Drive a Cabriolet from Marseille to Cassis La Ciotat

This tour promises a luxurious, tailor-made experience that combines the thrill of driving a convertible with the stunning landscapes of Provence. From the moment you start at the Marseille cruise port, you’ll find yourself whisked away on a journey filled with panoramic views, picturesque villages, and exciting stops that go far beyond the typical sightseeing bus.

What really makes this experience stand out is the opportunity to drive a classic convertible—whether it’s a VW Beetle or a Fiat 500—and follow an expert escort who shares local anecdotes along winding roads. The flexible itinerary also means you’re free to explore at your own pace, making it ideal for those craving an authentic, personalized adventure in the South of France.

That said, since the tour is designed for cruise passengers with a limited time window (between 3:00 pm and 4:30 pm), punctuality is important to ensure you get the most out of each stop. Overall, if you love scenic drives, charming villages, and the idea of driving a vintage convertible along the coast, this is a fantastic choice. Ideal for those seeking a mix of adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery in a small, intimate group setting.

Key Points

• Authentic driving experience in a vintage convertible, not just a sightseeing bus.
• Expert guides (Denis and Virginia) who share local stories and take photos.
• Stunning vistas of Calanques, Cap Canaille, and the Mediterranean coastline.
• Well-curated stops in Cassis, La Ciotat, and Marseille’s scenic spots.
• Flexible, customizable itinerary ideal for cruise travelers with limited time.
• Great value for a personalized, memorable day in Provence.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

This tour is about more than just ticking off tourist spots. It’s an immersive journey through the highlights of Marseille, Cassis, and La Ciotat, designed for travelers who want to get behind the wheel and soak up the scenery in a stylish convertible. The price of $558.18 per group (up to four people) reflects the exclusivity, private feel, and personal attention from your guides, Denis and Virginia, who have received glowing reviews for their friendliness and local knowledge.

Starting Point: Marseille Cruise Port

Your adventure kicks off at 9:30 am with pickup directly from the cruise port. The modern, air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable start, and each guest receives a small bottled water to hydrate before the day’s exploration. From here, the journey begins with a scenic drive along La Corniche Kennedy, a famed boulevard that offers sweeping views of the sea and the city skyline. This stretch, approximately 3.7 km long, is a favorite for both travelers and locals, especially because of its famous long concrete bench and historical significance—built from 1848 to 1863 and renamed after JFK in 1963.

The Highlights: Stops and Scenic Drives

La Calanque de Figuerolles

The first real taste of Provence’s natural beauty comes at La Calanque de Figuerolles, a protected cove famous for its turquoise waters and rugged cliffs. Accessible via a short walk of 87 steps, this spot isn’t just a postcard-perfect photo op. It’s a lively place for swimming, diving, and exploring the seabed, which is teeming with marine life. Visitors praise the vibrant colors and artistic inspiration the site has offered, notably inspiring painter Georges Braque.

You’ll love the view from the restaurant Chez Tania, which offers a chance to enjoy local cuisine while soaking in the landscape. Reviewers mention the breathtaking scenery and the fun of driving the vintage cars through such stunning surroundings, with one saying, “You see things you will never see with a bus and you experience the beauty of Marseille and Cassis in an open top car taking pictures and videos 360.”

Port de Cassis

From nature’s serenity to charming town life, your next stop is Cassis, a lively fishing port framed by white cliffs and turquoise waters. This authentic Provençal village is famous for its colorful houses, cobbled streets, and vibrant harbor filled with cafes and restaurants. It’s the perfect place to stroll, enjoy a coffee, or sample the region’s renowned white wine. Reviewers highlight the authentic atmosphere and the opportunity to explore on your own, with some even shopping for souvenirs or tasting local specialties.

Marseille’s Cultural Gems

If your schedule allows, a quick visit to Vieux Port and the Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde offers insight into Marseille’s rich past and lively culture. The basilica, perched atop a hill, provides incredible views of the city—reviewers mention it as a must-see, especially if the route to it is open.

The Scenic Route: Route des Crêtes & Cap Canaille

Driving along the Route des Crêtes offers some of the most spectacular vistas of the Mediterranean. This 15-kilometer stretch from Cassis to La Ciotat features numerous viewpoints overlooking the Calanques and the high sea cliffs, including the impressive Cap Canaille, which rises 394 meters above sea level. Multiple reviews describe the breathtaking panoramas and the thrill of capturing photos in this dramatic landscape.

Note that the Cap Canaille stop is subject to weather conditions—strong winds or heat can cause closure, but guides are flexible, and alternative stops are available, like a quick photo opportunity from a nearby viewpoint.

The Calanques National Park

The Calanques, a UNESCO-listed natural site, are renowned for their white limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters. The stop here, including Port Miou, Port Pin, and En Vau, allows for hiking, water activities, or simply soaking in the scenery. Reviewers emphasize the wild beauty and biodiversity of this area, praising the guides’ knowledge and the opportunity to explore at your own pace.

Final Stops: La Ciotat & Old Marseille

Your journey concludes with La Ciotat, known for its historic cinema and cliffside charm. It’s a lovely place for a leisurely walk or a final coffee before heading back to the cruise port.

If time permits, the guides may also include a visit to La Major Cathedral, connecting you with Marseille’s architectural grandeur, and Vallon des Auffes, a tiny fishing port with colorful boats and traditional seafood restaurants.

The Driving Experience & Guides

One of the biggest highlights isn’t just the scenery but driving a vintage convertible. Reviewers repeatedly mention how fun, comfortable, and well-maintained the cars are—in some cases, they drove Beetles or a Fiat 500, which adds a nostalgic touch. Guides Denis and Virginia are highly praised for their local knowledge, friendliness, and willingness to make the experience as personal as possible.

Guests appreciate that guides take photos and videos, capturing the moments as you explore. The small group size means you get a more intimate, tailored experience—reviewers say guides are attentive to individual needs and eager to share their love of the region.

Duration & Value

The tour runs roughly 5 to 7 hours, with a flexible schedule depending on your cruise timing. For $558.18 per group, the value lies in the customized, private feel and the chance to drive a classic car through some of France’s most beautiful scenery. Compared to standard tours, this experience offers personalized attention, authentic moments, and immaculate vehicles—a memorable outing that’s particularly suited for those who love scenic drives and cultural exploration.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for cruise passengers wanting a unique, high-value excursion that combines scenic driving, stunning vistas, and cultural stops. It’s especially suited for couples, families, or small groups who enjoy driving and want an authentic Provence experience without the bulk of large bus tours. If you’re a photo enthusiast or want to escape the ordinary, this is a must-do.

However, it’s important to arrive on time and be prepared for some walking or short hikes at stops like La Calanque de Figuerolles. The weather can influence access to certain viewpoints, so flexible travelers who appreciate spontaneous moments will find this experience rewarding.

The Sum Up

This drive in a convertible along the stunning French Riviera offers a unique mix of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and personalized service. The combination of expert guides, luxury vintage cars, and carefully selected stops makes it a standout choice for travelers seeking more than just a sightseeing tour.

It’s ideal for those who want to drive, explore, and relax in style, all while discovering some of Provence’s most captivating landscapes. The tour’s flexibility and authentic touches—like taking photos and stopping at photo-worthy locations—make it a truly memorable day.

While slightly pricier than traditional excursions, the value lies in exclusivity, comfort, and the immersive experience. Perfect for cruise travelers who want to indulge in the beauty of Marseille and its surroundings in a relaxed, fun, and stylish way.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 7 years old are generally not accepted on this tour for safety reasons, unless arranged beforehand. It’s best suited for older kids and adults.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers all fees and taxes, the private convertible drive, pickup at the cruise port, bottled water, and the services of guides Denis and Virginia. Photos and videos are also provided.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 5 to 7 hours, depending on stops and traffic conditions.

Can I choose the vehicle?
Yes, you can drive a VW Beetle or Fiat 500, both classic and fun options that add charm to the experience.

Are the stops customizable?
While the itinerary covers key highlights like Cassis, La Ciotat, and scenic coastal routes, guides are flexible and aim to accommodate your preferences within the time constraints.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is pickup offered at the cruise port?
Yes, the guides pick you up directly from the Marseille cruise port, making it easy to start your adventure without extra logistics.

This tour isn’t just about seeing Provence—it’s about driving through it in style and creating memories that last a lifetime. Perfect for adventure lovers, car enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to escape the ordinary with a touch of elegance.