Shore excursion Marseille : Our best tips !
The Marseille Cruise Terminal, a captivating blend of modern design and maritime elegance, stands as an emblem of luxury and exploration on the shores of the Mediterranean. With its panoramic glass façade that opens up to breathtaking views of the azure sea, the terminal offers an inviting and awe-inspiring welcome to passengers. Beyond its architectural splendor, the terminal boasts a seamless travel experience, from efficient check-in processes to a plethora of impeccable services. Passengers can savor Mediterranean delicacies in exquisite dining establishments, indulge in relaxation at rejuvenating spas, and engage in cultural immersion through guided tours and local activities. The terminal’s commitment to sustainability, evidenced by its eco-friendly initiatives, ensures that passengers embark on their voyages with a sense of responsibility towards the environment. The Marseille Cruise Terminal is not just a point of departure; it’s a prelude to a remarkable journey that combines luxury, exploration, and meaningful connections with the sea and the city.
Here are our best tips to enjoy Marseille and its surroundings.
Shore excursion Marseille : book your Tour with a specialist !
Marseille Shore Excursion : Discover the Highlights from the city
The Marseille Cruise Port
The Old Port and Notre Dame de la Garde Basilica
Nestled within the heart of Marseille, the Old Port (Vieux Port) stands as a testament to the city’s rich maritime history and vibrant cultural heritage. With a history dating back over 2,600 years, this iconic harbor has witnessed the rise and fall of civilizations, making it a true living museum. The Old Port exudes an enchanting aura, where the juxtaposition of traditional fishing boats and modern yachts creates a dynamic visual spectacle.
Once a bustling trade center of the Mediterranean, the Old Port now serves as a picturesque promenade where locals and visitors gather to immerse themselves in the authentic Marseille experience. Quaint cafes, seafood restaurants, and charming markets line its cobblestone streets, offering a taste of Provençal cuisine and artisanal crafts. From here, the distinct aroma of freshly caught fish mingles with the salty breeze, invoking a sense of nostalgia for a time when the Old Port was the lifeblood of Marseille’s commerce.
Perched atop a hill that gracefully overlooks Marseille, Notre-Dame de la Garde is a magnificent basilica that serves as both a spiritual sanctuary and a symbol of protection for the city and its residents. Its construction, which began in the mid-19th century, was driven by a collective desire to express gratitude for Marseille’s survival through numerous challenges, including wars and epidemics.
The basilica’s architectural beauty marries Romanesque and Byzantine influences, resulting in a striking structure adorned with intricate mosaics and dazzling sculptures. Beyond its aesthetic charm, Notre-Dame de la Garde offers a panoramic view of Marseille that is simply breathtaking. From its vantage point, visitors can gaze upon the Old Port, the sprawling cityscape, and the azure waters of the Mediterranean, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere.
The ascent to Notre-Dame de la Garde is an experience in itself, whether reached by foot, tourist train, or private vehicle. This pilgrimage, symbolic of ascending toward spiritual enlightenment and protection, culminates in a destination that embraces both Marseille’s history and its future. The basilica is not only a place of worship but a beacon of hope and a keeper of the city’s stories, making it an essential part of any journey to Marseille
Discover Aix en Provence
Nestled in the northern embrace of Marseille, Aix-en-Provence beckons travelers to a captivating realm of history, art, and timeless beauty. This charming town, known as the birthplace of painter Paul Cézanne, exudes a sense of artistic inspiration that resonates through its cobblestone streets and elegant squares. Its cathédrale Saint-Sauveur, a testament to centuries of architectural evolution, stands as a living artifact of the town’s rich past. Quaint markets burst with colors, showcasing Provençal delights, while serene gardens like Jardin de la Ville offer a tranquil escape from the modern world. As a spa town, Aix-en-Provence carries forward its tradition of rejuvenation, with the historic Thermes Sextius blending historical charm with modern wellness. In its fusion of history, culture, and serenity, Aix-en-Provence stands as a captivating oasis awaiting exploration.
Aix-en-Provence’s allure lies in its ability to seamlessly blend heritage with modernity. The town offers a journey through time, where visitors can retrace the steps of Cézanne, explore bustling markets, and find solace in the arms of nature. This cultural haven invites travelers to bask in the beauty of its architecture, from historic landmarks to charming squares, and indulge in the vibrant culinary scene that reflects the essence of Provence. Aix-en-Provence is not just a destination; it’s an experience that awakens the senses and fosters a connection with history, art, and the serene landscapes that have inspired generations. As a haven in the north of Marseille, Aix-en-Provence welcomes all who seek a momentary escape into a world of timeless elegance and boundless creativity.
Shore excursion Marseille : the relaxing atmosphere of Cassis
Cassis
Cassis
Nestled in the scenic embrace of Marseille’s southern coastline, Cassis stands as a gem of the Mediterranean that captivates with its natural beauty and seaside charm. This enchanting fishing village, often referred to as the “jewel of the Calanques,” offers a breathtaking blend of azure waters, rugged cliffs, and idyllic beaches. Cassis’s allure lies in its dramatic calanques – narrow fjord-like inlets carved into limestone cliffs by the sea’s relentless embrace. These geological marvels not only offer spectacular views but also beckon adventurers to explore them by boat, revealing hidden coves and emerald waters that form a mesmerizing tapestry of color and tranquility.
Cultural Tour in Arles
Nestled to the north of Marseille, the ancient town of Arles emerges as a captivating destination where history, art, and Roman heritage converge in a mesmerizing tableau. Arles stands as a living testament to its Roman past, boasting some of the most remarkable remnants of antiquity in France. The UNESCO-listed Roman monuments, including the well-preserved Arles Amphitheatre and the stunningly intricate Roman Theatre, transport visitors back in time to the days of gladiatorial contests and theatrical performances. The town’s streets are a tapestry of history, with well-preserved Roman walls and gates that provide a glimpse into Arles’ strategic significance as an important Roman colony.
Arles’ allure doesn’t end with its Roman heritage; it extends into the realm of art, encapsulated by the town’s deep connection with Vincent van Gogh. The famed artist found inspiration in Arles’ sun-soaked landscapes, captivating light, and vibrant colors during his time here. The iconic Yellow House, depicted in some of Van Gogh’s most renowned works, holds a place of reverence in the hearts of art enthusiasts. Visitors can trace Van Gogh’s footsteps through the town, following the Van Gogh Trail that leads to the very locations that inspired his masterpieces. The vivid scenes that captured Van Gogh’s imagination come alive as visitors explore Arles’ streets, gardens, and cafés, creating a profound artistic connection that resonates to this day. With its blend of ancient history and artistic legacy, Arles stands as a town that weaves together the threads of time and creativity, inviting all who visit to embark on a unique journey of exploration and inspiration.
History Tour in Avignon
Nestled in the northern expanse of Marseille, Avignon emerges as a historical and architectural marvel that captivates the imagination. The imposing Palais des Papes, a UNESCO World Heritage site, dominates the cityscape with its grandeur, once serving as the seat of papal power during the 14th century. Its towering walls and ornate interiors offer a glimpse into the opulence of the papal court, while the Pont Saint-Bénézet, famously known as the Pont d’Avignon, enchants with its iconic arches spanning the Rhône River. These landmarks, steeped in history and legend, transport visitors to a bygone era, where the Palace’s rich tapestries of power and the Bridge’s half-remembered dances meld to create an evocative narrative of Avignon’s enduring charm.
Julia Leoni
