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Beziers France European Trip

Beziers France European Trip

Pont VieuxBeziers France European Trip
Entrance to the city of Béziers via Pont Vieux

Beziers France European Trip. Beziers is a beautiful town in the Languedoc-Roussillon region of southern France, located near the Mediterranean coast. It is known for its rich history, charming architecture, and cultural attractions. We decided to pay a visit on our way to Roses in Girona. I managed to find a free car park on the south side. This to my surprise was a bonus, as it was the new car park. It was also the new entrance to the City Centre.

There was a lot of work going on around the Cathedral. The centre had already been completed and it looked amazing, clean and tidy, and super posh. A few days after our visit here, I spoke to someone in Roses, an ex-pat who had apartments in both Beziers and Roses. He told me they had spent millions doing the city up. Money well spent as it’s certainly on my radar for another visit.

One of the main attractions of Béziers is the Cathedral of Saint-Nazaire, a magnificent Gothic church that dates back to the 13th century. The cathedral is famous for its impressive stained-glass windows, and visitors can take a guided tour of the church to learn about its history and significance.

Another popular attraction in Béziers is the Canal du Midi, a 240-kilometer-long canal that connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea. Visitors can take a boat tour of the canal and admire the beautiful scenery along the way.

Béziers is also home to several museums

Beziers France European Trip
Beziers France entrance towards the Cathédrale Saint-Nazaire

Béziers is also home to several museums, including the Musée des Beaux-Arts, which showcases the town’s rich artistic heritage, and the Musée Taurin, which is dedicated to bullfighting.

Foodies will also appreciate Béziers’ cuisine, which includes local specialities such as cassoulet, a hearty stew made with white beans and various types of meat, and tielle, a savoury pie filled with seafood and spices.

Béziers is also surrounded by stunning natural beauty. This includes the nearby Parc Naturel Régional du Haut-Languedoc, which is perfect for hiking and exploring. The town is also just a short drive from the Mediterranean coast, where visitors can enjoy the beaches, seafood, and other attractions of the region.

In conclusion, Béziers is a charming town with a rich history and cultural attractions. With its stunning architecture, beautiful natural surroundings, and delicious cuisine, Béziers is a perfect destination for tourists looking to experience the best of southern France.

Les Halles de Béziers, Beziers France European Trip

Les Halles de Béziers
Les Halles de Béziers Beziers France European Trip

The Food Market Les Halles de Béziers is a historic covered market. It is located in the heart of the town of Béziers in southern France. The market has been a fixture of the town for over a century. It remains a popular destination for both locals and visitors.

The market is open every day except Monday. It features a wide range of vendors selling everything from fresh produce to artisan cheeses, meats, and wines. Visitors can also find a variety of other items for sale, including clothing, jewellery, and antiques.

One of the highlights of Les Halles de Béziers is the quality and variety of the food available for purchase. Many of the vendors sell locally sourced products, including fresh fruits and vegetables, seafood, and charcuterie. Visitors can sample the delicious cuisine of the region and take home some unique souvenirs of their trip.

Les Halles de Béziers charcuterie Beziers France European Trip
Les Halles de Béziers charcuterie

The market is housed in a beautiful wrought-iron building that dates back to the 19th century, which is a testament to the town’s history and cultural heritage. Additionally, the market’s central location makes it easy to access, and it is surrounded by other attractions such as the Cathedral of Saint-Nazaire and the Canal du Midi.

Visitors must visit Les Halles de Béziers when travelling to the town. This market offers a unique and authentic glimpse into the local culture and cuisine. Additionally, Les Halles de Béziers is perfect for foodies, history buffs, or those looking for a unique shopping experience. It is an ideal destination for a day trip or a longer stay.

Cathédrale Saint-Nazaire, Beziers France European Trip

Cathédrale Saint-Nazaire Beziers France European Trip
Cathédrale Saint-Nazaire. Builders replacing the cobbled streets around the Cathedral.

Cathédrale Saint-Nazaire is an impressive landmark located in the city of Beziers, France. This stunning cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. It has been an important religious and cultural centre in the region for centuries.

Construction of the cathedral began in the 13th century and took over 250 years to complete. The cathedral was built on the site of a former Roman temple. Designed to be a symbol of the city’s power and wealth. Also intended to serve as a place of worship for the city’s growing population.

One of the most striking features of the cathedral is its towering bell tower. The tower stands over 50 meters tall. The tower is decorated with intricate carvings that feature a series of bells. These bells have been ringing out across the city for centuries. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

The interior of the cathedral is just as impressive as its exterior. Soaring columns line the nave, supporting its high vaulted ceiling, evoking a sense of awe-inspiring grandeur within the cathedral. This architectural marvel is adorned with stunning stained glass windows dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries, adding to its timeless beauty. There is also a collection of priceless artworks and religious artefacts.

Important Pieces

Firstly, one of the most important pieces in the cathedral’s collection is the 14th-century altarpiece. Considered to be one of the finest examples of Gothic art in the world. This intricately carved wooden masterpiece depicts scenes from the life of Christ and is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the medieval artisans who created it.

Moreover, the cathedral has played an important role in the history of Beziers, particularly during the religious wars that tore the region apart in the 16th and 17th centuries. The cathedral was damaged during these conflicts and underwent extensive renovations in the 18th and 19th centuries. These renovations restored it to its former glory.

Today, the Cathédrale Saint-Nazaire remains a popular destination for visitors to Beziers, attracting tourists from all over the world who come to admire its breathtaking architecture and rich cultural heritage. It is a testament to the enduring power of faith and art to inspire and uplift, even in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, the Cathédrale Saint-Nazaire is a magnificent example of Gothic architecture that has stood the test of time. Its soaring bell tower, intricate carvings, and beautiful stained glass windows make it a true masterpiece of medieval art. Therefore, it is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the city of Beziers.

Car Parking Béziers park and ride or walk

Béziers has recently undergone a major transformation with the construction of a new car park and entrance to the town. As a result, the project known as “Park and Ride” was designed to alleviate traffic congestion making it easier for visitors to access the town. The new car park is located on the outskirts of the town and is easily accessible from various routes. Moreover, it features over 2,000 parking spaces and modern amenities such as security cameras, electric charging stations, and a bike-sharing program.

From the car park, visitors can take a shuttle bus or walk along a newly constructed pedestrian pathway. This takes them to the town centre. Notably, the pathway features stunning views of the surrounding landscape. ned with trees and benches for visitors to enjoy. Additionally, the entrance to the town has been redesigned with a new roundabout and pedestrian bridge leading directly into the heart of Béziers. Furthermore, the bridge is adorned with colourful lights. This provides a stunning view of the town’s historic architecture.

The new car park and entrance have been a welcome addition to Béziers, making it easier for visitors to access the town and reducing traffic congestion in the centre. Furthermore, the project has helped to promote sustainable transportation options such as biking and public transit, which are better for the environment and promote a healthier lifestyle.

In conclusion, the new car park and entrance to Béziers is a great example of how thoughtful urban planning can improve the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. Ultimately, the project has transformed the town’s transportation infrastructure. Thus providing a more sustainable, accessible, and enjoyable experience for all who visit.

Car park map Beziers France European Trip

Although not visible on Google Earth yet, it’s easy to find. Just above the Amphitheatre, the top of the tree points towards the parking spaces. Below the B and B St Pierre du Rebaut. It’s the oblong grass section in between both and next to the river. Enter the car park from the far left near the B and B lanes.

Must-See Sights near Beziers France a Travellers Guide

Beziers, a city located in the Languedoc-Roussillon region of France, is an ideal destination for those looking to explore the rich history and culture of southern France. While the Cathédrale Saint-Nazaire is undoubtedly the city’s most famous landmark, there are many other must-see sights in the area that are worth visiting. Here is a traveller’s guide to some of the top sights near Beziers.

Day trips from Béziers

The Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a 240-kilometre-long canal that links the Mediterranean Sea to the Atlantic Ocean. Built in the 17th century, it has become a popular destination for boating enthusiasts, walkers, and cyclists. Additionally, visitors can take a boat trip along the canal or enjoy a leisurely stroll along its picturesque banks.

The Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct, is located just over an hour’s drive from Beziers. The building of the aqueduct was started in the 1st century AD. It is one of the greatest engineering feats of the ancient world. Moreover, visitors can explore the site and marvel at the incredible engineering that allowed water to flow from a spring in Uzès to the city of Nîmes.

Carcassonne, a fortified medieval city, is located just over an hour’s drive from Beziers. Specifically, the city is renowned for its well-preserved walls and towers, which date back to the 13th century. Notably, visitors can explore the city’s narrow streets. Pay a visit to the Château Comtal, and take in stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Just in case it is not enough, some more day trips from Beziers

The Gorges du Tarn, a spectacular canyon carved by the Tarn River, is located around two hours drive from Beziers. The area is known for its dramatic landscapes, including towering cliffs and sparkling waterfalls. For visitors, there are various activities available, such as hiking, kayaking, and rock climbing, or simply taking in the stunning views.

Pézenas. Is a charming town located just 30 minutes’ drive from Beziers. Renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and its association with the famous playwright Molière. Visitors can explore the town’s narrow streets, visit the Hôtel de Lacoste, and enjoy the town’s lively cultural scene.

In conclusion


Beziers and its surrounding area host a plethora of must-see sights, providing visitors with a window into the vibrant history and culture of southern France. Whether your interests lie in exploring ancient Roman aqueducts, fortified medieval cities, or picturesque canals, this stunning region of France has something for everyone.

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