Book Chateau d'If Tickets | Marseille Attractions

From happy customers

Loved by 35 million+

France

Jun 2025

5/5

A must-do activity, it was very pleasant to take the ferry and then once at the château d'if, very instructive explanations of the site. Thanks for a great time

Stephane

Belgium

May 2025

4/5

No complaints. A little too crowded for my taste, which made the visit a little less enjoyable, but otherwise it was perfect.

Fiorini

France

Feb 2025

5/5

I booked my tickets online. I received them by email in less than 5 minutes. The château d'if is a wonderful excursion. The site is magnificent and the view of Marseille is splendid. It was a very nice outing, I highly recommend it.

Stefanie

Sep 2024

5/5

Easy to book tickets, but we weren't sure if this was for the boat to Chateau d'If or for the entrance to the island. It turned out it was for the entrance of the island. Price very reasonable. The boat trip was 20 mins to get to Chateau d'If. Wonderful blue water of the Mediterranean, fantastic. The island is very small but interesting. I was mostly interested in the Count of Monte Cristo, a fictitious character, but there was a cell made up for the Count in the Chateau; and there were plaques of the real people who were incarcerated there. Absolutely great. We had a drink in the cafe, which was very nice, and after that we went for a walk around the island. It was an absolutely great day and we would do it again, if we ever go back to Marseille. Just wonderful xx

Marjolein

Aug 2023

5/5

We bought tickets but the castle was closed. I sent an email and they responded fast and refund our money. Excellent company. If there's an new opportunity I would book again.

Martine

Jul 2021

4/5

Je suis québécoise et mon passeport vaccinal n'étais pas reconnu à l'entrée. J'ai réussi à faire la visite grâce à la gentillesse du monsieur à l'entrée. J'ai reçu deux vaccins!

Deborah

Australia

Oct 2024

5/5

So easy to jump on and off. The circuit was not too big making it easy to get around town. The commentary was also very good.

Dorothy

United States

Sep 2024

4/5

Ticketing was easy. The bus was a good introduction to the City, as always when we land someplace new. Not as much commentary as we've come to expect, in contrast to, say, Edinburgh

Explore Château d'If

On a tiny island off the shore of Marseille stands the 16th-century fortress-turned-prison of Château d'If. The château was built in 1524 by François I, who realized that it was the ideal place to construct a fort to protect Marseille from invaders. Over the centuries, the fortress earned itself the terrifying reputation of being the dying grounds for those who resisted the royal power. This is the same prison that featured in Alexander Dumas's classic novel, The Count of Monte Cristo. Even today, almost two centuries after the book's release, visitors from around the world follow in the footsteps of the character Edmond Dantès. Take a boat ride here and immerse yourself in the monument’s intriguing history. It is well worth it!

Your Château d'If Tickets Explained

With these tickets, you can explore the castle, its courtyard, and the infamous dungeons. Popular political prisoners like the Revolutionary hero Mirabeau and the Communards of 1871 were incarcerated here. You’ll even get to see the jail cell named after Edmond Dantès, from The Count of Monte Cristo. Fun fact: There is a hole in this vault leading to the next dungeon! On the first floor, you can enjoy a film on the history of the château. Later, walk around the island and take in picturesque views of Vieux Port. The ticket cannot be canceled, amended, or rescheduled. It does not include a ferry ride to and from the island.

What to See at Château d'If

History buffs and nature enthusiasts will particularly enjoy a visit to Château d'If. The castle has many tales to tell and offers stunning views of Vieux Port. Here’s what you will get to see:

The Inner Courtyard and the Dungeons

The only way to enter the fortress is via the gate located in the middle of the east facade. Once you enter, you will see the inner courtyard that housed the kitchen, the grain store, and the rainwater well. Notice the commemorative graffiti on the walls of the courtyard, carved by insurgents in the 19th century. You’ll also get to see the dungeons and the cell named after Edmond Dantès, from The Count of Monte Cristo. In the dungeon named after Abbé Faria, there is video equipment that will let you see yourself locked up in there!

Famous Pistoles

The first floor is a testament to how the château started converting itself into a prison. Find here the cells (or pistoles) that held famous personalities such as that of the Count of Mirabeau. Watch out for the cell where the French General Jean-Baptiste Kléber’s embalmed body remained for 18 years, on Napoleon’s orders. Don’t miss out on seeing the death row dungeon built into the staircase!

The Terrace and its Towers

Fun fact: The terraces of Château d’If played a role in the Second World War as observation posts! Walk across these vast roofs and take in the many views they offer. From the Maugouvert Tower, you can see the reefs dotting the eastern bay channels. The 20th-century lighthouse is visible from Saint-Jaume Tower, and beyond it, the Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde hill in Marseille. The south keep or Saint-Christophe Tower overlooks the Pomègues and Ratonneau islands.

Other Buildings

Unfortunately, nothing remains of the artillery, the powder stores, or the windmill. However, you can still explore the castle and see the Vauban building, which was the governor’s house. There is also an exhibition on the flora and fauna of the Frioul archipelago, only accessible from the outside of the château. The Florentine Door, above the entrance, features horizontal stakes that prevented climbing!

Plan Your Visit to Château d'If

What are Château d'If hours?

The château is open from Tuesday to Sunday between 10:30 AM to 5:15 PM. Please note: depending on the weather, Château d'If may not be open. Make sure to check online before visiting.

What is the best time to visit Château d'If?

The château is open from Tuesday to Sunday between 10:30 AM to 5:15 PM. Please note: depending on the weather, Château d'If may not be open. Make sure to check online before visiting.

When is Château d'If closed?

The château is open from Tuesday to Sunday between 10:30 AM to 5:15 PM. Please note: depending on the weather, Château d'If may not be open. Make sure to check online before visiting.

How do I get to Château d'If?

Catch a Frioul If Express Shuttle from the Old Port in Marseille to the island of Frioul. Most of these ferries stop at Château d’If on the way. However, make sure you check the ferry schedule beforehand.

Are return transfers available with Château d'If tickets?

Where is Château d'If located?

Is the castle accessible to people with reduced mobility?

Unfortunately, it is not. There are 100 steps inside the castle, and the calade has 50 steps.

How difficult is it to navigate the terrain?

Unfortunately, it is not. There are 100 steps inside the castle, and the calade has 50 steps.

Are there any rules and restrictions at Château d'If?

Unfortunately, it is not. There are 100 steps inside the castle, and the calade has 50 steps.

Where can I get more information about the castle during my visit?

Unfortunately, it is not. There are 100 steps inside the castle, and the calade has 50 steps.

Château d'If: Frequently Asked Questions

Are Château d'If tickets available online now?

Yes, Château d'If tickets are available online. You can book your tickets here.

What is the cancelation policy for Château d'If tickets?

Your tickets to Château d'If cannot be canceled, amended or rescheduled.

What are Château d'If hours?

The monument is open from Tuesday to Sunday between 10:30 AM to 5:15 PM. It is closed on Mondays. Please note: depending on the weather, Château d'If may not be open. Make sure to check online before visiting.

What is the best way to get to Château d'If?

Catch a Frioul If Express Shuttle from the Old Port in Marseille to the island of Frioul. Most of them stop at Château d’If on the way. However, make sure to check the schedule before you plan your visit.

Are guided tours of Château d'If available with my tickets?

No, guided tours of Château d'If available are not available with your tickets.

Are audio guides available for Château d'If tours?

No, audio guides are not available for Château d'If tours.

What is the best time to visit Château d'If?

The best time of the year to visit Château d'If (for ideal weather and to avoid the tourist season) is from September to November (autumn).

Do children get free entry into Château d'If?

Yes. Anyone aged 18 years and below gets free entry into Château d'If. Additionally, EU citizens up to the age of 26 years enjoy free admission.

dr.KecskemétiJul, 2025

5/5

I loved the boat trip to If Castle. The building was very nicely renovated,I learned a lot about it's history. The small restaurant offered also delicious dishes. We spent hours to admire the wiew of Marseille from the island. Absolutely recommend.

DaJun, 2025

5/5

A must-do activity, it was very pleasant to take the ferry and then once at the château d'if, very instructive explanations of the site. Thanks for a great time

EdwardAug, 2025

5/5

Everything was perfect. A boat trip to an island with a lot of history. The views were breathtaking.

Anne-JenniferJun, 2025

5/5

Quick and easy achar process. No extra charge. Good visit 60-90 min.

ArnoJun, 2025

4/5

Very easy booking, phenomenal boat trip. the visit was very good with explanations etc.

StephaneAug, 2025

4/5

AlexanderAug, 2025

3/5

CassiaAug, 2025

5/5

testudJul, 2025

3/5

CHESTAJul, 2025

5/5

Simader-ThumbJun, 2025

5/5

IanJun, 2025

4/5

KristinaAug, 2025

1/5

Booking the ticket was very easy, unfortunately there was no way to get to the island due to the lack of crossing options.

RUTANOJul, 2025

1/5

I thought they were only tickets for the crossing. So I paid for two visits and had to buy tickets again to take the boat. It's really badly explained on the site.

mireilleJul, 2025

1/5

Impossible to board because of the mistral. So I didn't use the tickets. This is the last time I buy tickets in advance, I've spent money for nothing. They should be reimbursed. Sincerely

ThierryJul, 2025

1/5

The landing on the island of Château d'if was not possible due to calm weather conditions. I request a refund of my ticket

LuisMay, 2025

1/5

I was not informed that it not included the boat ride plus I was not able to use the tickets because no boats were operating that day due to sea conditions. I would like a refund.

aznarAug, 2025

1/5

Nothing since we didn't dock at the chateau d'if. this is the second time, I won't be taking any more bibillets.

DieslJul, 2025

1/5

It was closed they didn't let us in they delayed the entrance (time) by 2-3 hours 😠

PaoloJul, 2025

1/5

Cancelled because of wind, but actually wind and waves not so strong

StephaneMay, 2025

4/5

No complaints. A little too crowded for my taste, which made the visit a little less enjoyable, but otherwise it was perfect.

FIORINIFeb, 2025

5/5

JuriFeb, 2025

5/5

Very easy booking process , entering without line .

maurizioMay, 2025

4/5

LucianMay, 2025

5/5

Right opposite the old port of Marseilles lies the Chateau d’If, a famous island fortress-prison from the 16th century.
Tour the insides at your own pace and gasp at the old graffiti by past prisoners that adorn the walls and learn about the Republicans incarcerated here.
Even though this fort gained a fearful reputation for imprisoning those who stood up to the royal powers, this fort was built for other valiant purposes.
With strict measures in place, you’re guaranteed a safe experience from start to finish.

Inclusions

Entry to Château d’If

Exclusions

Ferry ride to the island

Please note that there is free admission during the following days: European Heritage Days on the third weekend of Sep, and every first Sunday of the month from Nov to Mar.
Entry is free for anyone under the age of 18 years, and for European Union nationals or non-EU residents in France aged between 18 and 25 years (an ID is necessary).
Entry is free for disabled guests with an accompanying adult, jobseekers (on presentation of a certificate less than 6 months old), and holders of a valid education pass.
The Château d'If will be closed in case of bad weather.
This ticket has no audio guides available. However, you will enjoy a subtitled film screened during your visit.
All guests are required to follow the safety instructions indicated at the entrance of the monument strictly.
Please note that some spaces might remain closed for safety reasons.
The last sea shuttle towards the castle departs at 3:15 PM.
The experience is not accessible for people with mobility issues.

These tickets are valid until 1 August, 2028.

Dr.kecskeméti

Jul 2025Verified booking

Jun 2025Verified booking

A must-do activity, it was very pleasant to take the ferry and then once at the château d'if, very instructive explanations of the site. Thanks for a great time

Stephane

May 2025Verified booking

No complaints. A little too crowded for my taste, which made the visit a little less enjoyable, but otherwise it was perfect.

dr.KecskemétiJul, 2025

5/5

DaJun, 2025

5/5

A must-do activity, it was very pleasant to take the ferry and then once at the château d'if, very instructive explanations of the site. Thanks for a great time

EdwardAug, 2025

5/5

Everything was perfect. A boat trip to an island with a lot of history. The views were breathtaking.

Anne-JenniferJun, 2025

5/5

Quick and easy achar process. No extra charge. Good visit 60-90 min.

ArnoJun, 2025

4/5

Very easy booking, phenomenal boat trip. the visit was very good with explanations etc.

StephaneAug, 2025

4/5

AlexanderAug, 2025

3/5

CassiaAug, 2025

5/5

testudJul, 2025

3/5

CHESTAJul, 2025

5/5

Simader-ThumbJun, 2025

5/5

IanJun, 2025

4/5

KristinaAug, 2025

1/5

Booking the ticket was very easy, unfortunately there was no way to get to the island due to the lack of crossing options.

RUTANOJul, 2025

1/5

I thought they were only tickets for the crossing. So I paid for two visits and had to buy tickets again to take the boat. It's really badly explained on the site.

mireilleJul, 2025

1/5

Impossible to board because of the mistral. So I didn't use the tickets. This is the last time I buy tickets in advance, I've spent money for nothing. They should be reimbursed. Sincerely

ThierryJul, 2025

1/5

The landing on the island of Château d'if was not possible due to calm weather conditions. I request a refund of my ticket

LuisMay, 2025

1/5

I was not informed that it not included the boat ride plus I was not able to use the tickets because no boats were operating that day due to sea conditions. I would like a refund.

aznarAug, 2025

1/5

Nothing since we didn't dock at the chateau d'if. this is the second time, I won't be taking any more bibillets.

DieslJul, 2025

1/5

It was closed they didn't let us in they delayed the entrance (time) by 2-3 hours 😠

PaoloJul, 2025

1/5

Cancelled because of wind, but actually wind and waves not so strong

StephaneMay, 2025

4/5

No complaints. A little too crowded for my taste, which made the visit a little less enjoyable, but otherwise it was perfect.

FIORINIFeb, 2025

5/5

JuriFeb, 2025

5/5

Very easy booking process , entering without line .

maurizioMay, 2025

4/5

LucianMay, 2025

5/5

Right opposite the old port of Marseilles lies the Chateau d’If, a famous island fortress-prison from the 16th century.
Tour the insides at your own pace and gasp at the old graffiti by past prisoners that adorn the walls and learn about the Republicans incarcerated here.
Even though this fort gained a fearful reputation for imprisoning those who stood up to the royal powers, this fort was built for other valiant purposes.
With strict measures in place, you’re guaranteed a safe experience from start to finish.

Inclusions

Entry to Château d’If

Exclusions

Ferry ride to the island

Please note that there is free admission during the following days: European Heritage Days on the third weekend of Sep, and every first Sunday of the month from Nov to Mar.
Entry is free for anyone under the age of 18 years, and for European Union nationals or non-EU residents in France aged between 18 and 25 years (an ID is necessary).
Entry is free for disabled guests with an accompanying adult, jobseekers (on presentation of a certificate less than 6 months old), and holders of a valid education pass.
The Château d'If will be closed in case of bad weather.
This ticket has no audio guides available. However, you will enjoy a subtitled film screened during your visit.
All guests are required to follow the safety instructions indicated at the entrance of the monument strictly.
Please note that some spaces might remain closed for safety reasons.
The last sea shuttle towards the castle departs at 3:15 PM.
The experience is not accessible for people with mobility issues.

These tickets are valid until 1 August, 2028.

Dr.kecskeméti

Jul 2025Verified booking

Jun 2025Verified booking

A must-do activity, it was very pleasant to take the ferry and then once at the château d'if, very instructive explanations of the site. Thanks for a great time

Stephane

May 2025Verified booking

No complaints. A little too crowded for my taste, which made the visit a little less enjoyable, but otherwise it was perfect.

Book Your Château d'If Marseille Tickets & Tours

From happy customers

Top things to do in Marseille

Explore Château d'If

Your Château d'If Tickets Explained

What to See at Château d'If

The Inner Courtyard and the Dungeons

Famous Pistoles

The Terrace and its Towers

Other Buildings

Plan Your Visit to Château d'If

Château d'If: Frequently Asked Questions

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Tickets to Château d’If