When I think about summer, my mind immediately goes to Europe, like enjoying these top things to do in Cassis, France. There is so much to do in the south of France, from hiking the les calanques de Cassis to taking boat trips around the coast of France. It’s truly a special place and after visiting a year or so ago, I already am planning my next adventure back.
In Cassis, France, weather seems to be no issue especially in the summer. The sun never seems to hide and that Mediterranean breeze cools off perfectly. If you’re looking on where to stay in Cassis and some of the best restaurants in Cassis, check out this guide I wrote when I was there last. When it comes to how to spend your time in Cassis, the options are endless.
Top Things to Do in Cassis, France
Take a boat trip from Cassis to the calanques.
Certainly this one of the top things to do in Cassis, France and what drew me in from the beginning. The towering limestone formations hide these incredible beaches that are only accessible by foot or boat. You can take a boat trip from Cassis to visit and see the formations by sea. It’s a great afternoon activity to do in Cassis and you can choose how many hours you want to go. I’d recommend the morning for when the water is calmest and get there before the lines.
Explore the port of Cassis by foot.
One great way to enjoy the coastal town is by exploring it by foot. There is plenty to see from boutiques to cafes, so you can easily get a few hours in just doing this. Of course, ice cream will be in order to cool off.
Hike out to the Calanques de Cassis.
If you don’t opt to do a boat trip, you can access the calanques by hiking there. Many people show up unprepared for the journey so it is good to know you’ll need a few hours time, water, and proper shoes to access the calanques. This is a great guide by Culture Trip.
Enjoy the local beaches of Cassis.
I loved exploring the many beaches of Cassis! These are your typical European style beaches, where instead of sand it is rocky. The water was ever so warm and a great way to spend a few hours in the late afternoon. My favorites were Plage de l’Arene, Plage du Corton, and Le Bestouan.
Get the best view of Cassis from Cap Canaille.
Don’t look any further than Cap Canaille for the best views of Cassis and the coastline. I’d head up there for sunset and soak in one of the prettiest views I’ve ever seen.
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PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!
These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you. If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here.
1. Book Your Accommodations
I use Booking.com for hotels and Airbnb for vacation rentals. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.
2. Book Your Rental Car
Self-driving is the best way to explore most destinations. I use Discover Cars for our rental cars, select full coverage insurance, and opt for a reputable company like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt.
3. Book Your Tours & Experiences
I use Viator, Airbnb, and Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check all three as their inventory varies depending on the destination.
4. Book Your Private Transfers
For easy, reliable private transfers, I use Welcome Pickups. It’s my go-to for arranging a driver in advance — whether it’s an airport pickup, a hotel-to-hotel transfer, or a day trip. The experience is seamless, with English-speaking drivers and upfront pricing, so you can travel stress-free at every stage of your trip.
5. Get Cell Data for Your Trip
I use Holafly for international cell data. Their unlimited data eSIMs are easy to install, activate instantly on arrival, and let you skip local SIM cards and expensive roaming fees.
6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, or cancellations).
My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:
- World Nomads (best for all-around)
- Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)
Xx,
Jessica
2 Comments
Hi there! I’m going to be doing a roadtrip through the south of france and wondering if you think spending 1 night here is enough? Thinking of doing 3 nights in Provence, 1 night in Cassis then to Nice for 4 nights. What are your thoughts? The idea would be to get there early, hike the Calanques, go for a nice dinner and then head to Nice the next morning! 🙂
Hey Amanda, that trip sounds lovely! I spent a single day in Cassis and felt like I got to see/do everything I wanted to, so I feel one night should be good!