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Getting Around Cassis

Getting Around Cassis

Cassis Provence-alpes-cote Dazur, France Travel Guide

Public Transportation Overview

Within Cassis, a shuttle bus connects the town center/port with the train station and main parking lots (like Les Gorguettes) during peak season, aiming to keep traffic out of the center. The Ligne M8 local bus is a link, connecting the town to the train station and Les Gorguettes year-round. This bus also connects Cassis to Marseille.

For inter-city travel, the Ligne M8 bus directly connects Cassis (from Les Gorguettes Parking) to Marseille (Castellane Metro station), a very economical and direct link. Local trains (TER) connect Cassis train station to Marseille Saint-Charles and other charming coastal towns like La Ciotat and Bandol.

Ticketing & Frequency

  • Local Cassis Shuttle/M8 within Cassis: Purchase single tickets from the driver (€1.50-€2).
  • Marseille-Cassis Ligne M8: Tickets from the driver (€3-€5). Operates daily, usually every 30-60 minutes.
  • TER Trains: Tickets at stations or via THE App/website for french national railways. Frequent service every 30-60 minutes.
  • Local shuttle schedules vary seasonally; check Cassis Tourist Office for current times.

Main Hubs

Cassis town center/port, Cassis train station (uphill), and Les Gorguettes parking lot.

Accessibility

Public buses generally have ramps. Cassis town, with uneven pavements and steep gradients, poses challenges for mobility needs.

Navigation Tips

Use real-time transport apps like Waze for live schedules and deciding on your route. Buses can be crowded during peak season.

Rental Options for Local Exploration

Car & Motorcycle Rentals
  • Major car rental companies (Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt, Budget) are at Marseille Provence Airport.
  • A valid driving license and credit card in the driver's name are required. An IDP for non-EU citizens.
  • Motorcycle and scooter rentals are limited in Cassis, more options in Marseille or Toulon.
Bicycle Rentals
  • Several shops in Cassis offer traditional and electric bicycle rentals.
  • E-bikes are very much recommended for Cassis's hilly terrain and exploring vineyards.
  • A popular method for discovering the town, flatter coastal paths, or vineyards.

Driving & Parking Information

Driving Laws

Drive on the right. Seatbelts mandatory. Hands-free phone use only.

Speed Limits

50 km/h urban, 80 km/h rural, 110/130 km/h motorways.

Road Conditions

Generally good. Cassis has narrow, meandering roads. Cap Canaille roads are steep.

Parking

Limited and expensive in town center. Use paid lots like Les Gorguettes outside center.

Walking & Cycling Routes

Walking and cycling are intimate ways to experience Cassis's beauty and access its natural wonders. The town center and port area are highly pedestrian-friendly.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

  • Cassis Port & Town Center: Enjoy charming narrow streets and quayside promenades on foot.
  • Coastal Path: Sections offer incredibly scenic walks with sea and cliff views.
  • Calanques National Park: Numerous marked hiking trails lead into spectacular coves.
  • Self-guided walks are popular; maps available at the tourist office.

Cycling Infrastructure & Safety

  • Limited dedicated bicycle lanes exist within Cassis.
  • Cycling on roads outside town may be tough due to hills and traffic.
  • Electric bikes are recommended for vineyard exploration or Cap Canaille climbs.
  • Always wear a helmet, use lights, and maintain awareness of vehicle traffic.

No-Go Areas for Pedestrians & Cyclists

  • Calanques National Park: Certain trails or sectors may close due to high fire risk.
  • Always show respect for closure signs for your safety and park preservation.
  • Some difficult trails are not suitable for casual walkers.
  • Cap Canaille (Route des Crêtes): Shared with cars, winding sections, sheer drops.
  • Parts of the road may close during high winds due to rockfall risk.
  • Fire prohibitions in dry areas must be strictly observed.

Specialized Local Transport

Boat Tours

Numerous operators at Cassis Port offer various excursions into the Calanques. These range from short 45-minute tours to longer 1.5-hour options.

Private Charters

For a customized and exclusive experience, private boat rentals are available from the port. This allows a personalized itinerary.

Accessibility Notes

Cassis's terrain poses challenges for mobility needs. While some public buses may have ramps, specific accessibility for services like boat tours should be confirmed directly with operators.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing for Convenience

Taxis in Cassis are typically white or black, with a "Taxi" sign. They are available at designated stands (port, large hotels) or can be hailed. Booking in advance is a good plan for early/late travel. Fares are based on a meter (short rides €10-€20). Cash is common; some accept plastic payment. Uber operates in Marseille, with limited availability in Cassis.

Taxi Information

  • Licensed taxis are identifiable by "Taxi" sign on roof.
  • Fares are regulated and metered. Short rides within Cassis cost €10-€20.
  • Cash is typical; confirm card acceptance with driver before starting.
  • Booking in advance is often recommended for reliability.

Ride-Sharing Details

  • Uber operates in Marseille and surrounding areas; availability in Cassis can be limited.
  • Expect longer waiting periods for ride-shares in Cassis, especially off-season or late night.
  • Always verify the driver and vehicle match app details for safety.
  • Share your journey details with a trusted contact for added safety.

Public Transport Efficiency

Ligne M8 Bus

Connects Cassis to Marseille directly, offering an economical link.

Frequent and reliable.

TER Trains

Connect Cassis train station to Marseille Saint-Charles and other coastal towns efficiently.

Good for day trips.

Cassis Shuttle

Links the town center, port, train station, and main parking lots.

Reduces town traffic.

Rent vs. Personal Car

Renting a Car
  • Maximum flexibility to explore Cassis and the wider Provence region.
  • Roads are generally well-maintained, but tolls apply on autoroutes.
Driving in Cassis
  • Driving within Cassis itself has challenges due to narrow, twisting streets.
  • Parking is extremely limited and expensive, especially near the port.
  • Roads to Cap Canaille and Calanques can be having a steep incline and demanding.

Important Local Transport Considerations

  • No-go areas for pedestrians and cyclists in Calanques National Park due to fire risk.
  • Cap Canaille (Route des Crêtes) can close to traffic or pedestrians during high winds or fire risk.
  • Some difficult hiking trails are not suitable for casual walkers or cyclists.
  • Scooter rentals require appropriate licenses and may be limited.
  • Cassis's terrain has mobility challenges; inquire about accessibility in advance.
  • Public buses can be crowded, especially the Ligne M8 during peak season.
  • Always check daily updates for Calanques access restrictions due to fire risk.
  • Beware of automatic speed cameras ("radars") if driving.

Cassis Local Navigation Tip

For transport between Cassis the center of town and the train station, use the local shuttle bus. This saves you from the uphill walk.

For journeys to Marseille, both the TER train and the Ligne M8 bus are good options, depending on your exact starting point in Cassis.