More than just a fishing village, Collioure is the little pearl of the Côte Vermeille. Nestled in the heart of the Pyrénées-Orientales, this adorable coastal town, ideal for family vacations, reveals its heritage and architectural treasures at every turn. Colorful alleyways immerse you in the local charm, before you head off to relax on a little beach. From historic monuments to the authenticity of the coast and the town's artistic heritage, discover the 13 must-do things to do in Collioure during your vacation.
1. The Château Royal, a must-see in Collioure
Impossible to miss! Nestled in the middle of the sea, close to Collioure town center, the Château Royal opens its doors to you for a historic visit. Classified as a Historic Monument, it was originally built in the XIIIᵉ century to house the court of the Kings of Majorca. Guided tours are organized, allowing you to discover the ramparts signed Vauban (from which you have a beautiful view of the city), the vaulted rooms, the secret passages and the general architecture of this treasure of the past. Temporary exhibitions and various cultural events are occasionally organized, for the enjoyment of locals and visitors alike. A must-see visit to Collioure!
2. Stroll along Collioure harbor and its colorful boats
Visiting Collioure with your partner or family? Treat yourself to a bucolic stroll along the marina, whose adorable little colorful boats add their own touch of charm. In the evening, as the sun dips below the horizon, the stroll is even more beautiful... Less than five minutes' walk from the port, don't hesitate to visit the town's Museum of Modern Art, which adds a touch of art and culture to your stay. You'll also find Turquesa Balades on the port, where you can organize your sea excursions.
3. Notre-Dame-des-Anges church, an unusual symbol of the town
Stay a little longer near the port and Boromar beach to discover another treasure from the past: theChurch of Notre-Dame-des-Anges, bordering the Mediterranean Sea. An unusual location for a church, and one that arouses curiosity. Give in to your desire and push open the doors of this astonishing church, which has another special feature: before taking up its functions, the church tower was... a lighthouse! Inside, you can admire a superb gold-leaf-covered high altar, as well as some remarkable altarpieces .
4. The Moulin de la Cortina, one of the town's treasures
Originally a grain mill in the XIVᵉ century, Collioure 's mill was then transformed into an oil mill in 2001, after being abandoned in the XIXᵉ century. And what a great idea to revive this symbol of the past! Today, a chemical-free olive oil is made here, allowing you to take home a good local product. To get there, you can follow the "recommended route", which starts near the Museum of Modern Art.
From April to September, the Friends of the Mill welcome you on Wednesday and Sunday mornings, from 10 a.m. to noon.
5. Chapelle Saint-Vincent, proudly standing on the pier
Collioure's religious buildings are certainly not lacking in charm! This one doesn't have its "feet" on the water like the church of Notre-Dame-des-Anges... The chapelle Saint-Vincent is directly in the water! Located at the end of the Collioure cove, it takes refuge on a schist rock on which, according to legend, Saint-Vincent suffered martyrdom. The chapel is best admired from the outside, as the interior is particularly sober.
6. The many forts to visit in Collioure
Within this jewel of the Côte Vermeille, you'll find several fascinating forts to explore. Let's start with the best-known Fort Saint-Elme which, with its imposing silhouette, offers spectacular panoramic views of the Mediterranean and surrounding mountains. Fort Miradou, now used as a military training center, impresses with its massive architecture and rich history.
And that's not all! The Fort Rond, recognizable (unsurprisingly) by its unique circular shape, stands proudly on its hillside, offering a captivating glimpse of medieval military ingenuity. Finally, the Fort Carré features perfect geometric lines, a perfect representation of 17th-century fortification art. These are just some of the sights you'll want to see, and you can also visit Fort Dugommier.
7. Admire Collioure from a boat
Numerous boat excursions are available in and around Collioure. Some take you out to meet dolphins, while others allow you to admire the coastline and its pretty coastal towns, including :
- paulilles Bay,
- criques de Porteils,
- Port-Vendres,
- cap de Peyrefite,
- Banyuls.
It's also possible to make do with a short one-hour stroll near Collioure, during the day or for an aperitif excursion! In this case, you leave in the early evening, combining the pleasures of the sea with the conviviality of a shared moment.
8. In the footsteps of the great Fauvist artists
Discover a different Collioure, the birthplace of Fauvism, where Matisse and Derain created frescoes in the Mouré district. Le chemin du fauvisme guides you through the works of this beautiful artistic encounter. The Maison du Fauvisme and the Musée d'Art Moderne, home to 1,600 works from the XXᵉ century, are must-sees during your artistic stroll. The Maison du Fauvisme offers cultural tours to explore the city's history and artistic heritage, with a boutique for fans of these two artists.
9. The coastal path, a leisurely stroll for the whole family
The 32 km-long coastal path passes through part of Collioure. It actually stretches from Argelès-sur-Mer to Cerbère, via Le Racou, Port Vendres, Cap Béar and Paulilles. In other words, if you're up for a long walk, you're well on your way to discovering the Collioure area! Easy to access (even for children), the coastal path offers a choice of gentle walks or challenging hikes.
Good to know: a Lio bus will take you back to your starting point for just €1, if you're feeling too tired.
10. The Madeloc Tower, a dive into history
At an altitude of 652 meters, discover the Madeloc Tower on a short walk from Collioure to Port-Vendres. In addition to the edifice itself, your hike offers you an exceptional panorama of the Roussillon plain and coastline.
Built in the XIIIᵉ century, this ancient signal tower kept watch over the sea and Spain. Inside, it boasts three storeys, a cistern and a chimney.
Our recommended itinerary: start from the Ermitage de Consolation in Collioure, then take a steep path (sports enthusiasts beware!) to the RD86, following the Col de la Serre and the Taillefer Battery, to finally reach the tower.
11. Take part in the Saint-Vincent festivities
It's been a tradition in Collioure since the early XVIIIᵉ century! Originally, the Saint-Vincent festivities celebrated the arrival of the relics of Collioure's patron saint. The festivities have survived the centuries, offering four colorful days of celebration every August. On the program: nautical games, bandas, sea processions, concerts and other festivities of all kinds. If you've never visited Collioure, this is a great opportunity to spend a few days!
12. Collioure's most beautiful beaches and coves
Did you know that Collioure beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in France? It's mainly the Boramar cove, in the heart of the town, surrounded by the Château Royal and the church of Notre-Dame-des-Anges. Suffice it to say: the setting, with its blend of historic architecture and nature, is quite simply exceptional!
As for Plage Saint-Vincent, close to the shops, it's renowned for its breathtaking view of the Château Royal. Or head for Plage du Faubourg in Port d'Avall, a long sandy beach with a relaxed, family atmosphere. Last but not least, La Balette cove, just below the cliffs of the Côte Vermeille, offers a gentle interlude accessible via a paved path along the coast. The entire bay of Collioure awaits you in an exceptional panorama!
13. The region's gourmet specialties
Visiting Collioure also means soaking up its Catalan imprint through its gastronomy. Anchovies, Collioure's unmissable treasures of the sea, are prepared in the traditional way by local restaurants, as well as by the Roque and Desclaux families, whose doors we recommend you visit.
Collioure's AOC wines, made from sun-drenched grapes swept by the Tramontane, are distinguished by their unique character. Discover (in moderation) Grenache, Mourvèdre and Syrah in the red wine section, as well as Banyuls, a naturally sweet wine renowned for its aromatic richness.
Collioure is also a seaside town, with succulent fish parillades and zarzuela, a 100% Catalan fish dish. Take advantage of your stay to discover other local dishes, such as cargolada (grilled snails) and the famous crème catalane. And don't miss the croquants de Collioure and olive oil from the local mill, made using traditional methods.
Where to stay in Collioure?
If you're looking for quiet accommodation, we advise you to avoid hotels in the historic center. They have the advantage of being close to amenities, but are often quite noisy. The area around the mill is quieter, yet less than 10 minutes' walk from the town center.
- The most romantic
The Casa Païral hotel is nestled in a verdant setting with a very special charm. Wrought-iron balconies with flowers and a bucolic garden offer a heavenly setting for a break in Collioure, close to the town center. Click here to book one of the town's finest addresses.
- The best location
Located near the beach and the Château Royal, the Hotel Bona Casa welcomes you into its cocoon of softness. The individually-decorated rooms are tastefully furnished, yet offer appreciable comfort. Good value for money, book here.
- The most modern
Hotel La Frégate actuallyhas a lot going for it! You'll be staying in a modern, 100% refurbished establishment offering unbeatable value for money. It's conveniently located, offers a beautiful view of the Château, and serves excellent cuisine. In short, one of Collioure's best addresses, bookable here in a click!
What to do in Collioure in the evening
In the evening, Collioure offers an intimate atmosphere under the glow of restaurant lanterns and street lamps. It's a delight to stroll through the cobbled streets of the old fishing village, lulled by laughter on the terraces and the echo of the waves. Don't miss the night-time designer market at Port d'Avall, held every Tuesday in July and August, from 5pm to 11pm. The evening begins quietly in a local bar, some of whose addresses are particularly well known. Derrière le Clocher, for example, is a beach club offering a wide range of services, open both day and night.
On the restaurant side, we recommend Le Jardin de Collioure, a superb address serving the best tapas and Mediterranean dishes in town. Would you prefer a more gastronomic address? Then head for the relais des 3 Mas, whose cuisine is prepared by a Michelin-starred chef. Finally, another fine address has found a home in Collioure: Chez Syl Vins, an establishment that successfullycombines wine bar and art gallery! Open until 9pm, it's the ideal place to enjoy an aperitif, as your glass can be accompanied by a platter of charcuterie or cheese.
What to do in Collioure with your family
Are you looking for an ideal vacation destination with your children, without leaving France? Look no further! Collioure is the place to be. Of course, its superb beaches are a delight for children, but Collioure's appeal to families doesn't stop there. The Moulin de la Cortina, for example, offers a wonderful immersion in an ancient, yet modernized craft. A visit that should appeal to young and old alike!
A number of forts, as well as the Château Royal, can also arouse children's interest. And why not take a leisurely stroll along the coastal path? Easily accessible to the whole family, it offers beautiful views, without the need to strain little legs.
More original, your children will be delighted to become treasure hunters! A family trail is organized in the town, lasting between 1h30 and 2 hours. Mamie Louche and Matisse will guide you on a journey through time, in search of a mysterious forgotten painting. Visit the Tourist Office for details of this family adventure!
Looking for a change of scenery? Board a boat for a one- or two-hour excursion to discover the surrounding area in an original way. Some excursions even take you to see dolphins, which should delight your little ones. If your children are old enough, you can also consider a kayak outing, supervised by professionals.
This year, dedicate part of your vacation to a visit to one of the most beautiful villages in the Pyrenees, Collioure. It's also a perfect place to visit during the May long weekends, so you can enjoy the town over an extended weekend. Located not far from Perpignan, this pretty coastal town boasts exceptional charm. Staying for a week's vacation? Don't hesitate to visit Perpignan and the surrounding area, which are also well worth a visit! To take things a step further, these 21 must-do activities in Occitanie will take you on a journey through landscapes as beautiful as they are varied.
Tempted by our selection? See our article What to see and do in the Pyrénées-Orientales? The 21 most beautiful places. Take a look at our train fares and book now!
