Marseille Vieux Port & Wine Tasting – Private Tour

Planning a day to explore the South of France can feel overwhelming, especially with so many charming spots and delicious wines scattered across the region. This private tour from Marseille promises a carefully curated itinerary that combines sightseeing, wine tasting, and authentic Provençal charm—all in one day. While it’s not perfect for those seeking a deeply in-depth visit to every location, it offers a fantastic balance of highlights in a comfortably paced journey.

What we love about this experience is the chance to cover several iconic spots—from Cassis’s colorful port and calanques to medieval villages and olive groves—without the hassle of planning transport or guides. Plus, with knowledgeable guides and top-quality vineyard visits, you’re sure to leave with both beautiful memories and some regional wine knowledge. A potential snag might be the price, which, at over $1,100 for a group, could seem steep unless you value private, personalized service.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a luxury small-group experience, with the flexibility of a private guide, and are interested in combining sightseeing with wine tasting. It’s perfect for those who appreciate comfort, scenic views, and a touch of local culture—and who don’t mind dedicating a full day to exploring Provence.

• Private experience tailored for up to 8 guests for personalized attention
• Wine tasting in top vineyards of Coteaux d’Aix & Ste Victoire regions
• Scenic stops at Cassis, Le Castellet, Bandol, and other charming villages
• Panoramic views from Notre Dame de la Garde and cliffs near Cassis
• Authentic Provençal culture with visits to medieval villages and olive groves
• Flexible itinerary with optional extra stops like ferry rides or shopping

Starting Point: Marseille’s Vieux Port and Notre Dame de la Garde

The tour kicks off in Marseille’s historic Vieux Port, where the lively atmosphere of fishermen’s boats and bustling markets sets the tone. Your guide, Gilles—who’s praised for his excellent English and friendly manner—leads you through the city’s landmarks before heading up to Notre Dame de la Garde. From this vantage point, you’ll see an expansive 360-degree view of Marseille, capturing the sprawling city, its port, and the sparkling coastline. It’s a perfect photo op and gives you a sense of place before heading into the countryside.

Travel time from here to Cassis is about 30 to 40 minutes, along scenic roads that offer glimpses of the Mediterranean coast and verdant hillsides.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Discovering Cassis: Port, Calanque, and Cliffs

Cassis is renowned for its small fishing port and striking calanque (steep-walled inlet). Your guide will lead you to admire the largest calanque, which offers stunning vistas and photo opportunities. You’ll also stroll along the docks, soaking up the maritime atmosphere. From Cassis, you’ll enjoy views from one of Europe’s second highest cliffs, standing at around 1,312 feet (400 meters)—a highlight for many.

One reviewer mentioned how they appreciated the way the guide shared fascinating facts about the area, making the experience both visual and educational. The drive through these coastal roads is a highlight itself, with sweeping views of the azure waters and rugged cliffs.

Wine Tasting in Cassis and Bandol

Next, the focus turns to regional wine. You’ll visit vineyards in Cassis, known for delicious white and rosé wines, and then continue to Bandol, famous for its robust reds. One guest shared how they visited four wineries, all of which they enjoyed, and appreciated the guide’s knowledge and friendliness. The wine tastings are designed to showcase the best of the Coteaux d’Aix & Ste Victoire regions, allowing you to sample a variety of reds, whites, and rosés.

Although the tour doesn’t include meals, the guide often recommends local spots, and there’s plenty of time to purchase bottles directly from the wineries—ideal for souvenir collectors or wine enthusiasts.

Medieval Village of Le Castellet and Olive Groves

After the vineyards, the itinerary takes you to Le Castellet, a charming medieval hilltop village. Its narrow streets, boutique shops, and historic architecture make it a delightful stop for an hour or so of wandering. Then, you’ll visit the olive groves and Quarry Art at Baux de Provence, where a light show and art installations are set amid stunning natural surroundings.

One traveler noted that the visit to Le Castellet was particularly enjoyable, highlighting the village’s authentic Provençal feel and beautiful panoramic views. Walking through the ancient streets, you’ll feel transported back in time, and the olive groves add a peaceful, fragrant atmosphere.

Bandol & Collobrières: Seaside Walks and Menhirs

The tour concludes with more wine tastings in Bandol, where you can relax by the seafront promenade, enjoy some free time for lunch, or explore the local shops. If you’re feeling adventurous, a ferry crossing to Bandol’s islands is an optional add-on.

Also, a mention from a review indicates that there’s an interesting visit to menhirs at Lambert Farm in Collobrières, adding a touch of prehistoric intrigue to your trip.

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Off the Beaten Path: Optional Extras

Guests who want to customize their experience can request additional stops, like shopping at Cassis or Le Castellet, or even another wine tasting. The flexibility to add these extras is a significant plus if you want a more personalized experience.

Transportation and Guide

The tour includes air-conditioned minivan transport with Wi-Fi, making the journey comfortable and connected. Gilles, the guide, is highly praised for his friendliness and knowledge, often going above and beyond—such as helping a guest find a luggage store after the wine haul. The group size is capped at 8 people, ensuring a personalized feel and plenty of space for conversation.

Duration and Pace

Spanning about 8 hours, the tour keeps a good pace, balancing sightseeing with tasting and leisure. Travelers who dislike rushing or want a relaxed experience will appreciate the timing, especially since the tour includes several stops allowing for photos, walks, and shopping.

Cost and Value

At $1,112 per group, the price might seem high for some, but it reflects the private nature, personalized service, and quality of wine tastings. One reviewer emphasized that the tour exceeded expectations, especially thanks to the guide’s extra efforts, like taking guests to a mall for luggage shopping or visiting a winery not initially planned.

Potential Drawbacks

While the experience offers many highlights, one reviewer pointed out that some stops didn’t match the description, and the visit to wineries was limited to two, with one poorly received. This indicates that, as with all tours, actual experiences can vary depending on guide choices and vineyard reception.

This private tour suits travelers who value comfort, exclusivity, and a curated experience. If you’re passionate about wine, love scenic drives, and enjoy discovering small villages and natural sights, you’ll find plenty to love. It’s also excellent for those who prefer a flexible schedule, with the option to add extra stops or activities.

However, those on a tighter budget or seeking a quick overview of Marseille might want to consider more economical or shorter options. The experience is especially well-suited for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive taste of Provence’s highlights in one day.

This Marseille-based full-day tour offers a well-rounded experience, blending spectacular views, historical villages, and regional wines into a seamless journey. The private setting, knowledgeable guides, and carefully selected stops make it a standout for travelers looking for a more intimate and educational way to explore Provence.

While the price may be a consideration, the value lies in the personalized service, scenic diversity, and high-quality tastings. For wine lovers, culture seekers, or those wanting a taste of authentic Provence without the hassle of planning, this tour is a compelling choice.

If you’re after a day of relaxing sightseeing, breathtaking vistas, and regional flavors, this tour delivers—making it a memorable way to experience the best of southern France.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s designed as a private experience for up to 8 guests, providing personalized attention throughout the day.

What’s included in the tour?
Your guide, transportation in an air-conditioned minivan with Wi-Fi, and visits to vineyards with wine tastings are included. Lunch and drinks, as well as tickets, are not.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, you can request additional activities, such as extra wine tastings or shopping in Cassis or Le Castellet, making the tour flexible to your interests.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 8 hours, allowing ample time for sightseeing, tasting, and leisure.

What is the pace of the tour?
It’s designed for a relaxed experience, with enough time at each stop for photos, walks, and enjoying the surroundings without feeling rushed.

Is it suitable for people with mobility issues?
While the tour is wheelchair accessible, some stops involve walking on uneven or cobbled streets, so it’s best to check with the provider if you have specific needs.

How much does the tour cost?
Pricing is around $1,112 per group, which offers a private, full-day experience—considered good value for personalized service and multiple stops.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for walking around villages and vineyards. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a camera to capture the views.

In summary, if you’re looking for a well-organized, scenic, and wine-focused day in Provence, this private tour from Marseille ticks many boxes. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxing, informative, and visually stunning experience with a personal touch—perfect for savoring the essence of southern France.

You can check if your dates are available here: