Château d'If: Marseille's Island Fortress
Explore Marseille's historic island fortress, famed as the setting for 'The Count of Monte Cristo'.
The Château d'If, a 16th-century fortress and former prison on a small island in the Frioul archipelago, stands as a testament to Marseille's rich history and a source of literary intrigue thanks to Alexandre Dumas's 'The Count of Monte Cristo'. Accessible by a short ferry ride from Marseille's Vieux Port, it offers visitors a glimpse into its past as both a strategic defense point and a place of confinement.
A brief summary to Calanques - Chateau If
- 4 Quai du Port, Marseille, 13002, FR
- +33491333679
- Visit website
Local tips
- Purchase your ferry and Château d'If tickets online in advance to avoid potential queues, especially during peak season.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the island and fortress involves walking on uneven surfaces and climbing stairs.
- Bring water and snacks, as options on the island are limited.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as the ferry service can be affected by strong winds or rough seas.
- Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours for the round trip, including the ferry ride and time to explore the Château d'If.
Getting There
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Public Transport
The primary access point to Château d'If is from the Vieux Port (Old Port) in Marseille. From the Vieux Port, several maritime shuttle services provide regular ferry crossings to the island. Companies such as Frioul If Express and Calanques If operate these services. A round-trip ferry ticket typically costs around €11 for adults. The boat journey takes approximately 20 minutes. Upon arrival at the island, a separate admission fee is required to enter the Château d'If, which is approximately €6 for adults. To reach the Vieux Port, you can utilize Marseille's efficient public transportation system. The Marseille Metro Line 1 and 2 both serve the Vieux Port station. A single metro ticket costs €1.70. Alternatively, several bus lines connect to the Vieux Port. Keep an eye out for the RTM ferry boat which crosses the port for just €0.50.
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Walking
If you are already in the Vieux Port area, the ferry terminals for Château d'If are easily accessible on foot. The main departure points are located on the Quai de la Fraternité, along the northern edge of the port. Walking from nearby landmarks such as the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall) or the Musée d'Histoire de Marseille (History Museum of Marseille), follow the Quai du Port towards the harbor entrance. The ferry terminals are well-signposted. Allow ample time to reach the terminal, especially during peak tourist season. Once at the terminal, purchase your ferry ticket and Château d'If admission. The round-trip ferry ticket is approximately €11, and the Château d'If entrance fee is about €6. Be prepared for a short wait, as the ferries operate on a schedule.
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Parking
If arriving by car, parking near the Vieux Port can be challenging, especially during peak season. Several parking garages are available in the vicinity, including Indigo Bourse, Q-Park Vieux Port/Hôtel de Ville, and Indigo Vieux Port la Criée. Parking rates vary, but expect to pay around €3 per hour or €19.20 for 24 hours. From the parking garages, it's a short walk to the Quai de la Fraternité and the ferry terminals. Consider using public transportation to reach the Vieux Port, as parking can be difficult and expensive. The Marseille Metro Lines 1 and 2 serve the Vieux Port station, providing a convenient alternative.
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