Frioul Archipelago: Marseille's Island Escape

Discover Marseille's island escape: the Frioul archipelago offers history, nature, and stunning Mediterranean beauty just a short ferry ride from the city's vibrant Vieux Port.

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Frioul archipelago

Escape the bustling city of Marseille with a visit to the Frioul archipelago, a collection of four islands offering a unique blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and tranquil island life. Just a short ferry ride from the Vieux Port, these islands provide a refreshing contrast to the mainland, with rugged coastlines, secluded coves, and diverse flora and fauna. Explore remnants of fortifications and quarantine stations, wander along scenic trails, or simply relax on one of the pristine beaches. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, historical exploration, or a peaceful retreat, the Frioul archipelago promises an unforgettable Mediterranean experience, showcasing a different facet of Marseille's rich heritage and captivating coastal charm. The islands are a haven for hikers, swimmers, and nature enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of activities and sights to discover.

A brief summary to Frioul archipelago

Marseille, FR

Local tips

Pack comfortable shoes for hiking, as the islands offer numerous trails with varying terrain.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as the Mediterranean sun can be intense, especially during the summer months.
Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Check the ferry schedule in advance, as services may be limited during off-peak seasons or due to weather conditions.
Explore the less-visited island of Pomègues for a more secluded and natural experience.

Getting There

Ferry

The final approach to the Frioul archipelago is exclusively by ferry from Marseille's Vieux Port (Old Port). Several ferry companies operate regular services. Head to the Quai de la Fraternité (formerly Quai des Belges) on the Vieux Port. Look for the ticket offices of companies like RTM or Le Bateau Frioul-If. Purchase a round-trip ticket to Îles du Frioul. A standard round-trip ticket costs approximately €12-€17. The ferry journey takes around 20-30 minutes, offering scenic views of the Marseille coastline and Château d'If. Upon arrival at the Frioul Islands, you'll disembark at Port Frioul on Ratonneau Island, the main harbor and village. From there, you can explore the islands on foot.

Discover more about Frioul archipelago

The Frioul archipelago, a cluster of four islands just off the coast of Marseille, presents a captivating blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and tranquil island life. Comprising Pomègues, Ratonneau, If, and Tiboulen, this archipelago offers a refreshing escape from the urban energy of Marseille, inviting visitors to explore its rugged landscapes, discover its rich history, and immerse themselves in its unique island atmosphere. Historically, the Frioul Islands have played a crucial role in the defense and sanitation of Marseille. Fortifications dating back to the 16th century stand as silent witnesses to the islands' strategic importance in protecting the city from maritime threats. The Caroline Hospital, built in the 19th century, served as a quarantine station for ships arriving from distant lands, safeguarding Marseille from devastating epidemics. These historical remnants offer a glimpse into the islands' past, adding depth and intrigue to the visitor experience. The Château d'If, perched on the island of If, is perhaps the most iconic landmark of the Frioul archipelago. Immortalized by Alexandre Dumas in his classic novel The Count of Monte Cristo, this imposing fortress has served as a prison for centuries, housing political prisoners, revolutionaries, and other figures deemed undesirable by the ruling powers. Today, the Château d'If is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world who come to explore its formidable walls, learn about its fascinating history, and imagine the daring escape of Edmond Dantès. The islands of Ratonneau and Pomègues, connected by a dyke built in the 19th century, offer a diverse range of landscapes and activities. Ratonneau, the more developed of the two, is home to Port Frioul, a charming village with restaurants, shops, and a marina. Visitors can stroll along the harbor, savor fresh seafood, and soak up the lively atmosphere. Numerous hiking trails crisscross the island, leading to secluded coves, scenic viewpoints, and historical sites. Pomègues, in contrast, remains largely undeveloped, offering a more rugged and natural experience. The island's wild coastline is dotted with hidden beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Hikers can explore the island's interior, discovering unique flora and fauna adapted to the arid Mediterranean climate. The Tour de Pomègues, a 16th-century tower, offers panoramic views of the archipelago and the surrounding sea. The Frioul archipelago is a haven for nature lovers, boasting a diverse array of plant and animal life. The islands' unique microclimate supports a variety of rare and endemic species, including sea birds, wildflowers, and aromatic herbs. The archipelago is also part of the Calanques National Park, ensuring the protection of its natural heritage for future generations. Visitors to the Frioul archipelago can enjoy a wide range of activities, from hiking and swimming to boating and diving. The islands' clear waters are ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving, offering the chance to explore vibrant marine ecosystems. Boat tours around the archipelago provide stunning views of the coastline and the Château d'If. For those seeking relaxation, the islands' beaches offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The Frioul archipelago is easily accessible by ferry from Marseille's Vieux Port. Several companies operate regular services to the islands, making it a convenient day trip or weekend getaway. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply relaxing by the sea, the Frioul archipelago offers something for everyone. It's a destination that captures the essence of the Mediterranean, inviting visitors to discover its hidden treasures and create lasting memories. Beyond the well-known Château d'If, the Caroline Hospital stands as a testament to Marseille's historical efforts to combat disease. Built in the 19th century, this former quarantine station offers a unique glimpse into the city's past, highlighting the measures taken to protect its population from epidemics. Exploring the hospital's architecture and learning about its role in maritime health provides a fascinating historical perspective. For those seeking a more active experience, the Frioul archipelago offers a variety of water sports activities. Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular ways to explore the coastline, allowing visitors to discover hidden coves and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. Several companies offer rentals and guided tours, catering to all skill levels. The islands' unique geological formations and diverse ecosystems make them a paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The trails wind through rugged terrain, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding landscapes. Keep an eye out for the local flora and fauna, including rare plant species and seabirds that call the archipelago home. As the sun sets over the Frioul archipelago, the islands transform into a magical setting. Find a secluded spot along the coast and watch as the sky explodes with color, casting a warm glow over the landscape. It's a moment of pure tranquility, a perfect way to end a day of exploration and adventure. The Frioul archipelago is more than just a collection of islands; it's a living testament to Marseille's rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a relaxing escape, the Frioul archipelago promises an unforgettable experience. It's a destination that will capture your heart and leave you longing to return.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Point de vue

3.5 km

Discover stunning panoramic views of Marseille and the Mediterranean Sea at Point de Vue, a breathtaking hiking area perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Monument aux Morts - Armée d'Orient et Terres lointaines - Marseille 7

3.9 km

Explore the Monument aux Morts in Marseille, a moving memorial to soldiers who served in distant lands, reflecting the city's rich history and valor.

Monument aux Morts - Armée d'Orient et Terres lointaines - Marseille 7

Port du Vallon des Auffes

4.0 km

Experience the enchanting beauty and vibrant culture at Port du Vallon des Auffes, a hidden gem along the Mediterranean coast.

Point de vue corniche

4.1 km

Discover the stunning vistas and breathtaking sunsets at Point de Vue Corniche, a must-visit scenic spot in Marseille's captivating coastline.

Villa Valmer

4.1 km

Discover the beauty of Villa Valmer, a serene park in Marseille with stunning Mediterranean views, perfect for relaxation and picnics.

La corniche

4.4 km

Discover the scenic beauty and cultural charm of La Corniche, a stunning coastal promenade in Marseille, perfect for leisure and exploration.

Palais du Pharo

4.9 km

Explore the rich history and stunning views at Palais du Pharo, a cultural landmark in Marseille that celebrates art and architecture.

Monument aux héros et victimes de la mer

4.9 km

Explore the Monument aux Héros et Victimes de la Mer, a poignant tribute to sailors, showcasing Marseille's rich maritime history and stunning coastal views.

Mémorial des Rapatriés d'Algérie

5.1 km

Discover the Memorial des Rapatriés d'Algérie in Marseille, where history, reflection, and stunning coastal views unite.

La Citadelle de Marseille (Fort Saint-Nicolas)

5.1 km

Explore La Citadelle de Marseille: A historical landmark offering stunning views and rich narratives from the heart of Marseille's storied past.

La Citadelle de Marseille (Fort Saint-Nicolas)

Tour du fanal

5.1 km

Explore the historic Tour du Fanal in Marseille, where stunning views meet rich maritime history in a captivating museum setting.

Tour du Roi René

5.2 km

Discover the historical marvel of Tour du Roi René, a stunning landmark in Marseille offering breathtaking views and a journey through the city's rich heritage.

Mémorial des Déportations de la Ville de Marseille

5.2 km

Explore the Mémorial des Déportations in Marseille, a poignant museum dedicated to the memory of deported individuals during WWII, along the beautiful Quai du Port.

Mémorial des Déportations de la Ville de Marseille

American World War II tank

5.4 km

Discover the American World War II Tank in Marseille, a significant historical landmark symbolizing courage and the sacrifices of past heroes.

Place de Lenche

5.6 km

Explore the vibrant atmosphere and rich history of Place de Lenche, a must-visit square in the heart of Marseille, perfect for immersing in local culture.

Unmissable attractions to see

Cap Frioul

0.2 km

Explore Cap Frioul, a stunning coastal gem near Marseille, where nature's beauty meets rich history in the heart of the Mediterranean.

Calanque de Flancadou

1.0 km

Discover the stunning beauty of Calanque de Flancadou, a hidden gem along the Marseille coastline, perfect for adventure and relaxation in nature.

Fort de Ratonneau

1.0 km

Explore Fort de Ratonneau, a historic fortress on Île Ratonneau, offering stunning views and rich military history in the heart of Marseille.

Calanque de la crine

1.3 km

Discover the stunning natural beauty of Calanque de la Crine, a breathtaking coastal haven near Marseille, perfect for adventure and relaxation.

Château d'If

1.8 km

Explore the Château d'If, Marseille's historic island fortress and former prison, made famous by Alexandre Dumas's 'The Count of Monte Cristo,' offering stunning views and a glimpse into France's past.

Phare du château d'If

2.0 km

Discover the enchanting Phare du Château d'If, a historic lighthouse in Marseille offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into maritime heritage.

Calanque Monsoleil

3.3 km

Explore the serene beauty of Calanque Monsoleil, a hidden coastal gem in Marseille offering stunning views and outdoor adventures.

Plage de la Pointe d’Endoume

3.5 km

Discover Plage de la Pointe d’Endoume, a hidden gem in Marseille offering crystal-clear waters, stunning views, and a tranquil escape from the city's bustling beaches, perfect for an authentic local experience.

Anse de Malmousque

3.7 km

Discover Anse de Malmousque in Marseille: A picturesque cove with crystal-clear waters, Provençal charm, and stunning views of the Frioul Islands and Château d'If.

La Corniche Kennedy

4.0 km

Experience the beauty of La Corniche Kennedy in Marseille, a stunning public beach with breathtaking views and vibrant local culture.

Le Maregraphe

4.0 km

Discover the maritime heritage and stunning coastal views at Le Maregraphe, a must-see attraction in beautiful Marseille.

Corniche Président John Fitzgerald Kennedy

4.4 km

Experience breathtaking views and coastal charm at the Corniche Président John Fitzgerald Kennedy, Marseille's stunning waterfront promenade.

Jetée des Catalans

4.4 km

Experience the stunning views and vibrant atmosphere of Jetée des Catalans, a picturesque promenade in the heart of Marseille.

Plage des Catalans View Sitting Area

4.4 km

Discover the tranquil beauty of Plage des Catalans View Sitting Area in Marseille, where stunning Mediterranean views and relaxation await every visitor.

Plage des Catalans

4.5 km

Marseille's Plage des Catalans: An easily accessible urban beach offering fine sands, clear waters, and a vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere near the city center and Old Port.

Essential places to dine

Experience exquisite Mediterranean cuisine at Peron Restaurant in Marseille with stunning coastal views and exceptional service.

Le Petit Pavillon

4.2 km

Experience the authentic flavors of Provence at Le Petit Pavillon, Marseille's exquisite French restaurant with stunning sea views.

Restaurant les Dauphins

4.5 km

Experience authentic French cuisine at Restaurant les Dauphins in Marseille – where tradition meets Mediterranean flair.

Zia Concetta Corniche - Restaurant trattoria & épicerie à Marseille

4.5 km

Experience authentic Italian cuisine with breathtaking coastal views at Zia Concetta Corniche in Marseille.

Zia Concetta Corniche - Restaurant trattoria & épicerie à Marseille

Le Baron perché

4.6 km

Experience the best of Italian and French cuisine at Le Baron perché in Marseille, where every dish tells a story.

Chez Marco

4.7 km

Discover the flavors of Italy at Chez Marco in Marseille – where authentic Mediterranean cuisine meets warm hospitality.

LA TERRASSE DES EMBRUNS RESTAURANT PIZZERIA

4.8 km

Experience authentic Italian flavors at La Terrasse des Embruns in Marseille - where pizza meets Mediterranean charm.

LA TERRASSE DES EMBRUNS RESTAURANT PIZZERIA

Les Trois Forts

5.0 km

Discover culinary artistry at Les Trois Forts in Marseille—where exquisite flavors meet breathtaking Mediterranean views.

Au Bout du Quai

5.4 km

Experience exquisite seafood and authentic French cuisine at Au Bout du Quai in Marseille, where every meal tells a story of Mediterranean tradition.

Ekume

5.4 km

Discover the essence of Marseille’s culinary scene at Ekume, where fresh local ingredients meet innovative cuisine in a charming setting.

Discover unique gifts and stylish items at Labstyle, Marseille's charming gift shop showcasing local artistry and creativity.

Experience the lively spirit of Ireland at The Shamrock, an Irish pub in the heart of Marseille's Vieux Port, complete with beers, cocktails, and live music.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

TROLLEYBUS

5.6 km

Dive into the electrifying nightlife of Trolleybus, a renowned night club in Marseille offering unforgettable music, dancing, and an energetic atmosphere.

Marquise Rive-Neuve

5.6 km

Discover the pulsating nightlife of Marseille at Marquise Rive-Neuve, a premier disco club offering unforgettable dance experiences and vibrant energy.

Bounce Club

5.8 km

Unleash your nightlife spirit at Bounce Club, Marseille's premier destination for electrifying music and unforgettable dance experiences.

Numero 5

5.9 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Marseille at Numero 5, where music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences await every visitor.

Le Vogue Club

5.9 km

Experience the best of Marseille's nightlife at Le Vogue Club, where great food meets electrifying music in a chic atmosphere.

One Again Club

6.0 km

Dive into the heart of Marseille's nightlife at One Again Club, where electrifying beats and vibrant energy create unforgettable nights.

Chez Pablo - Marseille

6.0 km

Dive into the pulsating nightlife of Marseille at Chez Pablo, where vibrant music and an energetic crowd create unforgettable party experiences.

Maxi Club

6.0 km

Discover the heart of Marseille's nightlife at Maxi Club – where vibrant music and an electric atmosphere create unforgettable nights.

R2 Le Rooftop des Terrasses

6.0 km

Discover the electrifying nightlife at R2 Le Rooftop des Terrasses, where stunning views and vibrant music create unforgettable memories in Marseille.

Danceteria

6.1 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Marseille at Danceteria, where music, dance, and good vibes unite for an unforgettable night out.

Mademoiselle

6.1 km

Discover the pulsating nightlife of Marseille at Mademoiselle, where the beats are alive and the atmosphere is electric.

Les Samedis du MamaBeach - Marseille

6.1 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Marseille at Les Samedis du MamaBeach, a premier night club offering stunning views and lively music.

Yamzz Club

6.3 km

Experience the electrifying nightlife at Yamzz Club in Marseille, where music and dance come alive in a vibrant atmosphere.

Watchever Fada

6.5 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Marseille at Watchever Fada, where electric beats and a lively crowd create unforgettable memories.

Cabaret Scénario Club

6.5 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Marseille at Cabaret Scénario Club, where music, dance, and unforgettable moments await.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Frioul Archipelago: Marseille's Island Escape

A brief summary to Frioul archipelago

Local tips

Getting There

Ferry

Unlock the Best of Frioul archipelago

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Frioul archipelago

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Point de vue

Monument aux Morts - Armée d'Orient et Terres lointaines - Marseille 7

Port du Vallon des Auffes

Point de vue corniche

Villa Valmer

La corniche

Palais du Pharo

Monument aux héros et victimes de la mer

Mémorial des Rapatriés d'Algérie

La Citadelle de Marseille (Fort Saint-Nicolas)

Tour du fanal

Tour du Roi René

Mémorial des Déportations de la Ville de Marseille

American World War II tank

Place de Lenche

Unmissable attractions to see

Cap Frioul

Calanque de Flancadou

Fort de Ratonneau

Calanque de la crine

Château d'If

Phare du château d'If

Calanque Monsoleil

Plage de la Pointe d’Endoume

Anse de Malmousque

La Corniche Kennedy

Le Maregraphe

Corniche Président John Fitzgerald Kennedy

Jetée des Catalans

Plage des Catalans View Sitting Area

Plage des Catalans

Essential places to dine

Inizio Ristorante

L'Épuisette

Bistrot Plage

Le Rhul

L'Avant Cour

Peron Restaurant

Le Petit Pavillon

Restaurant les Dauphins

Zia Concetta Corniche - Restaurant trattoria & épicerie à Marseille

Le Baron perché

Chez Marco

LA TERRASSE DES EMBRUNS RESTAURANT PIZZERIA

Les Trois Forts

Au Bout du Quai

Ekume

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Okjö

Bijoux fait main - Bohodreamland

POINT GÉ

Santa Marius

B.Marion

Thalassa

SOUS L’OLIVIER

Lyly Concept Store Marseille

ZIG ZAG

Brume d'été, le Panier Marseille. Boutique, atelier et salon de thé

Prado Beach

Marseille En Provence

Marseille En France Souvenirs-Gifts-Cadeaux

Mistral Marseille

Labstyle

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Bar de la Grande Terrasse

O'CANOTIER

Le Monument

L’îlot de la Corniche

Le Dantès Skylounge