste of both the town life and coastal scenery without rushing.
Bottom Line: Suited for those who prefer a relaxed pace and variety in their Provence experience.
9. Marseille Shore Excursion: Calanques National Park by Electric Mountain Bike
This 3-hour electric mountain bike takes you into Calanques National Park for a quick but invigorating ride. It’s designed for fit and confident cyclists who want to see the limestone cliffs and hidden coves without the physical toll of a full-day ride.
The guide shares engaging commentary on the park’s geology and ecology. The tour includes port pickup and drop-off, making it easy to fit into your schedule.
Bottom Line: Best for active travelers eager for a short, scenic adventure in the Calanques.
10. Small Group Marseille Shore Excursion : Avignon & Chateauneuf du Pape Wine Tour
This 7-hour wine-focused tour combines visits to UNESCO-listed Avignon and the famous vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Your guide, a wine expert, takes you behind the scenes at two wineries, explaining terroir and wine-making processes while tasting reds, whites, and rosés.
Guests frequently mention how the knowledgeable guide makes the day both fun and educational. With only eight people, the tour offers a relaxed, personalized atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Top choice for wine lovers who want a mix of culture and tasting in a small-group setting.
11. Marseille E-Bike Shore Excursion to Calanques National Park
This 6-hour electric bike tour explores Marseille and its surroundings, including hidden coves and coastal viewpoints. It combines city sights like Notre Dame de la Garde with off-road riding in the Calanques.
Reviewers enjoy the diversity of districts like Panier and Joliette, plus the scenic routes along the coast. The guide provides narration about local geology and culture, making it a well-rounded exploration.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers wanting a full-day, varied experience.
12. Private Shore Excursion: Aix, Marseille, and Cassis Driver Guides
This customizable private tour offers tailored sightseeing with a private driver-guide. It’s perfect if you want a flexible, luxury experience. The itinerary includes Aix’s markets and architecture, Marseille’s panoramic spots, and Cassis’ coastal scenery.
Reviewers highlight the personalized service and the ability to customize stops. It’s a high-cost option, but ideal for families or small groups seeking exclusivity and flexibility.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a bespoke, private day with expert guidance.
13. Aix-en-Provence: Half-Day Shore Excursion Tour
This half-day Aix-en-Provence tour focuses on Cezanne’s workshop and the vibrant old town. It’s a walking tour that lets you see famous sights at a relaxed pace, with the option to explore markets or enjoy a café.
Reviewers note the excellent guide and the scenic, charming atmosphere of Aix. It’s suited for those with limited time but a desire to experience Provençal elegance.
Bottom Line: Great for art lovers or anyone wanting a city-focused visit with a cultural touch.
14. 5 hours Shore excursion Aix En Provence and the Countryside
This 5-hour tour offers a quick immersion into Aix’s best neighborhoods and scenic spots. You’ll stroll through markets, explore Painters Park, and learn about local food and art from your guide.
Guests appreciate its compact but rich itinerary, especially the opportunity to see Aix’s most characteristic corners and enjoy free time for shopping or photos.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a taste of Aix with minimal time investment.
15. From Marseille: Roman Towns of Provence Shore Excursion
Finally, this Roman towns tour visits Arles and Nîmes, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. You’ll see Roman amphitheaters, temples, and aqueducts, including the Pont du Gard, one of France’s most iconic structures.
The guided visits are detailed and informative, with an emphasis on ancient architecture. Reviewers mention how much they appreciated the well-organized itinerary and the opportunity to learn about Romans’ influence on Provence.
Bottom Line: Best suited for history buffs or anyone interested in Roman archaeology.
How to Choose the Right Marseille Shore Excursion
When selecting your tour, think about your budget, time constraints, and interests. For active explorers, the electric bike tours or Calanques mountain biking provide energetic ways to see the landscape. For those who want a relaxed cultural experience, consider the Aix-en-Provence half-day or the Roman towns tour.
Wine lovers should look at the full-day Provence wine tour, while history enthusiasts might prefer the Roman towns or the Marseille city tour. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular options like private tours or small-group experiences.
Final Thoughts
Marseille offers a wide range of shore excursions that can match every type of traveler. Whether you want to pedal along the coast, taste world-class wine, explore ancient ruins, or enjoy the lively city streets, there’s something here for you. For a family, the private electric bike tour might be best. For couples or groups interested in wine, Provence’s vineyards wait just a short drive away.
Whatever you choose, plan ahead and book early—these tours fill quickly, especially during peak season. And above all, enjoy your time in this fascinating corner of France, where every turn promises a new discovery.
