Chateau d'If (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Chateau d'If?
What makes it 59% Baby-Friendly: Babies are allowed and changing tables provided, yet strollers stay outside, adults must carry the baby up many stairs and the windy boat ride can be tiring, so suitability is moderate.
Positives:
- Stroller-friendly areas: Paths on the island are flat and wide, making it easy to push a stroller before the castle.
- Baby services: Free baby-changing tables and drinking water taps are available near restrooms.
- Under-4 free entry: Your baby travels and enters the château for free with a ticket.
Challenges:
- Narrow stairs inside: The castle interior has over 100 steps and uneven stone paths, unsuitable for strollers.
- No trash bins: You must carry all waste back to Marseille after your picnic.
- Limited shade: Island lawns have few trees; bring sun hats and sunscreen.
What is Chateau d'If?
- A Renaissance island fortress built by François I in the 16th century to guard Marseille’s harbour
- A former royal prison characterised by austere limestone walls, narrow cells and imposing ramparts
- An enduring maritime landmark immortalised in Dumas’s The Count of Monte Cristo
What is so special about Chateau d'If for with baby?
- Quick ferry ride and free baby facilities on the island
- Flat paths for strollers up to the castle entrance
- Secure stroller parking before climbing to ramparts
- Enjoy self-packed picnic spots with sea views
- Under-4 entry and travel are free
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Ferry crossing and island tour fit into a half-day outing with a baby.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Chateau d'If
Island stroll & picnic:
Walk the grassy paths and enjoy a self-packed meal on benches or lawns.
Tip: Arrive early to secure a shady spot and pack waste to carry out.
Stroller drop-off & ramparts view:
Leave your stroller in the secure area before climbing to the castle ramparts.
Tip: Use the stroller parking near the ticket desk and carry your baby for the steps.
Use baby-changing facilities:
Access changing tables in the island’s public restrooms.
Tip: Bring your own wipes and nappy bags; restrooms also have water taps.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Chateau d'If
- Book early ferry: Take the first ferry to enjoy quieter paths and cooler temperatures.
- Pack light picnic: Use reusable containers and bring snacks to avoid carrying heavy bags.
- Check weather: Monitor wind and rain forecasts; the island is exposed to Mistral winds.
Reviews of Chateau d'If
Karina González
Gorgeous views, a must of you're in Marseille. You take a boat from the Old Port and it takes you to the island. We spent there around 2 hours and grabbed a boat back to the Old Port. The boat ticket to the island was 18eur
Kyle Johnson
Okay, so the Château d'If is this really famous old castle right off the coast of Marseille. The main thing you gotta know is that it's famous because of the book, The Count of Monte Cristo, which used it as the ultimate prison. King Francis I built it way back in the 16 th century to protect the coast, but it ended up being this crazy, inescapable state prison—basically France's version of Alcat...
Alessandro Chiari
Absolutely beautiful,a highlight of Marseille. It has a beautiful view of Marseille. Although there's not that much in the castle and it can be a bit pricey, I would suggest it as a must do.
Prajwal Shandilya M G
Takes about 30-40 mins in the ferry, lovely ride and costed us 11 Euros for the Ferry and 7 euros for the entry to the castle. The place is very scenic surrounded by water and one can see different islands around as well. The castle has the stories and posters that you can read about it's history.
Susan Watt
If you are visiting Marseille, take some time to visit this historical site. Easy 20 ferry ride from the port and then we spent about an hour walking through the old prison dungeons and enjoying the outdoors with great views. There is even a cafe to grab a drink before you head back to main land.
When is the best time to visit Chateau d'If (Marseille, France)?
In summer, start early to avoid heat and crowds. In winter, check ferry schedules as they run less often.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Ferry round-trip (per adult) | EUR 11 |
| Château entry (per adult) | EUR 7 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 36 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Chateau d'If
Address: Embarcadère Frioul If, 1 Quai de la Fraternité, 13001 Marseille, France
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About Chateau d'If
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+33 6 03 06 25 26Explore Popular Things to Do
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