Private Tour Marie Madeleine Cave and St Maximin Basilica in Aix-en-Provence, France
Aix-en-Provence, France

Private Tour Marie Madeleine Cave and St Maximin Basilica

Outty Ranking 58 5.0 · 5 traveler reviews8 hoursFrom $1,063
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Outty Ranking

58/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 5 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Private Tour Marie Madeleine Cave and St Maximin Basilica worth booking?

Private Tour Marie Madeleine Cave and St Maximin Basilica is a 8-hour experience in Aix-en-Provence, France, from $1,063 per person. It scores 58 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 5/5 rating across 5 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
58 / 100
Rating
5/5 (5)
Duration
8 hours
From
$1,063 per person

Enjoy a nice hike (MUST BE FIT TO WALK UP HILLS) on the footsteps of Marie Madeleine while visiting the cave where she spent more than 30 years as an ermite Lunch in St maximin la Sainte Baume After lunch a stroll through the streets of St Maximin for a visit of the Basilica where you can see the relic of Marie Madeleine

What you get

    About this experience

    Enjoy a nice hike (MUST BE FIT TO WALK UP HILLS) on the footsteps of Marie Madeleine while visiting the cave where she spent more than 30 years as an ermite Lunch in St maximin la Sainte Baume After lunch a stroll through the streets of St Maximin for a visit of the Basilica where you can see the relic of Marie Madeleine

    What's included

    Included

    • In-vehicle air conditioning

    Not included

    • Lunch

    What you'll see and do

    1. Basilique Sainte-Marie-Madeleine

      stroll through the streets of St Maximin for a visit of the Basilica where you can see the relic of Marie Madeleine

      2 minutes here · Admission included

    2. Grotte de Sainte Marie Madeleine

      Enjoy a nice hike (MUST BE FIT TO WALK UP HILLS) on the footsteps of Marie Madeleine while visiting the cave where she spent more than 30 years as an ermite

      3 minutes here · Admission included

    3. Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume

      lunch in the quaint town

      2 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Aix-en-Provence

    will have a sign with name outside the boat

    Meeting point

    Aix-en-Provence

    Will have a sign with name in front of the toursim office

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 5 minutes before departure.

    Ends at

    will have a sign with name outside the boat

    Ends at

    Will have a sign with name in front of the toursim office

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en, fr, es
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 8 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Provence Guide Nathalie

    Know before you go

    • Specialized infant seats are available
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

    Photos

    Private Tour Marie Madeleine Cave and St Maximin Basilica in Aix-en-Provence, photo 2Private Tour Marie Madeleine Cave and St Maximin Basilica in Aix-en-Provence, photo 3Private Tour Marie Madeleine Cave and St Maximin Basilica in Aix-en-Provence, photo 4Private Tour Marie Madeleine Cave and St Maximin Basilica in Aix-en-Provence, photo 5Private Tour Marie Madeleine Cave and St Maximin Basilica in Aix-en-Provence, photo 6Private Tour Marie Madeleine Cave and St Maximin Basilica in Aix-en-Provence, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 5 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    4 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    3 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Food and drink

    3 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Physical effort

    3 mentions

    Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

    Photo opportunities

    1 mention

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Pace and timing

    1 mention

    Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.

    Traveler reviews

    5 verified traveler reviews for Private Tour Marie Madeleine Cave and St Maximin Basilica. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    5
    4 star
    0
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    0
    Sort
    O9254PMkatherinew · October 2026

    Hike to Marie Madeleine Cave and St Maximum Basilica

    This tour was a 10/10! Absolutely fantastic! Nathalie met us at the train station as we came from Nice. We started our tour hiking to St. Baume where Mary Madeleine lived for 30 years. The hike up to the grotto and church took around 35-40 minutes uphill. Make sure you have appropriate attire! We then descended the mountain and went to have lunch in the small town called St Maximum and then toured. the basilica. Nathalie was an amazing tour guide. She offers different experiences in Aix. Nathalie is so friendly and communicative. We had an amazing time!

    via Tripadvisor

    pereena · October 2026

    A wonderful, realxed day with Nathalie

    We had booked a trip with Nathalie for a tour to Mary Magdalene’s Cave and the Basilica of Saint-Maximin. Nathalie picked us up promptly from our hotel, and we enjoyed a lovely conversation throughout the drive to the cave. She accompanied us on the hike (not all guides do), sharing fascinating stories along the way. It was a 40-minute hike up, and she was very good at keeping our pace. Afterwards, we visited Saint-Maximin, where we had lunch and explored the Basilica. Nathalie quickly got us into the main crypt just before a large procession arrived. She then dropped us back at our hotel. Nathalie was warm, attentive, and showed genuine interest in us. She constantly checked that we were comfortable, had everything we needed, helped with shops and even restaurant recommendations in other towns we were visiting later in our trip. We had a wonderful, relaxed day, and Nathalie went out of her way to make the experience memorable. I would definitely recommend her to anyone looking for a thoughtful, knowledgeable guide. We very much hope to see her again the next time we are in the area!

    Response from the operator: Thank you so so much for this lovely description of your day! It was great spending the day with you and your family

    via Tripadvisor

    shaunag526 · August 2026

    Great Pivoting due to Fires

    Jehanne was a terrific guide. She did a terrific job went we had to change our plans due to Saint Baume National Forest being closed. We pivoted going to the Mary Magdalene Chapel in the Sainte Baume Hostel and the Saint Victor Abbey in Marseille. Overall, I had a delightful experience.

    Response from the operator: Thank you We make sure to have alternative 💜💜

    via Tripadvisor

    laurakR4941VF · May 2026

    Mary Magdalene tour

    This is an amazing trip to a soulful place. Nathalie is knowledgeable, responsive to requests, easy to travel with and open to an adventure.

    Response from the operator: Great to read your review Indeed a great adventure Thank you!

    via Tripadvisor

    Cosmopolitan404437 · March 2025

    Wonderful tour guide in beautiful South France!

    We had an amazing tour of the Mary Magdalene cave and St Maximin Basilica with Nathalie, who really took wonderful care of us! We knew that the steep trail up to the cave in the mountains would be a challenge for my elderly dad but Nathalie was so patient and encouraging that it was more fun than challenging. Once we made it to the top, we had an incredible experience, caught the last half of the daily mass which was beautiful, and took in the stunning views from the mountain views. Nathalie then arranged a delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant and had time to visit the basilica and shops and tour the local villages. We were impressed by her knowledge, energy and consideration as she made sure we were well taken care of the entire day. We really felt like VIPs on our private tour and would strongly recommend her to anyone planning a tour in South France. Thank you Nathalie!

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    8 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Hotel pickup
    Available for selected locations
    Booked in 30 days
    2
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Provence Guide Nathalie, who run 13 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 54.1.

    See everything Provence Guide Nathalie runs

    Why this scores 58

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)92
    Review evidence (18% weight)31
    Booking momentum (14% weight)23
    Value for money (12% weight)23
    Listing quality (10% weight)68
    Local standing (8% weight)54
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Private Tour Marie Madeleine Cave and St Maximin Basilica: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Aix-en-Provence.

    How much does Private Tour Marie Madeleine Cave and St Maximin Basilica cost?

    +

    Prices start at $1,063 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Aix-en-Provence usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Private Tour Marie Madeleine Cave and St Maximin Basilica take?

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    Plan for about 8 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Aix-en-Provence is not rushed.

    Is Private Tour Marie Madeleine Cave and St Maximin Basilica worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 58 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 5 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Aix-en-Provence, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Private Tour Marie Madeleine Cave and St Maximin Basilica?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Private Tour Marie Madeleine Cave and St Maximin Basilica suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Private Tour Marie Madeleine Cave and St Maximin Basilica?

    +

    Around 2 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Aix-en-Provence can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Aix-en-Provence and add a light layer if any part of the 8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Private Tour Marie Madeleine Cave and St Maximin Basilica start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Aix-en-Provence within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Aix-en-Provence?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Aix-en-Provence experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include An Aix-traordinary Walking City Tour of Aix-en-Provence, Cotes de Provence Wine Tour from Aix-en-Provence, Luberon Villages Half-Day Tour from Aix-en-Provence. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Aix-en-Provence?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Aix-en-Provence?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Private Tour Marie Madeleine Cave and St Maximin Basilica?

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    Included: In-vehicle air conditioning. Not included: Lunch. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Private Tour Marie Madeleine Cave and St Maximin Basilica include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 4 listed pickup locations in and around Aix-en-Provence. Be ready about 5 minutes before the start time.

    What languages is Private Tour Marie Madeleine Cave and St Maximin Basilica offered in?

    +

    It is offered in English, French and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Private Tour Marie Madeleine Cave and St Maximin Basilica?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Private Tour Marie Madeleine Cave and St Maximin Basilica wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Private Tour Marie Madeleine Cave and St Maximin Basilica if the weather is bad?

    +

    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Aix-en-Provence. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Private Tour Marie Madeleine Cave and St Maximin Basilica?

    +

    Across 5 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

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