Two beaches sit on either side of the 13th-century Château Royal, pl. de 8-Mai-1945 (tel. 04-68-82-06-43). Originally built for the Templars, it was later used by the Kings of Mallorca and Aragon. It’s a massive building with formidable medieval fortifications that hark back to its past. In summer it hosts changing exhibitions by contemporary artists. Entrance costs the same regardless of whether there’s an exhibition: 4€ for adults, 2€ students and children 10 to 18, and free for children 9 and under. Open June 1 to September 30 10am to 6pm, July 1 to August 30 10am to 7pm, October 1 to May 31 9am to 5pm.
The Eglise Notre-Dame-des-Anges, rue de l’Eglise (tel. 04-68-82-06-43), is the town’s most famous monument. The church with a tower that once acted as the lighthouse, looks austere from the outside, but inside features a floor-to-ceiling altarpiece dripping with gilt. The church is open daily from 9am to noon and 2 to 6pm. Also try to visit the Modern Art Museum, founded by Jean-Peské in the Villa Pams, rue de Port-Vendres (tel. 04-68-82-10-19), home to works by artists who painted in Collioure. It’s open daily June to September 10am to noon and 2 to 6pm and from October to May it has the same hours but is closed on Tuesdays. Admission is 3€ for adults, 2€ for children 12 to 16 and students, and free for children 11 and under. The Chemin du Fauvisme is a walking trail with 19 stops where you can see reproductions of paintings by Matisse, Dérain, and other Fauvists beside the actual scene they painted. Pick up a map at the tourist office.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
