Private Shore Excursion from Marseille to Aix-en-Provence & Côtes de Provence Wines
Embark on a vibrant private shore excursion from Marseille Cruise Port to discover the elegant town of Aix-en-Provence and the nearby Provence wine country. Enjoy a flexible day combining history, art, food, and wine, with convenient pick up and drop off at your cruise ship.
Pick up at your cruise ship in Marseille
Your day begins with direct pick up at your ship in Marseille Cruise Port. Meet your English-speaking driver/guide, who will outline the itinerary and adapt the pace to your interests. Then board your premium air-conditioned vehicle and set off toward Aix-en-Provence.
Arrive in Aix-en-Provence – the City of Water and Art
In the morning, arrive in Aix-en-Provence, often called the City of Water and City of Fine Arts. Stroll through the historic center, where elegant mansions, shaded squares, and picturesque fountains line the streets. Your guided walk will showcase some of the town’s iconic fountains and explain how water has shaped the identity of Aix for centuries.
Walking tour of the historic center
Continue your discovery with a walking tour of the old town. Wander along Cours Mirabeau, one of the most beautiful boulevards in Provence, and admire the wrought-iron balconies and refined façades around Albertas Square and the 17th-century Town Hall. Depending on timing and your interests, your guide may also include sights such as the Saint-Sauveur Cathedral and its cloister.
Follow in Cézanne’s footsteps or opt for a gourmet focus
Aix-en-Provence is closely linked to the painter Paul Cézanne. If you wish, your guide can focus the visit on Cézanne’s life and legacy, including a stop at his studio (entrance subject to opening times), where you can feel the atmosphere of the place that inspired many of his works.
Alternatively, you can choose a more gourmet approach. Aix is famed for its markets and specialties, from pastries and macarons to candied fruits and local delicacies. Your guide can lead you through the food market to meet producers, discover seasonal products, and enjoy a pause for a glass of local rosé or a sweet treat.
Wine tasting in a Côtes de Provence winery
In the afternoon, leave Aix-en-Provence behind and head into the nearby Côtes de Provence wine region. On arrival at a local winery, learn about the estate, its terroir, and the Mediterranean climate that shapes its wines. Then enjoy a guided tasting of a selection of red, white, and, of course, rosé wines, known for their pale color, fresh fruit, and easy-drinking style.
Return to Marseille Cruise Port
After your tasting, relax on the drive back to Marseille. Your driver/guide will return you to your cruise ship in time for departure, bringing your day in Aix-en-Provence and the Provence vineyards to a comfortable close.
