Top 17 best day trip destinations from Marseille

Looking for ideas to fill your weekends in Marseille? Are you dreaming of a day trip outside the city?

Organizing a bus trip from Marseille is one of the best ways to discover the treasures of Provence and the Mediterranean coast, without worrying about the logistics! 

Whether you are planning a group outing, a corporate event, a school trip or a family getaway, there hire a coach with driver in Marseille via France Bus allows you to travel with peace of mind: comfort, economy, flexibility and friendliness are all there.

Thanks to its ideal location between the sea, vineyards and hilltop villages, Marseille is a strategic starting point for exploring the region.

In less than 2 hours and 30 minutes, Your group can join historic cities, protected natural landscapes and iconic locations of Provençal culture – all while enjoying the journey, rather than enduring it.

With France Bus, You choose the destination, we take care of the rest! Together, let's discover the best day trips to take from Marseille. 

✅ Advantages of a coach excursion from Marseille

• Door-to-door transport (no parking management, direct access)

• Group comfort (air conditioning, reclining seats, luggage)

• Cost optimization per person

• Total flexibility on the route and schedule

• Social and interactive travel (perfect for team building)

1. Aix-en-Provence: elegance, heritage and the art of living

35 minutes from Marseille

Just 35 minutes from Marseille, Aix-en-Provence Aix-en-Provence is the epitome of Provençal elegance: pastel facades, fountains on every corner, elegant townhouses, and sun-drenched terraces. Founded in 122 BC by the Romans (under the name Aquae Sextiae), the city has long been a favored residence for nobility and artists. Today, Aix exudes art and a relaxed lifestyle.

THE Cours Mirabeau The main thoroughfare remains the city's backbone, lined with plane trees and iconic cafes like Les Deux Garçons. But what truly makes Aix charming are the narrow streets of the Mazarin district, The colourful markets and the legacy of Paul Cézanne. The painter's studio, which has remained untouched since his death, allows visitors to discover his personal world, his objects and the very particular light of Aix.

The city is also an ideal spot for gastronomic groups: Provençal markets, tastings of...’PDO olive oil and discovery of the famous calisson d'Aix in a small, artisanal factory.

Things to do in Aix-en-Provence:

• Cézanne's Studio (9 Av. Paul Cézanne): immersion in the world of the painter.

• Cours Mirabeau & Mazarin district : private mansions and a chic atmosphere.

• Granet Museum (Place Saint-Jean de Malte): collections of paintings/sculptures.

• Provençal market (Place Richelme or Place des Prêcheurs, depending on the day).

• Calisson tasting at Le Roy René (538 Av. Jean-Paul Coste).

Ideal for: cultural groups, schools, seniors, incentive seminars.

2. Cassis & Cap Canaille: turquoise sea and magnificent cliffs

40 minutes from Marseille

Just 40 minutes from Marseille, Blackcurrant It's a picture-perfect postcard scene: a small, semicircular fishing port, pastel-colored houses, lively terraces, and vineyards planted on the hillsides. Close to the town center, the calanques offer spectacular scenery, with cliffs plunging into turquoise waters.

Cassis is an ideal destination for a group excursion because it combines Walks, tastings, boat trips and exceptional views. Here you will discover a unique terroir: the Cassis vineyard, one of the first AOCs in France (1936), produces fresh and saline white wines perfectly suited to seafood.

From Cassis, access to the Route des Crêtes leads to the Cap Canaille, one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe (394 meters). The panorama over the bay of Cassis and the calanques is breathtaking.

There coach hire allows for easy management of access (regulated parking for individual vehicles).

Things to do in Cassis:

• Boat trip in the calanques (Departure: Quai Saint-Pierre)

• Cap Canaille / Route des Crêtes : safe scenic stops with driver.

• Cassis AOC wine tasting (Domaine du Bagnol, Clos Sainte Magdeleine).

• Grande Mer Beach : accessible on foot from the port.

• Self-guided tour of the port and artisan shops.

Ideal for: incentive groups, association outings, corporate events.

3. La Ciotat & the Mugel Park: nature, calanques and marine heritage

45 minutes from Marseille

Located less than an hour from Marseille, La Ciotat is a destination that blends maritime history, protected nature, and an authentic Mediterranean atmosphere. Long considered a major industrial port dedicated to shipbuilding, the city has undergone a remarkable transformation and now attracts visitors, nautical companies, and lovers of wild landscapes.

La Ciotat is also a pioneering city in the history of cinema: it was here, in 1895, that the brothers Light They screened The Arrival of a Train at La Ciotat Station, one of the very first films in history. Lumière Cinema – Eden Theatre, restored, is today the oldest cinema in the world still in operation.

But the star of the place remains the Mugel Cove, A protected natural area with unique volcanic landscapes. The botanical park overlooking it offers spectacular views of the bay and Green Island, accessible by boat. For groups, coach access simplifies organization, particularly in areas with limited parking.

Things to do in La Ciotat:

• Mugel Park & Mugel Cove : trails, panoramas, protected coves.

• Eden Theatre (25 Bd Georges Clemenceau): Discover the oldest cinema in the world.

• Green Island : boat crossing (departure from the old port).

• Old Port : narrow streets, terraces and colorful facades.

• Boat trip to the cliffs of Soubeyranes (as far as Cap Canaille).

Ideal for: nature outings, school groups, outdoor incentive events.

4. Les Baux-de-Provence & Carrières de Lumières

1 hour 10 minutes from Marseille

Classified among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France", Les Baux-de-Provence is an exceptional site perched on a rocky spur. With fewer than 400 inhabitants but more than a million visitors a year, the village is a must-see. Alpilles. His medieval alleyways, Its views and the history of its fortified castle make it an ideal destination for groups seeking heritage.

The experience takes on a unique dimension thanks to the Quarries of Light A former stone quarry has been transformed into an immersive art space. Monumental projections cover the quarry walls, reaching over 14 meters high, accompanied by music. The show changes every year (Picasso, Dali, Van Gogh, etc.) and fascinates all types of audiences.

The village of Les Baux offers a timeless atmosphere: artisan shops, stalls selling AOP Vallée des Baux olive oil, spectacular viewpoints overlooking the Alpilles.

Things to do in Les Baux-de-Provence:

• Quarries of Light : immersive projection in the quarries.

• Château des Baux : medieval machines, panoramic views of the Alpilles.

• Medieval alleyways & viewpoints : magnificent views over the olive groves.

• Moulin CastelaS (Mouriès): tasting of PDO olive oil.

• Nativity Scene Museum : Provençal folklore and traditions.

Ideal for: intergenerational groups, seminars, cultural associations.

5. Arles: Roman capital and city of art

One hour from Marseille

With over 2,500 years of history, Arles is one of the best-preserved Roman cities in Europe. Its arena, ancient theatre and ruins listed by UNESCO making it an unmissable destination for history, culture and photography enthusiasts.

Arles is also the city of Van Gogh, who created more than 300 works there, captivated by the unique light of Provence. Today, the city blends ancient heritage and contemporary architecture, notably with the LUMA Tower Designed by Frank Gehry, a modern artistic landmark in the heart of the Parc des Ateliers.

Strolling through Arles is like stepping through different eras: Roman amphitheater, 17th-century mansions, shaded squares, and art galleries. For groups, coaches provide easy access to the main car parks at the city's entrance.

Things to do in Arles:

• Roman amphitheater (Arenas) : historical battles, concerts, Camargue bullfights.

• Ancient theater : remains from -25 BC.

• LUMA Foundation : contemporary architecture and exhibitions.

• Saint-Trophime Cloister : a novelistic masterpiece.

• Van Gogh Trail : explanatory panels at the places where he painted.

Ideal for: school groups, cultural associations, art and history enthusiasts.

6. Camargue & Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer: wild nature and traditions

1 hour 30 minutes from Marseille

The Camargue is a unique territory in Europe: salt ponds, free-roaming white horses and pink flamingos. Between sea and marsh, this regional natural park of 100,000 hectares offers a total immersion in the nature and traditions of the Camargue.

The village of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, The spiritual capital of the Roma, is a place steeped in history and devotion. One can visit the...’fortified church which overlooks the village, stroll along the sea wall or enjoy the large beach accessible on foot from the centre.

Groups love the "authentic Camargue" experience: bull ranches, equestrian demonstrations, and encounters with the Camargue cowboys. The coach makes it easy to move between visits to the marshes, villages, and coastline.

Things to do in Camargue / Saintes-Maries:

• Nature reserve : observation of pink flamingos at Pont de Gau.

• Visit to a bull ranch : horses, bulls, Camargue traditions.

• Fortified Church of Our Lady of the Sea : panoramic view from the roof.

• Walk along the sea wall : accessible on foot or by bicycle.

• Salins de Giraud : pink salt landscapes (possibility of visiting by small train).

Ideal for: nature groups, families, team-building seminars.

7. Avignon: City of Popes and UNESCO World Heritage Site

1 hour 20 minutes from Marseille

It is impossible to discuss Provençal heritage without mentioning...’Avignon. Behind its ramparts, the city reveals a rich medieval center with lively squares, private mansions and small shaded cafes. The Palace of the Popes, A gigantic Gothic fortress dominates the city and immerses visitors in the heart of the era when Avignon was the capital of Christendom.

The famous Saint-Bénézet Bridge – the «Avignon Bridge» – offers a panoramic view of the Rhône River and Barthelasse Island. In summer, the Avignon Festival transforms the streets into an open-air theatre: shows, actors, posters on the walls… the atmosphere is unique.

Things to do in Avignon:

• Palace of the Popes: an immersive visit into medieval history.

• Saint-Bénézet Bridge: panoramic view of the Rhône.

• Historic center: narrow streets, small squares and terraces.

• Avignon Festival (in July): Entertainment and shows all over town.

Ideal for: cultural / school / festival groups.

8. Salon-de-Provence: Provençal traditions and crafts

40 minutes from Marseille

Salon-de-Provence is a town deeply attached to its traditional skills. In its charming old town center, visitors can discover the traditional soap factory and follow in the footsteps of Nostradamus, who spent the last years of his life there. Capital of the real Marseille soap, Salon is one of the few places where you can still witness traditional manufacturing.

The Château de l'Empéri overlooks the town and offers exceptional views over the Provençal rooftops. The atmosphere is local and peaceful, ideal for a group wanting to experience authentic Provence, far from mass tourism.

Things to do in Salon-de-Provence:

• Marius Fabre Soap Factory: Visit + manufacturing demonstration.

• Nostradamus's house: museum dedicated to the astrologer.

• Château de l'Empéri: museum + panorama.

Ideal for: craft/cultural groups.

9. Martigues: the "Venice of Provence"«

40 minutes from Marseille

Martigues immediately charms with its canals., its colorful houses and little bridges. The Île district offers a gentle and luminous atmosphere, perfect for strolling, taking photos, and enjoying seafood on a waterfront terrace. Here, everything is simple, genuine, and unpretentious.

The city is bordered by easily accessible beaches and stunning turquoise waters: a real bonus for a group swim. Martigues is often a revelation for those looking for a A destination far removed from tourist clichés.

Things to do in Martigues:

• Island district: narrow streets and pastel facades.

• Ziem Museum: Provençal and marine painting.

• Boat trip on the canals (perfect for groups).

• Ferrières beach.

Ideal for: senior groups / photography / relaxation.

10. The Camargue & Aigues-Mortes: white horses and pink ponds

1 hour 30 minutes from Marseille

The Camargue is another world: salt marshes, free-roaming horses, pink flamingos, and vast wild landscapes. Arriving in Aigues-Mortes, one discovers a medieval city surrounded by perfectly preserved ramparts, offering a panoramic view of the salt marshes and the sea.

A 4x4 or boat trip allows you to explore the wildlife and the bull farms, Meanwhile, the salt marshes offer incredible colors in summer, from purple to bright pink – an almost surreal scene. Local gastronomy is also part of the experience: tellines (small clams), gardianne de taureau (a bull stew), and wines from the sandy soils.

Things to do in the Camargue:

• Ramparts of Aigues-Mortes: View of the pink salt marshes.

• 4x4 safari in the ponds and herds.

• Boat trip on the canals.

• Salins du Midi: guided tours (spectacular colours in summer).

Ideal for: nature groups / activities / photography.

11. Nîmes: Rome… in Provence

1 hour 45 minutes from Marseille

Nîmes is one of the best-preserved Roman cities in Europe, a veritable open-air museum where every street recalls its rich past. The Arenas, perfectly intact, impress with their architecture and acoustics: they still host concerts, bullfights and major shows today, offering a unique experience in an exceptional ancient setting.

Not far from there, the Maison Carrée, recently restored and now inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, It stands proudly on an elegant square where cafes and terraces set the rhythm of local life. But Nîmes is more than just its monuments. Between the colorful facades, the shaded squares, and the cobbled streets, the city reveals a gentle and vibrant atmosphere.

THE Fountain Gardens, One of the first public gardens in Europe, they offer a refreshing respite around the Temple of Diana and Mount Cavalier. From the Magne Tower, The view over the town and the surrounding scrubland is spectacular — an ideal moment for a group.

With his bullfighting culture, With its lively markets and generous Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, Nîmes combines heritage, nature, and the art of living. It's a perfect destination for a curious group seeking historical discoveries… but also excellent places to eat.

Things to do in Nîmes:

• Arenas: Roman amphitheater still in use.

• Maison Carrée: exceptional ancient monument.

• Fountain Gardens: elegant and shaded promenade.

• Old town center: lively alleyways and squares.

Ideal for: cultural / school groups.

12. Sault & lavender fields: authentic Provence

1 hour 30 minutes from Marseille

Sault is the locals' secret to avoiding the crowds during lavender bloom. 800 meters altitude, The plateau offers fields stretching as far as the eye can see, with Mont Ventoux in the background. The atmosphere is calm and breathable, with many photo stops along the way.

The village is known for its honey, its artisanal biscuits and its walk where lavender can be found in all its forms. Here, we take our time.

Things to do in Sault:

• Scenic routes lavender fields (June-July).

• Provençal market (local products).

• Walking tour on the lavender trail.

Ideal for: photography/nature groups.

13. Valensole: the lavender postcard

1 hour 40 minutes from Marseille

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QHmr7Qw6rK4

Valensole is lavender in its postcard form: perfectly aligned rows of fields, morning light, and sometimes even birds or butterflies around the flowers. The village is pleasant, but the heart of the experience lies in living it. on the plateau, in the middle of the fields.

In the summer, some farms offer visits and tastings of essential oils, lavender honey and artisanal syrups. Ideally: come early in the morning or at sunset.

Things to do in Valensole:

• Lavender route (June-July).

• Farm/distillery visit.

• Photo stops in the fields.

Ideal for: photo groups / wellness / Instagrammable.

14. Verdon Gorge: the "French Grand Canyon"«

2 hours from Marseille

The Verdon Gorges offer one of the most spectacular landscapes in France. With their limestone cliffs that can reach 700 meters From their height and their turquoise waters, they form a monumental setting where wild nature and outdoor activities meet.

The most iconic experience remains the kayaking or pedal boating up the gorges from Lake Sainte-Croix. Gliding on the water, surrounded by cliffs and pine trees, allows you to enjoy the canyon at your own pace — an activity accessible to everyone, even beginners.

Those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground can follow the Crest Road, A panoramic loop around La Palud-sur-Verdon, punctuated by breathtaking viewpoints where griffon vultures can sometimes be spotted. Lake Sainte-Croix, below the gorges, offers an ideal setting for a relaxing break: swimming, beach, picnic, or cafés with a view.

Nearby, the village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Clinging to a cliff, it is one of the most beautiful villages in France — perfect for strolling through the narrow streets and discovering the earthenware workshops.

Things to do in the Verdon Gorge:

• Kayaking, pedal boats or electric boats on the turquoise waters.
• Route des Crêtes: panoramic viewpoints and vulture watching.
• Lake of Sainte-Croix: Swimming, relaxation, beach.
• Moustiers-Sainte-Marie: picturesque village and local artisans.
• Hiking trails suitable for everyone (including the Sentier Blanc-Martel for the more athletic).

Ideal for: nature / sport / adventure groups.

15. Hyères & the Golden Islands

1 hour 30 minutes from Marseille

Hyères is one of the most elegant seaside destinations in the region. Historic villages, palm trees, turquoise beaches, lively harbors… and above all, access to Golden Islands: Porquerolles, Port-Cros and the island of Levant. Porquerolles is a gem: cycle paths among the vineyards, wild beaches, crystal-clear water.

You can rent bikes and reach the Notre-Dame beach, several times voted among the most beautiful in Europe.

Things to do in Hyères:

• Excursion to Porquerolles (bike + Notre-Dame beach).

• Historic center of Hyères.

• Port Saint-Pierre (restaurants, terraces).

Ideal for: nature groups / relaxation / incentives.

16. Bandol & wine route: gentle seaside escape

One hour from Marseille

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eEYATXfJ7Xo 

Bandol embodies Provence at its most elegant: a sunlit bay, secluded coves, a lively port, and above all… one of the most prestigious vineyards in the Mediterranean. Here, the art of living well is truly an art form. From the moment you arrive, you understand why this small seaside resort has captivated writers and artists. The vineyards around Bandol stretch between the sea and the hills, often offering views of the vines sloping down to the water.

There wine route winds through the villages of La Cadière-d'Azur And Le Castellet, where you can visit iconic estates and participate in tastings of AOC Bandol wines. The reds are powerful and elegant, the rosés exceptionally fresh: an ideal moment for a group looking to combine local discoveries and sensory pleasure.

After visiting the estates, head to the port of Bandol. Restaurants, sunny terraces, and artisanal ice cream parlors line the waterfront: perfect for a seaside lunch or a relaxing break. For those who want to walk a bit, there are small calanques are accessible on foot and offer superb views of the bay, especially towards the Port d'Alon cove.

Things to do in Bandol & on the wine route:

• Visit to vineyards and tasting of AOC Bandol wines.
• Lunch on a terrace overlooking the port, facing the boats.
• Panoramic walk to the cove of Port d'Alon.
• Strolling through the surrounding villages: Le Castellet and La Cadière-d'Azur.
• Possibility of water sports in season.

Perfect for gastronomic groups, wine tourism or incentive trips.

17. Uzès & Pont du Gard: Roman Provence and art village

1 hour 30 minutes from Marseille

Uzès is one of those villages that instantly charms you. The first duchy of France, this elegant little town blends...medieval architecture, private mansions and squares shaded by plane trees. Its stone alleyways, arcades and blond facades give Uzès a discreet but irresistible charm.

The Provençal market, One of the most renowned in the region, Uzès is a veritable festival of colors and flavors: olives, tapenades, goat cheeses, lavender, wicker baskets… ideal for a group seeking authenticity. Strolling through Uzès means taking the time to look, smell, and taste: sidewalk cafes, artisan shops, art galleries, ceramic workshops… The atmosphere is elegant yet warm, never pretentious.

Just 10 minutes away, the Pont du Gard oThis Roman aqueduct-bridge, offers a spectacular change of scale., listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, It is perfectly preserved and impresses with its symmetry and colossal size. Built in the 1st century, it was once used to transport water over more than 50 km.

Groups can follow a discovery trail with panoramic views, or go down to the riverbank to stroll and admire the monument from different angles.

Things to do in Uzès & at the Pont du Gard:

• Uzès: medieval alleyways, shaded squares, private mansions.
• Provençal market (Wednesday and Saturday): one of the most beautiful in the South.
• The Duchy of Uzès: Visits are possible depending on opening hours.
• Medieval garden: Ancient plants and a view of the Fenestrelle tower.
• Trails and viewpoints around the Pont du Gard.

Ideal for cultural groups, heritage groups, seniors, or any outing in search of authenticity and Provençal charm.

In summary: the 17 best day trip destinations from Marseille

Why choose Francebus for your coach excursions from Nice?

Organize a group excursion around Marseille requires precision and a trusted partner. With Francebus, you benefit from:

• From a quick connection with reliable local coach operators
• From one personalized support to define your route
• From competitive rates adapted to your group
• A tailor-made service (experienced driver, flexible hours, comfort on board)

Whether you are an association, a company, a school group or simply a group of friends, Francebus helps you organize a successful day trip from Marseille.

Conclusion

From the sea to the lavender fields, from Roman cities to hilltop villages, Provence offers an exceptional diversity of landscapes and experiences in less than 2.5 hours by car.

With France Bus, you choose the destination — natural landscapes, heritage, tastings, sports, swimming or culture — and we take care of the rest: logistics, parking, route optimization and personalized support.

Request a free quote!