Sarah De Winne Looking for the best day trips from Béziers? This vibrant city is perfectly positioned for exploring the diverse landscapes and rich history of southern France. Whether you’re drawn to medieval fortresses, charming coastal towns or local vineyards, there are plenty of incredible destinations within easy reach. Here are ten unforgettable day trips to add to your itinerary.
- 1. Narbonne (40 minutes from Béziers)
- 2. Gruissan (40 minutes from Béziers)
- 3. Fontfroide Abbey (45 minutes from Béziers)
- 4. Pézenas (25 minutes from Béziers)
- 5. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert (1 hour from Béziers)
- 6. Sète (55 minutes from Béziers)
- 7. Carcassonne (1 hour 10 minutes from Béziers)
- 8. Roquebrun (40 minutes from Béziers)
- 9. Minerve (1 hour from Béziers)
- 10. Valras-Plage (30 minutes from Béziers)
- Final Thoughts on Day Trips from Béziers
1. Narbonne (40 minutes from Béziers)
Not far from Béziers, the historic town of Narbonne has a lively atmosphere that offers a mix of Roman heritage, bustling markets and scenic canals. Spend the day visiting the impressive Narbonne Cathedral, explore the underground Roman Horreum and enjoy a stroll along the Canal de la Robine. The city’s covered market (Les Halles de Narbonne) is also a must-visit for local gastronomy.
Related: Discover more about this interesting French town in our local’s guide to the best things to do in Narbonne.
Personal Tip: For a 360-degree view over the rooftops of Narbonne, climb to the top of the Donjon Gilles Aycelin. In our opinion, it’s the best place to appreciate Narbonne’s magnificent gothic cathedral.
2. Gruissan (40 minutes from Béziers)
The circular shaped village of Gruissan is a picturesque seaside getaway known for its iconic stilted chalets, medieval Tour Barberousse and stunning pink salt flats. Spend the day at Gruissan Plage, explore the Salin de l’Île Saint Martin or sample fresh oysters and seafood at the waterfront restaurants near the port.
Related: Find out all you need to know about the five beaches in Gruissan with our essential guide.
Personal Tip: The salt flats at Gruissan are at their most pink on sunny days during the summer. For a unique experience, eat delicious seafood at La Cambuse du Saunier restaurant which has a breathtaking view of the pink lake! Afterwards, visit the fabulous boutique where you can purchase Gruissan sea salt to take home as a souvenir!
3. Fontfroide Abbey (45 minutes from Béziers)
Nestled in the Corbières hills, Fontfroide Abbey is a magnificent 11th-century abbey that is a haven for history and wine lovers. Escape the bustle of Béziers and enjoy the abbey’s peaceful cloisters, admire its landscaped rose gardens and taste local wines from the abbey’s vineyard. A visit here offers both cultural insight and natural beauty.
Related: Discover more reasons to visit Fontfroide Abbey.
Personal Tip: Don’t miss a walk through the shaded woodland garden at Fontfroide Abbey. Hidden from view above the abbey is a sorcerer’s garden, an observation point and even Neptune’s fountain!
4. Pézenas (25 minutes from Béziers)
This enchanting French town is renowned for its well-preserved medieval streets, artisan shops and connections to the playwright Molière. Wander through the picturesque old town, browse local boutiques and visit the lively Saturday market for regional products. Pézenas also boasts excellent antique shops and a vibrant arts scene.
Personal Tip: In Pézenas, you can try a local speciality that dates to 1770. The little Patés de Pézenas look like cylindrical chimney stacks with a sweet and savoury meat mixture inside.
5. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert (1 hour from Béziers)
One of France’s Most Beautiful Villages, Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a medieval gem set in a stunning valley. Visit the Abbaye de Gellone, stroll through the charming streets or hike to nearby viewpoints with breathtaking views of the Gorges de l’Hérault.
6. Sète (55 minutes from Béziers)
Nicknamed the “Venice of Languedoc”, Sète is a vibrant port town known for its canals, seafood and maritime traditions. Climb Mont Saint-Clair for panoramic views, visit the bustling Halles de Sète and try the famous tielle sétoise (a local seafood pie). For a unique experience, don’t miss the annual water jousting festival that is held in August.
7. Carcassonne (1 hour 10 minutes from Béziers)
Step into history at La Cité de Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most impressive medieval fortresses in Europe. Walk along the ramparts, visit the Château Comtal and explore the lively shops and restaurants within the fortress walls.
Related: Read more about the unforgettable Carcassonne Castle in our comprehensive guide.
Personal Tip: Access to the ramparts is via the Château Comtal which has an entrance fee. Walking around the ramparts was one of the highlights of our visit, so we think it is definitely worth paying for this experience.
8. Roquebrun (40 minutes from Béziers)
Known as the “Nice of Hérault”, Roquebrun enjoys a unique microclimate perfect for Mediterranean gardens and vineyards. Visit the Mediterranean Garden, kayak on the Orb River and enjoy tasting AOC Saint-Chinian-Roquebrun wines at local producers.
9. Minerve (1 hour from Béziers)
A dramatic clifftop village steeped in Cathar history, Minerve is surrounded by deep gorges and natural rock formations. Explore the medieval streets of one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France, visit the informative Cathar Museum and marvel at the stunning natural bridges carved by the Cesse River.
Personal Tip: Minerve is one of our favourite places to visit all year round. We love to walk along the river bed in the gorge to gain a different perspective of the village.
10. Valras-Plage (30 minutes from Béziers)
For a classic beach day, head to Valras-Plage, a lively seaside resort with golden sands, a family-friendly promenade and plenty of shops and restaurants. Enjoy water sports, wander around the port or simply relax by the Mediterranean Sea.
Related: Discover more tips about visiting Valras-Plage in our essential guide.
Final Thoughts on Day Trips from Béziers
Béziers’ location makes it an excellent base for exploring the best of Occitanie, from historic fortresses to charming seaside escapes. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing day at the coast, an adventure through medieval villages or a taste of the region’s rich wine culture, these day trips from Béziers offer something for everyone.
The nearby Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another of our favourite day trips from Béziers – whether you take a boat cruise, cycle along its scenic towpaths or simply enjoy a waterside picnic. For more travel inspiration, explore our guides to Lagrasse, Puilaurens Castle and the atmospheric Montségur. Where will your next adventure take you?
