10 Unforgettable Things to Do in Narbonne

Last updated on August 27th, 2024 at 08:41 am

Narbonne isn’t the first place that springs to mind when you think of southern France. But to miss it would be a crime because there is so much to love about this city. From the remains of a Roman road to an award-winning covered market, you certainly won’t be bored.

If your legs are up for it, climbing to the top of the Donjon will give you spectacular views of the Occitan region. If you’re hungry after climbing, there is one of the best all-you-can-eat buffets I have ever been to. And the UNESCO-listed canal is gorgeous.

But where do you start, and what are the “can’t be missed” things to do in Narbonne? This list will help ensure you have a perfect day in the city without rushing around. There is also a bonus restaurant section of three fabulous places I’ve eaten in.

Listen To My Podcast Episode About Narbonne

10 Unforgettable Things to Do in Narbonne

Narbonne is a historical city that dates back to Roman times. It was the first Roman Colony to be built outside of Italy. However, it’s often overlooked in favor of the more famous city of Carcassonne, which is about thirty minutes away.

Narbonne Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Just et Saint-Pasteur)

All roads in Narbonne seem to lead to the cathedral. Although never completed, it still manages to be at the center of everything. The best views of it are at the top of Donjon Gilles Aycelin, which we’ll talk about in a minute. 

Construction on the cathedral began in 1272, but it remains famously unfinished. Completing it would have required tearing down part of the city’s defensive walls, which was a problem because the city was in a vulnerable position during the late Middle Ages. 

At the time, southern France faced frequent threats from neighboring kingdoms and internal conflicts. The city needed its fortifications to protect against invasions, so dismantling them for the cathedral’s completion would have exposed Narbonne to potential attacks, especially during the Hundred Years’ War, raging across France during this period. 

Despite its unfinished state, the towering 41-metre-high choir still stands as one of the highest in France, drawing visitors for its sheer scale and beauty.

The treasury, which houses a fascinating collection of religious artifacts, including gilded reliquaries and an ancient manuscript collection, is worth seeing. Entry to the cathedral is free, but a small fee of €4 is charged to access the treasury. 

Outside, you’ll see the terracotta sculpture of the Entombment, dating back to the early 16th century. It offers a rare look at religious art from that period.

For more details, visit the Narbonne Museum Website

Les Halles de Narbonne

The Narbonne covered market has been operating for over a century. Open daily until early afternoon, it offers everything from fresh seafood to locally made cheeses and wines.

Les Halles de Narbonne is the beating heart of the city’s food scene. This covered market has been operating for over a century, drawing locals and visitors to sample the best regional produce. Open daily until early afternoon, it offers everything from fresh seafood to locally made cheeses and wines. 

With over 70 stalls, Les Halles de Narbonne features a wide range of local delicacies. You can find freshly caught Mediterranean fish, charcuterie, pastries, and regional wines. One of the unique aspects of this market is that it has several small restaurants inside, where you can enjoy lunch prepared with the freshest ingredients straight from the stalls. It’s a true gastronomic experience you don’t want to miss. 

It operates in a Baltard-style pavilion, a classic architectural design used for many 19th-century French markets. The intricate iron and glass structure is as much a part of the experience as the food itself. 

Horreum Romain

The Horreum Romain is a fascinating glimpse into Narbonne’s Roman past. Built in the 1st century BC, this underground warehouse is the only remaining Roman structure in the city. The complex consists of a network of tunnels and chambers that once served as storage for goods like grain and wine, essential for Narbonne’s bustling Roman port. 

Today, you can walk through these ancient corridors and imagine how the space functioned over two millennia ago. As you explore the tunnels, you’ll see various artifacts from Narbonne’s Roman era, including fragments of statues, carvings, and even amphorae used for transporting goods. 

The museum has done a great job of bringing the past alive by using audio that recreates the bustling market sounds of ancient Narbo Martius (Narbonne’s Roman name). It gives you a feel for what life was like in Roman times.

When the city’s medieval fortifications were dismantled in the 19th century, many of the stones used in those walls were originally Roman and came from structures like the Horreum. 

Entry is €, and entry times are on the website

Canal de la Robine

The Canal de la Robine is a beautiful waterway running through the heart of Narbonne. Originally an offshoot of the famous Canal du Midi, it was completed in the 18th century to connect Narbonne to the Mediterranean. 

The canal, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, provided a crucial trade route that helped boost Narbonne’s economy by linking the city to major shipping networks. It’s lined with trees and lovely displays of flowers. 

One unique feature of the Canal de la Robine is the Pont des Marchands, a rare inhabited bridge with houses and shops lining both sides, reminiscent of Florence’s Ponte Vecchio. This makes it one of only a few remaining bridges like this in Europe. Walking across it, you might not even realize you’re on a bridge until you reach the other side! 

Donjon Gilles Aycelin

The Donjon Gilles Aycelin is a medieval tower that offers the best panoramic view of Narbonne and the surrounding region. Built in the late 13th century under Archbishop Gilles Aycelin, this imposing square-shaped tower served both as a defensive structure and a symbol of the church’s power. 

Climbing the 163 spiraling steps to the top isn’t for the unfit. I did it, but my husband opted out. It was so worth it as you’re greeted with stunning city views, vineyards, and even the distant Pyrenees on a clear day.

At the top, you’ll also find a small watchtower room once used to survey the surrounding landscape for potential threats. The architecture of the Donjon remains mostly unchanged, giving visitors a true sense of the medieval period when Narbonne was a vital center of power. Today, it is part of the Palais des Archevêques, which also houses Narbonne’s art and archaeological museums.

A fun fact: the Donjon’s narrow spiral staircase was intentionally designed to favor defenders, giving them the advantage during potential attacks. 

For opening hours and tickets, visit the official website.

Maison Natale Charles Trenet

The Maison Natale Charles Trenet is the birthplace and childhood home of Charles Trenet, a famous French 20th-century singer. Born in 1913, Trenet gained worldwide fame with hits like “La Mer.” More recently, it was featured in the movie Mr Bean’s Holiday.

The house, located at 13 Avenue Charles Trenet, has been converted into a museum that preserves many of his personal items, including manuscripts, a grand piano, and even his transistor radio.

Visiting the museum gives you insight into Trenet’s life and career spanning over six decades. The interior remains much like it was during Trenet’s childhood, offering a glimpse into his early years in Narbonne. Fans of French music and culture will appreciate the collection of his records, memorabilia, and the many stories that shaped his rise to fame.

A fun fact: Charles Trenet was known for writing all his own songs, which was rare then. His innovative approach to songwriting influenced generations of artists. 

For opening hours and tickets, visit the museum’s website

Narbo Via Museum

The Narbo Via Museum is Narbonne’s newest and most comprehensive museum dedicated to its Roman heritage. Opened in 2020, it brings together artifacts from the city’s Roman past, all under one roof. Located near the Canal de la Robine, the museum showcases everything from monumental statues to everyday objects.

One of the museum’s highlights is its vast collection of Roman inscriptions and sarcophagi, many uncovered during excavations in the region. The museum also features interactive displays and multimedia exhibits that bring ancient Narbonne to life. As a history gal, I found it fascinating; you couldn’t drag me away. Hubby, not so much, so he left me to it and went to get a drink in the square.

For opening hours and tickets, visit the museum’s website

Palais des Archevêques (Archbishop’s Palace)

The Palais des Archevêques is a grand complex built in the 12th century. It served as the residence of Narbonne’s archbishops and evolved into a mix of Gothic, Romanesque, and Renaissance architectural styles over the centuries.

It connects directly to Narbonne Cathedral, making it part of a larger religious and historical complex. Today, the palace houses two museums: the Musée d’Art et d’Histoire and the Musée Archéologique. As you explore the interior, you’ll find beautifully preserved rooms, including the Archbishop’s dining hall and various art collections.

For opening hours and tickets, visit the museum’s website

Les Quatres Fontaine

Les Quatres Fontaines were once a key part of Narbonne’s daily life, serving as public drinking fountains for residents. Located at the intersection of two historic streets, this set of four small, identical fountains, each with a simple stone basin and spout marks the corners of the junction. 

The fountains were built in the 18th century as part of the city’s efforts to modernize its water supply system.

Wander the Cobblestone Streets

Strolling through the cobblestone streets of Narbonne’s old town transports you back in time. The winding streets are lined with historic buildings, small boutiques, and cafés. As you wander, you’ll come across the Via Domitia, a Roman road that once connected Italy to Spain through Narbonne.

Discovered in 1997, this small section of the Via Domitia is now displayed in Place de l’Hôtel de Ville, right in the city center. It’s a remarkable glimpse into Narbonne’s importance as a Roman trading hub, and you can literally walk on the same stones that Roman soldiers, merchants, and citizens once used.

The Via Domitia dates back to 118 BC, making it one of the oldest Roman roads in France. 

Where to Eat in Narbonne

Les Grands Buffets

If you visit Les Grands Buffets, make sure you’re hungry. It’s an opulent, all-you-can-eat experience and a must-visit if you want to try the best of traditional French cuisine. From foie gras to an incredible cheese selection with over 100 types. And don’t get me started on the decor. The setting is lavish, reminiscent of French aristocracy, with crystal chandeliers and luxurious furniture.

Click here for opening hours and reservations

L’Estafette de Nicolas

L’Estafette de Nicolas is an Italian restaurant famous for its perfectly cooked pasta dishes. We had a lovely evening meal here, and Nicolas, the owner, is just lovely. It’s cozy and affordable.

Click here for opening hours and reservations

Délice Cake

For dessert lovers, this café is the perfect spot to enjoy oversized slices of cake in a cozy, romantic setting. Whether you’re craving banana Nutella or savory cheesecakes, their cakes are fabulous. I’m a cake gal, so we went back twice; it was that good. Make sure you take your appetite with you as it’s hard to know what to choose.

Click here for opening hours 

Where to Stay in Narbonne

MY TOP PICK: Château de l’Hospitalet 

I stayed at Château de l’Hospitalet for a few days and can’t say enough nice things about it. It’s a luxurious wine resort set amidst 1,000 hectares of vineyards. The estate produces award-winning wines, including Clos du Temple, named the world’s best rosé in 2020. It has a spa and fine dining restaurant and is close to the Mediterranean Sea.

Click here for rates and availability

Hôtel La Résidence

If you’re looking for a hotel in the city center, Hôtel La Résidence is one of the best options. Narbonne isn’t a massive tourist area, so no four- or five-star hotels exist. You’re just a short walk from the canal, historical sites, and market. It’s a lovely 19th-century building that once belonged to a local wine merchant.

Click here for rates and availability

Château Capitoul

Château Capitoul is a 4-star boutique hotel surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. It offers luxurious rooms and private villas. The hotel also has a Cinq Mondes spa and infinity pool, which guests can enjoy after a day of exploring. The château’s roots go back to Roman times when vineyards were first planted on this land​.

Click here for rates and availability

A Map of Narbonne Hotspots

How to Get to Narbonne

The nearest airport to Narbonne is Béziers Cap d’Agde Airport, about 45 minutes away by car. For international flights, Montpellier Airport is an hour’s drive. You can take a shuttle to Narbonne from both airports or rent a car.

By train, Narbonne is well-connected via SNCF. High-speed TGV trains run from Paris (around 4.5 hours) and Barcelona (about 2 hours). Narbonne’s station is centrally located, making it easy to access the city on foot or by taxi.

FAQs Visiting Narbonne

I cannot recommend a visit to Narbonne enough. As much as I love Carcassonne, Narbonne is far less touristy. You’ll have a more authentic experience here and see how French people live their city life.