When your cruise ship docks at the Marseille port, your guide will pick you up from the cruise terminal by luxury minivan and whisk you away on your private shore excursion. You'll start by venturing inland through the beautiful Provence countryside to Avignon, just over an hour away.
Known as the City of Popes, Avignon was once home to several 14th- and 15th-century French popes who lavished the town with eye-popping architectural gems. When you arrive, your guide will take you on a walking tour to see several monuments dating back to these times, like Cathedral Notre-Dame des Doms and the Pont Saint-B□nezet, the elegant bridge immortalized in the French children’s song 'Sur le Pont d’Avignon.' You'll learn about the city's history as you wander around the city center and admire the restored medieval ramparts.
The rest of the morning is yours to explore at your leisure and have lunch on your own. Perhaps visit Popes’ Palace (Palais des Papes) to learn more about the power, prestige and corruption of Avignon’s papal heritage. Once inside this amazing Gothic palace, you can see more than 20 different rooms including the pope’s private chambers.
After reconvening with your guide, make the drive to Chteauneuf-du-Pape, a village in the Provence-Alpes-Cte d'Azur region. Here you'll visit a local wine estate for a wine tour.
Taste two of the estate's most presigious red and white wines, noting their deep yet balanced flavors, while learning about the region's terroir from the sommelier. You'll discover the characteristics of the local environment that make the taste and color of these wines so exquisite.
At the end of your wine tour, it's time to head back to Marseille. Your tour concludes at the port in the early evening in time to board your ship.
Worry-free Shore ExcursionWe will ensure your timely return to the Marseille port for this activity. In the rare event your ship has departed, we will arrange for transportation to the next port-of-call. If your ship is delayed and you are unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.