Marseille Highlights
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Port
La Joliette (Marseille), France
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$100
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4 hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
From the pier depart by motor coach to explore Marseille -- France's second city and home to the Mediterranean's largest port. Begin at Le Vieux Port -- the Old Port -- where the Greeks landed in 600 BC. Here, classically French cafés and restaurants nestle in front of gently bobbing fishing boats in the harbor.
Continue along the J.F. Kennedy Corniche, following the coastline that offers lovely views of offshore islands and surrounding mountains.
Your first stop is at Notre Dame de la Garde Basilica, located at the highest point of the city at about 500 feet in elevation. Built on an ancient fortress the sanctuary was dedicated to the Virgin and consecrated in 1864. The 160-step climb to the interior is well worth the effort -- those less inclined are also rewarded as the esplanade offers an impressive view over Marseille.
Descend into the city's shopping district and past Longchamp Palace. Designed by the architect Esperandieu and completed in 1869, it houses the Museums of Fine Art & Natural History, and its façade is strangely reminiscent of the Palais de Chaillot in Paris, although it predates the Parisian version by 68 years.
Stop back in the Old Port for some free time to explore on your own before driving back to the pier.
Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes. Travel time to Marseille's city center is approximately 30- minutes each way. Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience.