Medieval Marvels & Chateauneuf du Pape Wines: Private Marseille Shore Trip

Private Shore Excursion from Marseille to Avignon & Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Embark on a full-day shore excursion from Marseille to discover Avignon and the Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine region. Let our expert local guides introduce you to one of the most iconic wine areas of the southern Rhône Valley.

Pick up at your cruise ship in Marseille

Your day begins with convenient pick up directly at your cruise ship in Marseille Cruise Port. Meet your English-speaking driver/guide, who will outline the itinerary for this private tour. Then board your comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and set off toward the historic city of Avignon.

Guided visit of Avignon – City of the Popes

Start your tour in Avignon, famously known as the City of the Popes. Enjoy a guided walking tour through the UNESCO-listed historic center and discover landmarks such as the Palais des Papes, Pont Saint-Bénézet, Notre-Dame des Doms Cathedral, Saint-Pierre Church, and Place de l’Horloge. Along the way, your guide will share the rich papal history and cultural heritage that make Avignon one of Provence’s most fascinating towns.

After the visit, enjoy free time for personal exploration and lunch (at own expense). You can dine in Avignon or ask your guide about heading to a nearby hilltop village, such as Les Baux-de-Provence, for a more scenic lunch setting.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine tour

In the afternoon, continue to the renowned Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine region. Discover the village and the remains of the ancient château, once the summer residence of the popes, and take in superb views over the Rhône Valley. Then, visit selected local estates and historic cellars for guided tastings of Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines.

Learn about the appellation, its terroir, and the grape varieties used in the blends, with Grenache and Syrah among the most prominent for reds, and several permitted white varieties for the lesser-known but distinctive whites. Depending on your interests, your guide can suggest additional wineries where you can taste more red and white Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines.

Return to Marseille Cruise Port

After your wine tasting experiences, sit back and relax on the drive back to Marseille. Your driver will drop you off at your cruise ship, marking the end of this memorable Avignon and Châteauneuf-du-Pape shore excursion.