Marseille: Electric Bike Shore Tour with Port Pickup & Local Sights

Summary

Electric biking past Marseille’s old port, sea breeze, city secrets and fresh fish

You’ll pedal Marseille’s coast by electric bike with a local guide who knows every shortcut and story. Expect sea air along La Corniche, secret alleys most visitors miss, and time at Notre-Dame de la Garde for that wide-open city view. Includes easy port pickup so you can relax into the ride—and maybe leave with a new favorite bakery or two.

What’s the experience like?

"Don’t forget your helmet — Marseille drivers have opinions," our guide grinned as we wobbled onto the first street. I’d never ridden an electric bike before, but after a few minutes (and one slightly awkward curb), it felt like gliding. The city opens up differently when you’re not behind glass — you catch snippets of French from café terraces, that salty wind off the Corniche, even the clatter from the fish market near the old port. I could smell bread baking somewhere nearby, or maybe it was just my imagination mixing with hunger.

We zipped along La Corniche with its wild blue views and stopped at Vallon des Auffes — tiny boats bobbing in a pocket-sized harbor, fishermen mending nets without looking up. Our guide, Luc, told us about his grandmother swimming here as a girl. He pointed out which restaurants were worth coming back for (I wish I’d written them down). At Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, we parked and climbed. The city was all spread out below us — red roofs, ships coming in, sunlight bouncing off everything. Someone next to me muttered “wow” under their breath; I didn’t even try to take a photo because it felt too big for my phone.

There were bits of the ride where traffic got close — not scary exactly, but you do need to pay attention. Luc kept checking on us and cracked jokes about Marseille’s love affair with honking. We ducked into side streets only locals seem to know; suddenly it was quiet except for our tires on cobblestones and some old man arguing with his dog in rapid French. By the time we reached Palais du Pharo for another view of the old port, my legs were tired but in a good way (the e-bike helps more than you think). I didn’t expect to feel so much part of things — like you’re not just passing through but catching little pieces of daily life.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Half day Marseille electric bike tour

• Pick up from cruise terminal
• Visit oldest district of Marseille
• Ride along La Corniche bike lane
• See Vallon des Auffes harbour
• View Palais du Pharo and old port
• Explore Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica
• Pass daily fish market
• Discover Joliette district shops
• Drop off at cruise terminal

Top questions

Is pickup included from Marseille cruise terminal?

Yes, pickup and drop-off at the cruise terminal are included.

Do I need to be fit for this electric bike tour?

You should have at least moderate fitness and know how to ride a bicycle.

Are helmets provided on this Marseille e-bike tour?

Yes, helmets and safety vests are provided for all riders.

What are some highlights of this half day tour?

You’ll see La Corniche, Vallon des Auffes, Palais du Pharo, Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, and explore hidden alleys.

Can children join this electric bike shore excursion?

Children over 12 can ride their own bike; younger kids must meet height requirements and be accompanied by an adult.

Is lunch included in this tour?

No lunch is included; however, your guide may point out recommended places along the route.

How long is this Marseille electric bike tour?

This is a half-day tour designed to fit within cruise stop schedules.

Is this suitable if I’m nervous riding near cars?

You should be comfortable riding on busy streets close to traffic as part of the route includes these areas.

What’s included

Your half-day includes easy port pickup and drop-off right at your ship in Marseille, use of an electric bike plus helmet and safety vest for everyone riding along. A local guide leads you through both famous sights and lesser-known corners—no need to plan anything except showing up ready to pedal (and maybe laugh at your own French pronunciation).