Cassis holidays

How to reach Cassis

• Flight time: While there aren't direct flights to Cassis, the nearest major airport is Marseille Provence Airport. Flights to Marseille from London take about 2 hours. From other major UK airports, the journey time may vary slightly but generally remains under 3 hours.

• Transfer time: From Marseille Provence Airport, Cassis is around 50 minutes by car. Alternatively, you can take a shuttle bus from the airport to the Marseille Saint-Charles train station, followed by a train to Cassis, which takes about an hour in total.

• Price: A taxi from Marseille Airport to Cassis can cost around €70–€90, while the combined bus and train fare is €15–€20 per person. Car rental is also an option, with prices starting at around €30 per day.

Best time to visit Cassis

Cassis enjoys a Mediterranean climate, making it a delightful year-round destination. When planning your Cassis holidays, here’s what you need to know:

• April to June is a perfect time to visit, with pleasant temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The town is vibrant with spring blooms, and the weather is ideal for exploring the famous Calanques and enjoying outdoor activities.

• July to August marks the peak tourist season. The temperatures reach around 28°C and the town is bustling with visitors. It's the best time for beachgoers but be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices.

• September to November offers a more tranquil experience with cooler temperatures ranging from 15°C to 22°C. The autumn colours add a lovely touch to the landscape, and it's an excellent time for hiking and wine tasting in the nearby vineyards.

• December to March is the quietest time of year, with temperatures dropping to between 10°C and 15°C. While it’s cooler, it’s still a stunning time to visit, especially for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Practical information

Here’s what you need to know before visiting Cassis:

• Spoken languages: French is the main language, but English is also widely spoken in touristy areas.

• Local habits and customs: The French enjoy a leisurely pace, especially in smaller towns like Cassis. Shops and restaurants often close for a few hours in the afternoon. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated, typically around 10 percent.

• Currency: The Euro is used. ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most places with the exception of some small markets which may require cash.

• Getting around: Cassis is a compact town, perfect for exploring on foot. Public transport includes local buses, and for exploring further afield, trains and taxis are available. Bus fares within the town are about €1.50 per ride. If you plan to visit the surrounding region, consider renting a car for convenience.

• Electricity and plug types: 220–240 volts is standard. UK travellers will need a suitable adaptor.

• Time zone: Cassis is on Central European Time, 1 hour ahead of GMT. During Daylight Saving Time, it shifts to Central European Summer Time, which is 2 hours ahead of GMT.

Best things to do in Cassis

Holidays to Cassis offer unbelievable natural beauty, stunning architecture and rich history; here are some highlights:

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Cap Canaille: As one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, Cap Canaille offers breathtaking views over the Mediterranean. It's a must-visit for photographers and nature lovers, with its dramatic scenery and vibrant colours.

• Calanques National Park: This series of rocky inlets provides gorgeous views and is perfect for hiking and boat trips. The clear blue waters and rugged cliffs make for a spectacular backdrop.

The best districts

• Port de Cassis: The heart of the town, this popping port area is filled with colourful boats, charming cafés and seafood restaurants. It's a great place to people-watch, enjoy fresh seafood and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.

• Le Vieux Cassis (Old Town): Wander through the narrow, cobbled streets of the old town, where you'll find quaint shops, historic buildings and the beautiful Saint-Michel Church. It's a lovely area for a leisurely stroll and discovering local art and crafts.

Parks and gardens

• Cassis Botanical Garden: A beautiful botanical garden located near the Calanques, it's an ideal spot for a peaceful walk surrounded by Mediterranean flora. The garden offers stunning views and a tranquil escape from the town's busier areas.

Historical monuments

• Château de Cassis (Cassis Castle): This historic fortress offers panoramic views over the town and the sea. While it's now a private property, the exterior and the surrounding views are worth the visit.

• Chapel of Notre-Dame de Bon Voyage: This small yet charming chapel, located near the port, offers a glimpse into the town's maritime heritage.

Day trips in the area

• Aix-en-Provence: Just an hour's drive from Cassis, Aix-en-Provence is known for its beautiful architecture, vibrant markets and rich artistic history. It's a perfect day trip for exploring Provençal culture.

• Marseille: France's second-largest city is just a short drive or train ride away. Visit the historic old port, the impressive Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica, and enjoy the city's vibrant street life.

• Bandol: Another picturesque coastal town nearby, famous for its wines and beautiful beaches, it's a great place to relax and indulge in some wine tasting.

Activities for families in Cassis

There is no shortage of activities for families of all ages in Cassis: outdoorsy adventures, historical experiences or lush walks and simple fun – there’s something for everyone:

• Beaches: Cassis is home to several beautiful beaches, perfect for families. The calm waters and sandy shores of Plage de la Grande Mer are ideal for swimming and building sandcastles.

• Boat tours: Families can enjoy boat tours that explore the stunning Calanques, offering a unique perspective on these natural wonders. Kids will love spotting fish and other marine life in the clear waters.

• Aquarium and marine life: The nearby Seaquarium in Le Grau-du-Roi offers a fascinating look at Mediterranean marine life. Kids go wild for the big fish tanks!

• Outdoor adventures: Families can enjoy easy hikes around the Calanques or rent kayaks and paddle along the coastline – gorgeous way to soak up the scenery.

Free things to do in Cassis

For those on a budget or simply looking to enjoy the simpler pleasures, holidays to Cassis offer a range of free activities. Here are some of the best things to do without spending a euro:

• Hiking in the Calanques: The Calanques National Park is a natural wonder, offering numerous trails with stunning views of the limestone cliffs and turquoise waters. It's a fantastic way to experience the region's beauty for free.

• Exploring the old town: Wander through the charming streets of Cassis's old town, where you can enjoy the architecture, visit local markets and soak up the atmosphere.

• Beaches: Cassis's public beaches, like Plage de la Grande Mer, are free to access. Enjoy a day by the sea, sunbathing, swimming or just relaxing with a good book.

• Wine tasting: While some vineyards charge for tours, many offer free tastings. Visit a local winery and sample some of the delicious wines that Cassis is known for.

Wellness in Cassis

• Spas and wellness centres: Several hotels in Cassis offer spa services, including massages, facials and other treatments. The Thermes Marins Cassis is particularly known for its sea-based therapies, the perfect way to finish off a day spent at the sea!

• Yoga and meditation: If you’re a yogi, nothing beats sessions overlooking the sea, providing a tranquil setting to connect with yourself.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Hiking and walking: The Calanques National Park is a hiker's paradise, with trails ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. The routes offer breathtaking views and the opportunity to explore secluded coves and beaches.

• Kayaking and paddleboarding: Explore the coastline from the water with a kayak or paddleboard. The calm waters around the Calanques are perfect for these activities, providing a unique perspective of the cliffs and crystal-clear sea.

• Rock climbing: The limestone cliffs of the Calanques are a popular spot for rock climbing. Whether you're a seasoned climber or a beginner, there are routes suitable for all levels.

• Snorkelling and diving: The underwater world around Cassis is teeming with marine life. Snorkelling and diving trips are available, offering the chance to see colourful fish, coral and other sea creatures up close.

• Boat tours and sailing: Take to the sea on a boat tour or sailing excursion. It's a relaxing way to explore the coast, and many tours offer stops for swimming and snorkelling in the clear waters.

The best beaches for your Cassis holidays

Cassis may be a small town, but it boasts some of the most breathtaking beaches on the French Riviera. With a mix of sandy coves, pebbled shorelines, and dramatic limestone cliffs, this coastal gem offers stunning seaside spots for every kind of traveller. Whether you're looking for a lively beach with amenities or a secluded bay surrounded by nature, Cassis has it all.

• Plage de la Grande Mer – the town’s main beach

  Located right in the heart of Cassis, Plage de la Grande Mer is the town’s most accessible beach. With its mix of sand and pebbles, calm turquoise waters, and a scenic backdrop of the historic harbour, it's perfect for families and those looking for a convenient seaside escape. There are restaurants, cafés, and shops nearby, making it a great spot to spend the day.

• Plage du Bestouan – stunning views and crystal-clear waters

  Just a short walk from the town centre, Plage du Bestouan is a favourite among locals and visitors alike. This small pebble beach offers some of the clearest waters in Cassis, making it perfect for swimming and snorkelling. It also boasts incredible views of Cap Canaille, one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe.

• Plage de l'Arène – a wild and peaceful escape

  For those looking to escape the crowds, Plage de l'Arène is a hidden gem. Located slightly further from the centre, this rugged beach is surrounded by pine trees and limestone cliffs, offering a more natural and secluded atmosphere. The waters can be a bit rougher here, but it’s a fantastic spot for a quiet sunbathing session or a scenic picnic by the sea.

• Calanques beaches – nature’s masterpieces

  Some of the most breathtaking beaches near Cassis can be found within the Calanques National Park. Accessible by boat, kayak, or scenic hikes, the beaches in Calanque d’En-Vau, Calanque de Port-Pin, and Calanque de Port-Miou offer pristine white pebbles, striking limestone cliffs, and dazzling turquoise waters. These secluded coves are perfect for those looking to experience the wilder side of the French Riviera.

With its mix of lively town beaches and hidden coastal gems, Cassis is a dream destination for beach lovers. Whether you want to relax by the harbour or explore the untouched beauty of the Calanques, you’ll find the perfect seaside escape in this stunning corner of the French Riviera.

Local dishes in Cassis

One of the great delights of holidays to Cassis is indulging in the region's delicious cuisine. Let’s explore fresh seafood to traditional Provençal dishes:

Some typical dishes

• Bouillabaisse: This traditional Provençal fish stew is a seafood lover's dream. Made with a variety of fresh fish, shellfish and aromatic herbs, it's a hearty and flavourful dish.

• Ratatouille: A classic vegetable dish made with aubergine, courgette, peppers, tomatoes and onions, all simmered in olive oil and seasoned with herbs.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Poisson du Jour: Freshly caught fish of the day, often grilled and served simply with a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon.

• Moules Marinières: Mussels cooked in a white wine and garlic broth, perfect for a light and tasty meal.

Desserts

• Tarte Tropézienne: A delicious dessert made with brioche and a creamy filling, originally from nearby Saint-Tropez.

• Calissons: A traditional Provençal sweet made from ground almonds and candied melon, covered in royal icing.

Local drinks

• Pastis: A popular anise-flavoured aperitif, often enjoyed before a meal.

• Rosé Wine: Cassis is known for its excellent rosé wines, which pair perfectly with the local cuisine.