When you think of France, what comes to mind? The Eiffel Tower, wine country, the Mediterranean coast?
If you’re looking for a charming French town to visit that’s off the beaten path, Cassis should be at the top of your list.
This small fishing village is located in Provence and is home to turquoise waters, dramatic seaside cliffs, and plenty of sun-drenched days. The idyllic seaside town of Cassis is a must-visit destination for anyone who enjoys outdoor activities, fresh seafood, and picturesque views.
To help your trip to Cassis run a little more smoothly, I’ve put together a list of the 12 must-do activities while visiting this scenic French Rivera village so that you can make the most of your time here.
In this post, you'll find...
TLDR
- Best things to do in Cassis with kids – Sunbathe at Plage de la Grande Mer
- Best budget activity in Cassis – Stroll through the Cassis Market
- Best day trips from Cassis – Marseille and Aix en Provence
- Most popular thing to do in Cassis – Parc National du Calanques
- Best thing to do outdoors in Cassis – Hike to Calanque d’En Vau
- Best thing to do for adults in Cassis – A wine tasting tour at Domaine du Bagnol
- Most scenic thing to do in Cassis – Drive up to Cap Canaille
- Best place to stay in Cassis – Hôtel Les Roches Blanches Cassis
About Cassis
Cassis, France is a Mediterranean port city located on the southeastern coast of France, about 20 miles east of Marseille. The town is situated between the Calanques (rocky inlets) of Cap Canaille and Cap Morgiou. Cassis is known for its sheltered harbor, medieval buildings, and picturesque setting.
Visitors to Cassis will find a number of things to do in this charming French seaside town, including visiting one of the many famous wineries, trying watersports on the Mediterranean, trying fresh local seafood, and enjoying the scenery of the many seaside cliffs.
Swimming
Cassis is located on the Mediterranean Sea, making it a great place to enjoy some time in the water. There are several beaches in Cassis where visitors can swim, sunbathe, and relax. The Plage de Bestouan is a popular beach located just outside of town. Visitors can also take a dip in the sea at the Plage de la Grande Mer, Plage de Port Miou, or any of the other beaches in the area.
Hiking
There are several hiking trails located near Cassis. The Sentier du Littoral is a popular trail that winds along the coast, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The Calanques National Park is also a great place for hiking, with several trails to explore.
Shopping
Cassis is home to a number of shops and boutiques selling everything from souvenirs to clothes to local produce. For souvenirs, be sure to check out the shops along Rue du Général de Gaulle. For local produce, head to the Marché Provençal, a weekly market held every Wednesday and Saturday morning.
Eating and Drinking
Cassis is known for its white wine, which can be sampled at one of the town’s many wine bars. For a more substantial meal, there are a number of restaurants serving up traditional French fare. For something a little different, be sure to try the town’s famous tarte de cassis, a dessert made with blackcurrants.
When to visit Cassis
Due to it being a Mediterranean city on the southern coast of France, the weather in Cassis is stunning all year long – the best time of the year to visit the South of France is anytime!
From April to June, and September to October the weather is warm but not too hot, making it the perfect time to enjoy all the activities the town has to offer. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, visit in the shoulder seasons of March-April or October-November. December through February brings cooler weather, but Cassis town is still worth a visit, especially if you’re looking for some winter sun.
In general, the best time to visit Cassis is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists.
How to get to Cassis
There are a few different ways to get to Cassis. The easiest way is to fly into Marseille Provence Airport (MRS), which is located about 30 minutes from Cassis. From there, you can either take a taxi, bus, or rental car to Cassis.
You can also take the train from Marseille Saint-Charles Train Station to Cassis Train Station. The journey takes about 40 minutes. If you’re already in France, you can also take the train from Paris Gare de Lyon Train Station to Marseille Saint-Charles Train Station. The journey takes about 6 hours. From Marseille, you can then take a train, bus, or taxi to Cassis.
Cassis is also accessible by car. If you’re driving from Paris, take the A7 motorway south towards Lyon. From Lyon, take the A43 motorway towards Grenoble. From Grenoble, take the A51 motorway towards Sisteron. From Sisteron, take the D952 road towards Digne-les-Bains. From Digne-les-Bains, take the D955 road towards Forcalquier. From Forcalquier, take the D104 road towards Manosque. From Manosque, take the D957 road towards Aix-en-Provence. From Aix-en-Provence, take the D5 road towards Cassis. The journey from Paris to Cassis by car takes about 8 hours.
Getting around Cassis
Cassis is a small town and can easily be explored on foot. If you’re planning on doing any day trips outside of town, you’ll need to rent a car. There is a train station in Cassis, but it’s only served by regional trains.
The best way to get to Cassis
I recommend renting a car – it’s the easiest way to get around in the South of France and will give you the opportunity to see some of the nearby towns and villages close to Cassis while you’re here. I recommend using RentalCars.com to find the best deal on a rental car. They always have the best prices and their customer service is excellent.
Once you’re in Cassis, getting around town is easy enough to do on foot. If you’re planning on doing any day trips from Cassis, though, I recommend renting a car so you can explore at your own pace.
Top 12 best things to do in Cassis
1. Visit the Parc National du Calanques
One of the most popular things to do in Cassis is to visit the Parc National du Calanques (Calanque d’en Vau). The Calanques are a series of limestone cliffs that stretch for about 20 kilometers along the Mediterranean coast.
The best way to see the Calanque d’en Vau is by boat, and there are a number of boat tours that depart from Cassis harbor.
If you’re the sporty type, you can even take a mountain bike tour or hike through the Calanques. Just be sure to wear proper shoes and bring plenty of water, as it can get pretty hot in the summer! This electric mountain bike tour through the Calenques will take you on a 3-hour journey through some of the most stunning scenery in all of France. You’ll cycle past the dramatic seaside landscape filled with towering cliffs and shores of turquoise-blue waters. With an e-bike, you’ll be able to see more in less time, and you won’t have to worry about getting too tired from all the pedaling! You’ll even have the option to stop at a small secluded beach to swim.
And of course, no trip to the Calenques is complete without renting a stand up paddleboard or kayak and paddling around for a bit! This is the best way to really take in the beauty of the Calanques. You can even paddle into some of the small caves and coves that dot the coastline. Just be sure to wear plenty of sunscreen, as there is very little shade when you’re out on the water. You can rent a paddleboard from one of the many stands located around the Calenques, or you can join a paddleboarding or kayaking group tour.
This kayaking tour of the Calenques will take you on a float through the crystal clear waters of Cassis’ most prized landmark, as you learn about interesting facts about the monument from your knowledgable guide. It includes the use of your kayak, all safety equipment, a waterproof case and wetsuit, and access to the online image base where you can download photos of your trip after the tour. You’ll even stop at a secluded beach for swimming and snorkeling, as well as a visit to the famous Grotte Bleue, or blue cave.
This is one of the most popular things to do in Cassis, so be sure to book your tour in advance!
2. Stroll through the Cassis Market
One of my favorite things to do when exploring a new city is to visit the local market, and Southern France has a ton of them!
The Cassis Market is open every day except Monday and is the perfect place to find fresh produce, seafood, cheese, and more. There are also a number of stands selling souvenirs and local handicrafts. You can find anything from paintings and pottery to jewelry and clothes.
If you happen to be visiting Cassis on a Sunday, don’t miss the large flea market that takes over the entire town! This is one of the best markets in all of France, and you can find everything from vintage clothing and furniture to dishes and antiques. Be sure to bargain with the vendors, as they are expecting it!
Even if you’re not looking to buy anything, it’s fun to stroll through the market and try some of the samples!
3. Sunbathe at Plage de la Grande Mer
Did you really visit the south of France if you don’t spend some time lounging on the beach?
Plage de la Grande Mer is one of the most popular beaches in Cassis, and for good reason. It’s located right in town, so it’s easy to get to, and it has stunning views of the Calanques. The beach is also well-equipped with showers, toilets, and a lifeguard on duty during the summer months. The warm, golden sand at Plage de la Grande Mer is the perfect spot to soak up the sun and take in the sights of the neverending shoreline. And, if you get thirsty or need to grab a bite to eat, there’s a beach bar and plenty of restaurants located nearby for a bite of local food and even some local wines.
If you’re looking for a more secluded spot to sunbathe, head to Plage de Port Miou. This beach is located just outside of town and can only be reached by foot or by boat. It’s a bit of a hike to get there, but it’s worth it for the stunning views and the chance to escape the crowds.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even go cliff jumping into the Mediterranean Sea at Plage de Port Miou! Just be sure to follow the posted safety signs and only jump from the approved areas.
4. People watch at the Port de Cassis
The port of Cassis is the perfect place to enjoy a coffee or glass of wine while people watching. It’s also a great spot for some souvenir shopping, as there are a number of shops and stalls selling local goods. You can find everything from fresh produce to handmade jewelry. And if you get hungry, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes with outdoor seating overlooking the water.
The port is home to a number of boats, including fishing boats and many private yachts. It’s a relaxing spot to chill in between activities, and it’s also one of the best places to watch the sunset in Cassis. So be sure to stick around a watch the show!
If you’re visiting Cassis in the summer, make sure to catch one of the many fireworks displays that take place at the port! They usually happen on Friday and Saturday nights, and they are not to be missed. Whether you’re looking to take in the sights or do some shopping, the port of Cassis is the place to be.
5. Hike to Calanque d’En Vau Beach
Calanque d’En Vau is one of the most popular beaches in the Cassis area, and it’s only accessible by foot. The hike to get there is about 45 minutes each way, but it’s relatively easy and the views are stunning. Once you reach the beach, you’ll be rewarded with clear blue water, soft sand, and incredible views of the surrounding cliffs. This iconic beach has even been seen on the big screen in movies like the 1964 film Fantômas, starring Louis de Funès and Jean Marais!
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even jump off the cliffs into the sea! Just be sure to follow the posted safety signs and only jump from the approved areas.
And if you’re up even more of a challenge, you can continue hiking past Calanque d’En Vau to reach the even more secluded beach of Calanque de Sugiton. This beach can only be reached by swimming or climbing, so it’s not for the faint of heart. But if you’re feeling adventurous, it’s definitely worth the effort for the chance to experience one of the most beautiful beaches in France.
And if you get hungry during your hike, there’s a beach bar located at Calanque d’En Vau where you can grab a bite to eat. So what are you waiting for? Put on your hiking shoes and explore one of the most beautiful beaches in Cassis!
6. Try local foods like Panisse and Pissaladière
If you’re a foodie like me, then you’ll definitely want to try some of the local specialties while you’re in Cassis. Two of the most popular dishes are panisse and pissaladière. Panisse is a type of chickpea flour pancake that is fried and served with a variety of toppings, including tomatoes, onions, and olives. It’s a delicious and filling snack that can be found at many of the cafes and restaurants in town.
Pissaladière is another local favorite, and it’s basically a pizza topped with caramelized onions, olives, and anchovies. It might sound strange, but it’s actually really good! I recommend trying it at one of the many bakeries in town.
And of course, you can’t visit Cassis without trying the local wine! The region is known for its white wines, and there are many vineyards that offer tours and tastings. So make sure to sample some of the local vintages during your stay.
Whether you’re a foodie or not, make sure to try some of the local specialties while you’re in Cassis. It has some of the best food in the South of France – you won’t be disappointed!
7. Travel back to Medieval times at Chateau de Cassis
Cassis is a small town, but it’s rich in history and culture. You can learn all about the town’s past at the Chateau de Cassis, a medieval castle located right in the center of town. The castle was built in the 12th century and has been well-preserved over the years.
Today, it houses a museum with exhibits on the history of Cassis as well as the castle itself. You can also enjoy stunning views of the town and the Mediterranean Sea from the top of the castle walls. Not only can you tour the castle, but you can even sleep here! The castle has a few guest rooms that you can rent for a truly unique experience.
So if you’re interested in learning about the history of Cassis, or you just want to enjoy some incredible views, make sure to add the Chateau de Cassis to your list of things to do in the town. It’s a must-see!
8. Take a day trip to Aix en Provence & Marseille
Although Cassis is beautiful on its own, sometimes it’s nice to get out and explore the surrounding areas. If you’re looking for a day trip from Cassis, I recommend visiting the nearby cities of Aix en Provence and Marseille.
Aix en Provence is a lovely city located just a short drive from Cassis. It’s known for its picturesque streets and gorgeous architecture. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants to enjoy. If you’re a fan of Impressionist art, make sure to visit the Cezanne Studio – it’s a must-see for art lovers!
Marseille is the largest city in the South of France, and it’s definitely worth a visit. There are so many things to see and do, including taking a boat ride to the Chateau d’If, visiting the Old Port, and exploring the many museums and galleries. There’s something for everyone in Marseille!
So if you’re looking for some ideas for day trips from Cassis, be sure to add Aix en Provence and Marseille to your list! You can get there easily by car (this is why I mentioned renting a car earlier!) or take a guided tour of both cities that includes roundtrip transportation.
9. Enjoy a spa day of luxury at Hotel Les Roches Blanches
If you’re in the mood to treat yourself, then I recommend spending a day at the Hotel Les Roches Blanches spa. It’s one of the most luxurious spas in the South of France, and it’s the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate. Even if you’re not a guest at this hotel, you can enjoy the many amenities it has to offer, including a heated pool, sauna, and steam room.
The hotel is located right on the water, so you can enjoy stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea while you pamper yourself. The spa offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. You can also take a dip in the pool or relax in the sauna. If you want to truly pamper yourself, I recommend spending the day here. It’s the perfect way to relax and unwind during your vacation!
After a day of luxury at the spa, you can enjoy a delicious meal at one of the hotel’s three restaurants. The Hotel Les Roches Blanches is the perfect place to relax and pamper yourself, so if you’re looking for a truly indulgent experience, add it to your list of things to do in Cassis!
10. Enjoy the views from Cap Canaille
Situated along the Mediterranean Sea and overlooking all of Cassis, Cap Canaille is a must-visit spot when you’re in town. Standing at a massive 1292 feet tall, Cap Canaille is the highest sea cliff in France, and it offers stunning views of the coastline. You can hike to the top of the cliff, or take a leisurely walk along the many trails that wind through the area. At the top, you’ll get the best views in all of the city.
If you’re traveling by car, you can take the Route des Crêtes, which is the main road that runs along the top of Cap Canaille. This road offers incredible views of Cassis, so it’s definitely worth a drive! The route spans about 4 miles (7km) and is one of the most picturesque routes you can imagine. It’ll take you about 30 minutes to drive to Cap Canaille if you don’t stop for photos along the way, but trust me – you will!
There are plenty of marked viewpoints along the way where you can stop for photos or even a scenic picnic. There are also quite a few places to pull over along the route and even a parking lot where you can park your car and join one of the hiking trails that goes up to the top of Cap Canaille.
11. Visit the Musée d’arts et traditions populaires
For art and history lovers visiting Cassis, a stop at the Musée d’Arts et Traditions Populaires is a must. This museum is dedicated to the art and culture of Provence, and it houses an impressive collection of traditional Provençal furniture, pottery, and textiles.
The museum is located in an 18th-century stone farmhouse, and it’s surrounded by a beautiful garden. There’s also a cafe onsite, so you can enjoy a refreshing drink or bite to eat after exploring the museum. The staff here are super welcoming and knowledgeable about all the art pieces they have here on display. They’re always willing to help answer any questions you may have, even if you don’t speak French well.
If you’re interested in learning more about the art and culture of Provence, then I highly recommend visiting the Musée d’Arts et Traditions Populaires. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon during your vacation!
12. Splurge on a wine tasting tour at Domaine du Bagnol
Cassis is located in the Provence wine region, and its wines are some of the most popular in all of France. The most famous type of Cassis wine is white wine, which is made from a grape variety called Clairette. Cassis wines are known for their light, refreshing flavor, and they pair perfectly with the region’s cuisine.
If you love wine like me, then I recommend taking a wine tasting tour at Domaine du Bagnol. This is a great way to learn about the different types of Cassis wines and how they’re made. You’ll also get to try a few different wines, of course! The staff here are super friendly and knowledgeable about all things wine-related, so you’re sure to have a great time.
A wine tasting tour at Maison du Vin is the perfect activity for any wine lover visiting Cassis. If you enjoy good wine and want to learn more about the wine-making process and what this French region is famous for, this is your place.
Day trips from Cassis
Marseille
Located only about 30 minutes from Cassis by car, Marseille is the perfect place to visit for a day trip. This vibrant city is full of things to see and do, and it’s known for its beautiful Mediterranean scenery. Be sure to check out Vieux Port (the Old Port), which is one of the most iconic places in all of Marseille. Here, you can stroll along the waterfront, enjoy some fresh seafood, and take in the stunning views.
Aix-en-Provence
Another great day trip option from Cassis is Aix-en-Provence. This lovely city is located just over an hour away by car, and it’s definitely worth the drive. Aix-en-Provence is known for its fountains and gorgeous architecture, and it’s a great place to do some shopping or enjoy a leisurely lunch. It’s also a good starting point for a tour of the famous lavender fields nearby.
Toulon
A lesser known but still worth-visiting city located near Cassis is Toulon. This charming town is about an hour away by car, and it’s known for its beautiful harbor and lovely cafes. Toulon is the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely lunch or stroll around and do some people-watching. It’s also a great place to pick up some souvenirs to bring home, as there are many cute shops selling local products.
Where to stay in Cassis
Hôtel Les Roches Blanches Cassis ($$$)
For a luxury stay in Cassis, I recommend Hôtel Les Roches Blanches. Not only are their spa facilities top-notch, but the views from the hotel are absolutely incredible. You’ll be able to see the Mediterranean Sea from your room, and it’s just a short walk away from the beach. The hotel is equipped with two pools and three on-site fine dining restaurants. The rooms here are spacious and modern, and they come with all the amenities you could possibly need.
Best Western Plus Hôtel la Rade ($$)
This stunning hotel is located right on the water, and it offers breathtaking views of the harbor. The rooms here at the Best Western Plus Hôtel la Rade are spacious and well-equipped, and the staff is extremely friendly and helpful. Best Western Plus Hôtel la Rade is also a great option if you’re looking for a hotel with on-site parking, as it can be difficult to find parking in Cassis. They have a heated pool and lounge chairs on their outside terrace overlooking the city.
Le Jardin d’Emile ($$)
Le Jardin d’Emile is a home-away-from-home type of place, and it’s perfect if you’re looking for a more intimate stay in Cassis. This lovely bed and breakfast is located in the heart of the city, and it’s just a short walk away from the beach. The rooms here are cozy and inviting, and they come with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. A continental breakfast is served each morning in the dining room, and it includes a variety of fresh pastries and fruits.
Thanks for reading!
Thanks for reading my guide to all the things to do and see in Cassis, France! I hope this post was helpful in planning your trip to this stunning seaside city.
If you’re planning a trip to the French Riviera, be sure to check out my related blog posts about France to help you decide what to do while visiting the country!
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Hi, I’m Tiana – founder of and author here at Where Tiana Travels. I’m a 20-something with a love for all things travel, photography, and food. I have been living abroad for the past 5 years and solo traveling the globe in my free time. I created this blog to share my travel stories and inspire other women to go out and see the world. Read more about me here!