Accessible Companion: Marseilles & Basilica Notre Dame De La Garde

OVERVIEW

This excursion is for guests that use a cane/walker, have limited mobility issues or for companions of those guest that have booked mobility equipment tour.

Those guests that are fully dependent on their mobility device please book: MRS_A2 ACCESSIBLE Mobility Equipment-Marseilles & Basilica Notre Dame De La Garde.

Tour includes step-free routes, shorter distances and no stairs. Accessible restrooms with wide doors for wheelchairs are present along the tour route. Vehicles are adapted with an access ramp (or lift where available) to accommodate a limited number of wheelchairs and/or mobility scooters. Guides are not allowed to push wheelchairs; therefore, guests needing special assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied.

Admire the spectacular views from the basilica atop the highest point in Marseille and then descend into the most historical areas in France's oldest city. The interior of Notre Dame de la Garde, the ornate Neo-Byzantine church perched atop the limestone hill is as magnificent as the panoramas. Completed in 1864, the Catholic basilica is adorned with mosaics, murals and hundreds of offerings given in gratitude and devotion. You will notice a vast difference between the height of the basilica and the low adjoining crypt that was dug out of the solid-rock hillside in the 13th century. Continuing on, you will drive into the Old Quarter of Marseille, an area that the Greeks founded in 600 BC. The quarter's crooked streets are lined with architecture from various time periods. The Old Port is equally historical. As you travel about the atmospheric pedestrianized streets, the guide will point out the most noteworthy attractions, including the 17th-century town hall.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Gaze out over Marseille from its highest hill and browse the Catholic basilica at the summit.
• Wander through the labyrinthine streets in Marseille’s atmospheric oldest quarter.
• Tour the Old Port as the guide describes highlights such as the 17th-century town hall.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.