Collioure is a Catalan-flavored fishing port on the Mediterranean 'Vermilion Coast' (Côte Vermeille) in Occitania, southern France, about 20 km from the Spanish border. It is celebrated as the birthplace of Fauvism, where Matisse and Derain painted in blazing pure color in the summer of 1905, and its seafront Royal Castle and the rounded bell tower of the Notre-Dame-des-Anges church — a former medieval lighthouse — are the village's signature sights. For 2026 the Royal Castle opens a new immersive room, 'EXPLORA,' alongside summer exhibitions on the bell tower and local history, making it a rewarding stop for travelers who want art, history and Mediterranean atmosphere in one small town. Note that July and August are very crowded and hot, so an early-morning, late-afternoon, or May/June/September visit is ideal.
The round bell tower of Notre-Dame-des-Anges: a pink former medieval lighthouse rising from the sea — Collioure's most photographed landmark.
Château Royal (Royal Castle): a seafront fortress reworked over six centuries, with guided tours (typically 10:30 and 14:30) and the new 2026 immersive 'EXPLORA' room.
Chemin du Fauvisme (Fauvism Trail): reproductions of Matisse and Derain canvases placed at the exact spots where they set their easels in 1905.
Fort Saint-Elme: a star-shaped hilltop fort above town with a 360° panorama over the coast and village.
Collioure anchovies and wine: centuries-old AOC anchovy workshops plus tastings of AOC Collioure and sweet Banyuls wines.
Pebble beaches and the coastal path: shingle beaches such as Boramar and Saint-Vincent, and the 'customs officers' path' hiking toward Argelès and Banyuls.
Good to know
SafetyMost beaches are pebble or shingle, so water shoes help, and the coastal path is steep and rocky — wear proper shoes and carry water and sun protection. The tramontane wind can turn strong quickly, so check the forecast.
SeasonJuly and August are very crowded and hot, and in-town parking is effectively scarce. Consider the TER train from Perpignan; for a calmer visit, come in May, June, or September.
RulesThe Royal Castle and Fort Saint-Elme are ticketed, and opening hours, prices, and guided-tour times change by season. The 2026 summer exhibitions run only within set dates, so confirm the latest details before you go.
MannersThe narrow Catalan lanes are people's homes — don't block doorways for photos and keep noise down. Notre-Dame-des-Anges is an active church, so stay quiet and respectful during Mass.
SafetySwim only in supervised zones and follow the flag warnings during the guarded season (roughly late May to mid-September). The summer sun is intense, so seek shade and stay hydrated.
CautionBuy 'Collioure anchovies' and Collioure/Banyuls wine from established houses (such as Roque or Desclaux) or clearly AOC-labeled products. In the busy port and on restaurant terraces, keep an eye on bags and belongings.
Practical info
Collioure is about a 30-minute drive from Perpignan, or reachable by TER train on the Perpignan–Cerbère/Portbou line to Collioure station, from which the old town and port are a 10–15 minute walk. The center is largely pedestrian with narrow streets, so it is easier to use the paid car parks on the outskirts; always confirm castle and fort admission, opening hours, and anchovy-workshop visits on official sites before your trip.
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