Making the most of Cassis
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Tenders bring passengers ashore in the centre of Cassis.
Cassis is an ancient fishing port and an engaging village to explore. Rebuilding over earlier ruins in the 18th century gave it a more ordered plan than many medieval villages. Wandering the old streets reveals characterful buildings, some from the 16th century and others restored in Provence's colourful pastel shades, along with historic fountains and an open-air artists' market. The harbour is the village's prettiest area.
Getting around
Beyond posing and drinking beside the port, activities are largely limited to sunbathing and admiring the remains of the medieval castle. Built in 1381, it was later restored by Monsieur Michelin, the authoritarian head of the family tyre and guide company.
Visit the Office de Tourisme for local information.
Nearby places
A favourite leisurely activity is a boat excursion into the calanques, the long, narrow and deep fjord-like inlets carved through limestone cliffs. Several operators leave from the harbour, but check whether the trip lands passengers or merely sails in and out, and expect the possibility of rough seas.
More energetic visitors can follow the marked path from route des Calanques, behind the western beach. Reaching En Vau, the best and furthest calanque, takes about ninety minutes on foot, followed by a scramble down rocks to the shore. Pine trees cling to the chaotic white cliffs while sunbathers settle on ledges; below, deep-blue water between the sheer rock walls offers memorable swimming.
Food and shopping
The outdoor artists' market sells distinctive paintings, while many small Cassis boutiques stock locally made crafts.
Money
France uses the Euro.
Opening Hours and
Most French shops, businesses, information offices, museums and banks remain open throughout the day. Smaller shops and firms are the exception and may shut for lunch between 12.30pm and 2pm. Large shops generally trade from 8 or 9am until 6.30 or 7.30pm Monday to Saturday; smaller ones usually open Tuesday to Saturday, although some trade on Monday afternoon. Even on customary closing days, boulangeries and food shops can usually be found open, generally until noon on Sunday.