What to do in Bandol? The 10 best activities
Municipality of the Var, Bandol is a perfect destination to enjoy sweet moments on the shores of the Mediterranean. It is a destination of choice to enjoy the mildness of the Mediterranean coast during the beautiful days of May and in summer, all the ingredients are there to disconnect and recharge your batteries. Markets animate the city at different times of the week and day to stock up on good local products and have fun with crafts. There is also the ideal location of the city, bordered by the sea and fine sandy beaches. We never stop enjoying the exceptional marine panoramas, from hiking on the trails or directly on the water. Who says Mediterranean, says beautiful seabed, to be explored at all costs during holidays in Bandol. And then there is the culture and those pleasant moments when music resonates along the unmissable Quai de Gaulle or when the facades light up. Wondering what to do in Bandol? Here is our selection of activities not to be missed during a summer in Bandol.
1. Do your first dive
On the shores of the Mediterranean, the opportunity is too good not to marvel at the local marine fauna and flora. To do this, nothing beats boarding a boat piloted by a professional, getting equipped and heading to Île Rousse, a wonderful diving spot that can be seen from the Sentier du Littoral. Being a protected area where landings and fishing are prohibited, the conditions are ideal for exploring the crystal clear waters and doing your first scuba diving ! On the outskirts of Ile Rousse, the water is good, calm is essential and the underwater spectacle is unforgettable and striking.
2. Take a breath of Provençal air at the Bandol market
Oh Provence and its markets, the colors that make your eyes widen and the good smells that whet your appetite! In Bandol, the weekly Tuesday market is the unmissable event for those who appreciate the warm atmosphere, exchanges with producers and stock up on fruits, vegetables and local products (fresh fish, shellfish and other charcuterie) for concoct good food. Meet for this on the main quay. And to fill the fridge with fresh produce every day, an equally lively daily market is held in the town hall square.
3. What to do in Bandol? Enjoy the beautiful sandy beaches of the city
Reaching the beaches of Bandol is like taking a trip to the Caribbean. Because yes, all the elements are there to have the feeling of being in the tropics: fine sand, turquoise sea and palm trees. The Grand Vallat, the Plage du Casino and the Plage Centrale offer a dream setting for basking in the sun with a straw hat on your head and swimming in water at a pleasant temperature. And what about Rénécros beach, which takes place in a remarkable cove! Visitors accompanied by their four-legged friend can also join Dog Beach, where pets are accepted.
4. Attend summer concerts
Wondering what to do in Bandol in the evening, for example? Summer is the ideal season to enjoy the great outdoors, but also to experience music from the month of June! Bandol combines the two with Les Terrasses des Augiennes, where every evening there are 5 stages and 5 musical formations that make the Quai de Gaulle vibrate. At the bend of a stroll on the seafront, we stop from terrace to terrace to listen to the formations in eclectic styles. Blues, middle jazz, bossa-nova, gypsy jazz, soul/funk and pop-rock, there is something for everyone and everyone enjoys these nocturnal moments of the entertainment program in Bandol over a drink, singing and dancing.
5. Explore the flora of the Var through the Sentier du Littoral
Are you wondering what to do in Bandol for sports enthusiasts? Lovers of active holidays will not be left out. And the Sentier du Littoral which previously linked the town to that of Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer continues to reveal little gems. Everyone walks at their own pace and has the freedom to cover the number of kilometers they want.Along the way, we pass by the beautiful beaches of Bandol, before falling on a rock with an improbable shape: the submarine. Do not forget the mask and the snorkel either to allow yourself a refreshing break in the clear waters of the cove of Port d'Alon. The walk is also perfect for observing the sea, the steep coastline, but also the beautiful local flora, including the umbrella pines that offer their shade to regain strength. The bravest can continue to Saint-Cyr-Sur-Mer by taking the Sentier des Vignes. Coastal flora, vineyards as far as the eye can see, the stroll is also enchanting. Also take the opportunity to discover the top 5 hidden corners of Bandol to discover on foot .
6. What to do in Bandol at night? Stroll along the quay enjoying the night market
While the days are getting longer and the temperatures are mild until very late in the evening, Bandol offers its locals and visitors the opportunity to stroll along the quay to take advantage of the stands that animate the night market . A veritable open-air designer market, this key event on the summer agenda in Bandol takes place every day in summer from 7 p.m., and there are paintings, ceramics, cosmetics, jewelry and other craft creations. . The walk is very pleasant to do after having dined in one of the restaurants of the city, and you will inevitably find something to have fun there, and something to offer to your loved ones.
7. Take a walk in the Roustagnon forest
The Roustagnon forest is criss-crossed with well-maintained hiking trails, allowing visitors to enjoy a beautiful walk surrounded by nature. Whether you are a fan of short walks or long hikes, there will be routes suitable for all levels of fitness. Roustagnon Forest is located close to Bandol, making it a convenient and accessible excursion for locals and visitors to the area. You will be rewarded once you reach the top with a magnificent panoramic view of the surroundings.
8. Set sail and take a step back to enjoy the Sentier du Littoral… from the sea!
The Var coast is absolutely beautiful. You realize this when you walk along the Sentier du Littoral on foot and set out to discover its local flora and fauna. But you can also follow the Bandolaise lighthouse walk directly from the sea. How? Well, quite simply by kayak or paddle! So advice to lovers of nautical activities, following the Sentier du Littoral by the sea is another pretty way to enjoy the magnificent coastal landscapes, made of cliffs that drop steeply into the Mediterranean and small coves which you can only enter by Sea route. A pure happiness.
9. Discover the wines of Bandol
What to do in Bandol for gourmets? Bandol wines are present on the greatest gastronomic tables in the world. Quality and authenticity, here are two terms that perfectly qualify the AOC Bandol.The richness of the land, the proximity to the sea and the more than generous sunshine of the territory have led to the development of great wines since Antiquity. A climate that makes it possible to make wines with character, worked by winegrowers who are passionate about their profession. The ideal is also to meet them in the vineyards for rich exchanges and to stock up, an activity in Bandol highly appreciated by wine tourism enthusiasts. Rosé, red, white, it's up to everyone to see which one will delight their taste buds the most. The hardest part is choosing. But on vacation, we have time to get an idea.
10. Be dazzled by a sunset over the sea
The sunset may be a great seaside classic, but this natural spectacle is particularly sublime in Bandol. It's always a moment that beautifully ends a day spent together, with family or friends. A peaceful moment when the sky displays its most beautiful colors with shades of pink, red and orange. To enjoy this privileged moment, Bandol has three essential spots: Capelan beach and its pretty pebbles, Encanet point, which has benches, and the Corniche, which remains the perfect place to see the sun set directly in the sea.
And if you are still hesitating about going on vacation to Bandol, discover our top 10 good reasons to spend your vacation in Bandol !
Where to walk in Bandol?
- Bandol is famous for its beautiful beaches and lively seafront. You can stroll along the promenade enjoying the view of the Mediterranean Sea, the moored boats and the charming terraces of cafes and restaurants. The port of Bandol is a picturesque place where you can stroll and enjoy lively evenings.
- Near Bandol, you will find magnificent creeks, such as the Calanque de Port d'Alon and the Calanque de l'Ébea. These coves offer unspoiled landscapes, ideal for a walk in the heart of nature and a refreshing swim.
- Located west of Bandol, the Parc du Canet is a pleasant green space for walking. Here you will find shaded paths, picnic areas and lush Mediterranean vegetation.
- Bandol is famous for its vineyards producing renowned wines. You can walk through the vineyards, visit the wine estates and even taste the local wines during guided tours.
?Where to stay in Bandol
As a popular tourist destination, Bandol offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences.
You will find several hotels ranging from luxury to more affordable establishments, some with sea views. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist periods. Discover our 3 favorite establishments in Bandol!
- Best located
Located 5 minutes walk from the center of Bandol and just 50 meters from the beaches, the hotel Les Galets enjoys a superb view of the bay of Bandol and all the rooms overlook the sea! You will love its Mediterranean garden as well as its beautiful freshly renovated Provençal facade. Click here to book your room!
-The best value for money
Ideally located between the city center and the beach, the Key Largo hotel is a bourgeois residence with typical architecture and well-maintained exteriors. It is an ideal choice combining excellent value for money. Discover here the availabilities and rates of the hotel!
- The most picturesque
Built at the beginning of the 20th century , the Golf Hotel is a charming hotel which has recently been renovated in the warm tones of Provençal decoration. It has pretty comfortable rooms with a view of the sea or a small garden. Go here to book your room!
?What to do around Bandol
- Explore the creeks. The surroundings of Bandol are full of magnificent creeks, rocky coves bordered by crystal clear water. Go on an adventure and discover natural gems such as the Calanque de Port d'Alon, the Calanque de l'Ébea or the Calanque de Figuerolles. Hiking, swimming and breathtaking landscapes will be there.
- Take a boat trip. Take advantage of the proximity of the sea to take a boat trip. You can opt for a sea trip to observe the picturesque coasts, discover the surrounding islands such as the island of Bendor or the island of Embiez, or even indulge in water activities such as diving or fishing.
- Discover the perched villages. The surroundings of Bandol are home to charming perched villages offering panoramic views of the sea and surrounding landscapes. Among the villages to visit, we can mention Le Castellet, medieval and full of charm, and La Cadière-d'Azur, picturesque and typically Provençal.
- Take advantage of the nearby beaches. If you want to vary the seaside pleasures, you can go to the neighboring beaches of Bandol. The beaches of Sanary-sur-Mer, Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer and Six-Fours-les-Plages offer stretches of fine sand, crystal clear waters and water activities for the whole family.
Source: websites