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There are great many things to do in France, and so are in Narbonne.
Bask in the sun-kissed charm of Narbonne, where history and culture intertwine like ivy on a trellis.
From the ancient ruins of the Roman Empire to the fragrant vineyards that dot the countryside, Narbonne offers a feast for the senses.
Indulge in world-renowned cuisine, admire Gothic architecture, and lose yourself in the old-world charm of this stunning city.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Narbonne has something for everyone.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Narbonne:
1. Narbonne Cathedral
A beautiful and historic cathedral located in the city of Narbonne in southern France.
What to see or do: Admire the impressive Gothic architecture of the cathedral, including the stunning stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and soaring vaulted ceilings. Take a guided tour to learn about the cathedral’s fascinating history and significance.
Don’t miss: The 14th-century astronomical clock, which features intricate details and automata that move every hour.
Insider travel tips: Visit the cathedral early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful ambience. Consider attending a church service or concert in the cathedral for a truly memorable experience.
2. Canal de la Robine
Canal de la Robine is a 15th-century canal in Narbonne, France that connects the Canal du Midi to the Mediterranean Sea.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll along the canal and admire the picturesque bridges, locks, and boats.
For history enthusiasts, visit the Archbishop’s Palace, which is located next to the canal and now houses the city hall and a museum.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to take a boat tour on the canal to fully appreciate its beauty. Also, don’t miss the weekly outdoor market held near the canal, where you can taste the delicious local produce.
Insider travel tips: Visit during summer months to enjoy the lively atmosphere and outdoor events, such as concerts and festivals along the canal.
If you’re a fan of wine, stop by one of the many wine cellars along the canal for a tasting session.
The Canal de la Robine is also a great starting point for a bike ride along the nearby vineyards of the Languedoc region.
3. Les Halles de Narbonne
Les Halles de Narbonne is a lively food market located in the heart of Narbonne, a beautiful city in southern France.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore an array of local and regional produce, including fresh seafood, cheese, bread, fruits, meats and wine. The stalls are operated by passionate vendors who enthusiastically share their expertise and knowledge of the products with guests.
Don’t miss: Make sure not to miss the chance to taste some of the delicious local specialties such as cassoulet, a slow-cooked casserole with beans and meat, or oysters from the nearby Étang de Thau.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, it’s recommended to visit the market early in the morning.
If you want to indulge in some of the fresh produce without breaking the bank, many vendors offer tasting plates or small portions at affordable prices.
Also, don’t forget to bring cash as not all vendors may accept credit cards.
4. Roman Horreum
Ancient underground warehouse complex dating back to the 1st century.
What to see or do: Explore the impressive network of underground passages and rooms that once served as commercial storage space during the Roman Empire. The complex includes several levels and boasts a total area of over 4,000 square meters.
Don’t miss: The audio-visual show which gives visitors an immersive experience of the history and usage of the Horreum, projected onto the walls of the underground complex.
Also, make sure to check out the exhibits of recovered artifacts from the site.
Insider travel tips: The Horreum is located in the heart of Narbonne’s historic district, so it’s easy to combine a visit with other local tourist attractions, such as the Cathedral of Saint Just and Saint Pasteur.
Try to visit outside of peak tourist season to avoid crowds and long queues. It can be cold underground, so dress accordingly.
5. Archbishop’s Palace
Archbishop’s Palace in Narbonne is a monumental palace that was built in the 13th century as the official residence of the Archbishops of Narbonne.
What to see or do: The palace has a stunning entrance that is flanked by two round towers and a beautiful courtyard that boasts Gothic and Renaissance architecture.
The palace has an impressive collection of tapestries, sculptures, and paintings from the 17th and 18th centuries. Visitors can explore the courtyard, the chapel, the Guard Room, the Great Hall, and the Archaeological Museum.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the Gothic Room with its stunning vaulted ceiling and the Chapel of Saint Sebastian with its beautiful stained glass windows.
Also, make sure to visit the Archaeological Museum that houses artifacts from the Roman era.
Insider travel tips: The palace is closed on Tuesdays, and it’s best to visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.
Visitors can park their cars at the nearby underground parking lot.
6. Via Domitia Archaeological Museum
What to see or do: Explore the collection of Gallo-Roman and Medieval artifacts, including statues, pottery, coins, and tools.
Learn about the ancient civilizations that lived along the Via Domitia and the history of Narbonne as a hub of trade and commerce.
Don’t miss: The stunning mosaic floors from a Roman villa depicting scenes from daily life, including a gladiator fight. Also, be sure to see the remains of the original Via Domitia road, preserved beneath the museum’s floor.
Insider travel tips:
7. Narbonne Gourmet Food Tour
A walking tour in the charming city of Narbonne, focused on exploring the best gourmet food shops in the area.
What to see or do: Get ready to taste your way through the charming streets of Narbonne, discovering its culinary delights and hidden gems.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll visit local markets, specialty food stores, and bakeries, tasting local products such as cheeses, wines, chocolates, and meats.
Don’t miss: Make sure to taste the local “fougasse”, a traditional bread from the south of France, and the “muscat”, a sweet wine from the region.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves plenty of walking. Bring a bag to carry any treats or snacks you purchase along the way.
And don’t be afraid to ask your guide for recommendations on where to dine or have a drink after the tour – they’ll be happy to offer local insider tips!
8. Saint-Just-et-Saint-Pasteur Church
Saint-Just-et-Saint-Pasteur church is a beautiful historic church located in Narbonne, a charming city in southern France.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning Gothic architecture of the church and explore its unique features, such as its impressive rose window and ornate bell tower.
The interior of the church boasts intricate details and beautiful stained glass windows.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take a close look at the famous choir stalls, which are considered some of the most beautiful in France.
The carved wooden stalls depict various scenes from the Bible and are a true masterpiece of craftsmanship.
Insider travel tips: If you happen to visit the church in the evening, you might be lucky enough to catch a concert of classical music, as the church often hosts cultural events.
Additionally, if you climb to the top of the bell tower, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Narbonne and its surroundings.
9. Palace of the Visigoths
The Palace of the Visigoths is a historic fortress and castle located in Narbonne, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the medieval ruins and learn about the history of the Visigoths, who were a Germanic tribe that ruled over parts of Europe during the 5th to 8th centuries.
The site offers stunning views of the city and is a popular spot for photography.
Don’t miss: The Gothic-style architecture, including the tower that was used as a prison during the French Revolution.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there are many stairs and uneven surfaces to navigate.
Also, check the schedule for guided tours, as they offer a more in-depth look at the history and significance of the site.
10. Musee d’Art et d’Histoire de Narbonne
A museum of art and history located in Narbonne, France.
What to see or do: The museum features a wide range of collections from different periods, including Roman, Gaulish, Visigothic, and medieval. Visitors can explore everything from ancient pottery and sculptures to medieval woodwork and religious artifacts.
Don’t miss: The museum’s highlight is the giant statue of Neptune, which is the largest marble statue in France. Other must-see items include the Visigothic treasure, a collection of Roman and medieval coins, and the Gallo-Roman mosaics.
Insider travel tips: The museum is closed on Tuesdays, so plan your visit accordingly. Additionally, be sure to check out the stunning view of Narbonne from the museum’s terrace.
Finally, if you’re interested in Roman history, don’t miss the nearby Via Domitia, a Roman road that can still be seen in parts of the city.
11. Château l’Hospitalet
A stunning wine estate and hotel located near Narbonne in the Languedoc-Roussillon region of France.
What to see or do: Wine lovers will be in heaven at Château l’Hospitalet, with the opportunity to go on vineyard tours and taste some of the estate’s award-winning wines.
The hotel itself is also a must-see, with its beautiful architecture and idyllic setting.
Don’t miss: The chance to dine at the chateau’s Michelin-starred restaurant, La Table de Franck Putelat. The food is an absolute delight, with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Insider travel tips: Book your stay in advance to make sure you get the best possible deal. Also, if you’re planning to explore the surrounding region, it’s worth hiring a car as public transport can be unreliable.
12. Parc des Grands Lacs
A beautiful lakeside park in Narbonne, located in the Languedoc-Roussillon region of France.
What to see or do: Enjoy a relaxing day out in nature, taking in the beautiful scenery from the lakeside. The park is perfect for walking, cycling, and picnicking.
There is also a playground for children to enjoy.
Don’t miss: The stunning views of the lake, which is perfect for birdwatching and fishing.
There are also various picnic areas and rest spots throughout the park, where visitors can take a break and enjoy the scenery.
Insider travel tips: The park can get very busy during peak season, so it is best to arrive early or visit during weekdays.
Visitors can also rent bicycles to explore the park, which is a great way to see the lake and surrounding areas.
13. Musée Lapidaire
Musée Lapidaire is a museum in Narbonne, France, housed in the former Archbishop’s Palace which is an impressive Gothic structure dating back to the 13th century.
What to see or do: The museum has an extensive collection of ancient Roman sculptures, inscriptions, funerary urns, and mosaics, many of which were found in the Narbonne region.
Visitors can view the artifacts from different eras and witness the evolution of art and sculpture through the ages.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the 1st-century funerary monument “Le couple de Narbonne” which is one of the highlights of the museum.
Another must-see is the beautiful Roman mosaic of Orpheus charming the animals which was discovered in an old Roman villa in the 19th century.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Mondays, and timings may vary during the winter season.
14. Abbatiale Sainte-Marie de Fontfroide
Abbatiale Sainte-Marie de Fontfroide is a well-preserved Romanesque church located in the small village of Narbonne in southern France.
What to see or do: Visitors to Abbatiale Sainte-Marie de Fontfroide can explore the stunning interior of the church, admire its beautiful stained glass windows and take in the peaceful atmosphere.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a walk around the beautiful gardens surrounding the church and enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding countryside.
Insider travel tips: – Check the schedule for guided tours, which offer in-depth information and history about the church and its architecture.
15. Place des Quatre Fontaines
A historic square located in the heart of Narbonne, France.
What to see or do: Marvel at the beautiful central fountain which features four impressive lion statues. Admire the surrounding buildings such as the neo-Gothic St.
Paul’s Church and the elegant City Hall building. Take a stroll along the Rue Droite which is lined with charming shops and cafes.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the nearby Palais des Archevêques which was once the residence of the archbishops of Narbonne. The building boasts a stunning 14th century Gothic chapel, a picturesque courtyard and a museum showcasing local art and history.
Insider travel tips: Visit the square early in the morning to avoid the crowds and get a peaceful stroll around the area.
Keep an eye out for the market taking place on the Place des Quatre Fontaines every Thursday and Sunday where you can find fresh produce and locally made items.