A different way to explore Marseille: private tours and bespoke experiences

Marseille is France's second-largest city. But above all, it is a city where you don't feel French. You feel like a Marseillais. With its own distinct identity, its own language, and a way of being in the world that is unique to it – and which fascinates anyone who takes the time to really stop and look. Most visitors just scratch the surface. They see the Old Port, head up to Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde, take a few photos and leave. They don't realise that there are two Marseilles: the one for tourists, and the one for the locals – unspoilt, vibrant, welcoming, and lively in the best possible sense. As France's oldest city in France, founded nearly 2,600 years ago by the Greeks and a crossroads of Mediterranean civilisations since ancient times, Marseille possesses layers of history that few European cities can claim. It is also the only city in Europe whose national park is embedded at the very heart of the urban fabric, encompassing land, sea and the surrounding countryside. But Marseille is also a city that knows how to welcome visitors like no other. Here, enjoying an aperitif by the sea isn't just a pose; it's a way of life passed down from generation to generation. Fresh fish dishes in the calanques, lively restaurants where you can stay until midnight, terraces overlooking the Mediterranean, evenings that start late and end even later. An energy, warmth and generosity that are every bit as good as Saint-Tropez. With the added bonus of authenticity. At Aura Provence, we'll take you to that side of Marseille. The lovely restaurants without signs that locals pass on to one another like a secret, the viewpoints known only to those in the know, the vibrant neighbourhoods off the beaten track, and the scenic route along the ridges overlooking the Mediterranean.

What to do in Marseille with Aura Provence?

We design bespoke, private experiences in Marseille just for you: tours of hidden gems with a local guide, private boat trips through the Calanques National Park, dinners at unmarked eateries favoured by locals, and drinks overlooking the Mediterranean at spots you won't find on Google.

Why choose Aura Provence for your stay in Marseille?

Because we're local. We know every nook and cranny of the city, every hidden gem, every vantage point that only the locals know about. As a DMC and boutique travel agency based in Marseille, we take care of every aspect of your stay: private transfers, hand-picked accommodation, exclusive bookings, and an expert local guide. All you have to do is enjoy yourself.

Marseille: A Practical Guide

Marseille is a great place to explore all year round. Spring and autumn offer unrivalled light and ideal temperatures. In summer, the city buzzes with a unique festive energy. In winter, it reveals its true character, far from the crowds.