Marseille10 min
Depending on the place of pickup, the time to reach our first destination will be roughly 10 minutes.
Cathedrale La MajorPass by
Next, you'll pass by the beautiful Cathédrale de la Major. Built in the 19th century, this stunning cathedral has long been, and still is, the first symbol that merchants and travelers see when arriving in Marseille. It reflects the beauty and influence of the Phocean city. The cathedral is considered one of the largest in France built since the Middle Ages. As you pass through this area, you'll also enjoy views of Marseille's commercial port and The Mucem, a modern museum featuring exhibitions on Mediterranean culture as well as contemporary art. The Mucem was built in 2013 to commemorate Marseille’s designation as the European Capital of Culture that same year. Part of the Mucem complex includes Fort Saint-Jean, a fortress built in the 17th century by King Louis XIV to protect the city’s entrance and assert royal authority.
Le PanierPass by
Near the cathedral, a visit to 'Le Panier' is a must. This charming old town of Marseille, with its narrow streets and colorful historic buildings, makes it easy to forget you're in a city of nearly 1 million people. While we will pass by on our way to the next destination, unfortunately, due to the small streets and limited parking, we won’t be able to stop. However, we strongly recommend exploring this beautiful area on foot during your time in Marseille.
Marseille15 min
Depending on the place of pickup, the time to reach our first destination will be roughly 15 minutes.
Palais LongchampPass by
We’ll now pass by the magnificent Palais Longchamp, a true architectural gem of Marseille. Built in the 19th century to celebrate the arrival of water in the city via the Canal de Marseille, this grand monument is surrounded by lush gardens and offers a serene contrast to the bustling city. The palace houses both the Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Natural History, making it an important cultural landmark. As we pass through the area, take a moment to admire the stunning fountains, statues, and elegant architecture that make Palais Longchamp one of Marseille’s most iconic monuments.
Marseille20 min
From Le Panier to our next destination, we'll need roughly 20 minutes.
Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde15 min
Our next destination is the iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde, perched high above Marseille and offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. Built in the 19th century, this basilica is a symbol of protection for sailors and locals alike, featuring stunning mosaics and intricate architecture. Known as the 'Bonne Mère' to the people of Marseille, it has been a place of pilgrimage for centuries. We’ll make a short stop here, giving you time to explore the interior, take in the incredible vistas, and capture some unforgettable photos. This stop offers a perfect opportunity to fully appreciate its beauty and the sweeping views.
La corniche25 min
From Notre-Dame de la Garde, our journey continues towards Pointe Rouge, taking us along the stunning Corniche Kennedy. This scenic coastal road offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, with its sparkling blue waters stretching out as far as the eye can see. As we drive along La Corniche, you’ll pass beautiful beaches, rocky coves, and elegant 19th-century villas that line the cliffs. The panoramic views over the bay, combined with the gentle sea breeze, make this one of the most picturesque routes in Marseille. We’ll head towards the southern part of the city, arriving at Pointe Rouge, a lively coastal area known for its sandy beaches and relaxed atmosphere.
Shore Excursion: Drive a Convertible to Cassis & Calanques
Provence à la carte Private tour with Aixplore Drive
