Perpignan is one of the southernmost cities in France, located close to the Spanish border. While most residents speak French, you'll also hear Catalan here. Walking through the city, you'll spot plenty of bilingual street signs.

It's worth trying French delicacies here — wine, aged cheese, pastries — as well as traditional Catalan dishes, including tapas and fresh seafood.

The city enjoys an enviable location between the sea and the mountains. Mount Canigou looms majestically on the horizon, while the Mediterranean captivates with its ever-changing moods — from calm, blue waters to rolling waves. The weather here is sunny almost year-round, making Perpignan an ideal place to spend the winter.

The coast is just 15 km from the city center, reachable by bus, car, or even bike. Fans of skiing can also enjoy the Catalan Pyrenees.

Perpignan isn't just an administrative center — it's also the former capital of the Kingdom of Majorca, which left its mark on the city's culture and architecture. Thanks to its rich historical legacy, the city holds the honorary title "Ville d'Art et d'Histoire" (City of Art and History). Perpignan also became a haven for artists, especially in the post-war years, and a place where architectural masterpieces were born.

What to do in the city 💡

See the Hôtel Pams

This building started out as an ordinary townhouse, built in the period following industrialization. But its fate changed dramatically in 1852, when Pierre Bardou, son of the founder of the JOB cigarette-paper brand, turned it into a workshop for industrialized paper production.

After Bardou's death, his son-in-law, Jules Pams, took over the business and decided not only to grow it, but to build a lavish residence here too. That's how the Hôtel Pams came to be — a genuine Art Nouveau architectural masterpiece. The renovation was led by architect Léopold Carlier. Thanks to his work, the building gained grand decorative features: an exquisite gallery, a cozy patio garden, a magnificent glass roof, elegant interior staircases, and stunning murals by Paul Gervais.

From the outside, the Hôtel Pams might seem unremarkable, but behind its understated facade hides a genuine cinematic gem. It's a place full of history, art, and elegance, well worth visiting to soak up the atmosphere of early-20th-century luxury and refined style.

Learn the city's history at the Palace of the Kings of Majorca

This is one of Perpignan's most famous landmarks. The Gothic palace was completed in 1309 and built from various stones, including red marble.

Its story began when King James I of Aragon divided his kingdom, granting his younger son, James II, the Kingdom of Majorca. It included the Balearic Islands, the counties of Roussillon and Cerdanya, and the lordship of Montpellier.

To have a residence in the mainland capital, which quickly became an economic, political, and cultural hub of the Mediterranean, James II built this magnificent palace with a panoramic view over the Roussillon plain. It's where lavish banquets, royal councils, and parliamentary sessions once took place.

In the 16th century, French and Spanish engineers reinforced the building, turning it into a citadel. Today the palace is a historical landmark under the care of a department dedicated to its preservation and restoration.

Head up to the Galeries Lafayette rooftop on a sunny day

To catch your breath and take in a panorama of central Perpignan, stop by the "Les Galeries Lafayette" department store. From its fifth floor you get a great view over Place de la Victoire, the legendary Castillet cinema, and even the mighty Mount Canigou.

Here you can grab a glass of wine, a bite to eat, or just enjoy the view.

Note that the rooftop is open from 11:00.

Take a walk along the Basse, a tributary of the Têt river

From the Pont de Guerre bridge you'll get a lovely view of Mount Canigou. If you'd rather have a shadier, quieter walk, head down the Maillol alley toward Place Bir Hakeim. There you can rest, take a look at a small cactus garden full of various succulents and flowers, and if you're traveling with kids, there's a great playground at the end of the park.

Take in the view from the observation deck at the Casa Pairal Museum (better known as Le Castillet)

This building once served as a prison, and today it's a museum preserving the city's history. The highlight is the panoramic deck on the top floor, offering a wonderful view over the city.

Find the organ in Perpignan's Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist

This is an example of French Gothic architecture dating back to the 14th century. Inside you'll find exquisite altars and beautiful stained glass. Take a moment to admire the organ. At the bottom of its casing you'll spot a carved head with a moving jaw. It used to be opened with a special pedal. According to legend, sweets were placed inside before the Christmas Mass — as the organist played, they'd press the pedal, and the jaw would open, scattering treats over the children. Nearby stands the Campo Santo chapel — one of the largest medieval cemeteries in France.

Take a walk to the Town Hall (Hôtel de Ville / Loge de Mer)

On Place de la Loge you'll find a building with a pebble facade made of river stone, a characteristic feature of Roussillon architecture. This building serves as Perpignan's town hall, though it was originally used as a stock exchange. In its inner courtyard you can see one of Aristide Maillol's masterpieces — the sculpture "The Mediterranean." Right next to the town hall stands the former Palace of the Deputation.

Enjoy the paintings at the Musée d'art Hyacinthe Rigaud

Located in the historic city center, which took shape as far back as the 12th century under the Knights Templar, the Hyacinthe Rigaud museum is a major hub of art and culture. It occupies two historic mansions — the Hôtel de Lazerme and the Hôtel de Mailly. The collection spans various artistic styles, from Gothic to Baroque and Art Nouveau. You can also see drawings and ceramics by Picasso here. Interestingly, the museum also hosts yoga classes and various workshops. We'd recommend checking the museum's official website for current exhibitions and events.

Relax by Lake Villeneuve-de-la-Raho

Originally built as a reservoir for irrigating farmland, the lake at Villeneuve-de-la-Raho quickly became a popular recreation spot. Located just 15 minutes from central Perpignan, it draws both locals and tourists thanks to its convenient location and range of leisure options. In warm weather, restaurants and bars operate here, and visitors enjoy sailing, fishing, and sunbathing on the designated beaches. The lake is great for family trips, since it's shallow and warms up quickly. In winter, locals come here for runs and to admire the sunsets.

Where to get a good coffee in Perpignan 💡

Salty Coffee - an atmospheric café in the city center with breakfast and brunch.

Coworking Coffee - an ideal spot to get some work done over a good cup of coffee. Breakfast and lunch available.

Fika - more of a tourist spot, but with tasty drinks and games for kids.

HOW PARENTS CAN SPEND TIME WITH KIDS IN PERPIGNAN

Visit the Aquarium de Canet-en-Roussillon in the town of Canet-en-Roussillon;

Relax at PETITE POUSSE CAFÉ - a café with a kids' play area, workshops, and a small shop;

Visit the great playground in the city center - Jardin public pour enfants;

Take a walk in Parc Sant Vicens and meet the beavers;

Visit the Aqualand (Saint-Cyprien) amusement park;

There are also several interesting farms around Perpignan that make a great family day out: La Ferme de Saint-Jean, La Ferme de l'Abbé, and La Ferme de la Prade — where kids can meet different animals like goats, sheep, rabbits, chickens, and more. They also offer various workshops for kids, where they can help feed the animals or even take part in making cheese or honey.

MOUNTAINS AND SEA 💡

Visit one of Perpignan's beaches, which stay popular year-round. This part of France is known for clean sand, turquoise water, and a pleasant climate, letting you enjoy the coast in any season. In winter you can try surfing, enjoy the calm, and watch incredible sunsets over the sea. In summer — swim in the warm Mediterranean, sunbathe on soft sand, and relax at cozy beach cafés.

The best beaches near Perpignan:

Canet-en-Roussillon, 10 km from Perpignan.

A long sandy beach with great infrastructure: cafés, restaurants, water activities. Popular in summer with tourists and families with kids. In winter, it's a great spot for seaside walks and surfing.

Saint-Cyprien, 15 km from Perpignan.

One of France's largest marinas, spacious beaches with soft sand, and great conditions for kitesurfing and windsurfing. Quieter and less crowded than Canet-en-Roussillon.

Argelès-sur-Mer, 20 km from Perpignan.

Views of the Albères mountain range, a great spot for lovers of beach relaxation and active tourism. Bustling resort life in summer, nearly empty beaches in winter.

Leucate-Plage, 35 km from Perpignan.

A paradise for surfers and extreme water sports enthusiasts, with scenic cliffs and wild beaches, and clean water that's especially pleasant for swimming in summer.

Le Barcarès, 20 km from Perpignan.

Known for its Electronic Music Festival. Sandy beaches with lagoons. Great conditions for kitesurfing and sailing. Events and concerts are often held here in summer.

Visit the Eastern Pyrenees, known for their mountain ranges and popular with hikers and climbers.

Mount Canigou — a symbol of the region

Mount Canigou (Canigou), rising to 2,784 meters, is a true symbol of the Eastern Pyrenees. It dominates the landscape, offering breathtaking panoramas: the Pyrenees, the Mediterranean, and even the Catalan coast of Spain.

For experienced hikers, the ascent will be a real challenge. There are also easier routes that let you enjoy Canigou's beauty without excessive physical strain.

Mount Carlit — the highest peak in the department

Carlit, at 2,921 meters, is the highest mountain in the Eastern Pyrenees. It's located in the Regional Nature Park of the Catalan Pyrenees, known for its glacial lakes, green valleys, and stunning mountain scenery.

The famous GR10 hiking trail passes through here, running across the entire Pyrenees from east to west. It's an ideal spot for anyone seeking adventure and unforgettable landscapes.

The Massane and Madeloc Towers — panoramic views of the sea and mountains

Visit two medieval watchtowers offering fantastic views over the coast, Spain, and the Corbières.

Massane Tower (Tour de la Massane) — located at an altitude of 800 m. Reachable only on foot, a moderately difficult route.

Madeloc Tower (Tour de Madeloc) — located at an altitude of 600 m. You can drive most of the way, but the final stretch is on foot. Be careful: the final climb is fairly steep.

Pas de la Casa - a popular resort in Andorra

Located right on Andorra's eastern border with France. In winter, it's an ideal spot for skiing and snowboarding fans. The region turns into a snowy paradise, perfect for active winter breaks.