Distant from crowded communication centers and an intriguing atmosphere, the Southwestern region of France has much to offer tourists. Occitanie and Aquitaine’s regions are the hubs of traditional, cultural, and linguistic diversities evident from the heritage and architecture. Tourists worldwide admire Occitanie for its beautiful landscapes, cultural assortment, and adventure prospects. Besides these attractions, wine tours of Occitanie are among the most fun activities travelers enjoy. We list top-rated landmarks and fun things to do in Occitanie whenever you travel to the South Western French region.
Explore the History & Modernization of the Capital City Toulouse
Being the capital of Southwestern France situated along River Garonne, Toulouse holds a special place in the hearts of travelers. 12th Basilica of St. Sernin, Musee des Augustins displaying splendid sculptures and paintings, and Theatre du Capitole for cultural timeout are fantastic locations to visit. The presence of the National Space Research Center in Toulouse attracts a lot of Space lovers. These enthusiasts can visit Cite de l’espace, where the space theme will make you feel like an astronaut.
Discover the Wonders of Narbonne
Narbonne is an ancient city in southern France and a gateway to many scenic countrysides and cultural landmarks. French Rivera and Canal du Midi are the closest famous tourist landmarks. The City’s proximity to some of the quietest beaches on the Mediterranean makes it more adorned. Narbonne has remained a busy port in the past until the river changed its course over time. The City’s town square, the Narbonne Cathedral of Saint-Just et Saint-Pasteur of the 12th-century era, Archbishop’s Palace Gardens, and Palais Neuf are the most beautiful, historical, and architectural wonders you must see. Historic remnants of L’Horreum validate that the town of Narbonne has a long history yet to be unfolded.
Pay a Visit to the Religious Town of Lourdes
Fortunes fell upon the small town of Lourdes in the foothills of the Pyrenean mountains in the mid-19th century when the Virgin Marry visited a young girl. No trip to this town is possible without paying a visit to the city’s most religious site, the Sanctuary of Our Lady. Chateau Fort of the City had never been conquered in history and presently serves as an art museum. Pilgrimages mostly visit this City for its religious sites, including Le Source, The Holy Stairs, believed to be relocated by the mother of Roman Emperor Constantine from Jerusalem, and Chemin de Croix. You must not miss the Grottes de Betharram, a labyrinth of caves beneath the Pyrenees created over millions of years by erosion and natural phenomenon.
Ride along Canal du Midi
Canal du Midi is the most beautiful canal in France, and it is amongst the greatest works of the 17th century. Along with Canal de Garonne, this canal joins the Mediterranean with the Atlantic. You will also find uncountable sceneries astride 260 kilometers in Canal du Midi, where time seems to standstill. No cars or other vehicles are visible along the canal; only bicycles and riders move along the narrow pavements. Visitors love to find beautiful birds along the natural marshes and small lakes when riding and walking along the canal. History and architecture fans will also find a lot to discover when boating in the canal stream.
Too Much to Reconnoiter in Languedoc-Roussillon Region
Though not on a regular tourist’s map route, Languedoc-Roussillon attracts tourists through the rich Mediterranean charm and admirable cultural and historical sites. The weather and seaside beauty will make your holidays more enjoyable. Seven hundred thousand acres of Languedoc-Roussillon produce one-third of wine in France, including the famous Vin de Pays d’Oc. You can hike up the rocky gorges, trek to the hilltop castles, and sunbathe on the warm sandy beaches at the seaside resorts of Cap d’Agde and Port-Camargue. You must never miss the ‘Les Troubadours,’ a music festival celebrated throughout the region.
Enjoy the Adventures of Occitanie
There is no match to a hot air ballooning over dormant volcanoes of southwestern France with Pyrenees mountains in the background in Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park. Other adventurous activities not to be missed I Occitine are listed below: –
- You must plan paragliding in Ariege-Pyrenees for kids and families.
- Canoe escapades in Millau, Bayou Canoeing in Serignan, and other boat tour & water sports activities are suggested for fun and adventure.
- The rafting and water games of Tom Rafting in Villelongue and Granhota Canoe & Kayaking in Clermont-le-Fort are the most fun activities in the South.
- Occitanie is replete with water and air adventures for your next trip.
Discover the Town of Albi
Travelers love to see unique events and places; Albi Cathedral is one such place and architectural masterpiece that no one can miss. The red brick structure seems to change colors according to light and the time of the day. The 150 meters 11th century Pont Vieux is a wonder to see and is included in UNESCO World Heritage Sites. River Tarn, Hotel de Reynes, and Musee de la Mode, housing 12th-century painted ceilings, spiral staircases, and unique doors, are the significant attractions of Albi.
Take a Tour to Cite’ de Carcassonne
In the Southwestern French region of Languedoc-Roussillon, Carcassonne’s turreted towers and ramparts look like a fairy-tale scene. Cité de Carcassonne is a fortified city that has preserved a centuries-old medieval appearance most tourists love. Upon entering the town through majestic doors, you cross a drawbridge and land on narrow cobblestone streets packed with buildings that have maintained centuries-old character. The vineyards of Carcassonne are visited by hundreds of visitors annually. Some best wine production areas to be visited include Lomoux, Maleper, Cabarades, Minervois, and Cite de Carcassonne Wines.
Discover the Town of Albi
Travelers love to see unique events and places; Albi Cathedral is one such place and architectural masterpiece that no one can miss. The red brick structure seems to change colors according to light and the time of the day. The 150 meters 11th century Pont Vieux is a wonder to see and is included in UNESCO World Heritage Sites. River Tarn, Hotel de Reynes, and Musee de la Mode, housing 12th-century painted ceilings, spiral staircases, and unique doors, are the significant attractions of Albi.
Take a Tour to Cite’ de Carcassonne
In the Southwestern French region of Languedoc-Roussillon, Carcassonne’s turreted towers and ramparts look like a fairy-tale scene. Cité de Carcassonne is a fortified city that has preserved a centuries-old medieval appearance most tourists love. Upon entering the town through majestic doors, you cross a drawbridge and land on narrow cobblestone streets packed with buildings that have maintained centuries-old character. The vineyards of Carcassonne are visited by hundreds of visitors annually. Some best wine production areas to be visited include Lomoux, Maleper, Cabarades, Minervois, and Cite de Carcassonne Wines.
Montpellier & Nimes
Montpellier is like an open-air museum that displays its wonders in the shape of lush-green boulevards, artistically rich mansions, ancient public squares, and beautiful gardens. Place de la Comedie, Musee Fabre, Cathedrale Saint-Pierre, and Quartier Saint-Roch are top attractions in the City. Nimes is equally an attractive and historically rich city. Roman monuments and appealing ancient environments add to the charm of the town of Nimes. Ancient Roman Amphitheatre of 1st century AD, Maison Carree of 20 BC, Jardins de la Fontaine established around fortified parapets and Musee de la Romanite; the museum of Archeology will take you on a historical walk.
Skiing in Occitanie
Winter skiing is the only fun activity the family can enjoy during the snowy seasons. Having 346 lifts in nearly 33 ski resorts spread over 1002 kilometers of ski slopes, Occitanie is France’s most admired winter sports region. Grand Tourmalet is the most loved resort, whereas Saint-Lary-Soulan, Peyragudes, Luz Ardiden, and Piau-Engaly are the most attractive ski resorts in the Occitanie Region of Southern France.
