When should you go?
Collioure can be visited all year round, but spring and autumn offer the perfect balance between mild weather and moderate numbers of visitors. Summer attracts visitors for its beaches, festive atmosphere and entertainment. The Saint-Vincent festival, around 15 August, is a highlight, with maritime parades, dances and fireworks all over the town. A total immersion in Catalan culture.
Day 1: Historical discovery and relaxation by the sea
Morning: Immerse yourself in Catalan history
Start your escapade at the must-see Royal Castle of Collioure, a majestic 13th-century fortress built on ancient foundations. Residence of the kings of Majorca, then a strategic bastion, the monument bears witness to the town's military importance in the history of Roussillon. The immersive room evokes medieval court life, and the terraces offer unbeatable views of the Mediterranean and the Catalan hills. Just a stone's throw away, the church of Notre-Dame-des-Anges, with its emblematic lighthouse steeple set in the water, watches over the port of Collioure, the beating heart of the village. Continue on to the chapel of Saint-Vincent, set on a rocky promontory. A place of legend, it marks the point where the town's patron saint is said to have been martyred.
Afternoon: Colourful walks and outdoor art
Take a swim at the Boramar beach, nestling between the castle and the bell tower, or opt for a stroll through the narrow streets of Mouré, the old fishermen's quarter with its brightly-coloured facades. Then take the Chemin du Fauvisme, dotted with reproductions of works by Matisse and Derain, which pays tribute to Collioure's unique light.
Don't miss the Musée d'Art Moderne in the Parc Pams, which traces the artistic wealth of the XXᵉ century to the present day. To finish the day, climb up to the Cortina mill, which produces a delicate local olive oil, while offering superb views over the village.
Day 2: Nature, panoramas and gourmet traditions
Morning: View from the top and breathtaking scenery
Take to the heights to visit Fort Saint-Elme, an imposing Renaissance fortress overlooking Collioure. Accessible on foot or by shuttle bus, the site features historical exhibitions and an exceptional panorama of the Mediterranean and the Pyrénées-Orientales.
The more sporty visitors can continue up to the Madeloc tower, a former 13th-century watchtower. From the top, you can see the whole of the Côte Vermeille, the Roussillon plain and the border peaks. A reward worthy of the effort!
Afternoon: Living traditions on the water's edge
Back at the port of Collioure, watch the ballet of the Catalan boats, admire the ancestral skills of the fishermen and visit the Roque or Desclaux salt works. Here you can discover how the famous Collioure anchovies, the town's culinary emblem, are traditionally prepared.
When it comes to gastronomy, don't miss the parillades of fish, the zarzuela (a kind of Catalan bouillabaisse), or the cargolada, a speciality of snails grilled over an open fire. For dessert, try the crème catalane fondant or the croquants de Collioure, crispy almond pastries typical of the region.
Where to dine and have a drink?
Collioure offers a wide range of places to sample the treasures of the sea and local produce:
- For a spectacular view, La Balette or Le Neptune offer gourmet cuisine with Mediterranean flavours.
- For a warmer atmosphere, try Can Pla or Casa Léon, right in the historic centre.
In the evening, sip a glass of Collioure AOC wine on a terrace by the port, accompanied by local tapas: olives, anchoïade or salty crunchies.
Why choose Collioure?
Collioure is the soul of Catalonia in a setting of light. Between sea and mountains, France and Spain, art and tradition, this pearl of the Languedoc-Roussillon region is seductive for its authenticity, rich culture and gentle way of life. Whether you're looking for a relaxing break or a cultural getaway on the Spanish border, this is a unique place where every moment becomes a precious memory.
Which campsite to stay at?
To help you organise your stay, take a look at the campsites near Collioure