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There are lots of things to do in Cassis and, whether you choose to explore by boat or road, dramatic views are guaranteed. To the north, steep limestone cliffs tumble down into narrow coves and inlets of gleaming azure waters in the Parc National des Calanques. To the south, the coastal Corniche winds its way up to the dizzying viewpoints of Cap Canaille, France’s highest sea cliff. The village itself is just as photogenic, with its boat-filled harbor, pebble beach, and medieval castle perched high on the sea cliffs.
Cassis sees the biggest crowds in July and August, when day-trippers from Marseille and the French Riviera flock to the coastal town for summer fun. Daytime temperatures rarely dip below 65°F (18°C) from May through October, and it’s often warm enough to swim in late spring and early fall when crowds are smaller. Join the festivities at the Cassis Fête son Vin, a wine festival in May, or celebrate Cassis’ maritime heritage at the Fêtes de la Mer in June.
Exploring the Calanques is a must for visitors to Cassis, whether you choose to hike along the white limestone cliff-tops, take a boat cruise, or rent a kayak and paddle along the creeks. While the town itself is easy to get around on foot—restaurants, beaches, and viewpoints are all just a short stroll from the harbor—it’s worth hiring a car or moped if you want to head further afield.
La Presqu’île might be one of the most impressively situated restaurants in the French Riviera—snag a seat on the terrace, and you can gaze out over the Calanques while tucking into typical Provencal cuisine. For a foodie experience without the high price tag, pick up a lavender ice cream from Amorino to enjoy as you stroll around the harbor.
Local Currency Euro (€) | Time Zone CEST (UTC +1) | Country Code +33 | Language(s) French | Attractions 2 | Tours 18 | Reviews 90 |
Not to be confused with crème de cassis, a sweet liqueur made from blackcurrants that comes from Burgundy, Cassis the town is known for beaches and natural scenery. Once a humble fishing village—then known as poor man’s Saint-Tropez—it’s now a thriving seaside town and holiday destination.
...MoreCassis sits on the edge of Calanques National Park, a 21-mile (34-kilometer) stretch of rocky inlets made from limestone spanning to Marseille. To explore the Calanques and their clear, azure waters, go by boat; trips can be organized in Cassis town. The beaches in town are great for swimming, too.
...MoreCassis is absolutely worth visiting. From humble origins, it’s grown into a major seaside destination, with a bustling port lined with seafood restaurants and wine bars. The narrow streets of the old town are historic, and local markets abound with delicious regional produce, including many varieties of cheese.
...MoreCassis has many free things to do as it's near one of France’s most spectacular natural playgrounds. The Calanques, a series of more than 20 limestone coves, formed millions of years ago, can keep travelers entertained for days. The closest to Cassis, Port Miou, is a 30-minute walk from Cassis.
...MoreIn Calanques, you choose your own adventure. Hiking, watersports, climbing, mountain biking—the possibilities are endless. The limestone pillars are a climber’s paradise and give a bird’s-eye view of the clear waters. Or, hire a kayak or a paddleboard to explore the nooks and crannies of the rocky inlets.
...MoreCrème de cassis comes from Burgundy, in East France, not from Cassis. However the Cassis region is known for wines, particularly white wine, which is rather unique in Provence, an area known for rosé. Head to one of the many bars lining the waterfront to enjoy a sundowner.
...More