Marseille is a fantastic base for exploring the South of France beyond the city’s lively port and historic Old Town. Its strategic location makes it easy to reach the lush vineyards, colorful villages, and fragrant lavender fields that define Provence. We particularly love the full-day wine tours that take you through renowned wine regions like Bandol and Cassis, and the lavender trips that let you breathe in the sweet scent of Provence’s famous purple fields. Whether you’re after a relaxed day tasting wine, soaking up mountain vistas, or marveling at fields of lavender, Marseille offers a wide range of memorable experiences.
The list below blends a variety of full-day tours — from scenic drives and fragrant lavender trips to wine tastings and charming village explorations. Each offers something unique, whether it’s the intimate small-group setting of a private wine tour or the bold landscape vistas of the Valensole Plateau. Ready to explore? Let’s dive into these top options.
1. From Marseille: Valensole Lavender Full-Day tour
Discover the stunning lavender fields of Provence on this full-day trip from Marseille. The Valensole Plateau is the highlight, where endless rows of purple blooms stretch across the horizon, especially from mid-June to mid-July. The tour also visits Moustiers Sainte Marie, a picturesque village famous for its ceramics, with narrow streets lined with artisan shops. Along the way, you’ll enjoy views of the Verdon River and stop for photos of this lush scenery.
What makes this tour special is the chance to walk among the lavender—an experience truly like no other—and learn about the local cultivation from guides who love sharing their passion. It’s a 9-hour journey that blends natural beauty with authentic village charm. Reviewers point out the “beautiful landscapes and photo opportunities,” and the 4.7-star rating suggests it’s a favorite for lavender lovers. This tour is perfect for those who want a full immersion into Provence’s fragrant fields and quaint villages.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a quintessential Provence experience with spectacular views and charming village stops, this lavender tour delivers.
2. From Marseille: Cassis & Aix-en-Provence Full-Day Tour
This 7-hour guided trip takes you along the scenic Crest Road to the fishing port of Cassis, renowned for its colorful harbor and cliffside scenery. You’ll have time to explore the town and stroll along Cours Mirabeau in Aix-en-Provence, famous for its elegant architecture and lively cafés. The itinerary also includes a stop at Cape Canaille, Europe’s highest maritime cliff, for breathtaking photos.
The tour balances coastal scenery, wine country, and culinary charm, making it ideal for those wanting a taste of both seaside and hilltop villages. The small-group format (limited to 8) ensures a personal experience, and the guide’s stories about local sights add color to the day. Reviewers highlight the “beautiful towns and stunning views,” and the tour’s flexible itinerary makes it a good option for travelers with limited time. It’s a great introduction to Provence’s diverse landscape.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a compact, scenic day combining seaside charm with elegant towns and striking cliffs.
3. From Marseille: Lavender Full-Day Trip to Sault
For those who want to see lavender in full bloom, this 10-hour tour to Sault is a highlight. Sault is the lavender capital of Provence, and the trip includes stops at the Gordes village in the Luberon Valley, regarded as one of France’s most beautiful villages. You’ll visit a local lavender producer to learn about harvesting and processing, then stroll through fields bursting with purple flowers. The landscapes are ideal for photos, and the tour offers insights into lavender farming traditions.
This experience is rated 4.8 stars with reviews praising the “spectacular scenery” and “knowledgeable guide.” It’s perfect for travelers eager to enjoy lavender culture, with a focus on authentic local experiences. The inclusion of Gordes adds a bonus of medieval charm and spectacular vistas.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if your goal is to witness Provence’s lavender at its best while exploring a classic village.
4. From Marseille: Luberon Market & Villages Full-Day Tour
This 11.5-hour tour explores the Luberon’s lively markets and colorful villages. Depending on the day, you’ll visit Gordes (Tuesday market), Roussillon (Thursday market), or Lourmarin (Friday). The day is built around walking through lively markets, tasting regional specialties, and soaking up the atmosphere of authentic Provençal villages. The guided stops include leisurely explorations of Lourmarin, with free time to shop or relax.
The tour emphasizes regional traditions and provides insight into local crafts and food. It’s rated 4.7 stars, with travelers appreciating the “beautiful scenery and authentic villages.” It’s ideal if you enjoy local markets, regional crafts, and want to experience Provence’s vibrant village life in a full-day format.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who love markets and authentic village atmospheres, with plenty of photo opportunities.
5. Full-day Wine Tour around Bandol & Cassis from Marseille
Wine lovers will find this 7.5-hour tour a highlight, visiting three wineries in the Bandol and Cassis regions. Led by a wine expert, you’ll explore vineyards renowned for rosé, reds, and whites, learning about terroir and winemaking techniques. The tastings are expert-led, and the small group (max 8) ensures personalized attention. After wine tasting, you’ll have free time in Cassis to enjoy this charming seaside town.
What makes this tour stand out is the focus on local wine, with visits to award-winning wineries and plenty of opportunities to savor different styles. The rating of 5.0 stars reflects rave reviews, with travelers praising the guide’s knowledge and the “beautiful wineries.” Best suited for wine connoisseurs or those wanting a deep dive into Provence’s wine culture.
Bottom Line: For an immersive, quality wine experience with expert guidance and scenic vineyard visits, this tour is hard to beat.
6. Bandol and Cassis: Full Day Wine Tour from Marseille
This full-day adventure offers visits to two premium wine regions—Bandol and Cassis—featuring three different wineries, including small and large producers. Guided by a wine expert, you’ll learn about French classification systems and local grape varieties. The day combines vineyard visits, tastings, and opportunities to explore Cassis’s harbor.
Rated 4.9 stars, the tour is praised for its beautiful countryside, award-winning wineries, and comprehensive wine education. It’s ideal for those interested in French wine and wanting to experience multiple styles in one day. The relaxed pace allows you to appreciate the landscape as well as the wines.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine enthusiasts seeking variety and insight into Provence’s diverse wine regions.
7. Private Full Day Wine Tour in Provence From Marseille cruise port
This private 6-8 hour tour offers customizable itineraries for up to 8 people, making it ideal for those who want flexibility. You’ll visit two wineries, taste Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah, and other regional wines, and enjoy free time in towns like Cassis, Lourmarin, or Aix-en-Provence. The private format ensures personalized attention and convenience, especially if you’re on a cruise.
Rated 5.0 stars, travelers mention the “knowledgeable guide” and the attention to detail. The tour is tailored to your interests—more wine, more sightseeing, or a relaxed pace. It’s perfect if you want to craft your perfect Provence day.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you prefer a private, flexible experience with a dedicated guide.
8. Luberon: Full-Day Wine Tour from Marseille
Explore the Luberon’s wine region on this 7.5-hour tour, visiting three award-winning wineries with guided tastings. Your guide shares insights about French wine classification, terroir, and grape varieties. The tour includes stops at Lourmarin for lunch and shopping, blending wine education with leisure time in a scenic village.
Rated 4.9 stars, the tour is praised for beautiful scenery and expert guidance. It’s ideal for wine lovers who want to understand the nuances of French wines while enjoying the countryside.
Bottom Line: Great for those seeking educational wine tastings combined with scenic village visits.
9. Full-day Wine and Cheese Tour around Aix-en-Provence from Marseille
This 7.5-hour tour combines wine tastings at two wineries with a visit to a local goat cheese farm. You’ll try a variety of rosé, reds, whites, and fresh cheeses, all while learning about regional production. Afterward, enjoy free time in Aix-en-Provence to explore independently.
Rated 5.0 stars, travelers love the personalized attention and the chance to pair wines with cheese. This tour appeals to foodies who want a full sensory experience.
Bottom Line: A perfect pick for wine and cheese enthusiasts wanting a relaxed, flavorful day.
10. Full-Day Wine Tour around Luberon from Marseille
Visit three Luberon wineries on this 8-hour guided tour, with tastings of reds, rosés, and whites. The tour includes small-group attention, detailed explanations from a wine expert, and round-trip transport. It’s an excellent way to explore the famous terroir of Provence while learning about French wine classifications.
Rated a perfect 5.0 stars, travelers highlight the knowledgeable guide and beautiful scenery. It’s suited for those who want in-depth wine education combined with countryside charm.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you want a comprehensive wine experience with quality guidance.
11. Marseille Shore Excursion – Full Day Wine Tour in Provence
Designed for cruise travelers, this 6-7 hour shore excursion visits two high-quality wineries near Marseille. Led by a wine expert, you’ll learn about grape varietals, taste reds, whites, and rosé, and enjoy free time in charming towns like Cassis, Lourmarin, or Aix-en-Provence.
Rated 5.0 stars, it’s known for timely port return and personalized attention. It’s perfect if you want to maximize your port time with a well-organized wine-focused day.
Bottom Line: Great for cruise passengers who want a worry-free, educational wine experience with flexible sightseeing.
12. Provence Full Day Private Tour with Driver-guide from Marseille
This private full-day tour offers complete customization, from Aix-en-Provence to Cassis, Gordes, or Roussillon. Travel comfortably in a private minivan with Wi-Fi, and design your day with your guide’s help. It’s perfect for families, couples, or groups wanting a tailor-made Provence experience.
Rated 5.0 stars, travelers praise the flexible itinerary and knowledgeable guide who can adapt the day to your interests. It’s best for those who value privacy and personalization.
Bottom Line: The ultimate choice for travelers seeking a bespoke Provence adventure.
13. From Marseille: Arles, Les Baux & Saint-Rémy Full-Day Tour
This 10.5-hour tour immerses you in Roman history and famous Van Gogh spots. Highlights include Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Les Baux de Provence, and Arles. You’ll visit an open-air market, see the Saint-Paul-de-Mausole asylum where Van Gogh stayed, and explore the stunning medieval village of Les Baux.
Rated 4.5 stars, travelers commend the engaging guide and the well-paced itinerary. It’s a great mix of history, art, and scenery for those interested in cultural highlights.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a full-day deep dive into Roman and Van Gogh-inspired Provence.
14. Full-Day Snorkeling and Guided Dive in the Calanques National Park from Marseille
This 7-hour adventure offers snorkeling and diving in the protected waters of Calanques National Park. You’ll explore rocky coves and observe abundant marine life, then have the option to learn scuba or dive deeper with an instructor. It’s suitable for beginners and experienced divers alike.
Rated 5.0 stars, reviewers love the friendly guides and beautiful underwater scenery. For those who love marine adventures, it’s a rare opportunity to combine coastal exploration with underwater discovery.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for marine enthusiasts wanting an active day in stunning surroundings.
15. Lavender Fields Full Day Private Tour From Marseille
This private tour offers an immersive lavender experience with a personal driver-guide. Travel through the Valensole Plateau, see Moustiers Sainte-Marie, and visit the Lake of Sainte Croix du Verdon. The guide customizes the trip, so you can enjoy the best lavender fields and local sights at your own pace.
Rated 5.0 stars with five reviews, travelers praise the knowledgeable guide and the beautiful, fragrant scenery. It’s a perfect choice for couples or small groups seeking privacy and flexibility.
Bottom Line: An excellent, personalized way to enjoy Provence’s lavender and scenic spots.
How to Choose Your Full-Day Tour in Marseille
When selecting the right tour, think about your budget, interests, and how much time you want to spend. For wine lovers, tours like the Bandol and Cassis wine tour or the private Provence wine experience offer in-depth tastings. If lavender is your priority, the Valensole or Sault trips deliver spectacular blooms and charming villages. For a mix of history, art, and scenery, consider the Arles & Les Baux or the full-day Luberon tours.
Timing can make a difference—lavender is best in summer, while spring and fall are ideal for wine tours. Book early, especially for private and small-group experiences, to ensure you secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Marseille offers an impressive array of full-day tours that cater to different interests—from exploring fragrant lavender fields and picturesque villages to sampling world-class wines. If you’re a wine enthusiast, the tours of Bandol, Cassis, and Luberon stand out for their depth and variety. For those seeking authentic Provence scenery, the lavender trips are hard to beat, especially with options that include private guides for a personalized touch.
For travelers with limited time or cruise ship schedules, the shore excursions provide a worry-free way to experience the region’s highlights. Regardless of your choice, these tours tend to fill up quickly, so booking ahead will help you enjoy Provence without stress. Now, choose your adventure, and get ready for a memorable day in France’s most beautiful countryside.
