Cassis & Calanques Tour from Aix-en-Provence:

Wine, Cliffs & Mediterranean Beaches

Leave the dry hills of Provence behind for a day and watch the landscape transform into something else entirely—turquoise water, limestone cliffs plunging into the sea, pastel fishing villages where locals still pull up their boats each morning.

✓ Private tour, max 8 guests
✓ Expert English-speaking guide
✓ Hotel pickup included
✓ Perfect for families & first-timers
✓ Free cancellation up to 48 hours before
✓ Flexible itinerary – you choose pace
✓ Money-back guarantee if tour cancelled by us

From €950 per group (up to 8 people)

Add Your Heading Text Here

7 hour tour

Small group pace and
suitable to all ages

Max 8

Small group for a more personal experience

Local Guide

Happy intrepid travellers
with memories for a lifetime

Easy

Most flat streets with some cobblestones and some steps. Option to sit at fountains or benches on the way.

Languages

English, Spanish, French (please check availability when booking)

Meeting Point

Centre of Aix outside the Tourism Office, near the main roundabout and near to Apple store

why is this tour different

You Won't Find This Anywhere Else

Cassis gets overwhelmed by midday tour buses. We time our arrival to beat the crowds and give you the village before it fills up. We also know which roads to take, where to park, and which boat operators actually know the Calanques.

Logistics matter when you’re dealing with narrow streets, limited boat schedules, and beaches that get packed by noon.

We don’t rush you through Cassis to tick boxes. You get time to wander, taste wine properly, swim if you want, linger over lunch. The boat tour is optional. The museum visit is optional. La Ciotat beach time is flexible.

If you’d rather paint watercolors on the beach than visit a cinema museum, that’s fine. This is your day, shaped around what actually matters to you.

This tour speaks to three types of travelers:

Wine enthusiasts who want to taste Cassis whites where they’re grown, not in a shop
Photographers chasing Mediterranean light and dramatic coastal landscapes
Film lovers curious about cinema history and the Lumière brothers’ legacy

If you’re any of these, you’ll find something here other tours skip.

This isn’t a side gig. My family has been in Provence for generations. I grew up swimming off these beaches, drinking Cassis wine at family dinners, and hearing stories about the Calanques from fishermen who still work these waters.

When I take you to La Ciotat, I’m showing you the coast I know personally—not just the highlights, but the rhythm and texture of a place I’ve returned to my whole life.

Your guide isn’t just trained in history—their family has lived in Provence for 200+ years. You’ll hear stories about the resistance during WWII, meet locals who’ve known your guide since childhood, and discover hidden spots that aren’t in any guidebook because they’re family secrets. This isn’t a script. It’s personal

Licensed, Insured Guides

Local experts with Personal Stories

Family Business

Founded 2022 Post-Covid

500+

Five Star Reviews Across Multiple Platforms

Your Itinerary

Your Day in At the beach

This isn’t the Provence of lavender fields and stone farmhouses. This is the Mediterranean edge: dramatic, bright, impossibly blue.In one day, you’ll taste the crisp white wine Cassis is famous for, cruise beneath the towering Calanques cliffs, swim from a small village beach, and discover La Ciotat—the quiet coastal town where cinema was born. No rushing, no crowds. Just the contrast between Provence’s dry green hills and the sudden shock of the sea.

Cassis

Marseille

La Ciotat

Aix en Provence

9:00 AM - Hotel Pickup in Aix-en-Provence

We collect you from your hotel or accommodation in central Aix. Settle into our comfortable, air-conditioned van as your guide shares what makes today special—and answers any questions about the rest of your Provence trip.

Driving time to Cassis: 60 minutes through rolling hills and Provencal villages

10:00 AM - Cassis: The Fishing Village That Stopped Time

Your day begins in Cassis, a small harbor village wedged between cliffs and sea. The houses are painted in soft pastels—ochre, coral, cream—and the main square fills with locals drinking coffee at outdoor tables.

This is a fishing port first, tourist destination second. You’ll feel the difference immediately.

Walk the harbor, watch fishermen mending nets, breathe in the salt air. Then sit down for a tasting of Cassis white wine—crisp, mineral, unlike anything grown inland. The vines grow on terraced slopes facing the sea. The wine tastes like it.

If the weather’s right and you’re in the mood, there’s a small beach with public showers. Swim, sketch, people-watch. Or save your energy for the boat.

12:00 PM - Calanques Boat Tour: Into the Cliffs

This is the part people remember.

The Calanques are a protected national park—a series of narrow inlets carved into white limestone cliffs that drop straight into impossibly clear water. You can’t see them from land. You have to go by sea.

We board a small boat and cruise along the coast, passing coves where the water shifts from turquoise to deep blue depending on depth. The cliffs rise 400 meters above you, streaked with scrub pine and stone. It’s dramatic in a way that feels ancient and untouched.

The boat tour lasts about an hour. It’s optional, but most people take it—it’s the reason many come to Cassis in the first place.

1:30 PM - Lunch in Cassis: Bouillabaisse, Rosé & Waterfront Tables

After the boat, we return to Cassis for lunch. You choose where—harbor-side bistros with fresh fish, or quieter spots tucked into side streets. This is your time. Eat slowly. Order the local catch. Drink rosé in the shade.

I’ll give you recommendations, point you toward places locals go, and give you space to enjoy the meal at your own pace.

3:00 PM - The Crête Road: Coastal Views That Stop You Mid-Sentence

After lunch, we drive the Route des Crêtes—the high coastal road that winds along the clifftops between Cassis and La Ciotat.

This road was built in the 1960s and it still feels audacious. Sheer drops, panoramic views, pull-offs where you’ll want to stop and stare. The Mediterranean stretches out below, bright and endless.

We stop for photos overlooking the turquoise bays. It’s the kind of view that makes people go quiet for a moment.

5:00 PM - La Ciotat: Where Cinema Was Born (and the Beach Is Better)

We finish the day in La Ciotat, a working port town that tourists often skip—which is exactly why it’s still authentic.

La Ciotat has two claims to fame: it’s where the Lumière brothers filmed L’Arrivée d’un train en gare de La Ciotat in 1895, the first motion picture ever projected publicly. And it has some of the best beaches on this coast—wider, sandier, less crowded than Cassis.

You can visit the Eden Théâtre, the world’s oldest cinema still standing, or the old train station where that famous film was shot. Or you can skip the history lesson and just spend your last hour on the beach, swimming in calm water under late afternoon light.

Your choice. This is your day.

Return to Aix hotel: 5:30 PM (approximate)

What's Included in Your Private Tour

Included in Your Tour Price:

Duration: Full day (approximately 8 hours)

Group Size: Small group, maximum 8 guests

Departure Point: Aix-en-Provence (hotel pickup included)

Transportation: Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. All driving, parking, and navigation handled by your guide.

What’s Included:

Hotel pickup and drop-off in Aix-en-Provence
Transportation in private vehicle
Cassis white wine tasting
Route des Crêtes scenic drive
Swimming opportunities at beaches in Cassis and La Ciotat
Expert local guide with deep Provence knowledge
Flexible itinerary that adapts to your interests

What’s Not Included:

Lunch in Cassis (you choose where to eat)
Calanques boat tour (optional, approximately €18–25 per person)
Eden Théâtre cinema museum entrance (optional, approximately €8)

Physical Requirements: Easy. Minimal walking. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

What to Bring:

Swimsuit and towel (if you plan to swim)
Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
Camera (the Crête Road views are unforgettable)
Comfortable walking shoes for harbor strolls

Weather Note: This tour runs in good weather. Mediterranean conditions are generally ideal April–October. If conditions are unsafe (strong winds, rough seas), we’ll reschedule or offer a full refund.

Transportation & Logistics

We handle all transportation so you can relax from the moment your day begins. Your guide picks you up and drops you off anywhere in the Aix-en-Provence city center, traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned Mercedes van (2020 or newer). All fuel, tolls, and parking fees are included, and your professional driver-guide is fully licensed and insured.

Guiding & Expertise

You explore with an expert English-speaking guide trained in history, not just transportation. For eight full hours, your guide provides personalized attention, rich storytelling, and local insight, while sharing insider recommendations for restaurants, shops, and hidden gems. The itinerary remains flexible and adapts to your interests throughout the day.

Access & Assistance

Your guide helps you make the most of every stop with smart skip-the-line strategies at popular sites and expert assistance with photo opportunities. We also take care of restaurant reservations when needed and offer WhatsApp support before and during your tour for seamless communication.

Comfort & Convenience

We prioritize your comfort at every step. Complimentary bottled water is available throughout the day, umbrellas are provided if rain is forecast, and child seats can be arranged upon request. With a maximum of eight guests, the experience remains intimate, relaxed, and personal.

Not included

Is This Tour Right for You?

decide for yourself

This Tour Is Perfect For:

White Wine Enthusiasts

Cassis produces some of Provence’s most distinctive whites—mineral, crisp, unlike the rosés everyone else is chasing. You’ll taste them where they’re made, with views of the vines sloping down to the sea.

Film & Cinema Lovers

La Ciotat is a pilgrimage site for anyone who loves movies. This is where it all began—the Lumière brothers, the first projections, the train pulling into the station that made early audiences scream and duck. The Eden Théâtre still stands. You can visit it.

Photographers Chasing the Light

The light here is different. The contrast between limestone white, Mediterranean blue, and Provence green is sharp and saturated. The Crête Road alone justifies bringing a camera.

Photographers Chasing the Light

The light here is different. The contrast between limestone white, Mediterranean blue, and Provence green is sharp and saturated. The Crête Road alone justifies bringing a camera.

Multi-Generational Families

A comfortable, engaging Provence day tour designed for grandparents, parents, and teens, with an easy pace, iconic views, and stories that connect every age.

First-Time Visitors to Provence

An ideal introduction to Provence that provides cultural context, local tips, and insider knowledge to enhance the rest of your trip.

Travelers with Limited Time

A time-efficient Provence day trip covering multiple iconic destinations in one seamless, stress-free experience.

Beach Lovers Tired of Crowds

If you want the Mediterranean experience without Saint-Tropez prices or Cannes crowds, La Ciotat delivers. Real people, real beaches, real towns.

Curious Travelers Who Want the Full Coastal Story

You’re not content with just seeing Cassis. You want to understand why the Calanques are protected, how the local wine reflects its terroir, what makes La Ciotat different from the famous coastal towns everyone visits. You ask good questions. This tour rewards that.

This Tour Is Not For:

Party & Nightlife Travelers

Not designed for party tours, nightlife, or wine-fueled bus experiences—this is a cultural, scenic, daytime Provence tour.

Guests with Severe Mobility Limitations

Not ideal for travelers requiring full wheelchair access, as some historic sites include cobblestones, stairs, gravel paths, and inclines.

Luxury Shopping–Focused Travelers

Not the best fit for solo travelers on a tight budget, as this private Provence tour offers the most value when shared.

Budget-Conscious Solo Travelers

A time-efficient Provence day trip covering multiple iconic destinations in one seamless, stress-free experience.

People who hate water

If you dislike boats, beaches, or coastal scenery, this probably isn’t your tour. (Though the wine and views might still win you over.)

Frequently Asked Questions

It's okay to ask

Is the boat tour of the Calanques included?

The boat tour is optional. Most guests take it (it’s the highlight for many), but it’s not mandatory. Cost is approximately €18–25 per person, paid directly to the boat operator.

Can I swim during theable, but safety comes first.

Can I swim during the tour?

Yes. There are swimming opportunities at both Cassis (small beach with public showers) and La Ciotat (larger, sandier beaches). Bring a swimsuit and towel if you’re interested.

What if I don't drink wine?

The wine tasting in Cassis is a cultural experience, not a drinking requirement. You can taste, sip, or simply enjoy the setting. Non-alcoholic options are available.

Is lunch included?

No. Lunch in Cassis is at your own pace and expense. I’ll recommend restaurants based on your tastes and budget (harbor-side bistros, quieter spots, fresh fish, vegetarian options). Most guests budget €20–40 per person.

What's the weather like?

Mediterranean coastal weather is generally warm and sunny April–October. Summers can be hot (bring sun protection). Spring and fall offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Winter tours are possible but depend on conditions.

How much walking is involved?

Minimal. This is a driving tour with relaxed strolls through Cassis harbor and time on beaches. No strenuous hiking. Suitable for all fitness levels.

Can we customize the itinerary?

Absolutely. Want to skip La Ciotat and spend more time in Cassis? Prefer to focus on wine over beaches? Let me know when booking. This is your day.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes. Families with children enjoy the beaches, boat ride, and relaxed pace. The tour adapts well to different ages.

What happens if the weather is bad?

If conditions are unsafe (storms, rough seas), we’ll reschedule or offer a full refund. Mediterranean weather is typically reliable, but safety comes first.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

Partially. Arles and Saint-Rémy have wheelchair-accessible areas, though cobblestones can be challenging. Les Baux is not accessible due to steep medieval streets. For guests with mobility limitations, we modify the itinerary—more time at accessible sites, skip Les Baux for alternative locations. Contact us before booking to design an appropriate route.

What Our Guests Say About Their Day

Client Stories

Our experience with Benjamin and his tour was excellent. We walked the city of Aix and through Benjamins deep knowledge we gleaned much insight into its history. Ben is personable and easy to know. He has a terrific sense of humor. Ben welcomes questions and shares his insight with enthusiasm. Aix-en-Provence is a beautiful historic city and you do not want to miss the opportunity to experience it through the eyes of an expert. Hire this guide, you will not regret it.

Ethan Carter

Our tour was simply wonderful, exceeding our expectations. Benjamin is a terrific guide; knowledgeable, smart, funny, professional and welcoming. He has a great ability to describe Aix's history and connect it to the present-day city we toured. He combined big picture stuff with "insider" details that only a native of Aix could offer. He made our stay so much richer. He was a pleasure. We are recommending him to others, and already making plans to return.

Olivia Bennett

Instead of just rattling off facts, he told stories that made the history stick, pointed out details I would have walked right past, and gave me a real feel for the rhythm of the city. We ended up wandering through quiet side streets and courtyards, local markets, quiet hidden fountains and Le Cours Mirabeau. And even a few spots we felt like only locals know about.

Chloe Adams

Benjamin was friendly and knowledgeable. He was able to distill a lot of relevant information in a layback and pedagogical manner, which is not the case with all guides. My family and I are big consumers of private guides when we travel, and we travel often. I would say that Benjamin ranks in our top three or top four of all time

James Walker

Benjamin is extremely knowledgeable of the city of Aix-en-Provence. He has a good mix of the history with a little touch of humor that makes it very interesting and fun! The additional touch of his own family history in the city is an added bonus. We thoroughly enjoyed the tour and would highly recommend it to anyone visiting the city.

Daniel Brooks

Ben was an incredibly knowledgeable tour guide and very personable. It was a very fun and interesting morning learning about the history of Aix, its residents and the culture. Great recommendations for shopping and dining and what museums to pursue on our own. We highly recommend this tour for all that you will learn and how entertaining Ben is.

Harper Mitchell

Ben was a fantastic guide. He lives and breathes Aix en Provence and imparts his knowledge along with lovely stories and a passion that clearly stems from his life and family history in Aix. We tried some local delicacies, bought strawberries, drank pastis in a square and really felt immersed in the town. Highly recommended!

Marcus Hayes

Benji has a great of humor, has an incredible amount of local knowledge (and family roots here in Aix) as well as an appreciation for his tour group/tailors to who he is speaking to. He shared information that is not readily available in the tour books - way better! Absolutely recommend him

Sophia Collins

I spent a morning walking around Aix-en-Provence with Benjamin, and it was nothing short of fabulous. He has that perfect mix of local knowledge, easygoing energy, and a real love for Aix.

Tyler Grant

Book Your Cassis & Calanques Tour

Check Your Availability

The coast is calling. Wine, cliffs, turquoise water, and a fishing village that still feels real.

This is Provence’s other face—the one that faces the sea.

Check your availability and book your tour below, or e-mail us via the contact page or via WhatsApp – if you have any questions.

After You Book:

1. Instant confirmation email

2. WhatsApp contact with your guide

3. Reminder 48 hours before

4. Guide calls you morning of tour