The Archbishop’s Palace

I began my exploration at the Archbishop’s Palace, located right on the main square, Place d’Hotel de Ville. I purchased a €23 “Pass Musées Narbonne,” which granted me access to all areas of the palace and several other local attractions.

The palace, dating back to the 1200s, underwent substantial renovations after World War II and now serves as a museum. The courtyard is adorned with striking contemporary art, while some ground floor rooms host temporary exhibitions that are free to visit.

The DonJon Tower

My next stop was the “donjon,” or main tower of the fortress. Climbing the 42-meter stairwell rewarded me with breathtaking views of Narbonne’s historic center, including the palace, cathedral, and the charming canals running through the city.

The Art and History Museum of Narbonne

In the palace, I also visited the Museum of Art and History of Narbonne, which showcases an array of fine and decorative arts, including paintings, ceramics, and furniture. After an hour of exploring the exhibits, I descended the grand staircase to continue my adventure.

Saint Just & Saint Pasteur Cathedral

Next on my list was the stunning Cathedral of Saints Justus and Pastor, accessible from the Archbishop’s Palace courtyard or the street when the palace is closed. Though construction began in the 1200s, it remains unfinished. Inside, you’ll discover colorful stained-glass windows and a serene Gothic cloister.

Les Halles de Narbonne

At the end of Pont de la Liberté, Les Halles de Narbonne awaits, a bustling food market open daily until early afternoon. Here, you can shop for fresh produce, local cheeses, and meats while enjoying light meals available from various stalls. I highly recommend visiting Compose It, a nearby restaurant, for a delectable lunch made with seasonal ingredients from the market.

Roman Horreum

My museum pass allowed access to the Roman Horreum, an ancient network of underground tunnels that once stored goods for traders. Though many tunnels are now empty, several display fascinating artifacts. Families with children seemed to enjoy their visits, often spending longer exploring these historical depths.

Canal de la Robine

The Canal de la Robine runs through Narbonne, part of the UNESCO-listed Canal du Midi. I took a delightful hour-long boat ride through the six locks aboard a historic wooden vessel, a perfect way to appreciate the beauty of the area.

Narbo Via Museum

At the Narbo Via Museum, I discovered the mechanical lapidarium, displaying over 700 stone carvings. The museum shines a light on the history of Narbo Martius, offering deep insights into the first Roman colony outside Italy.

Clos de la Lombarde

Tucked behind old buildings, the Clos de la Lombarde is an archaeological site where ruins from the Narbo Martius settlement were uncovered. Guided tours provide a glimpse into the past, showcasing ancient thermal baths and basilicas.

Cours Mirabeau & The Narbonne Weekly Market

On Thursdays and Sundays, Cours Mirabeau buzzes with local markets selling everything from fresh produce to handcrafted goods. It’s a vibrant place to grab a bite and soak in the local culture.

Pont des Marchands

The historic Pont des Marchands features a unique layout with homes along both sides of a pedestrian pathway. Walking across it, I marveled at its nearly 2000-year-old foundations that connect ancient Narbo Martius to medieval settlements.

Via Domitia

Just outside the Archbishop’s Palace, you can stand on the Via Domitia, the ancient Roman road that once connected Spain to Italy, allowing a unique touchpoint with history.

Les Grands Buffets de Narbonne

No visit to Narbonne is complete without experiencing Les Grands Buffets, a renowned all-you-can-eat restaurant famous for its vast cheese selection and culinary delights. Reservations are essential, often months in advance.

Place des 4 Fontaines

Place des Quatre Fontaines is a picturesque square featuring whimsical art on a tall fountain. Nearby cafes are ideal for sipping coffee while enjoying the cool water, particularly refreshing on hot days.

Trompe l’oeil Murals in Narbonne

Don’t miss the stunning trompe l’oeil murals on Rue de la Monnaie, which cleverly create the illusion of vintage shops, allowing you a delightful photographic experience that feels like stepping into another era.

The Birthplace of Charles Trenet

Explore the museum dedicated to Charles Trenet, the famous French singer born here. Even if you’re not familiar with his music, the charming home offers a glimpse into mid-20th century French life.

Abbaye de Frontfroide

While I missed visiting Abbaye de Frontfroide, located about twenty kilometers southwest of Narbonne, it’s highly regarded for its scenic beauty and wine production. If you have a car, it’s certainly worth a visit.

Day Trips from Narbonne

Narbonne is well-connected to several destinations perfect for day trips. Consider visiting:

• Béziers – A quick train ride takes you to Béziers, famous for its historic sites.
• Gruissan – A village known for its picturesque market and unique salt flats.
• Perpignan – The vibrant capital of French Catalonia.
• Carcassonne – A medieval fortress city worth exploring in depth.
• Sète – A hidden gem with lovely canals and Mediterranean beaches.
• Figueres – A high-speed train can whisk you away to the birthplace of Salvador Dali.