Marseille City Highlights Luxury Shore Excursion

Your Marseille Luxury Shore Excursion Itinerary

Your introduction to Marseille begins with a breathtaking coastal drive along the Corniche, one of France’s most scenic waterfront roads.

Seaside Panoramic Drive – La Corniche Kennedy

Your guide shares stories of ancient sailors, aristocratic villas, and the modern identity of this dynamic port city. 

Expect numerous photo stops overlooking the Mediterranean, Château d’If, and the Frioul Islands.

Our group of 2 couples recently used Luxury France Tours for a 15 day trip to Provence and Reims/Champagne. Our experience with Luxury France Tours was excellent from start to finish. The Travel and Design team helped us customize our itinerary based on our interests and their in depth knowledge of the areas. They patiently helped us work through a number of options. They didn't try to force us into a set itinerary. Before our trip we had an online video call with the Booking and Operations team and went over the itinerary in detail covering all our questions and received an online version that was constantly updated during our trip to provide specific information on our drivers/guides with their contact numbers. All of the drivers and guides were prompt, knowledgeable and helpful. Several times we texted the Operations Team with questions about where we could find certain kinds of shops and restaurants and they were quick to respond with great suggestions. As older travelers, it was also reassuring that they had a 24 hour / 7 day contact number in case we had needed assistance in an emergency. Finally, several times during the booking and travel process, the owner/founder of Luxury France Tours, Debbie, responded to several of our emails. They clearly have a great culture of customer service and responsiveness. All in all, we would highly recommend Luxury France Tours to help plan and book your trip.

Henry J. ★★★★★​

Notre-Dame de la Garde – The Icon of Marseille

Standing 490 feet above the sea, Notre-Dame de la Garde is the spiritual landmark of Marseille, instantly recognisable with its golden statue of the Virgin Mary watching over the city.

On your private tour, admire:

• The richly decorated Byzantine interiors
• Marble columns and mosaic vaults
• Sweeping 360° views of Marseille, its islands, and the rugged coastline

Your guide explains how this basilica has long been the protector of sailors and travellers, making it particularly meaningful for cruise guests.

Vieux-Port – Where Marseille Began

Descending back toward the sea, you arrive at the Old Port, the historic heart of Marseille since 600 BC.

Fishing boats, market stalls, luxury yachts, and lively cafés line the waterfront, giving this quarter a vibrant Mediterranean energy.

Your guide leads a curated walk, sharing the port’s ancient Greek origins and its role in shaping Marseille into France’s gateway to the Mediterranean world.

Le Panier – Marseille’s Oldest Quarter

From the harbour, your driver brings you into Le Panier, a district of steep lanes, pastel façades, artisan boutiques, and colourful shutters.

This neighbourhood feels like a village within the city — intimate, artistic, and full of character.

Your private walking tour includes:

• Narrow medieval streets
• Local ceramic workshops
• Street art and hidden courtyards
• Photogenic cafés and Provençal facades

It’s the ideal place to experience Marseille’s blend of tradition and modern creative energy.

Luxury France Tours is the perfect name for this company. During our 8 day visit to Paris, Giverny, and Versailles, we felt like royalty. We asked for a Monet experience. Their personalized itinerary gave us that and much more. Since this was our first visit to France, the itinerary was tailored to our interests and abilities. We knew exactly what to expect before we went, and they updated us daily during our visit. The expert private driver got us where we were going quickly, safely, and in style. The knowledgeable, two on one, private guides brought the places we visited to life. Both driver and guides were indispensable, and made the trip a lot easier and much more fun. Thank you Luxury France Tours for enabling us to savor the food, the wine, and the wonder of Paris, Giverny, and Versailles. It was worth every penny.

Bill F. ★★★★★​

Fort Saint-Jean & MUCEM

Your next stop is the dramatic waterfront complex where history and contemporary architecture meet.

Fort Saint-Jean

A 17th-century fortress offering superb views over the port and city.

MUCEM (Museum of European & Mediterranean Civilisations)

A bold latticework structure of steel and glass that has become one of Marseille’s most recognisable landmarks.

You may explore the museum interior (time permitting) or enjoy a guided architectural walk around its terraces and suspended footbridges.

Optional Extra For Your Marseille Tour

• Private boat hire from Vieux-Port to see the Calanques
• Wine tasting of Provence rosés and Cassis whites
• Lunch reservations at Michelin-recommended restaurants
• Photographer add-on for cruise guests wanting professional trip photos

Return to Your Ship in Complete Comfort

Your private chauffeur returns you directly to the cruise terminal, ensuring you re-board your ship with time to spare and with a deeper, richer appreciation of Marseille’s culture, history, and shimmering Mediterranean beauty.

What a fantastic group to work with! I can’t say enough good things about Luxury France Tours. Everyone in my group (11people) thoroughly enjoyed our Normandy weekend. The drivers were punctual and professional. The tour guides were personable and knowledgeable. I especially appreciate the help with trip planning and the quick responses from Luxury France Tours when I had questions. They provided detailed itineraries for each step of our trip. Their customer service was outstanding. I am so happy I chose this group. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a customized tour in France!

Allen P. ★★★★★​