Marseille Shore Excursion: Private Tour of Avignon

When your cruise ship docks at the Marseille port, your guide will pick you up from the cruise terminal and take you on your private shore excursion. Head north away from the Mediterranean, passing through swathes of lovely Provencal countryside. Avignon is located just over an hour away.

Known as the City of Popes, this medieval town was once the seat of the papacy, and was home to a succession of 14th- and 15th-century French popes who commissioned lavish architectural monuments to be built around the area.

When you arrive, your guide will take you on a walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Historic Centre of Avignon. See several attractions that date back to the city’s prime, like the Pont Saint-Bénezet – the elegant bridge immortalized in the French children’s song 'Sur le pont d’Avignon' – and Cathedral Notre-Dame des Doms. You'll be kept entertained with stories and historic anecdotes as you admire the city’s restored medieval ramparts.

The rest of your time in Avignon is yours to spend as you please. Perhaps visit the impressive Popes’ Palace (Palais des Papes) to learn more about the power, prestige and corruption of Avignon’s papal ancestry. Explore more than 20 different rooms, including the pope’s private chambers, and see wonderful frescoes and medieval architecture (entrance to the palace is at your own expense).

After three hours in Avignon, hop in the minivan and make your way back to the Marseille port to conclude your shore excursion.

Worry-free Shore Excursion:We 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.