Cassis South of France: charming coastal town full of Provençal atmosphere

Region of Cassis – between Provence and Côte d'Azur

Cassis is located in the southeast of France, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. This region combines the best of both worlds: the fragrant tranquillity of Provence and the vibrant elegance of the French Riviera.

The landscape is varied – on one side the sea, on the other hills full of vines and lavender. The imposing Cap Canaille is one of the highest cliffs in Europe at over 390 meters. From the top you have a view over Cassis, the Calanques and the Mediterranean Sea.

Le Castellet and La Cadière-d'Azur are small villages surrounding Cassis. Village squares with plane trees, cafes with jeu-de-boules courts and markets full of herbs and olives make it clear that the real Provencal life still prevails here, which appeals to the guests of FranceComfort Holiday Parks.

The Cassis region – between Provence and the Côte d'Azur – is ideal for those who want to combine the tranquillity of the interior with the coast. You can find more information about the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region on holiday in Provence, visitprovence.com or marseille-tourisme.com.

The Calanques – natural wonder next to Cassis

Right next to the village is the Parc National des Calanques, a spectacular nature reserve between Cassis and Marseille. The Calanques are deep coves of white limestone with turquoise water. The three most famous – Port Miou, Port Pin and En-Vau – are all impressive.

• Port Miou is within walking distance of Cassis and is a natural harbour full of sailing boats.
• Port Pin is a little further away, hidden between pine trees and the perfect place to swim in crystal clear waters.
• En-Vau is the most beautiful Calanque– a secluded bay between steep cliffs, accessible by brisk walk or by boat.

🔗 Read also: Calanques between Marseille and Cassis

👉 Tip: In summer, access to the Calanques may be restricted due to fire hazards. For the most recent access rules and hiking routes, please check the official website of the Parc National des Calanques: calanques-parcnational.fr.

Things to do in Cassis

Château de Cassis – guardians of the past

The Château de Cassis, a 13th-century castle that once protected the port from pirates, rises above the village. Although it is now privately owned, its silhouette remains characteristic of the village. From the paths around the castle you have a beautiful view of the harbour and the sea – especially at sunset, when the light turns the stone walls gold.

Église Saint-Michel – Cassis’ village church

In the middle of the old town is the Église Saint-Michel, built in 1867. Inside, the light falls through colourful stained glass windows and outside the cozy hustle and bustle of the village square prevails. The church is a haven of peace in the lively surroundings.

Musée Municipal Méditerranéen d’Arts et Traditions Populaires

This museum, located in an old mansion near the port, tells the story of the inhabitants of Cassis – fishermen, winegrowers and craftsmen. The collection includes paintings, tools and historical photographs. A half-hour visit is enough to feel the soul of the village.

The port of Cassis – lively heart of the village

The port of Cassis is without a doubt the centre of daily life. Along the quay, colourful fishing boats and yachts lie side by side. During the day, fishermen sell their catch, and in the evening, the terraces fill with people dining with a view of the sea. The harbour exudes that typical Mediterranean atmosphere – friendly and elegant at the same time.

More things to see and do in Cassis, South of France

Cassis is small, but there is so much to do in the area. Visitors can walk, sail or simply enjoy the view.

• Route des Crêtes: panoramic drive between Cassis and La Ciotat with breathtaking views.
• Boat trip along the Calanques: discover the coast from the water; tours depart daily from the port.
• Maison de Cassis: interactive centre where visitors can learn more about viticulture and nature.
• Belvédère du Soubeyran: spectacular viewpoint above the sea.

Wine and vineyards

Cassis is famous for its white wine, one of the oldest AOC wines in France. The grapes grow on sun-drenched slopes overlooking the sea, which gives the wine its characteristic freshness. A visit to Clos Sainte Magdeleine or Domaine du Bagnol is highly recommended: here you can taste wines that smell of citrus and sea salt, typical of Cassis in the south of France.

Markets and Provençal atmosphere

On Wednesdays and Fridays there is a market on the village square. You will find olives, herbs, cheeses and lavender products – exactly what you expect in Provence. The atmosphere is friendly and inviting, and chatting with the sellers is often as much fun as the shopping itself. For more information about markets in Provence, see the pages on markets in Castellane and markets in Salernes.

Relax on a terrace

After a day full of impressions, there is nothing better than settling down on a terrace by the harbour. Order a glass of white wine or a coffee, and watch life go on around you. The boats sway gently on the water, children play on the quay, and the smell of sea and olive oil fills the air. At the end of the evening, you will head towards your luxury villa in Provence-Côte d'Azur or your holiday home near the Mediterranean Sea.

Local cuisine and restaurants in Cassis

Provençal cuisine is simple and pure. In Cassis, you will taste dishes with olive oil, garlic and fresh fish. Typical dishes include bouillabaisse, aioli Provençal and tapenade. There are cozy restaurants on the harbour where you dine with a view of the sea.

• Le Grand Large: fish restaurant with terrace on the water.
• Le Bonaparte: small place with fresh dishes and local wine.
• La Villa Madie: gourmet restaurant with two Michelin stars.

👉 Tip: Book ahead during peak season, as Cassis is popular with foodies from all over Provence.

Shopping in Cassis on the Côte d'Azur

Boutiques and local products

The streets of Cassis are popular among those who love atmosphere and craftsmanship. Boutiques sell linen clothing, handmade jewellery and local delicacies. You will find lavender soap, olive oil, honey and pottery with Provençal motifs.

The Provençal market

The market on Place Baragnon is an experience full of scents and colors. Local farmers sell olives, herbs, cheeses and fruit. The air fills with the scent of thyme and rosemary.

👉 Tip: Come early in the morning as the sun rises and the market is still quiet.

Evening atmosphere in the village

In the evening, Cassis transforms into a festival of light and sound. The terraces fill up, street musicians play along the harbour, and Cap Canaille glows orange in the setting sun. It is the ideal place to end the day with a glass of white Cassis wine.

Events and festivals

Cassis is bustling with festivities all year round. In May, there is the Festival des Vins de Cassis, in June the Fête de la Mer et des Pêcheurs, and in September the Vendanges Étoilées, a gastronomic highlight where top chefs cook with local products. In December, the village transforms into a charming scene with a Christmas market full of lights and scents. For up-to-date information on events, hiking routes and opening hours, please contact the Office de Tourisme de Cassis via ot-cassis.com.

Practical information

• Distance: Cassis is a 1–1.5 hour drive from FranceComfort holiday parks in Provence.
• Parking: Park at Parking des Gorguettes outside the center, with free shuttle bus.
• Best time to visit: April–October, with May, June and September as ideal months.
• Market days: Wednesday and Friday.
• Access Calanques: during the summer, access may be limited.

From Cassis, you can also take trips to Marseille, Bandol and Aix-en-Provence – three destinations that combine culture and gastronomy

Frequently asked questions

1. Where exactly is Cassis located?
On the Mediterranean coast, between Marseille and Bandol, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region.

2. What are the most beautiful beaches in Cassis?
Plage de la Grande Mer, Plage du Bestouan and Anse de l'Arène.

3. What is the best time to visit Cassis?
Spring and autumn: pleasant weather and less crowds.

4. Is Cassis suitable for families?
Yes Cassis is suitable for families thanks to the well-organized beaches, the tourist train and the relaxed atmosphere.

5. Can you explore the Calanques by foot?
Yes, various hiking trails depart from Cassis. We recommend wearing sturdy shoes and bringing plenty of water.

6. What are some enjoyable activities in Cassis for a day trip?
On a day trip to Cassis, you can stroll through the harbour, take a boat trip along the Calanques, or drive the Route des Crêtes and enjoy panoramic views. Also the Provencal market at Nans-les-Pins, the local wineries and the beaches are also worth a visit.

7. What is the easiest way to get to Cassis from Provence?
From a holiday home in Provence, the best way to reach Cassis is by car. The fastest route is via the A52 towards Aubagne, then the D559 to Cassis. Park at Parking des Gorguettes outside the center and take the shuttle bus to the port.

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