Plan a CruisePort Vendres is a traditional Mediterranean fishing port located in southwest France, very close to the Spanish border on the Côte Vermeille. Known for its temperate climate, it's a deep-water harbor that accommodates fishing boats, freighters, and cruise ships. The town is particularly renowned for its fresh fish and seafood, with numerous restaurants showcasing the daily catch.
Most cruise ships will anchor offshore and use tenders to bring passengers ashore directly to the center of town. From this central drop-off point, you'll have convenient access to local attractions and transport options.
Getting Around from the Port
Upon tendering ashore, you will be in the center of town, making it easy to explore Port Vendres on foot.
A popular transport option is the little tourist train, which stops less than 100 yards from the tender drop-off point. This train offers scenic rides to the picturesque nearby town of Collioure and through the surrounding hilltop vineyards.
For those interested in a guided experience within Port Vendres, the local tourism office provides tours throughout the summer season. For excursions further afield to places like Perpignan or Banyuls, local taxis would be the primary transport option, though no specific taxi fares are provided.
Attractions and Activities
Port Vendres and its surroundings offer several appealing options for a day in port:
- Explore Port Vendres: Take time to explore this typical Mediterranean fishing port. You can watch the fishing boats arrive with their daily catch and visit the indoor fish market, which also features food stalls where you can sample fresh seafood. The town is well-known for its numerous fish and seafood restaurants.
- Tourist Train to Collioure and Vineyards: Less than 100 yards from where your tender drops you, you can catch the tourist train. This is an excellent way to see the picturesque harbor town of Collioure, known for its brightly colored fishing boats, and to enjoy a scenic ride through the local hilltop vineyards.
- Visit Banyuls: A short trip from Port Vendres, Banyuls is famous for its sweet wine and is also the birthplace of the renowned sculptor Aristide Maillol.
- Discover Perpignan: Consider a visit to Perpignan, the historic capital of Roussillon. This would require local transport such as a taxi or bus.
- Medieval Carcassonne: For those seeking a longer and more ambitious excursion, the medieval town of Carcassonne is an option. However, given an 8-10 hour port call, this would require dedicated transport and careful time management.
Dining
Port Vendres is celebrated for its fresh fish and seafood. You'll find many excellent restaurants, especially near the harbor, serving the day's catch. The indoor fish market also has food stalls where you can sample fresh, local seafood.
Shopping
Most shops, businesses, and services in France typically open all day. However, smaller shops might close for lunch, usually between 12:30 PM and 2 PM. General business hours are from 8 or 9 AM to 6:30 or 7:30 PM. Large shops usually operate Monday to Saturday, while smaller ones are often open Tuesday to Saturday, with some opening on Monday afternoons. If you're in port on a Sunday, boulangeries and food shops generally remain open until noon. The local currency is the Euro (€).