Last Updated on: 6th March 2025, 02:28 am
Discovering the Hidden Charm of Narbonne, Southern France As I found myself house-sitting for two gorgeous cats in Beziers in the south of France, I was itching for a day out that wouldn't take me too far away. The picturesque city of Narbonne caught my eye, and with its rich history and Roman heritage, it seemed like the perfect destination for an impromptu adventure. Having been to Narbonne before, I knew it was well worth revisiting – and this time, I had plenty of time to soak up its unique atmosphere. Narbonne's location makes it an ideal day trip from Beziers, with a mere 15-minute train ride separating the two cities. The abundance of trains throughout the day ensures that you can make the most of your visit without feeling rushed or worried about transportation. With Narbonne as your base, you can explore its historic charm, Roman ruins, and tranquil canals at your own pace. A Brief History of Narbonne Narbonne's history dates back to 118 BCE, when it was founded as the Roman colony of Narbo Martius – making it the first Roman settlement in Gaul. Its strategic location on the Via Domitia, the ancient road linking Italy to Spain, cemented its importance as a hub for trade and commerce. During the medieval period, Narbonne flourished as a major port and ecclesiastical centre, home to a prominent archbishopric. Although the silting of the Aude River diminished its status as a port over time, Narbonne's rich history remains evident in landmarks such as the Narbonne Cathedral, the Horreum (a Roman underground warehouse), and the Archbishop’s Palace. Making the Most of Your One Day in Narbonne To get the most out of your day in Narbonne, start by arriving at the city centre. The train station is just a 10-minute walk from the town, and clearly signposted into town – making it easy to find your way around. As you stroll through the charming streets, head towards Les Halles de Narbonne, the famous indoor market filled with local vendors. Les Halles de Narbonne Begin your day by grabbing breakfast at this bustling market. Enjoy a fresh croissant or some pastries, and take in the lively atmosphere as you people-watch. This is a great place to start your day, getting you accustomed to the local pace and setting the tone for the rest of your adventure. Visit Narbonne Cathedral Next, make your way to the impressive Gothic cathedral, Cathédrale Saint-Just et Saint-Pasteur. Built between 1272 and 1340, this stunning building boasts towering arches and breathtaking stained glass windows. Be sure to pop into the cloisters next door, where you can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and take in some of the surrounding architecture. Explore the Palais des Archevêques Just adjacent to the cathedral is the Palais des Archevêques (Archbishop’s Palace), which houses several museums – including the Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Art and History. The exhibits showcase artefacts from Narbonne’s Roman past and its medieval history, providing a wealth of information about this fascinating city. Wandering the Streets of the Historic Centre In addition to visiting these major sites, don't miss out on simply wandering along the back streets and immersing yourself in the 'Frenchness' of it all. You can also enjoy a spot of shopping on Rue Jean Jaures – where you can find unique local treasures or souvenirs to remember your day in Narbonne. Enjoy Lunch by the Canal de la Robine Head to one of the many restaurants along the Canal de la Robine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 31-kilometre-long canal provides a link between the Canal du Midi and the Mediterranean Sea via Narbonne. Enjoy a leisurely meal of regional dishes like cassoulet or seafood, accompanied by a glass or two of local wine. Stroll Along the Canal After lunch, take a leisurely walk along the canal's shaded pathways – getting some exercise while soaking up the scenery. Boat trips are available on the canal from 1 April to 31 October, but not in mid-January, when I visited. Visit the Horreum Before heading back, stop by the Horreum, an underground Roman warehouse that offers a glimpse into Narbonne's role as an ancient trading hub. Although it was closed on Mondays – which is what day it was when I visited – you can still explore this fascinating piece of history during its operating hours. Dinner or Aperitif by the Canal If time allows, enjoy an early dinner or aperitif at a café near the canal – where you can watch the world go by and take in the tranquil atmosphere. However, with two hungry cats to feed and it being January, the temperature drops quite quickly in the evening; for me, it was time to return to Beziers. Top Tips for Spending One Day in Narbonne Before planning your day out, here are some top tips to ensure you make the most of your visit: - Tickets: Buy your train tickets in advance through Trainline, Omio or SNCF – or purchase them at the station for convenience. - Comfort: Wear comfortable walking shoes; as Narbonne's main attractions are all within walking distance, but involve walking along cobblestone streets. - Timings: Most attractions close by 5:30–6:00 PM. Some places, like the Archbishop’s Palace, even close for lunch – so plan accordingly. Is Narbonne Worth Visiting? Yes, most definitely. Narbonne makes an ideal day trip with its rich history, vibrant markets, and tranquil canals. With its unique blend of Roman and medieval charm, this beautiful city is sure to captivate your senses and leave you wanting more.
