The best time to visit
Cassis can be visited all year round, with each season offering a unique experience.
In spring, Mediterranean flowers brighten up the streets and the paths of the calanques are perfect for hiking.
In summer, beaches such as Bestouan, Grande-Mer and L'Arène, along with water sports, delight holidaymakers, but this is also the busiest time of year.
Autumn is quieter, with mild temperatures and colourful landscapes, perfect for exploring the vineyards via the Provence wine route and the calanques.
In winter, the village retains its charm and offers a peaceful getaway, far from the summer crowds.
Day 1: Stroll around the harbour and discover the village
Morning: Explore the heart of Cassis
As soon as you arrive, let yourself be charmed by the port of Cassis, with its colourful houses reflected in the water, then lose yourself in the narrow streets of the old village, dotted with local markets and craft shops.
Soak up the friendly Provençal atmosphere and don't miss iconic monuments such as Saint-Michel Church, Notre-Dame de la Garde Chapel, the Four Banal, a 17th-century relic, or Cassis Castle. For a spectacular view of the cliffs and the sea, climb up to the Route des Crêtes viewpoint. To better understand the local history, you can take a short guided tour or visit the Municipal Museum of Mediterranean Arts and Traditions.
Afternoon: Walk through the vineyards and accessible calanques
After lunch in one of the restaurants in the port, set off to explore the vineyards of Cassis, which stretch out in terraces on the sunny hillsides. You can admire the historic estates, meet passionate winegrowers and taste the famous white wine of Cassis, light and aromatic. Take the opportunity to follow the Provence wine route and enjoy the Provençal landscapes. Then head to the calanques accessible on foot from the village, such as Port-Miou, Port-Pin or En-Vau, for your first taste of the iconic landscapes of the Calanques National Park. These wild coves, with white cliffs plunging into turquoise waters, are ideal for a coastal walk, a picnic or a swim. The Little Prince trail allows you to discover some of the coves from above, with spectacular views of the sea and the village.
For those who want to mix things up, you can also enjoy a sea kayaking excursion or even a scuba diving session to observe the marine flora and fauna.
Day 2: Nature, sea and outdoor activities
Morning: Boat trip and swimming in the calanques
To start the day, take a boat trip from the port of Cassis to discover the most famous and spectacular calanques. You can admire the white cliffs plunging into the turquoise water, the small secluded coves and the beaches accessible only by sea. Depending on your preferences, choose between a guided boat tour, an electric boat trip or a kayak trip to explore at your own pace. Take advantage of this outing to take your first dip in the crystal-clear waters, observe the seabed and take photos of the magnificent landscapes that have made the calanques internationally famous. For the more adventurous, some coves such as En-Vau or Sugiton offer footpaths from the sea to extend your exploration and enjoy exceptional views of the Mediterranean.
Back in the village, enjoy lunch or dinner in one of the harbour restaurants specialising in fish and seafood, or try Provençal specialities such as bouillabaisse, accompanied by a glass of local white wine.
Afternoon: Hiking and panoramic views at Cap Canaille
After a morning spent exploring the calanques, spend the afternoon discovering Cap Canaille, Europe's highest sea cliff. Accessible on foot or via small paths from Cassis, the cape offers spectacular views of the bay, the village and the Mediterranean, perfect for unforgettable photos.
The trails offer a variety of experiences: a leisurely stroll along the lookout points, a challenging hike along the ridges, or, for the more adventurous, rock climbing or mountain biking on suitable trails. Cap Canaille is also an ideal place to observe Mediterranean flora and fauna, such as Aleppo pines, endemic plants and seabirds.
You can end the afternoon with a relaxing break at one of the viewpoints, admiring the sunset over the bay or enjoying the small beaches nearby, such as Grande-Mer beach or Arène beach, to round off the weekend in style.
Where to dine and have a drink?
For lunch or dinner, Cassis offers seafood restaurants and Provençal specialities, such as Le Grand Large or Le Bistro. In the evening, enjoy a glass of local white wine at the harbour, or a cocktail in a bar such as Le Bar de la Marine, facing the sunset.
Why choose Cassis?
Easily accessible from Marseille or Aix-en-Provence, Cassis combines nature, heritage and gastronomy in an exceptional setting. With its beaches, hiking trails, calanques and picturesque villages, this Mediterranean destination offers the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure. Whether for a romantic weekend, with family or friends, Cassis promises an unforgettable getaway.
Where to stay?
To make the most of the region, you can stay at one of the campsites near Cassis, which offer quiet pitches, modern mobile homes and easy access to beaches and hiking trails. This allows you to combine comfort, nature and immersion in authentic Provence.