Categories: Montpellier Area, Occitanie, Off the Beaten Track in France
This episode features our frequent and very popular guest Elyse Rivin. If you enjoy her episodes, please consider supporting her on Patreon.
Béziers Travel Guide: Discover This Hidden Gem in Southern France
Is Béziers worth a visit? If you love history, wine, and stunning landscapes, the answer is yes! In this episode of Join Us in France, host Annie Sargent chats with Elyse Rivin of Toulouse Guided Walks about . Together, they share everything you need to know to make the most of your trip.
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Why Visit Béziers?
Béziers is one of the oldest cities in France. It dates back to Roman times and played a key role in the Cathar Crusades. Yet, it often gets overlooked in favor of more famous destinations like Montpellier or Carcassonne. That’s a mistake! Béziers offers medieval charm, breathtaking views, and delicious food and wine. Whether you're visiting for a day or a weekend, this Béziers Travel Guide will help you plan a memorable trip.
Top Things to Do in Béziers
Explore the Historic Center
Start your visit in the old town. Walk along the charming Rue de la République and admire the Place Jean Jaurès, where locals gather for coffee and conversation. The town’s medieval streets are perfect for wandering.
Saint-Nazaire Cathedral
This Gothic cathedral dominates the Béziers skyline. Built in the 13th century, it has incredible stained-glass windows and offers a stunning panoramic view of the city and the Orb River.
The Pont Vieux and Canal du Midi
Béziers is home to the Pont Vieux, a medieval stone bridge that connects the old town with the modern city. Nearby, the famous Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, flows through the region. Don’t miss the Fonserannes Locks, a series of impressive canal locks that showcase 17th-century engineering.
The Béziers Feria
If you're visiting in August, don’t miss the Béziers Feria. This five-day festival is one of the biggest events in southern France. It features music, dancing, bullfighting, and street performances. The energy in the city is incredible during this time!
Visit Local Wineries
Béziers is at the heart of the Languedoc wine region, famous for its reds and rosés. Take a short drive to one of the many wine estates nearby, such as Château de Perdiguier or Domaine de la Baume, and enjoy a wine tasting session.
Where to Eat in Béziers
Food lovers will enjoy the local specialties. Try cassoulet, a hearty dish with beans and duck, or tielle sétoise, a seafood pie with a spicy tomato sauce. The best places to eat include:
- La Maison de Petit Pierre – Run by a former Top Chef winner, this spot is a must for foodies.
- Le Chameau Ivre – A cozy bistro offering great wine and local dishes.
- Les Halles de Béziers – A lively indoor market where you can sample fresh seafood, cheese, and charcuterie.
Best Time to Visit Béziers
Béziers has a Mediterranean climate, meaning hot summers and mild winters. Spring (April–June) and early fall (September–October) are the best times to visit. You’ll enjoy pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
How to Get to Béziers
Béziers has its own small airport with flights from various European cities. It’s also well-connected by train. You can take a TGV from Paris to Béziers in about 4 hours. If you’re driving, it’s a great stop between Toulouse and Montpellier.
Listen to the Full Episode
Want more details on what to see, where to eat, and hidden gems in Béziers? Tune into this episode of Join Us in France! Annie Sargent and Elyse Rivin share personal experiences, travel tips, and insider recommendations to make your trip unforgettable.
Béziers is a fantastic destination for history buffs, wine lovers, and anyone looking for an authentic French experience. Use this Béziers Travel Guide to plan your trip, and let us know if you've been to Béziers before!
Table of Contents for this Episode
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Discussed in this Episode
- Béziers
- Toulouse Guided Walks
- Canal du Midi
- Les Neuf Écluses de Fonseranes
- Pont Vieux
- Église de la Madeleine
- Béziers Cathedral
- Place de la Révolution
- Allée Paul Riquet
- Parc des Poètes
- Château Laurens
- Oppidum d'Ensérune
- Abbaye de Fontcaude
- Abbaye de Valmagne
- Valras-Plage
- Les Halles de Béziers
- Jean Moulin Museum
- Pierre-Paul Riquet
- Jean Moulin
- Trencavel
- Paul Riquet Avenue
- Mayor Robert Ménard
- Reporters sans Frontières
- Mediterranean cuisine
- Tielle de Sète
- Corbières wine
- Languedoc wine
- Narbonne
- Montpellier
- Sète
- Collioure
- Ramblas Biterroise
- Aude River
- Orb River
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TranscriptCategories: Montpellier Area, Occitanie, Off the Beaten Track in France