Chateau d'If (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Chateau d'If?
What makes it 77% Kids-Friendly: Kids enter free, receive a treasure-hunt booklet and can roam lawns, but parents must supervise on high ramparts and help children climb over 100 narrow steps inside the fortress.
Positives:
- Free entry for kids: Under-18s enter the château at no charge, reducing family ticket costs.
- Spacious picnic areas: Open lawns allow children to run and play safely away from the fortress walls.
- Interactive learning: Game booklet and family tours bring history alive for younger visitors.
Challenges:
- Steep, narrow staircases: Over 100 uneven stone steps inside the fortress require careful supervision of children.
- No on-site trash bins: You must carry out all waste; bring resealable bags to collect picnic litter.
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 kids?
- Under-18s go free and family tours fit young ages
- Treasure-hunt booklet keeps kids exploring
- Ramparts offer safe sea-view walks and photos
- Island lawns make for stress-free picnics
- Hourly ferries link to Frioul beaches for more fun
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Includes ferry crossing, self-guided tour, game booklet activities and picnic time without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Chateau d'If
Sartine the Gabian game booklet:
Treasure-hunt style booklet for ages 6–12 with puzzles around the fortress.
Tip: Buy at reception (€2 per child) on arrival and follow the marked route to keep children engaged.
Guided family tour:
One-hour interactive English tour for ages 4+ focusing on history and stories.
Tip: Book online in advance (€9/adult, €4/child plus ferry) to secure a small-group slot.
Rampart sea-view walk:
Climb the fortress walls to see Marseille’s bay and nearby islands.
Tip: Go early or late to avoid midday sun and bring a camera for sea-view snapshots.
Island picnic:
Grassy lawns and benches perfect for snacks or a packed lunch.
Tip: Pack waste out in a small bag since there are no trash bins on the island.
Combine with Frioul beaches:
After visiting the château, take the same ferry to beaches and coves.
Tip: Bring swimwear and sandals; check returning ferry times before heading to the shore.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Chateau d'If
- Arrive early: Get to Vieux-Port 20 minutes before departure to choose seats and avoid lines.
- Reserve tours ahead: Book family tours online at least one day in advance to guarantee space.
- Pack essentials: Bring water, snacks and a small trash bag to stay comfortable on the island.
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)?
April–October ferries run hourly; in summer pack sunscreen, hats and water. In cooler months wear layers and verify ferry schedules ahead.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Ferry round-trip (2 adults, 1 child) | EUR 33 |
| Castle entry (2 adults) | EUR 14 |
| Game booklets (2 children) | EUR 4 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 51 |
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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