Cassis & Calanques 1-day itinerary for first-timers

Cassis is a hidden treasure on the southern coast of France, ideal for a day-long retreat. This is an energized seaside town, full of breathtaking natural beauty, strong culture, and delicious cuisine, with many things to offer from an exploration of the picturesque harbor to hiking along the Calanques. If you’re short on time, I’ve put together a simple plan to make the most of your day in this Mediterranean paradise. Get ready to experience Cassis like a local!

Anya

Hi! I’m Anya, founder of the travel blog Stop Going to Paris which focuses on underrated cities in Europe. I’m a passionate traveler but above all, a passionate adventurer always looking for the hidden gems that deserve more love.

After 10 years and 70+ destinations, I can help you plan your European trip: book a call with me. It includes a full itinerary with unique destinations, transportation, accommodation and activities.

Fun fact, I live in… drumroll… Paris! That’s why the name of the blog is funny.

Morning in Cassis – start your day at the harbor

Mornings in Cassis are magical, and starting your day at the harbor sets the tone for everything to come. The pastel buildings and the bluest color of the water against the fishing boats create a pure Mediterranean bliss atmosphere. It’s like stepping into a postcard.

Have breakfast at a local café

First things first: breakfast. There is nothing like starting the day in a small, quaint café with a fresh croissant and a steaming cup of coffee. Along the harbor are a few cozy spots catering to both locals and visitors. I recommend Cafe Glacier Liautaud, a charming place with seating outside that can give one a feel of the view along the harbor. Grain De Folie is not located at the harbor but is also great – their buttery pastries and smooth espresso are worth every bite and sip.

Stroll along the port

After breakfast, take a leisurely walk along the stunning harbor. This is the heart of Cassis and feels alive even in the quiet morning hours.

The views here are breathtaking. On one side, the turquoise sea stretches endlessly. On the other, colorful buildings with wooden shutters. Take your time here!

Visit local wineries

Cassis has long been famous for food and vineyards, and the morning is a wonderful time to sample the fruits of the region.

The area is known throughout for its white wines being zesty, aromatic, and great with Mediterranean cuisine. Here are a few standout wineries to consider:

• Domaine du Paternel: This family estate is located just outside a town and is famous for a collection of award-winning whites and rosés. Taking a short tour of their estate, visitors can savor their offerings in their tasting room. Their staff are happy to go into detail about the production process.
  
  
  
• Clos Sainte Magdeleine: This vineyard sits dramatically above the sea, with views that are as fine as their wines. Their white wines are floral and fresh; they go well with seafood. Make a tasting reservation in advance to reserve your spot.
  
  
  
• Domaine Cassis Bodin: The less-known but equally beautiful is a small estate that focuses on organic farming. The outcome is clean, fresh-tasting wines that really capture the essence of the region.
  

You will be able to enjoy glasses of Cassis’s famous blends at each winery, learning about the story and traditions of local wine-making.

Afternoon adventure – explore the Calanques National Park

No visit to Cassis is ever complete without an experience of the Calanques National Park, which feels like the natural world putting on the best show ever – turquoise waters, hidden coves, and rugged limestone cliffs. It is an absolute entry into pure tranquility yet it pulsates with life and adventure. Whether you’re fond of hiking, swimming or wanting to explore the coastline on boats, the Calanques is it.

Hiking trails and scenic views

The Calanques National Park is a dream for hikers, offering trails that give you some of the most breathtaking views in southern France. Here are some popular options:

• Calanque de Port-Miou to Calanque de Port-Pin: A short route suitable for novices or for those who are in a hurry. It takes approximately 30 minutes in either direction and offers great views of the tranquil, deep blue waters of the Port-Miou inlet and the picturesque sheltered cove known as Calanque de Port-Pin, where one can enjoy a quick dip.
  
• Calanque d’En-Vau: Ready for a challenge? The trail to Calanque d’En-Vau is tougher, with steep paths and loose rocks, but the reward is worth it. After about 90 minutes of hiking, you’ll find yourself looking down at one of the most stunning spots in the region – a hidden cove framed by towering cliffs and crystal-clear water. It’s a favorite among photographers and adventurers alike.
  
• Route des Crêtes: While not within the limits of the park, the panoramic road does have areas to park and walk for phenomenal coastal views. Some are over the Calanques, providing less demanding points of view to take advantage of the view.
  

Be prepared for rocky terrain and little to no shade on the hike. Wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and don’t forget your sunscreen. Summer hikers should start early to beat the heat.

Hiking and biking tour options to the Calanques

If you are looking for guided tours to the Calanque, there are tours from both Cassis and Marseille.

This tour starts in Cassis and takes you through the Calanques National Park for a half-day hike, through the Calanques of Port-Miou, Port-Pin, and one of the most famous, En-Vau.

This guided hike of the Calanques National Park starts in Marseille and ends with a picnic.

For an interesting twist on the usual Calanques hikes, check out this mountain bike tour with a virtual guide.

Boat tour options to the Calanques

If hiking isn’t your style or you’re short on time, exploring the Calanques by boat is an unforgettable alternative. Several tours depart from the Cassis harbor daily, ranging from quick excursions to longer trips that navigate deeper into the park.

• Short Tours (1-2 hours): They cover three to five of the closest Calanques, including Port-Miou, Port-Pin, and En-Vau. It’s a quick but satisfying way to admire the cliffs and turquoise waters from a unique angle.
  
• Longer Tours (half-day): These will take you further into the park, to more isolated Calanques such as Morgiou and Sugiton. You will see dramatic rock formations, hidden beaches, and even points where daring locals dive into the sea from cliffs.
  
• Private Charters: For a more private experience, some companies allow private boat rentals. This way, you can decide how long you want to spend at any given spot.
  

Don’t forget to bring your camera – with some of the most Instagrammable shots you might take all day, don’t miss these tours!

Most companies also allow jumping off to swim during parts of the tour; so pack a swimsuit for any swimming you want to do.

Evening relaxation – visit the old town and where to eat dinner

The evenings here are all about absorbing the town’s culture and unwinding after an adventurous day.

Explore the Old Town

When you return, you can walk through Cassis’ old town. It is a lovely maze of narrow streets, cobblestone alleys, and historic charm. As you walk, you will see colorful shutters, balconies with blooming flowers, and quaint stores.

Here are a few must-see spots:

• Place Baragnon: This lively square often hosts local artists to showcase their work or musicians play some soothing tunes. It’s a great place to do some people-watching with the evening ambiance.
  
• Église Saint-Michel: Take a moment to go inside this modest yet beautiful church.
  
• Artisan shops: Shop for unusual souvenir shops that sell handmade goods such as Provençal soaps, lavender sachets, and pottery. Local artisan products make for a great memento but also connect you to a rich history of European artisan crafts. Learn more about the history of this renowned artisan craft.
  
• Rue Séverin Icard: This street features charming boutiques and ice cream shops. It is a secret address to enjoy a quiet walk or to grab a quick bite.
  

Dinner options: where to have dinner in Cassis

Dining in Cassis has a lot to do with experience as it is done for the food. In fact, the restaurants over here pride themselves on serving fresh ingredients and allowing flavors of Provence to shine out.

Here are a few standout dinner spots:

• Chez Gilbert: This is a more classic restaurant, nestled along the harbor, so it does offer some of the better bouillabaisse in town.
  
• L’Oustau de la Mar: Cozy atmosphere, impeccable service, and refined Mediterranean cuisine make this a local favorite, especially for grilled seabream.
  
• Le Chaudron: If you prefer a less formal setting, this is the place to go. Their Provençal dishes, such as stuffed vegetables and lamb stew, taste like they came straight from a French grandmother’s kitchen.
  

Enjoy an evening walk

After dinner, a relaxing walk along the Promenade du Port is the right way to unwind. A shimmering glow on the water is cast by the harbor lights, creating a backdrop of serenity. Passing small fishing boats and luxurious yachts, each added its own charm to this scene.

If you’re up for a longer stroll, head toward the beachfront, where you will find benches to sit on and enjoy a quiet moment.

There’s also some nightlife to explore, such as Le Golfe, a laid-back bar overlooking the harbor, which is a great last glass of wine or a cocktail while taking in last views of the Mediterranean.

Where to stay in Cassis

• Appartement le Quai du Port Cassis parking clim is a renovated apartment situated in Cassis. The property is located 400 meters from Grande Mer. The apartment has a terrace with city views, 1 bedroom, a living room and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower.
  
• Hotel de La Plage – Mahogany. The hotel is set on the beachfront in Cassis, with views of the highest cliff in Europe and over the Mediterranean Sea. We love the private terraces with a sea view!
  
• Au Petit chez Soi is a cute hostel with affordable pricing and is situated on the beachfront in Cassis, 400 meters from Grande Mer and 700 meters from Bestouan. And again, a lovely terrace!
  

Final thoughts – why you should spend a whole day in Cassis

Cassis is testimony that the finest experiences do not depend on hours of planning and hurrying. It’s all about having rough ideas of where to go and then exploring freely. Peaceful promenades by the harbor, magnificent hikes at the Calanques, fine food and wine, what more could you want?

A day here is more than enough to fall in love with this lovely corner of Provence and long enough to dream of coming back. Pack your bag, follow this itinerary, and let Cassis do the rest.