Sarah De Winne Narbonne may not be as famous as its neighbours, but this historic southern French city has its own charm. With its Roman roots, sun-soaked canals, lively markets and easy access to both the Mediterranean and Corbières vineyards, Narbonne is a destination full of surprises.
As locals, we have explored everything this city has to offer – from its rich history to its scenic walks and cultural highlights. Whether you are here for a day or planning a longer stay, this guide will help you experience Narbonne like a true insider.
1. Narbonne’s Historic Landmarks
With a history spanning over 2,000 years, Narbonne is a city with a significant past. Established by the Romans in 118 BC, few people know that Narbonne was the first Roman colony outside of Italy and an important Mediterranean port – facts that make the city so interesting to visit!
Today, remains of Narbonne’s Roman past can be found throughout the city, alongside impressive examples of medieval and Gothic architecture. Must-see historic landmarks in Narbonne include:
Narbonne Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Just et Saint-Pasteur): A Gothic Masterpiece
In the heart of Narbonne is an unfinished but stunning Gothic cathedral with impressive stained glass windows and beautiful stone cloisters.
Personal Tip: For a unique rooftop view of Narbonne Cathedral, climb to the top of the Donjon Gilles Aycelin!
Palais des Archevêques (Archbishop’s Palace): A Fortress in the Heart of the City
The Palais des Archevêques is a historic palace that houses one of the city’s museums. There are also magnificent panoramic views from the Gilles Aycelin Donjon (keep).
Personal Tip: After visiting the Archbishop’s Palace, don’t miss the gardens with manicured topiary trees. From time to time, there are some fabulous temporary art exhibits in the shadow of the Cathedral and the Palace.
Pont des Marchands: A Bridge with a Story
The Pont des Marchands is a picturesque medieval bridge that once connected Narbonne’s bustling market district to the rest of the city. Its arches span the Canal de la Robine, adding a charming touch to Narbonne’s historic landscape.
Personal Tip: If you cross the Pont des Marchands from the direction of the Place de l’Hôtel de Ville, walk straight ahead for one minute to discover the Place des Quatre Fontaines. This is a charming square with a quirky octagonal-based fountain surrounded by boutique shops.
Via Domitia: Walking in Roman Footsteps
The Via Domitia is the remains of a fascinating Roman road in the heart of the Narbonne visible in the Place de l’Hôtel de Ville. This attractive square is located right in front of the Donjon Gilles Aycelin and the Palais des Archevêques.
Personal Tip: If you visit Narbonne during the festive period, it is likely that the Via Domitia will be covered by the Christmas installations!
2. Museums & Cultural Highlights in Narbonne
Narbonne is a city rich in history and culture. Its museums and cultural sites offer a deeper understanding of the region’s past. From Roman artefacts to medieval art, the city’s museums display a diverse range of exhibitions.
Beyond its historical landmarks, Narbonne also boasts a lively contemporary cultural scene, with a dynamic theatre programme at its Théâtre+Cinéma Scène Nationale and exciting performances at the Stade de la Méditerranée.
From ancient Roman relics to vibrant contemporary arts, Narbonne’s museums and cultural spaces offer something for every history and culture lover. Here are some must-visit spots in Narbonne to immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage:
Musée Narbo Via: Discover Ancient Narbonne
The Musée Narbo Via is a modern museum with a classic Roman villa design that charts Narbonne’s Roman history. The museum’s collection includes more than 6,000 pieces, including impressive mosaics and sculptures. One of the highlights is a collection of more than 1,000 ancient stone funerary stones excavated from the city’ medieval walls.
Personal Tip: Park for free in the theatre car park. The museum is a short 4-minute walk away. Alternatively, enjoy a 20-minute walk along the Canal de la Robine from the Place de l’Hôtel de Ville in the centre of Narbonne.
Horreum Romain: Underground Roman Storehouses
One of Narbonne’s unique archaeological sites is the well-preserved underground Roman stores that date to the 1st century BC.
This intriguing site features extensive underground passages that children and adults alike will love exploring! It is also the perfect place to escape the summer heat!
3. The Canal de la Robine & Waterfront Areas in Narbonne
Winding through the heart of Narbonne is the Canal de la Robine, a UNESCO-listed waterway that is a branch of the famous Canal du Midi. Whether you’re strolling along its scenic banks, exploring the lively markets, or enjoying a boat ride, the waterfront area offers plenty of ways to experience Narbonne’s relaxed southern French atmosphere.
Canal de la Robine: A Scenic Waterway
The Canal de la Robine is not just a historic waterway but also one of the city’s most picturesque spots. Lined with plane trees that provide welcome shade in the warmer months, it offers a beautiful setting for a leisurely walk or bike ride.
Along the banks of the canal, the Promenade des Barques and Cours Mirabeau invite you to relax and soak up the Mediterranean sun. Enjoy one of the many bars and restaurants that line the canal or browse the local markets that frequently take place here.
Crossing the Pont des Marchands (one of the few remaining inhabited bridges in France) only adds to the charm, with its row of shops that recall the city’s medieval past.
Personal Tip: If you are looking for an authentic French restaurant along the canal, some of our favourite spots include En Face and Le Quai.
Les Halles de Narbonne: A Food Lover’s Paradise
Just steps from the canal, Les Halles de Narbonne is one of the most renowned indoor markets in southern France. Housed in a beautiful 19th-century pavilion, the market is a lively hub where locals shop for fresh produce, meats, seafood and regional specialties.
Open every morning, it’s the perfect place to experience the flavours of the region and soak up the authentic atmosphere.
Personal Tip: For a unique food experience, don’t miss eating at Chez Bebelle in Les Halles. To avoid disappointment, arrive just before midday from Tuesday-Saturday.
4. Narbonne’s Hidden Gems & Local Experiences
Beyond its well-known landmarks, Narbonne has plenty of hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. From secret medieval passageways to ancient Roman ruins and lively local markets, these lesser-known spots offer a deeper connection to the city’s rich history and daily life. Here are some unique experiences that will make your visit even more special:
Gilles Aycelin Donjon: A Tower with a View of Narbonne
For one of the best panoramic views over Narbonne, climb to the top of the Donjon Gilles Aycelin, a medieval tower attached to the Palais des Archevêques in the centre of Narbonne.
Built in the late 13th century, this imposing structure offers a breathtaking 360-degree perspective of the city’s rooftops, the Canal de la Robine and even the distant Pyrenees on a clear day.
The Old Streets and La Louve de Narbonne
Wandering through Narbonne’s old streets is like stepping back in time. As you explore, keep an eye out for centuries-old façades, hidden courtyards and architectural details that tell the story of Narbonne’s medieval heart and its links to Roman times.
Hidden among the winding alleys, look out for a replica of the She-Wolf of Romulus and Remus gifted to the city by Rome in 1982 to celebrate Narbonne’s 2,100th birthday!
Personal Tip: The sculpture is located high above the street on an archway that leads to the Forum Square. You can see the original gifted reproduction of La Louve du Capitole at the Palais des Archevêques.
Clos de la Lombarde: Narbonne’s Forgotten Roman Ruins
While Narbonne’s Via Domitia is a well-known Roman relic, the Clos de la Lombarde is a true hidden gem. This little-visited archaeological site reveals the remains of a Roman residential area, complete with mosaic floors, murals and remnants of thermal baths.
Excavations have uncovered valuable insights into daily life in ancient Narbo Martius (Narbonne), making it a fascinating stop for history lovers.
Narbonne’s Weekly Markets & Festive Christmas Market
Markets are at the heart of life in Narbonne, offering a vibrant way to experience the local culture. In addition to the famous Les Halles de Narbonne, there are regular outdoor markets in Narbonne that take place several times a week, selling everything from fresh produce to antiques.
If you visit Narbonne in December, don’t miss the Narbonne Christmas Market. At this time, the city transforms into a winter wonderland with festive chalets, twinkling lights and seasonal treats.
5. Food Experiences in Narbonne
No visit to Narbonne is complete without indulging in its food scene. From bustling markets to fine dining, the city offers a mix of traditional flavours and modern gastronomy. Whether you’re savouring fresh seafood, discovering regional wines or enjoying a lively meal at a local restaurant, Narbonne is a great spot for food lovers.
Les Grands Buffets: A Feast for the Senses
One of Narbonne’s most famous dining experiences, Les Grands Buffets, is a must for those who love variety and indulgence. Known for offering the largest self-serve selection of French cuisine in the world, it’s a celebration of regional flavours, featuring everything from foie gras and seafood to an impressive cheese counter and a mouthwatering dessert spread.
Personal Tip: To experience this unique and unforgettable dining experience, book in advance! Les Grands Buffets in Narbonne is incredibly popular!
Les Halles de Narbonne: The Heart of Local Gastronomy
A visit to Les Halles de Narbonne, the city’s famous covered market, is an experience in itself. Open every morning, this vibrant market is the perfect place to soak up the local atmosphere while sampling the best of the region’s produce.
Stop by one of the seafood stalls for fresh oysters, taste locally made cheeses and charcuterie or enjoy a coffee while watching the locals go about their daily shopping.
Personal Tip: Inside the market, Chez Bebelle is a standout, where the owner theatrically shouts orders across the aisles to butchers, who toss fresh meat that is cooked straight on the grill.
Wine & Vineyard Experiences Near Narbonne
As the former capital of Roman Gaul, Narbonne has a rich winemaking tradition, and the surrounding Languedoc vineyards produce some of the best wines in France.
One unique place to enjoy a tasting is Fontfroide Abbey, where Cistercian monks cultivated vineyards for centuries. Today, the abbey continues this tradition, producing elegant reds, whites, and rosés that can be sampled on-site in a peaceful and historic setting.
For those looking to explore further, Château de l’Hospitalet, located in the Massif de la Clape, is another fantastic option. This award-winning vineyard offers tastings paired with gourmet food, all set against a backdrop of rolling hills and Mediterranean landscapes.
Traditional Regional Specialties to Try During Your Stay in Narbonne
Narbonne’s food scene is deeply rooted in local traditions. Here are a few must-try dishes:
- Cassoulet – A rich, slow-cooked dish of white beans, duck and Toulouse sausage. A hearty staple of southern France that originates from Castelnaudary.
- La Tielle Sétoise – A delicious octopus and tomato pie, originally from nearby Sète but popular in Narbonne’s markets.
- Bourride – A Mediterranean fish stew similar to bouillabaisse, typically made with monkfish and a garlic aioli sauce. Another dish that originates from Sète.
- Grilled seafood – Thanks to Narbonne’s proximity to the coast, fresh seafood such as mussels, clams and sea bass are menu favourites.
6. Nature & Outdoor Spots Near Narbonne
Surrounded by stunning landscapes, Narbonne offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you want to explore historic abbeys, relax on sandy beaches, or spot wildlife in the nearby lagoons, the region’s natural beauty is never far away.
Fontfroide Abbey: History in a Stunning Natural Setting
Nestled in the Corbières hills just outside Narbonne, Fontfroide Abbey is a beautifully preserved former Cistercian monastery surrounded by vineyards and Mediterranean pine forest.
Visitors can explore the abbey’s cloisters, gardens, and Romanesque church while soaking up the peaceful atmosphere.
To learn more about this historic abbey and what to see during your visit, check out our detailed guide to Fontfroide Abbey.
Narbonne-Plage: Sun, Sea and Sand
Just 15 kilometres from the city, Narbonne-Plage boasts a long, sandy beach perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. This laid-back coastal spot is a favourite among locals and visitors alike, offering a more relaxed alternative to the busier resorts along the Mediterranean.
A scenic drive through the Massif de la Clape (a protected natural park), makes the journey to the beach just as enjoyable as the destination. Find out more in our Narbonne-Plage beach guide.
Gruissan: Coastal Charm and Wildlife
A short drive from Narbonne, the seaside village of Gruissan is famous for its five stunning beaches, traditional stilted chalets and fresh seafood.
Overlooking the village, the Tour Barberousse (Redbeard’s Tower) offers spectacular views over the circulade (circular village), lagoons and pink salt flats.
Gruissan is also a fantastic spot for nature lovers, with trails through the wetlands where you can observe local birdlife, including flamingos. Discover the best spots in our guide to Gruissan’s beaches.
Bages-Sigean Lagoon: A Haven for Flamingos and Nature Lovers
Between the villages of Bages and Peyriac-de-Mer, the Étang de Bages-Sigean is a vast lagoon teeming with wildlife. This peaceful natural area is perfect for birdwatching, with flamingos often spotted wading in the shallow waters.
A wooden boardwalk at Peyriac-de-Mer allows visitors to walk across the lagoon, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Parc de la Campane: A Green Escape in Narbonne
For a quiet retreat within Narbonne itself, Parc de la Campane offers a lush, shaded space ideal for a relaxing stroll or picnic. With its well-maintained walking paths, Mediterranean vegetation, pine forests and peaceful setting, it’s a great spot to take a break from sightseeing and enjoy a moment of tranquillity.
Final Thoughts About Things to Do in Narbonne …
Narbonne is a city that blends rich history, scenic waterways, vibrant markets and a thriving food and wine scene, all set against the backdrop of the Mediterranean sunshine.
Whether you’re exploring its Roman past, strolling along the Canal de la Robine, discovering hidden gems or indulging in the local cuisine, Narbonne offers a truly authentic taste of southern France.
With its unique mix of culture, nature and gastronomy, it’s a destination that invites you to slow down and experience the charm of ‘la belle vie‘.
