Welcome to Languedoc-Roussillon, a region rich in history, culture and breathtaking scenery. Whether you're a fan of sun-drenched beaches, medieval villages, renowned vineyards or unspoilt natural sites, this region of southern France has something for everyone. In this article, the Petit Futé guides you through the 19 must-sees during your stay in Languedoc-Roussillon.
1. Visit Castelnaudary, a town rich in history
Castelnaudary, located in the Aude department of the Occitanie region, is a town rich in history and culture. Renowned for its famous cassoulet, this charming town offers much more than culinary delights. Rolling hills as far as the eye can see, an unimaginable palette of colors, the remains of castles and ancient pastel and flour mills - this is the Castelnaudary landscape. The old town, with its typically southern charm, conceals traces of a rich past in every nook and cranny. In this article, we present 11 not-to-be-missed places to visit.
2. Gruissan, a family destination
Gruissan, a charming commune in the south of France, stands out for its picturesque, family-friendly character. With its harbor nestled in the heart of a natural site and its circular streets at the foot of the Barbarossa Tower, remnant of a fortified castle built in the 10th and 11th centuries, Gruissan offers an authentic, historic setting. Extensive sandy beaches, including the "chalets sur pilotis" beach, accessible by bike via a cycle path along the canal, make it an ideal destination for families. The pretty open-air market, with its stalls of fruit, vegetables and local produce, adds a touch of conviviality and local flavour. What to do and see in Gruissan? Discover the 13 must-sees in this article.
3. Banyuls-sur-Mer, "la Lumineuse
Banyuls-sur-Mer, nicknamed "la Lumineuse", is located on the Côte Vermeille, where the Pyrenees meet the Mediterranean. This seaside resort is renowned for its magnificent beaches and secluded, protected coves, while having preserved a rich heritage that is a must-see. Banyuls is also a picturesque fishing port with typical staircase lanes, famous for its natural sweet wine that can be tasted while admiring the sea. The town is also the birthplace of Aristide Maillol (1861-1944), one of the greatest French sculptors of the 20th century. A small but magnificent museum is dedicated to him, as is an itinerary entitled "In Aristide's footsteps". It's an unmissable getaway on the Côte Vermeille and one of the most beautiful spots in the Pyrénées-Orientales.
4. Spend a day at the Réserve Africaine de Sigean
Nestled between Narbonne and Perpignan, the Réserve Africaine de Sigean invites you to discover a unique wild universe over 350 hectares. This vast natural area is home to several thousand animals, some of which live in semi-liberty, allowing them to retain their wild character and live according to their instincts. Are you ready for an unforgettable day out? Discover our tips and tricks for organizing your visit to the Réserve Africaine de Sigean, one of the finest experiences to be had in Occitanie.
5. Béziers, France's oldest city: a must-see in Languedoc-Roussillon
Did you know that Béziers is the oldest city in France? If you're a lover of history and culture, you've made the right choice for your next vacation destination! Nestled between sea and mountains in the Hérault department, Béziers overlooks its wine-growing plain. Among the must-do activities on site, you can enjoy a gentle stroll along the Canal du Midi, to the rhythm of the boats, and discover the nine locks of Fonseranes, leading up to the majestic Cathédrale Saint-Nazaire. You'll be amazed by the liveliness of the city center and the bustle of the alleyways in summer, reminiscent of Barcelona's famous Ramblas.
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6. Sleep in a cabin in the woods, Villalier (Aude)
This isone of the most unusual accommodations in France: located just outside Carcassonne, in the heart of a 115-hectare estate, these magnificent wooden cabins mounted on stilts under the trees, awakening our childlike spirit. A perfect marriage of luxury and ecological spirit. They offer all the comforts you need, with a terrace for enjoying a coffee or quietly reading a book to the sound of birdsong. You can also have meals prepared with local produce delivered to you, and have lunch or dinner directly in your cabin. Whether you're a couple, lovers or up to 4 people with children, there's something for everyone. Click here for prices and availability of this accommodation in the heart of nature.
7. Canet-en-Roussillon, Perpignan's favorite seaside resort
Welcome to Canet-en-Roussillon, Perpignan's favorite seaside resort, just 12 km from Perpignan. This charming coastal town in the south of France is an ideal destination for lovers of the sea, nature and heritage. With its picturesque old village, its sandy beach stretching for almost 3 km and its pond listed in the European Natura 2000 network of ecological sites, Canet-en-Roussillon offers a multitude of activities to suit all tastes. It is also one of our Top 11 summer camping destinations.
8. Visit Aiguèze, one of France's most beautiful villages
One of the most beautiful villages in the South of France, Aiguèze overlooks the impressive Ardèche gorges. Also classified as one of France's Most Beautiful Villages, it not only offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, but is also home to a remarkable heritage. Its picturesque lanes reveal magnificent stone residences, as well as the remains of its fortress and its church with its Renaissance portal. After a break in the charming square lined with plane trees, take a walk along the "Castelas", the ancient fortified castle walkway. You'll be able to admire the town's natural setting, with the backdrop of the Ardèche, Mont Ventoux, Côtes du Rhône vineyards and garrigue landscapes.
9. Collioure, the little pearl of the Côte Vermeille
More than just a fishing village, Collioure is the little pearl of the Côte Vermeille. Nestled in the heart of the Pyrénées-Orientales, this charming coastal town, ideal for family vacations, reveals its heritage and architectural treasures at every turn. Colorful alleyways immerse you in the local charm, before inviting you to relax on a small beach. From historic monuments to the authenticity of the coastline and the town's artistic heritage, discover the 13 must-sees in Collioure during your vacation.
10. Argelès-sur-Mer and its superb beaches
South of Perpignan lies a particularly popular seaside resort in the Pyrénées-Orientales. Every year, Argelès-sur-Mer attracts thousands of tourists in search of a relaxing coastal destination. Its beaches are certainly magnificent, among the most beautiful in France, inviting both idleness and water sports. But the town has many other surprises in store, promising unforgettable vacations. Click here to discover the 13 must-do activities in Argelès-sur-Mer.
11. What to do in Languedoc-Roussillon? Cycling around Narbonne
Located just a few kilometers from the Canal du Midi, on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, Narbonne boasts a long history and a rich heritage. It's a very pleasant city to cycle around, thanks to its many cycle paths and signposted itineraries. Among the must-sees in Narbonne, the city center is a must. Here you can admire the Saint-Just-et-Saint-Pasteur cathedral, an unfinished 13th-century Gothic edifice, as well as the Palais des Archevêques, which today houses Narbonne's Museum of Art and History.
12. Nîmes: one of the most beautiful places to visit in Languedoc-Roussillon
The headquarters of the Romans 2,000 years ago, Nîmes has preserved some superb historic monuments. A must-see is the Arènes, a majestic amphitheatre built at the end of the 1st century AD, which transports you back in time to the Roman games. The Maison Carrée, the only completely preserved temple in the ancient world, is another architectural gem. The Magne Tower, meanwhile, offers a breathtaking view of the city and its surroundings from the top of its ramparts, a sight not to be missed. Continue your exploration with a visit to the Castellum, the arrival point of the Nîmes aqueduct, then stroll through the historic heart of the city to discover the Notre-Dame-et-Saint-Castor cathedral, the Jesuits' chapel, or magnificent town houses such as the Boudon mansion.
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13. What to do in Languedoc-Roussillon? Visit Sète and its colorful boats
As soon as we think of Sète, the picturesque image of the Pointe Courte with its colorful boats and fishing nets comes to life before our eyes. This unique town has long inspired renowned artists such as poet Paul Valéry and singer Georges Brassens, who have found it an inexhaustible source of creativity. Sète vibrates to the rhythm of its canals and its authentic maritime tradition. From alleyways bustling with nautical jousting to markets teeming with seafood, Sète invites you to explore its many colors and flavors. Among the 10 must-sees on your visit, don't missthe Musée International des Arts Modestes, one of the most unusual museums to visit in France.
14. Aigues-Mortes
What to do in Languedoc-Roussillon? If you had to visit just one town in the Camargue, it would be Aigues-Mortes. Its salt marshes, with their beautiful pinkish hue, are among the best animal-watching spots in France, in an enchanting setting. From the top of the ramparts, you can admire the pink flamingos moving freely in these unusually colored salt flats. As you stroll through the fortified city, you'll have the chance to visit some of its finest monuments, such as the Tour de Constance, before stopping for a drink in the pretty Place Saint-Louis. Rich in history, the medieval city of Aigues-Mortes takes you on an incredible journey back in time.
Good to know: at the end of August, the town holds its annual medieval festival. The town's history takes on a whole new meaning, taking visitors back to the time of the knights for two magical days.
15. An urban escapade in Montpellier
With a high level of sunshine all year round, Montpellier is also one of the liveliest cities in the south of France. Start your visit at Place de la Comédie, one of the city's must-see spots, to admire the architecture of its monuments. Then wander through the streets of the old Écusson district, where mansions and pretty squares, such as Place de la Canourgue, are sure to catch the eye. If you're looking for a spot of greenery, the Jardin des Plantes and the Promenade du Peyrou offer a breathtaking view of the Cévennes, the sea in the distance and Montpellier's unmissable surroundings.
Discover our dedicated article "Visiting Montpellier in 2 days: what to do in a weekend"?
16. Carcassonne, a medieval splendor to visit in Languedoc-Roussillon
Carcassonne, the medieval city of a thousand and one wonders, is a must-see when visiting the Aude region. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this fortified town, one of the most beautiful in France, will amaze you with its well-preserved architecture and unique atmosphere. Don't miss the Cité Médiévale, with its impressive ramparts, cobbled streets and half-timbered houses. The Château Comtal and its majestic towers will take you back in time, while the Basilique Saint-Nazaire will seduce you with its Gothic architecture and colorful stained glass windows. Last but not least, the Pont Vieux, which spans the Aude, and the Trivalle district, with its lively streets and craft stores, are all treasures to discover in Carcassonne.
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17. Perpignan, a pretty town near the Spanish border
What to do in Languedoc-Roussillon? Perpignan is a charming city located near the Spanish border and the Mediterranean. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Majorca, its historic center is brimming with Catalan-influenced treasures from the past. Among the must-sees in Perpignan, don't miss the Palace of the Kings of Majorca, a true emblem of this sumptuous period, the Castillet, an emblematic medieval reminder of the city, the superb Musée Hyacinthe-Rigaud, or the unmissable Perpignan Citadel.
18. Cap d'Agde, a seaside town to see in Languedoc-Roussillon
Cap d'Agde may be best known for its naturist beaches, but that's not all. In addition to its beaches, you can enjoy bars, nightclubs and other lively parties. The Luna Park, open every evening in summer, is one of the town's must-sees and will delight all fans of giant funfairs. For a more leisurely vacation, you might like to take a boat cruise around the Etang de Thau. And don't hesitate to extend your vacation with a visit to Le Grau-d'Agde, just a few kilometers away. This ancient fishing port faces La Tamarissière, which you can reach in just a few minutes aboard a small boat captained by the ferryman Mimi.
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19. The Gorges du Verdon, natural splendors of the Gard region
Do you love dynamic activities and enchanting natural spots and wonder what to do in Languedoc-Roussillon? The Gorges du Verdon, one of the most beautiful places to see in the Gard, is for you. Located between the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence and Var departments, they are home to several gorges with magnificent waters and breathtaking scenery. It's the ideal place for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts alike! Abseiling, toboggans and other water sports await you in this unspoilt natural setting. Wondering what to see and do in the Gorges du Verdon? Discover our top 13 activities
What unusual places to visit in Languedoc-Roussillon?
Languedoc-Roussillon is full of unusual places that are well worth a visit. Whether you're a lover of nature, history or curiosities, this region has plenty to surprise you. Here are a few suggestions of unusual places not to be missed:
- The Pont du Gard: Although famous, this Roman bridge is a true masterpiece of engineering that continues to amaze visitors.
- Les Orgues d'Ille-sur-Têt: These unique rock formations, sculpted by erosion, offer a fascinating natural spectacle.
- The Canal du Midi: Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this canal is a marvel of engineering and an ideal place for boat trips.
- Les Salins d'Aigues-Mortes: These salt marshes offer unique landscapes and are an ideal place to observe pink flamingos.
- The Pont du Diable at Aniane: This legendary medieval bridge is shrouded in mystery and local legend.
What family outings are there in Languedoc-Roussillon?
Languedoc-Roussillon is packed with activities and places perfect for a family outing. Whether you're looking for entertainment, cultural discoveries or time in the great outdoors, this region has something for everyone. Here are a few suggestions for family outings you won't want to miss:
- Le Parc des Dinosaures de Mèze: A theme park where children can discover life-size replicas of dinosaurs in a natural setting.
- Le Seaquarium du Grau-du-Roi: An aquarium housing a wide variety of fish and marine mammals, ideal for a fun and educational day out.
- Montpellier Zoo: A zoological park where you can observe a multitude of animals in natural surroundings.
- Parc de Loisirs de Valras-Plage: An amusement park with rides for all ages, perfect for a day of family fun.
- The Canal du Midi: A boat or bike ride along this UNESCO World Heritage canal is a relaxing and rewarding activity.
- Musée de la Romanité in Nîmes: An interactive museum that immerses visitors in the region's Roman history, with child-friendly exhibits.
- Les Gorges du Tarn: A canoe or kayak trip through these magnificent gorges, a nature adventure that will delight the whole family.
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