Occitanie might not have the instant recognition of Provence or the glitz of the French Riviera, but what it lacks in fame, it more than makes up for with its diverse landscapes, rich history, and incredible gastronomy.
Nestled in the south of France, Occitanie is a mosaic of landscapes, from the majestic Pyrenees that define its southern border to the sun-drenched beaches of the Mediterranean coast. Vineyards stretch across its hillsides, and dramatic gorges carve through the landscape. And, while charming villages and medieval castles testify to the region’s rich history, Occitanie’s buzzing cities like Toulouse are at the heart of student life and technology business centers.
Despite its lower profile, Occitanie’s charm lies in its authenticity and diversity. It’s a place for explorers, hikers, history buffs, beach bums, and gastronomy aficionados. It is the region I grew up, went to college and enjoy re-discovering over the years. In this article which I will keep updating to add more locations, you will find the very best places to visit in Occitanie.
Cathar Castles
The Cathar Castles are a testament to the rich and tumultuous history of the south of Occitanie during the 12th and 13th centuries. These ancient fortresses, perched up top dramatic cliffs, are indeed the remnants of the Cathar religious movement and the subsequent Albigensian Crusade.
If you were to choose one or two to visit while in Occitanie, I would suggest Peyrepertuse, Montségur, Queribus or Puilaurens, depending on where you are based. These 4 ruins are some of the most popular and best to visit because of their impressive size, unique locations and of course, the beautiful views over the countryside they offer.
These castles are accessible by foot, but some might more challenging than others.
I have written a full article describing each of these Cathar Castles and how to visit. Make sure to check it out!
Collioure
This picturesque coastal town captures the essence of the Mediterranean without all the bling bling of the French Riviera. Situated at the foothills of the Pyrenees, where they meet the sea, Collioure is renowned for its stunning bay, vibrant colored houses, and historic landmarks.
It has long been a source of inspiration for artists, including Henri Matisse and André Derain, who were captivated by its unique light and landscape. Today, you can wander through the narrow streets, exploring art galleries, and the iconic Royal Castle of Collioure.
The pebbled beaches and clear waters in Collioure are some of my favourites in the area. They are idea for those like me who love snorkelling and paddle-boarding!
Collioure is easily accessible by train from Perpignan. For those driving, the winding roads offer some of the most spectacular view of the Vermillion coast and the French Catalan countryside.
For more details about Collioure and what to do around, visit my dedicated article: “Best things to do in Collioure“.
Pont du Gard
The Pont du Gard is a masterpiece of ancient Roman engineering that stands majestically in the Occitanie region. This grand aqueduct, built in the first century AD, was designed to carry water across the Gardon River to the Roman colony of Nemausus, now known as the city of Nîmes.
Today, it is one of the most well-preserved and iconic Roman structures in the world, attracting visitors from all corners of the globe.
Visitors can walk across the aqueduct, and explore the surrounding natural park, which is perfect for hiking, picnicking, and swimming in the river. If you are keen on some action, you can also rent kayaks up the river and paddle underneath the bridge!
Located just a short drive from Nîmes, Avignon, or Uzès, the Pont du Gard is easily accessible by car.
Aigues-Mortes
Aigues-Mortes is a charming medieval town enclosed by well-preserved stone walls. This fortress town offers a step back in time, with its origins dating back to the 13th century when it was established by King Louis IX as a port for crusaders setting sail to the Holy Land.
Walking through the cobbled streets of Aigues-Mortes, you will find boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants offering delicious local cuisine. You can also visit the Tour de Constance and walk along the ramparts which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding salt marshes that you can visit afterwards.
Make sure to check out this article in which I share all the details to visit the salt marshes and the nearby region of Camargue.
Located near the vibrant cities of Montpellier and Nîmes, Aigues-Mortes is easily accessible by car or even by train. It serves as a perfect starting point for exploring the natural beauty and cultural richness of Occitanie.
Mont Canigou
Overlooking majestically the landscape of the Pyrénées-Orientales in southern France, the Canigou is more than just a mountain; it’s a symbol of Catalan pride standing at an elevation of 2,784 meters above sea level.
Mont Canigou has long been considered a sacred mountain. You will find historical and spiritual sites along its slopes, such as the Abbey of Saint-Martin du Canigou, a marvel of Romanesque architecture that seems to defy gravity as it clings to the rocky mountainside.
The mountain offers a range of trails to all levels of hikers but the ultimate experience that every local will attempt in their life, is to climb to the summit. Although, I grew up looking at the Canigou from my school’s backyard and I have yet to climb it… It’s on the list!
The journey to the summit is quite challenging depending on where you start but the rewarding panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Pyrenees are worth every effort.
Le Petit Train Jaune
The “Little Yellow Train”, is an historic railway, crossing bridges and viaducts in the heart of the Catalan Pyrenees. It is an historical and picturesque railway, that has been operating since the early 20th century.
The train line connects the little known fortified town of Villefranche-de-Conflent to Latour-de-Carol. Spanning a distance of 63 kilometers, it ascends 1200 meters in elevation to reach the Bolquère station, which is the highest train station in France at 1593 meters.
The journey from one end of the line to the other takes approximately 3 hours, but you can decide to hop off at some other station along the way and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Têt Valley and the Cerdan Plateau.
During the trip, you will indeed, traverse stunning landscapes, stop at charming mountain villages, and cross impressive engineering structures, such as the Pont Gisclard suspension bridge.
It is best to leave early in the morning to enjoy a full day trip in the Pyrenees. For those who have plenty of time, make sure to stop in Saillagouse and go to the hot springs of Llo (3km away) or experience the thrill of the Via Ferrata. The Yellow train ride costs only €1 return on weekends. You can either drive to Villefranche-de-Conflent or take another train from the famous Gare de Perpignan (Perpignan train station).
Mediterranean coast
The Mediterranean coastline in Occitanie is one of the main attractions in the region. It gets very busy during the summer season with tourist from all other France and its neighbor countries. Much more affordable than the French Riviera, this region also boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Southern France and seaside towns.
Collioure, often highlighted for its stunning bay and vibrant-colored houses, is a jewel along the Occitanie coast. Just around the corner, the small town of Banyuls-sur-Mer offers both splendid beaches and renowned vineyards. The pebbled beach here, nestled between the sea and the hills, is ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat by the Mediterranean. For those on a budget, Argeles-sur-mer and St Cyprien are really good alternative with many Campings aimed at families.
Heading towards the north of the Occitanie coastline, the beaches turn into long stretches of fine sand. Near Le Grau-du-Roi, Espiguette is known for its vast, wild landscapes and as one of the longest and most untouched beaches in Southern France.
Near Montpellier, the seaside resort of Palavas-les-Flots is ideal for those looking to enjoy water sports. A short drive from Nîmes, La Grande-Motte is famed for its distinctive pyramid-shaped buildings and wide, family-friendly beaches.
Although, this part of the Mediterranean is quite famous for its windy conditions, particularly the strong winds like the Tramontane that sweep through the region. While some might see this as a challenge for beach holidays, it’s actually a boon for watersports enthusiasts. Places like Leucate are particularly famous among the wind and kite surfing community.
Rocamadour
Rocamadour is a stunning medieval village that hugs the side of a cliff in the Lot department. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its medieval architecture and status as a pilgrimage destination.
Home to fewer than 650 people, this charming French village is a treasure trove of picturesque views, medieval architecture, and inviting cobblestone streets. Its narrow streets, lined with ancient houses and shops bursting with tempting foods, lead to beautiful churches, alleys and to the castle that looms above, offering panoramic views of the valley below.
Although, the best views of the village are from the Parking P4 (“Le Garroustié”) and from “Le Coin du Photographe” (The photograph Corner), both accessible by car.
The village isn’t just known for its looks; it’s also a spiritual place. It’s religious significance is deeply rooted in its chapels and the venerated Chapel of Our Lady, home to the miraculous statue of the Madonna. This sacred figure has been associated with numerous miracles, drawing pilgrims from far and wide to seek its divine grace.
And let’s not forget about the cheese! Rocamadour is famous for its delicious local cheese, known as Rocamadour AOC.
If you are into Caving, there are lots of beautiful caves in the area. The most knwon are the Gouffre de Padirac, Grottes préhistoriques de Cougnac, Pech Merle or Grotte des Carbonnières.
Toulouse
Toulouse is a beautiful city in Southwest France and the capital of the Occitanie region. Bisected by the Garonne River, Toulouse is a cultural city with lots of history, a lively atmosphere, and many things to see and do. Nicknamed the “Pink City” for its many pinkish brick buildings, Toulouse is also the capital of pastels, violets, and Cassoulet — a famous regional dish.
Toulouse’s Old Town is mostly car-free and easy to explore on foot. The main highlights of Toulouse are the Place du Capitole, with the Hotel de Ville (free entrance), the Basilique Saint-Sernin, in Romanesque style and listed UNESCO World Heritage Site, Saint-Etienne Cathedral, and many lovely parks. While in Toulouse, don’t miss tasting its regional dishes like the above-mentioned Cassoulet, the famous Saucisse de Toulouse, and the Fénétra (an ancient local dessert).
Toulouse is also crossed by the famous Canal du Midi, which can be explored on a boat or by bike.
Carcassonne
Located in the Occitane region of southern France , Carcassonne is famous for its stunning medieval castles and listed as one of the UNESCO Heritage site and of the most well preserved examples of medieval architecture in France.
One of the most famous places to visit in Carcassonne is the magnificent Château Comtal, located within the fortress walls. You can explore its interior, the castle features exhibits and displays about the castle’s history and of Carcassonne.
There are still so many things to doin Carcassonne, you can walk along the ramparts of the medieval walls of the citadel and be amazed with the panoramic view of the surrounding countryside.
As you explore Carcassonne, do not forget to visit the Cathedral of Saint Nazaire Carcassonne, explore this stunning Romanesque and Gothic-style cathedral located within the medieval citadel. Admire its intricate stained glass windows, and ornate sculptures.
Try a canal boat ride and enjoy a scenic cruise along the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which passes through Carcassonne and admire the stunning view of picturesque countryside, its charming villages, and historic landmarks.
alBI
Located in the Tarn department, Albi is known as ‘La Rouge’ due to its distinctive red brick architecture. Despite living in the shadow of bigger cities like Toulouse, with its UNESCO status, Albi is a cultural journey into Occitanie’s heart and history.
While it is not on the Cathar Route, the city history is however deeply steeped in the dramatic events of the 13th-century Albigensian Crusade against the Cathars, making it a must visit place to any history buff interested in Catharism.
Other than that, Albi is a gem in Occitanie’s crown, celebrated for its medieval architecture and as Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec’s birthplace. Dominated by the Cathédrale Sainte-Cécile’s fortress-like presence, Albi’s skyline is a testament to its rich history. Next door, the Palais de la Berbie, now the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum, offers an insight into the artist’s life.
One must stop is the Cité Episcopale, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2010. This exceptional neighborhood around the grand cathedral and the palace-fortress, dates back to the 13th century and spans 20 hectares.
Orgues d’Ille-sur-Têt
Located close to the small town of Ille-Sur-Têt near Perpignan, is the fascinating site of the Orgues. This natural setting is roughly laid out in the shape of an amphitheater that was formed millions of years ago. It was originally a hill that over time has eroded significantly.
As the erosion took place, it left behind amazing columns reaching 10-12 metres high that look like organ’s pipes (hence its name in French). Nowadays, the site continues to change regularly since every time it rains, sand is continually being washed away, resulting in new shapes forming and others disappearing. Also contributing to the erosion are the long periods of heat coupled with moisture that make the clay contract and cause cracks.
The site is open daily, year-round except for a closure around the holidays in December. Hours vary according to the season so best to check the website. Ticket prices are €5,00 for adults, children €3,50 and children under 10 are free.
To visit the Orgues, visitors need to follow a lovely 2kms trail on relatively flat terrain. Although, there are no services located here so be sure to bring your own water and a hat as there is very little shade.
The Orgues are best reached by car since there is no public transport to the site. If taking the bus or train you can arrive in Ille-Sur-Têt but then you will need to walk approximately 2.5kms to the entrance.
Recommended by Kim of Explore Your Bucket List
Cascades du Sautadet
The Cascades du Sautadet are a series of cascading waterfalls, carved out by the Cèze River. Located near the picturesque village of La Roque-sur-Ceze, Occitanie, this stunning natural wonder is a must-visit in the region.
Over time, the water from the river has sculpted the limestone rock into unique shapes, creating water holes and cascading falls. Spring and summer are the best times to visit. During the summer, many people come here to wade in the pools or to simply enjoy the incredible views of the falls.
Plan to spend an hour at the falls and another hour exploring La Roque-sur-Ceze, one of The Most Beautiful Villages in France. The village is a quick 15-minute walk from the falls.
A visit to the Cascades du Sautadet is doable on a day trip from Avignon, which is an hour away by car. It’s not possible to visit by public transportation.
Nimes
Once an ancient Roman city, Nîmes is a charming city in the South East of France and is one of the best things to do in the Occitane region. It is also one of the best places to see historical remains in France.
The Arena of Nîmes dates back around 1950 years and is a well preserved, double tiered amphitheatre. Today, you can walk within its walls, or witness an event like a concert or bullfight.
The city is also home to the Temple of Diana, which is actually thought to have been a library. It lies by the Maison Carrée – one of the best preserved temples from the Roman Empire. Literally translating to Square House, Maison Carrée was built in a hexastyle Corinthian-style temple, meaning it has six columns.
Nîmes is easily accessible through its local airport (served by some Ryanair & EasyJet), with larger international airports such Montpellier and Marseille near by. Driving in is easy via Autoroute A9 or A54. While trains and buses also run to Nîmes from Paris or Lyon.
Gorges du tarn
The Gorges du Tarn is a spectacular canyon carved by the Tarn River between the Causse Méjean and the Causse de Sauveterre plateaus in Occitanie. This natural wonder is known for its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and the quaint villages that cling to its sides.
just like the Gorges du Verdon in Provence, the Gorge du Tarn are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities such as canoeing, kayaking, rock climbing, and hiking. It is also a place of rich biodiversity, home to a variety of bird species, including vultures reintroduced to the area.
One of the main highlight, is the scenic drive along the gorge offers numerous viewpoints where one can stop and marvel at the breathtaking landscape. The villages along the river, such as Sainte-Enimie and La Malène, provide charming accommodations and dining options.
La bambouseraie
Hidden away in the wild Cevennes of Occitanie is La Bambouseraie, a unique and beautiful garden that is home to over 1,000 cultivars of bamboo.
One of the most spectacular gardens in the whole of France, La Bambouseraie was founded in 1856 by Eugène Mazel, a self-taught botanist who bought a plot of land in his home village and planted a collection of bamboo, palms, banana plants and other exotic species.
The garden thrived due to the micro-climate in the area and became the spectacle it is today. Visit La Bambouseraie and walk amongst the towering tree spires, leafy canopies and pond gardens to be rewarded with cool shade in an incredible natural setting.
You can drive to La Bambouseraie, which is close to the town of Anduze, or you can catch the steam train of the Cevennes, from either Anduze or St Jean du Gard, that stops at La Bambouseraie’s very own station. Puffing along on open sided carriages over the bridges and viaducts of the meandering Gardon River is an experience not to be missed!
Najac Castle
While the village of Najac is tiny (less than 1,000 inhabitants), the Castle of Najac is an imposing structure situated on a ridge overlooking the Aveyron River. It can be seen prominently against the surrounding landscape.
Reaching the top of the castle can therefore involve some effort. Visitors need to climb up, and the path leading to the castle includes uneven terrain and stairs, so comfortable footwear and a reasonable level of mobility are recommended. While it may require a bit of physical effort, the journey to the top is rewarding with a beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding region.
The castle itself is a well-preserved medieval fortress built in the 13th century. It played a role in the Hundred Years’ War and changed hands between English and French forces. Initially owned by the Counts of Toulouse, it later became a royal property.
The Castle of Najac was even featured in a movie: Fanfan la Tulipe (2003), starring Pénélope Cruz and Vincent Pérez.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jen – Owner, writer & photographer – has lived for the past 10 years across Oceania and Ireland while also travelling long-term in Latin America, North America and Europe. She has visited more than 60 countries and set foot on every continent in the world!
>> Favourite countries: New Zealand, Bolivia, Iceland.
>> Wishlist: Svalbard, Japan, Botswana, Alaska.
>> Philosophy: “We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us.
Jen is a coffee nerd, passionate about photography, wildlife and outdoor activities. Her organisation and curiosity make her a great travel companion always looking for DIY and off-the-grid adventures. For more info, check out the About page.
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