Porquerolles

They tender. Porquerolles has no cruise berth — ships anchor off the island and ferry passengers to a small quay by the village. Expect a short tender ride and a quay that handles ferries and small craft, not a built-up port.

You can walk, but the island is bigger than it looks and the beaches are spread out. There are no cars and no taxis — the island is inside a national park. Most people rent a bike at one of several shops a few steps from the quay; walking works only if you stick to the nearest beaches.

Plage Notre-Dame on the north shore is the famous one — frequently ranked among the best beaches in Europe — and about a 25–30 minute bike ride from the village. Plage d'Argent is closer, pine-backed, and easier with children or limited time. Both are sandy; the south coast is rockier and more exposed.

Fort Sainte-Agathe, a 16th-century fortification above the village, gives you the history and the view. There are working vineyards across the island's interior, and a lighthouse at the southern cape reached by a scenic but exposed trail. It is a half-day island; pick two things and let the rest go.

Yes. ATMs on the island are scarce and not always working, and smaller cafés, beach kiosks, and bike rentals may not take foreign cards. Bring euros in cash before you tender ashore — withdrawing on the mainland the day before is the safe move.

Late spring and early autumn are kindest — midsummer is hot, crowded, and short on shade once you leave the pine woods. Bring water, sun protection, a hat, and proper shoes if you plan to walk the trails. There is little shelter on the open paths, and shops are limited to the village.