What to See and Do in Béziers France 2025

Béziers

The small city of Béziers is a hidden gem in the South of France.  Situated roughly halfway between Marseille and Barcelona, Béziers is often overlooked by visitors.  However, this Mediterranean city in Occitanie has lots to offer and is definitely worth visiting!

With its rich history, vibrant culture, and attractive landscapes, Béziers is one of the oldest cities in France and truly offers visitors an authentic French experience.  Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply in search of charming streets to explore, Béziers has something for everyone.

View of Béziers
View of Béziers

In this guide, we’ll share insider tips on the best sights and unique experiences that you won’t want to miss.  Get ready to discover the real Béziers, as recommended by those who know it best— the locals.

Sarah & Olivier
Sarah & Olivier

17 Best Things to See and Do in Béziers France

Béziers is in an attractive city that rises up above the banks of the River Orb.  You can’t miss the magnificent Saint Nazaire Cathedral that dominates the skyline of Béziers.  However, there are plenty of other things to see and do in this surprising city.

1. Explore Béziers Old Town

No visit to Béziers is complete without a visit to its old historical centre.  In the narrow-cobbled streets of Béziers Old Town above the River Orb, you will discover many historical monuments and charming squares.  Look out for the unique trompe-l’œil frescoes that bring to life the history of Béziers in a unique way!

Béziers Old Town
Béziers Old Town

Personal Tip: Park for free in the Parking du Pont Vieux.  This is a large car park directly opposite Béziers Old Town on the other side of the River Orb.

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If you follow our personal tip, you can then walk across the Pont Vieux and up into the heart of Béziers Old Town via the superb Orb-Cathédrale trail

Orb-Cathedrale Trail
Orb-Cathedrale Trail

This 650 m long trail of metal footbridges, lifts and steps enables visitors to easily ascend the 42 metres between the River Orb and the Cathedral square.

Acropole Lift to Historic Centre of Béziers
Acropole Lift to Historic Centre of Béziers

Don’t miss the fabulous panoramic views over the River Orb and beyond from the top!  On a clear day, you can even see the Pyrenees!

View from Béziers Old Town
View from Béziers Old Town

Also look out for the Nine Locks (Les 9 Écluses de Fonseranes).  This is a favourite place for locals to walk and enjoy life on the Canal du Midi on the outskirts of Béziers.

2. Cross the Pont Vieux (Old Bridge) de Béziers France

Bézier’s Pont Vieux dates to 1134 and is classified as a French Monument Historique.  Recently, this magnificent bridge has been carefully restored.  Its 15 arches span the River Orb enabling pedestrians and cyclists to cross the water in the footsteps of bygone inhabitants.

Pont Vieux
Pont Vieux

The Pont Vieux is also a great vantage point to admire the skyline of historic Béziers and to capture some stunning photographs!

3. Stay in a Prison Cell at the Hôtel La Prison Béziers France

If you are looking for an atypical place to stay or eat in Béziers, check out the Hôtel de la Prison!  That’s right!  The former Béziers prison has been transformed from a place of austerity into a 3-star hotel and bistro restaurant.

Hôtel la Prison Béziers
Hôtel la Prison Béziers

You won’t be surprised to learn that your overnight accommodation will be in a prison cell!  The former prison cells have been cleverly converted into hotel rooms.  From the outdoor swimming pool and Le Bistro de la Prison, you can also enjoy breath-taking panoramic views of surrounding countryside.

4. Climb the Bell Tower of the Saint Nazaire Cathedral (La Cathédrale Saint-Nazaire-et-Saint-Celse)

Another place in Béziers that offers a spectacular view is the Saint Nazaire and Saint Celse Cathedral.  By standing in front of the Cathedral you can enjoy stunning views across the Languedoc plain towards the Montagne Noire and the Pyrenees

View of Montagne Noire from Béziers Cathedral
View of Montagne Noire from Béziers Cathedral

This fortified Gothic style Cathedral crowns the Roman and medieval ramparts of the old part of the city of Béziers.  This majestic Cathedral and its peaceful cloisters are free to visit and are also classified as a French Monument Historique.

Saint Nazaire Cathedral Béziers
Saint Nazaire Cathedral Béziers

Records show the existence of a structure on the site of the Cathedral since the 8th century. However, the original Cathedral was destroyed in 1209 during the Albigensian Crusade against the Cathars. Today’s Cathedral was rebuilt on the ruins of this Romanesque cathedral in the middle of the 13th century.

Béziers Cathedral
Béziers Cathedral

Personal Tip: Don’t miss out on climbing to the top of the 48-metre-high bell tower!  For a small donation you can hike up the 165 steps of the narrow spiral staircase from 10:00-12:30 and 13:30-17:30. The reward is unforgettable bird’s eye panoramic views!

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View from Bell Tower Saint Nazaire Cathedral Béziers
View from Bell Tower Saint Nazaire Cathedral Béziers

5. Relax in Béziers’ Peaceful Squares

In the old part of Béziers France, you will find plenty of charming small squares (or ‘places’ in French) where you can sit and relax, enjoy a drink, or eat.  Take your time and enjoy finding some of our recommendations.

Statue of Raimond Roger Trencavel
Statue of Raimond-Roger Trencavel

La Place de la Révolution (Revolution Square)

Directly behind the Cathedral, you will find La Place de la Révolution (Revolution Square). 

View Towards Place du Forum
View Towards Place du Forum

This peaceful spot in the shadow of the Cathedral has a fountain and shade giving trees.  It’s a lovely place to relax for a few minutes or to eat outdoors in the summer months.

La Place du Forum (Forum Square)

If you follow the cobbled Rue Viennet from the Place de la Révolution, you will stumble across La Place du Forum (Forum Square).

Béziers Town Hall
Béziers Town Hall

Here you will find plenty of restaurants and cafés.  In addition, the Tourist Office and impressive Town Hall are only a few steps away.

La Place de la Madeleine (Magdalene Square)

Alternatively, 4-minutes on foot from the Place du Forum, you will discover the pretty Place de la Madeleine (Magdalene Square). 

Place de la Madeleine, Béziers
Place de la Madeleine, Béziers

This square is dominated by the Church of Saint Mary Magdalene (L’Église de la Madeleine) and is another picturesque spot to eat and drink.  There is also an annual sound and light show here during the summer months.

La Place Jean-Jaurès (Jean-Jaurès Square)

In the centre of Béziers, don’t miss out on a visit to the Place Jean-Jaurès.  This popular square has a central water feature and is situated at the end of a promenade called the Allées Paul Riquet.

Place Jean-Jaurès Béziers
Place Jean-Jaurès Béziers

Throughout the year, colourful musical fountain shows take place in the Place Jean-Jaurès.  These change according to the season and events taking place in the city. Don’t miss the magical Christmas Illuminations in Béziers that are displayed here each year!

Fountains and Christmas Lights at Béziers
Fountains and Christmas Lights at Béziers

Surrounding the Place Jean-Jaurès are also many restaurants with outdoor terraces.  This is a popular spot with locals and tourists alike and is often bustling with activity.

6. Step Back in Time at the Church of Saint Mary Magdalene (L’Église de la Madeleine)

If you are interested in the Cathars, visit the Church of Saint Mary Magdalene to learn about its sad and poignant history.

Église de la Madeleine
Église de la Madeleine

During the Albigensian Crusade in 1209, many men, women and children took refuge in this church.  Regardless of their beliefs, they were slaughtered in the church by armies led by Simon de Montfort.

Today, this church that dates to the 11th century is classified as a French Monument Historique in view of its historical significance.

7. Stroll Along the Paul Riquet Promenade (Allées Paul Riquet)

The Allées Paul Riquet is a 650 m long promenade in the heart of historic Béziers.  It stretches from the city’s beautiful Italian style theatre to the Plateau des Poètes garden.  The Place Jean-Jaurès also borders this much-loved promenade.

Allées Paul Riquet Béziers
Allées Paul Riquet Béziers

In fact, the Allées Paul Riquet are named after a very famous resident of Béziers called Pierre-Paul Riquet.

Thanks to the ingenuity of this local man, the remarkable Canal du Midi was built to connect Toulouse with the Mediterranean Sea.  In the centre of the promenade, you will find a bronze statue in memory of him and his engineering achievement.

Statue of Pierre-Paul Riquet
Statue of Pierre-Paul Riquet

The Allées Paul Riquet are always a hive of activity.  Along this tree-lined promenade, you will find many bars, restaurants, and shops.  In addition to a weekly flea market and flower market, major festive events and celebrations also take place here throughout the year including Béziers Christmas Market.

Sarah at Béziers Christmas Market
Sarah at Béziers Christmas Market

8. Cool Off in the Poet’s Garden (Plateau des Poètes)

The Plateau des Poètes is a lovely spot to enjoy a picnic in the centre of Béziers. It’s also a great place to find some shade in the hot summer months.

This well-kept 5-hectare garden was opened in 1867 to connect the theatre with the station and is listed as a Monument Historique. Within these attractive gardens, you will find many botanical plants and trees plus rock gardens, a pond with wildlife and even a grassy amphitheatre!

Other things to see include the impressive Titan’s Fountain (Fontaine du Titan) complete with mini waterfalls.  In this peaceful setting, also look out for the city’s War Memorial and sculptured busts of various Occitan speaking poets. The name of the park is in honour of them.

9. Follow Béziers’ Historical Frescoes Trail

One of the unique things to do in Béziers is to discover the many historical trompe-l’œil frescoes that you will find all over the city.

Historical Frescoes Béziers
Historical Frescoes Béziers

This is a free activity that all ages will enjoy.  Following this historical treasure trail is a great way to get a sense of the rich history of Béziers.  Click here to download the historical fresco trail.

10. Navigate the Orb Canal Bridge (Le Pont-Canal de L’Orb)

Another unique sight in Béziers is the Orb Canal Bridge or Le Pont-Canal de l’Orb.  This extraordinary bridge or aqueduct was constructed in 1857. It enabled boats travelling on the Canal du Midi to cross the River Orb.

Le Pont Canal
Le Pont Canal

The sight of the Canal du Midi crossing the River Orb via this bridge is truly memorable. Although you might be lucky enough to navigate the Orb Canal Bridge by boat, you can also experience it on foot!

One of our favourite things to do in Béziers is to walk across the bridge right next to the canal.  The views are great and it’s always fun to watch pleasure boats pass by on the Canal du Midi.  There are also some great views of the Béziers skyline from the bridge.

Canal du Midi on the Pont Canal
Canal du Midi on the Pont Canal

If you keep following the canal, you will eventually arrive at the Nine Locks (Les 9 Écluses de Fonseranes).  Walking the Canal du Midi at Béziers should not be missed!

Personal Tip: To take some great photos of the Orb Canal Bridge, climb down the steps to reach the riverbank below.

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11. Marvel at The Nine Locks at Béziers (Les 9 Écluses de Fonseranes)

Just on the outskirts of Béziers, you will find another unique sight that should not be missed! 

The Nine Locks (Les 9 Écluses de Fonseranes) are an impressive water staircase of locks on the Canal du Midi that were also designed by Pierre-Paul Riquet.  However, there is much more to discover at the attractive UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Nine Locks.

Les 9 Écluses de Fonseranes
Les 9 Écluses de Fonseranes

Personal Tip: To learn more about the Nine Locks at Béziers and to make the most of your visit, don’t miss our informative article about Les 9 Écluses de Fonseranes.

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12. Enjoy Outdoor Activities and Entertainment at the Scène de Bayssan

Another interesting thing to do whilst in Béziers is to visit the Scène de Bayssan.  This 160-hectare space is for culture and leisure activities. It is situated on the outskirts of Béziers close to the A9 motorway.

Scène de Bayssan Béziers
Scène de Bayssan Béziers

At the Scène de Bayssan you can enjoy live performances and visual art events at affordable prices in its theatre and amphitheatre. There are also free outdoor recreational facilities for children and adults.

Theatre at Scène de Bayssan
Theatre at Scène de Bayssan

During June and July, you can experience ‘Les Nuits de Bayssan’ Festival.  During the Festival, you can enjoy evenings of music and performing arts from national and international performers.

There are also many free events and activities for children to enjoy.  For children aged 1-12, there is an enormous playground called the ‘Petit Patapon’.  This features over 30 activities including slides, a mini rock-climbing wall and zip line.

Playground at Scène de Bayssan
Playground at Scène de Bayssan

Older children can enjoy a skate park and multi-sport facilities including basketball hoops, football goals plus table tennis. There are also various fitness and mountain bike circuits to keep everyone entertained.

Fitness and Mountain Bike Circuits at Scène de Bayssan
Fitness and Mountain Bike Circuits at Scène de Bayssan

The playground is open every day from 08:30 until 20:00. It is the perfect place to entertain bored children and adults!

13. Immerse Yourself in Béziers’ Markets

Another great thing to do in Béziers is to visit one of its many weekly markets.  This is a great way to discover delicious regional products, support local producers and to immerse yourself in local life.

French Market Stall
French Market Stall

Fortunately, Béziers is full of small markets including a recently renovated covered market (Les Halles), flea market, flower market and fruit and vegetable market. The markets in Béziers have something for everyone!

Les Halles Béziers
Les Halles Béziers

Personal Tip: Les Halles in Béziers are closed on Mondays. Opening hours for the rest of the week are: Tuesday-Saturday: 08:00-15:00 and 18:00-23:00 and Sunday: 08:00-15:00

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14. Check Out the Open-Air Polygone Shopping Centre

Although the climate in the South of France is fabulous, we do get rain from time to time!  If this happens, Béziers has a large shopping centre called the Polygone.  This has over 100 shops, plus restaurants, a cinema and bowling arcade.

Polygone Shopping Centre Béziers
Polygone Shopping Centre Béziers

In fact, the Polygone is a very attractive open-air shopping centre, but the covered walkways will keep you dry!  It’s also a great place to relax on hot days amongst the attractive greenery and fishponds!

15. Enjoy Free Summer Sound and Light Shows in Béziers France

During the warm summer evenings, the city of Béziers also comes alive with its many free sound and light shows.

During July and August at 22:30 and 23:00, take your seats inside the Saint Nazaire Cathedral to enjoy a spectacular interior sound and light show. Alternatively, head to the Saint Magdalena Church, sit in the square and watch the stunning projections that illuminate its exterior walls. 

Finally, don’t forget about the colourful fountain displays in the Place Jean-Jaurès! These also take place during the festive period leading up to Christmas.

Béziers Fountain Display at Christmas
Béziers Fountain Display at Christmas

16. Head to the Beaches Near Béziers France

If you fancy a day by the sea, Béziers is also close to some stunning Mediterranean beaches!

Valras Plage
Valras Plage

In fact, there are four long sandy beaches in Hérault approximately 30 minutes by car from the centre of Béziers:

17. Experience the Béziers Féria (Féria de Béziers)

Another unique thing to do in Béziers is to experience the biggest annual event in Occitanie called the Féria de Béziers.

Every year in mid-August, Béziers becomes the French ‘Seville’.  A million visitors flock to the city to experience prestigious bullfighting events in the Bèziers Arena (Arènes de Béziers). Whilst not for everyone, this colourful extravaganza is a unique experience.

Is Béziers Worth Visiting?

View of Béziers from Les 9 Écluses
View of Béziers from Les 9 Écluses

Béziers in the South of France is definitely worth visiting.  It’s an authentic place with a rich history and vibrant atmosphere.  There are also plenty of things to see and do. So, whether you are visiting for one day or longer, this less touristy hidden gem in Occitanie has something for everyone.

About the Author

Sarah De Winne creates and edits content for the Occitanie Travel website and YouTube channel.  She has a professional background in education and is passionate about sharing quality and engaging information.  Sarah currently lives in Occitanie in southern France.

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