Sightseeing in Narbonne - what to see. Complete travel guide
The French town of Narbonne may not be the top destination in the country but this is a charming settlement that has a well-preserved historic center and numerous old buildings. The Corbieres mountain region has unique climatic conditions perfect for growing grapes, and so Narbonne is widely recognized as one of the major centers of winemaking in the country. Having arrived in Narbonne, tourists will be pleasantly surprised to find landmarks of the medieval period in great condition, visit interesting local museums dedicated to the history of the city and winemaking in the region, take a look at different ceramic crafts, and even see the “treasures” of the past centuries that archeologists discovered in the city during the excavations. Besides that, the beach in Narbonne is perfectly suitable for recreation.
In 118 BC, the Romans established a colony in Gaul, and Narbonne was one of the settlements in that colony. At that time, the town was a seaport of great political importance. Besides that, the Romans established a strategic military base in the settlement. This settlement became the capital of Narbonne or as it was also called South Gaul. The town’s neighborhood became a battleground for a major fight, in which the Roman army was totally defeated and disarmed. The government had to leave the region, and the Visigoths became the new rulers in Narbonne.
Tourists from all cities in France come to Narbonne to relax on its gorgeous beach. This is a fabulous coastal area with a soft sand surface. Vacationers with small children are particularly fond of Narbonne Beach because the sea is always warm and calm here, and the water is shallow near the coast. During the tourist season, rescue teams monitor the beach round the clock. There are special playgrounds for kids that are separated from the rest of the beach. Young guests of the town will be excited to participate in various tournaments and games right on the beach. Kids usually love these entertaining activities, and their parents can relax peacefully meanwhile.
Adult guests of Narbonne Beach can also find a suitable activity besides sunbathing and swimming in the sea. The town’s authorities regularly organize free entertaining events and various celebrations. Everyone is welcome to participate regardless of their gender and age. It should be noted that Narbonne Beach has high environmental standards and clean water, so parents do not need to worry about the safety of their kids. The area is also suitable for scuba diving. The underwater world of the French region is very interesting and diverse. Good news for fans of cycling – there are quality bicycle roads along the beach.
Besides beach recreation, Narbonne can offer tourists to explore its landmarks, many of which are definitely worth visiting. Narbonne Cathedral dedicated to Saints Justus and Pastor is a national monument of France. The construction of the fabulous building started in 1565 and lasted almost a century. Before the eye-catching cathedral, there was a 5th-century church on the site of the modern shrine. Unfortunately, that church was destroyed in a series of religious tensions. Only a beautiful nearby park reminds of that ruined church nowadays. Everyone is welcome to take a stroll in the park because it is free to enter.
The modern cathedral is a prominent example of the Gothic style. Until the beginning of the 19th century, the shrine belonged to the archbishop of Narbonne who turned the cathedral into his residence. When the Narbonne diocese merged with the Carcassonne one, the cathedral lost its important status. Nowadays, the grandiose cathedral is not only a famous shrine but also a sacred treasury that exhibits masterpieces of talented French artists. Don’t forget to take a look at the colorful stained-glass windows made in the 19th century. They have survived until our days in perfect condition. The cathedral regularly hosts the divine service.
Tourists can get to Narbonne from various French cities including Paris. The country’s capital has a large international airport that serves flights from many countries of the world. Daily trains connect the French resort town to other parts of the country. Depending on the city of departure, the ride can range from half an hour to five hours. It is also possible to get to Narbonne from Barcelona by train. The average journey time is almost five hours in this case.
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City tours, excursions and tickets in Narbonne and surroundings
Reference information
Survived castles around Narbonne
♥ Castle 'Château de Tour Barberousse' Aude, 10.8 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Castle 'Château de Saint Martin de Toques' Aude, 12.5 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Castle 'Château de Gaussan' Aude, 14.1 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Castle 'Château de la Bouiche' Aude, 17.9 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Castle 'Château de Vendres' Hérault, 24.4 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Castle 'Château de Tour Barberousse' Aude, 10.8 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Castle 'Château de Saint Martin de Toques' Aude, 12.5 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Castle 'Château de Gaussan' Aude, 14.1 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Castle 'Château de la Bouiche' Aude, 17.9 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Castle 'Château de Vendres' Hérault, 24.4 km from the center. On the map Photo
National and city parks around Narbonne
♥ Regional Nature Park 'La Narbonnaise en Méditerranée' , 17.5 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Regional Nature Park 'Haut-Languedoc' , 51.5 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Regional Nature Park 'Pyrénées catalanes' , 90.4 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Natural Park 'Cap de Creus' , 99.6 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Regional Nature Park 'Grands Causses' , 101.8 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Regional Nature Park 'La Narbonnaise en Méditerranée' , 17.5 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Regional Nature Park 'Haut-Languedoc' , 51.5 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Regional Nature Park 'Pyrénées catalanes' , 90.4 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Natural Park 'Cap de Creus' , 99.6 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Regional Nature Park 'Grands Causses' , 101.8 km from the center. On the map Photo
Sights around Narbonne from our guide 'Extreme places on Earth'
Le Canal du Midi
From the series “Greatest Man-Made Waterways and Channels”
Check on the map: Distance from Narbonne center - 56.9 km.
Baron Paul Rica was a contributor to the ambitious project. He was the one who had helped finance the third part of construction work. Since 1996 the Canal du Midi has been a historical structure of world importance. It can surely apply for being the most beautiful canal of the planet. The surrounding scenery is simply breathtaking. These places get a lot of photographers’, painters’ and other artists’ attention. …
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Carcassonne
From the series “The Last City-Fortresses Survived to This Day”
Check on the map: Distance from Narbonne center - 52.9 km.
In 1961 in the fortress has opened a museum. There you can see an outstanding collection of ancient items. The fortress has been being in the list of the world heritage UNESCO since 1997. The fortress is placed in a picturesque rocky place. In pre-mountain places you will also see historical monuments. One of them is the awesome Saint Michael Cathedral. It is a world known landmark thanks to its magnificent inner decoration. There you can see a lot of various ancient art items and sculptures. The most beautiful statue of Gods’ Mother is also placed there. The new district will meet travellers with a great number of magical national restaurants, shops and entertainment venues. …
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Search touristic sites on the map of Narbonne
All about Narbonne, France - sightseeings, attractions, touristic spots, architecture, history, culture and cuisine. Prepare your trip together with OrangeSmile.com - find out the 'must see' things in Narbonne, which places to visit, which excursions to take, where the breathtaking views are waiting for you. Planning your trip with this travel guide will help your to get the most out of Narbonne in few days.