Escapade en cabriolet de Marseille à Cassis et La Ciotat

Exploring the South of France in a Convertible Beetle: Marseille to Cassis and La Ciotat

If you’re dreaming of cruising along the breathtaking coastlines of the South of France, this cabriolet tour from Marseille to Cassis and La Ciotat offers a delightful mix of scenic drives, authentic villages, and panoramic views. For around $690 per group (up to 4 people), you’ll spend roughly 7 hours exploring the coast in style—thanks to an eye-catching automatic Volkswagen Beetle convertible. With a friendly guide leading the way, this experience promises a memorable day that combines comfort with adventure.

What we love most is how this tour combines the thrill of driving a classic car along the famous Route des Crêtes, with the chance to pause at some of France’s most picturesque spots. The panoramic views from high above La Ciotat and the chance to walk the charming port of Cassis are real highlights. Plus, the guide’s local knowledge really elevates the experience—making the scenic stops come alive with stories and insights.

A potential consideration is the weather—since this is a convertible tour, rain or high winds could disrupt the plans or alter the route. It’s worth checking the weather forecast before booking to ensure you get to enjoy the open-air experience as intended.

This tour suits travelers who crave scenic drives, authentic coastal towns, and a touch of fun behind the wheel. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a relaxed pace, stunning views, and a small, private group atmosphere, as reflected in glowing reviews from past guests.

Key Points

• Stunning Coastal Views: Pass along the famous Route des Crêtes with breathtaking vistas over the Bay of La Ciotat and Cassis creeks.
• Unique Convertible Experience: Drive in a Volkswagen Beetle convertible, combining style with the thrill of open-air driving.
• Authentic Stops: Visit charming fishing villages and scenic viewpoints, including the calanque of Figueroles, painted by Picasso.
• Expert Local Guides: Knowledgeable guides ensure you don’t just see the sights but understand their significance.
• Flexible Itinerary: The route may change if weather conditions disrupt the planned scenic drive, ensuring safety.
• Authentic Atmosphere: The tour’s small group setting creates an intimate, relaxed environment.

An In-Depth Look at the Marseille to Cassis and La Ciotat Journey

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Starting Point: Marseille’s Cruise Port or Central Locations

The experience kicks off with pickup options at InterContinental Marseille – Hotel Dieu or Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal, making it easy for cruise travelers or those staying nearby. This flexibility means you won’t waste time commuting and can focus on enjoying the day.

The Drive Along the Coast: A Scenic Highlight

Once in the convertible Beetle, you’ll follow your guide, who is not just a driver but also a storyteller. As you weave along Marseille’s coast, you’ll appreciate the contrast of sea, mountains, and rivers—a quintessential Mediterranean backdrop. We loved the way the top-down view makes every turn feel like a scene from a travel magazine, with the wind in your hair and the sun on your face.

The Route des Crêtes is the main event here—this road is famed for its dizzying heights and panoramic views. It’s the highest road near the Mediterranean coast, reaching 1,148 feet (about 350 meters) above sea level. From this vantage point, you’ll see the Bay of La Ciotat spread out below, a view that truly captures the essence of coastal France.

La Ciotat: The Quintessential Mediterranean Port

Your guide will lead you to La Ciotat, where you’ll get a chance to stroll the picturesque port. This town has a relaxed vibe, with seafood restaurants and charming cafés lining the waterfront. Past guests mention that it’s the perfect place for a snack or a coffee break, with some noting it’s one of the most beautiful bays in the world. The view here is so impressive that Picasso himself painted the bay—an interesting tidbit you’ll appreciate while wandering around.

The Calanque of Figueroles: A Rocky Treasure

Next, you’ll stop at the calanque of Figueroles, which has earned accolades such as being named the “World’s Most Beautiful Bay” in 2019. At 394 meters above sea level, this rocky outcrop offers striking photo opportunities and sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape. Past visitors describe this stop as “mind-blowing,” praising the memorable photos and the sense of being on top of the world.

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Exploring Cassis: The Iconic Fishing Village

After the scenic drive, you’ll arrive in Cassis, a town known for its calanques and vibrant port. You’ll have about 1 to 1.5 hours to explore, relax, and soak in the atmosphere. Many guests say the port’s colorful boats, fresh seafood, and narrow streets make it a perfect spot for a break. One reviewer mentioned, “We had a wonderful time, and Dennis made it so memorable,” illustrating how a good guide can turn a simple stop into a highlight.

Return Journey and Optional Free Time

Following Cassis, the tour heads back along the opposite road, giving you the chance to revisit favorite views or just enjoy the coastal scenery. The entire journey is designed to maximize scenic views and authentic experiences, with a comfortable duration of about 7 hours.

Practical Details and Why They Matter

The group size is limited to four in the Beetle, fostering a cozy atmosphere. The tour also offers the option to rent up to 5 Beetles for larger groups, which is great for families or friends traveling together. The price of $690 covers the vehicle, the guide, and the route—considered excellent value given the personalized nature of the experience and the included scenic stops.

The guided aspect ensures you get local insights, making the scenery more meaningful. Plus, the automatic transmission makes driving less stressful, especially if you’re not used to manual gear. Keep in mind, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring water and maybe a snack for the stops.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience fits travelers who want more than just a “drive-by” of the coast. If you’re looking for a small, personalized tour with a mix of driving and walking, this fits perfectly. It’s especially suited for those interested in scenic photography, authentic coastal towns, and classic cars. Past guests have praised the knowledgeable guides, making the day both informative and fun.

However, it’s not ideal for travelers with mobility issues or children under 8, as the tour involves walking and some rocky stops. Also, if you have a drinking problem or dislike outdoor driving, it might not be the best fit—because, naturally, it’s an open-top drive and alcohol is not permitted during the trip.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a unique blend of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and classic car fun. The stunning views from high above La Ciotat and Cassis, combined with the relaxed pace and expert guides, make it a genuine highlight for those wanting a more intimate experience of the South of France’s coast.

It’s especially good for cruise passengers, as the flexible pickup and drop-off make it easy to fit into a tight schedule. For those who appreciate authentic landscapes, charming villages, and the chance to drive a vintage Beetle along iconic roads, this tour is a memorable choice.

Overall, it’s a well-priced, thoughtfully organized experience that balances adventure with comfort—perfect for travelers seeking a slice of coastal paradise with a touch of nostalgia.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?

You get a Volkswagen automatic convertible Beetle for your group, a guide driving a 9-seater shuttle, and the scenic route. Food and drinks are not included, so bring your own if desired.

Where does the tour start?

Pickups are available at InterContinental Marseille – Hotel Dieu or Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal, making it convenient for cruise travelers and guests staying nearby.

How many people can fit in the Beetle?

The tour is designed for 1 to 4 people per Beetle, with an option to rent up to 5 Beetles for larger groups. Smaller groups mean more personalized attention.

What if the weather is bad?

If Route des Crêtes is closed due to high winds or other weather conditions, the route will be changed to ensure safety but still cover similar scenic points.

How long does the tour last?

It runs for approximately 7 hours, including stops at La Ciotat, Cassis, and the calanque of Figueroles, with time allocated for exploring each spot.

Is the tour suitable for children?

It’s not recommended for children under 8 years or those with mobility impairments due to walking involved at some stops and rocky terrain.

Can I bring my own food?

While meals are not included, there are opportunities to buy snacks or dine in Cassis or La Ciotat, so bring some cash or cards to enjoy local cuisine.

What languages are available?

The tour is conducted in French, English, and Italian, ensuring clear communication for diverse travelers.

Do I need a driver’s license?

Yes, a Driver’s License from your country is necessary, as you will be driving the Beetle during the tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?

Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

If you’re eager to combine scenic drives, charming towns, and the thrill of driving a vintage car along some of France’s most spectacular coastlines, this tour is a charming, memorable choice. Its focus on authentic landscapes and guided insights makes it a standout for those seeking a relaxed yet immersive experience in the South of France.

You can check availability for your dates here: