Home > Mediterranean > France > Marseille >

Aix en Provence

Private shore excursion. Professional guides, flexible timing, guaranteed return to ship. Perfect for cruise passengers.

This 4 Hour Private Marseille Tour Includes:

Pick up from Port or your Hotel in Marseille

Private Vehicle with English Speaking Driver Guide

Please Note: This tour must start before 9:30 AM or after 1:30 PM.

Read Full Tour Description

Larger Groups or Custom Requests

Arriving by cruise ship?
See our Back-to-Ship Guarantee

Tour Number: FMARS-03

Group Size (Prices in USD)*:

2 People - $310 Per Person
3 People - $210 Per Person
4 People - $158 Per Person
5 People - $126 Per Person
6 People - $106 Per Person
7 People - $92 Per Person
8 People - $82 Per Person

Port / City*:

Month*:

Day*:

Year*:

Pick Up Time*:

Pick Up Location*:

Name of Ship or Hotel*:

TOUR DESCRIPTION

FAQ

Marseille Shore Excursion

This half day Marseille shore trip visits the charming and popular town of Aix en Provence where you have time to enjoy the old town. You also see Mont St Victoire, the mountain which was the backdrop for many Cezanne paintings, and today it provides scenic views of the Provencal countryside.

After meeting you driver guide you'll start your tour by driving into Provence until you reach Aix en Provence, simply called Aix by locals. Upon arrival you visit the Cours Mirabeau which dates to the 17th century. This beautiful tree lined street is world famous and known for its monumental fountains and popular cafes. While on this street, many people feel they have been transported to a Parisian neighborhood. Next you enjoy time in the Old Town of Aix en Provence which is comprised of mostly pedestrian streets. There are many lovely stone buildings, churches, museums, tourist shops and designer boutiques to explore as you work your way through the small winding cobblestone streets. Please note that most shops in France are closed on Sundays.

In addition to seeing several wonderful fountains you will also notice the many bell towers which are made of wrought iron because the strong winds, known as the Mistral. If they were made from solid stone they would be toppled by the force of the winds.

If you are visiting on Tuesday, Thursday or Saturday you can enjoy the open-air street market where cheeses, olives, produce, fruits, flowers, knick-knacks and other goods can be found. Aix is also well known as the home of impressionist artist Cezanne. You will see images us paintings in many shops throughout the old town. Upon your departure, you visit Mont St Victoire, located about 15 minutes outside of town. This mountain was the backdrop for many of his paintings. Today it provides scenic views of surrounding vineyards and the Provencal countryside.

At the end of this Marseille shore trip your driver guide will bring you back to the port or your hotel.

Mobility: Folding wheelchair OK, however the old town is mostly cobblestones (advance notice required).

If you cannot find what you are looking for, our Marseille shore excursions can also be customized to fit your needs. If you have a larger group, we can offer you a private Marseille shore trip using a mid-size bus or full size coach. Please contact us with any questions or to receive a customized quote.

Travel Tips for our Clients

Aix in Provence is for many people the perfect French city. Founded in 122 BC, and for centuries the capital of Provence it is famous for its multitude of fountains, the most beautiful street in France and the many artists, including Paul Cezanne, who have chosen to live there. The city has an air reminiscent of Paris and yet the country feel that so many love about Provence, all fueled by a university population and many wealthy citizens.

Top Sights in Aix en Provence

Cours Mirabeau - This wide street is lined with 150 year old Plane Trees and is considered to be the most beautiful street in France. One side of the street is lined with 18th century mansions and the other side of the street is lined with cafes, shops and hotels. The street is lined with several famous fountains including the Fontaine de la Rotonde which dates to 1860 and features three statues representing Justice, Agriculture and the Fine Arts. Also noteworthy is Fontaine du Roi Rene crowned by a statute of the medieval king who first brought Muscat grapes to Provence.

Vieil Aix, or the old town is located on one side of the Cours Mirabeau. Small medieval streets meander until they suddenly open onto large open squares. Some of the squares feature the best outdoor markets in Provence.

Musée du Vieil Aix- This museum recounts the history of this beautiful city. Included is a display of Santons, small Provencal dolls dating to the 19th century.

Musee des Tapisseries- Located in the Archbishop's Palace this museum boasts a fine collection of 17th-18th century tapestries. There are often displays of modern tapestries as well.

Cathedrale St-Sauveur is a church that features architecture from the 5th to 17th Century. Worth at least a peak!

Atelier de Cezanne- Located about a mile north of the Cours Mirabeau is the 1901 studio of painter Paul Cezanne. It was from here that he painted many of his famous works, including those featuring nearby Mont St-Victoire. The artist died in 1906, but his studio is set up as if he just stepped away for a few minutes. A nice peak into the life and work's of one of Provence's most famous artists.

Shore Trip Timing is approximate based on your interests & traffic

Drive to Aix en Provence - 30 Minutes
Explore Aix en Provence - 2 Hours and 15 Minutes
Visit Mont St Victoire - 30 Minutes
Return to Marseille - 45 Minutes

Average Rating: Average Rating: 5 of 5