Nestled in the south of France, the town of Collioure is the ultimate destination for travelers seeking a peaceful and picturesque escape from daily life.
With its spectacular scenery, delicious seafood restaurants, and charming art galleries, it’s no wonder why Collioure has become a popular destination over the years. Learn more in this travel guide to Collioure, with tips on where to go and what to do while you’re there!
Collioure is a charming and vibrant seaside town, with cobbled streets and a lively atmosphere that belies its small size. Situated on the Costa Brava just east of Perpignan, it’s an excellent base for exploring the Roussillon region, as well as being great spot to simply relax and take in the views. With its mild Mediterranean climate, visitors to Collioure can expect sunny days throughout much of the year.
When visiting Collioure, be sure to explore La Citadelle–the local castle dating back to the 17th century–or admire the beautiful Château Royal de Collioure which overlooks the sea. You’ll also want to check out some of the town’s local art galleries such as Atelier des Peintres or Galerie d’Art Rocamadour for unique souvenirs from your visit. If you’re looking for something more active, take part in one of Collioure’s many water sports including sailing, kayaking or diving. When hunger strikes, make sure to sample some delicious seafood dishes at nearby restaurants like Chez Fredo or Le Plage–both establishments offer unbeatable local cuisine. No matter what you choose to do, Collioure will be an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
Collioure, France
Collioure is a charming seaside town in the south of France, located on the Mediterranean coast in the Pyrénées-Orientales department. The town is known for its sheltered bay, which is popular with both locals and visitors alike. Collioure’s picturesque harbor is lined with brightly-colored houses, and the town center is home to a number of cafes, restaurants, and shops.
Visitors to Collioure can enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, windsurfing, sailing, and fishing. There are also several hiking trails in the area that offer stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. For those looking to experience some of the local culture, Collioure hosts a number of festivals throughout the year, including a wine festival in May and an art festival in September.
Regardless of the time of year, Collioure offers something for everyone. This charming seaside town is the perfect place to kick back and relax while enjoying the fresh Mediterranean air.
History of Collioure
Collioure has a long and storied history dating back to its founding by the Greeks in the 6th century BC. The town has been occupied by the Romans, Visigoths, and Moors at various times in its history. Collioure was even briefly held by the English during the Hundred Years’ War.
All of this history is reflected in the architecture and culture of Collioure today. The town is home to a number of well-preserved historical sites, including the Château Royal de Collioure, the Church of St. Vincent, and the Citadelle Vauban. Visitors can also enjoy a number of museums and art galleries devoted to the town’s history and culture.
Collioure’s beaches have also played an important role in its history. For centuries, it has been popular as a destination for beach-goers and fishermen. During the 20th century, it became known as an artists’ haven and many famous works of art were created here. Today, Collioure continues to be a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.
Transportation from Barcelona to Collioure
There are several ways to get from Barcelona to Collioure. The most direct route is by car, which will take approximately 4 hours. You can also take a bus or train from Barcelona to Perpignan (the closest city to Collioure), and then take a local bus or taxi the rest of the way. The journey by bus or train will take a bit longer, but it is generally more affordable than going by car.
Travel to/from the train station in Blanes
The Blanes train station is located just a few minutes from the center of town and offers regular service to destinations throughout France. To get to the station, you can either take a bus or walk. If you’re taking a bus, the best option is to use the municipal bus service which runs regularly between the center of town and the train station. The journey takes just a few minutes and costs a few euros. If you’re walking, it’s about a 20-minute walk from the center of town to the train station.
Once you get to the train station in Blanes, you can take a regular train service from there to destinations across France. There are also plenty of other transportation options such as taxi services and car hire companies available for traveling to and from the station.
Things to do in Collioure
There are plenty of things to do in Collioure, whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday or an action-packed adventure.
The town has two main beaches, both of which are perfect for swimming, sunbathing and paddleboarding. For something a little different, head to the nearby Cap de Creus natural park for a hike or a spot of rock climbing.
If you’re feeling active, take part in a game of tennis or rent a bicycle and explore the winding streets and scenic coastal routes. In the evenings, enjoy some delicious local cuisine at one of the many restaurants or take in a show at the theatre.
Best places to see in Collioure and when is best time of year to visit
There are a few things to consider when deciding when to visit Collioure. The weather is usually mild in the spring and fall, but it can be quite hot in the summer. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, September is a good time to visit. October sees fewer tourists but the weather can be cooler.
The best way to see Collioure is on foot. Start at the harbor and wind your way up through the narrow streets lined with colorful houses. Be sure to stop at La Citadelle, a 17th-century fortress that offers stunning views of the town and coastline below. For a different perspective, take a walk along the beach towards Port-Vendres.
No matter when you visit Collioure, there’s always something going on. The town comes alive in July and August with festivals celebrating everything from wine to sardines. If you’re lucky enough to be here for Bastille Day (July 14), don’t miss the impressive fireworks display over the bay.
Other top attractions in Collioure include the Château Royal, a 12th-century castle that was once an important seat of power for rulers of the region. And don’t forget to visit the Church of Notre-Dame-des-Ancelets, an 18th-century Baroque church with beautiful stained-glass windows.
Finally, be sure to check out the Museum of Modern Art. The museum showcases works by Picasso, Derain, Matisse, and others who were inspired by the beautiful Mediterranean town.
As enticing as it sounds, Collioure offers even more than its captivating beauty. Take a stroll down Rue Miradou for the ultimate shopping experience or enjoy a quiet picnic right off of the beach at Port Vellot. Whatever your reason for visiting this amazing town, you’ll be sure to leave Collioure feeling relaxed and refreshed after soaking in all that it has to offer – from stunning blue coastline views to hidden gems tucked away in every corner! Whether you are looking for an idyllic holiday spot or just hoping to get away from it all, come and explore Collioure; you won’t regret it!
