Marseille to Cassis: Convertible Drive, Route des Crêtes & Port

Summary

Convertible drive Marseille to Cassis with sea cliffs, local stories and village stops

You’ll feel alive driving your own convertible from Marseille to Cassis along cliff roads with sea views. Expect spontaneous stops for photos at Cap Canaille, time wandering Cassis’ colorful port, and local stories from your guide. With cruise port pickup included, it’s an easygoing adventure that leaves you grinning long after you’re back onboard.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was mostly excited about driving a VW Beetle convertible out of the Marseille cruise port — it’s not every day you get handed the keys to something that feels like summer in a car. The guide, Eric (he waved us over right away), had this easy way of mixing directions with little stories about Marseille’s neighborhoods. We followed his van in a loose parade along the Corniche Kennedy, where locals sat on that endless concrete bench just watching the sea. I caught a whiff of salt and sunscreen as we passed Vallon des Auffes — someone grilling fish down by the boats, maybe?

The real surprise was how high up we got on the Route des Crêtes. At Cap Canaille, Eric pulled us over for photos and honestly, my legs felt wobbly looking down at all that blue from 394 meters up. He pointed out where Picasso used to paint around here — I’m not sure I’d have noticed those colors without him saying it. The wind was strong enough to make my hair stick straight up (my partner still laughs about that). Sometimes that road closes if it’s too windy or hot — luck was on our side.

Cassis itself was like walking into a watercolor. We wandered past gelato shops and little boats bobbing in the port; lunch was just a sandwich on a shaded bench because everywhere smelled so good we couldn’t decide. A couple of older men were arguing softly over pétanque rules near the market stalls — I tried to follow but gave up after “cochonnet.” There’s something about the way people greet you here: quick nods, half-smiles, like they’re letting you in on a secret.

On the way back toward Marseille, I kept thinking about that feeling of sun-warmed leather under my hands and how different the city looked from above compared to down by the old port. It wasn’t fancy or rushed — just felt real, you know? If you’re coming off a cruise and want something more than another bus tour, this day trip from Marseille to Cassis is probably what you’re looking for.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Drive from Marseille to Cassis and explore

• Depart from Marseille cruise port
• Drive convertible with national license
• Follow escort van with anecdotes
• Drive along Corniche Kennedy boulevard
• Stop at Vallon des Auffes fishing port
• Pass by Marseille Cathedral La Major
• Stop at Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica
• Drive Route des Crêtes with panoramic views
• Photo stop at Cap Canaille cliff
• Arrive in Cassis village
• Stroll narrow streets and shop in Cassis
• Lunch or snack in Cassis restaurants
• Visit Calanque de Figuerolles cove
• Explore Calanques of Cassis National Park
• Return drive to Marseille cruise port

Top questions

Can I drive a convertible myself on this tour?

Yes, you can drive either a VW Beetle or Fiat 500 convertible using your national driving license.

Is pickup from Marseille cruise port included?

Yes, departure and return are directly at the cruise port of Marseille.

What if Route des Crêtes is closed?

If strong winds or heat close Route des Crêtes, that stop may be skipped or replaced as needed for safety.

How many people join this tour?

The group is limited to 16 people maximum.

Is lunch included in Cassis?

No set lunch is included; there’s free time in Cassis for lunch or snacks at your own pace.

Do I need special insurance or documents?

Your national driving license is required; no extra insurance is specified beyond standard coverage.

What are some highlights along the route?

You’ll see Corniche Kennedy, Vallon des Auffes, Cap Canaille cliffs, Calanques views and Cassis port.

Is this suitable for families with young children?

Children under 7 aren’t admitted unless fully under parents’ responsibility due to safety reasons.

How long does the tour last?

The return is expected between 3:00 pm and 4:30 pm depending on your ship schedule.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off at Marseille cruise port, use of a convertible car (VW Beetle or Fiat 500) with your own national license, guidance from an escort in a lead van sharing local anecdotes along the way, all taxes and fees covered plus a small bottle of water per person before returning comfortably in time for your ship’s departure.