Perpignan is a charming city located in the south of France, known for its rich history, culture, and beautiful architecture. Here is a sample itinerary for a few days visit to Perpignan:
Day 1
- Upon arrival, start your day with a visit to the historic center of Perpignan. The city is known for its charming medieval streets, and you can take a stroll along the narrow alleys and admire the colorful half-timbered houses. The city center is also home to several notable landmarks such as the Palace of the Kings of Majorca, the Castillet, and the Cathedral of Saint-Jean.
- After a morning of sightseeing, head to the Place de la Loge, the city’s main square, for lunch. Perpignan is renowned for its gastronomy, and you can find many traditional Catalan restaurants and cafes here, serving local specialties such as « socca » (chickpea flour pancakes) or « pan amb tomaquet » (Catalan-style bread with tomato).
- In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Basse, where you can enjoy the views of the city and the natural surroundings. You can also stop by the Palais des Rois de Majorque, a medieval palace that offers great views over the city and serves as a Museum.
- Finish your day by exploring the city’s nightlife. Perpignan is known for its lively atmosphere, and you can find a variety of bars and clubs that stay open late.
Day 2
- Start your day with a visit to the Museum of Fine Arts, which has a collection of works by famous artists such as Matisse and Dali.
- After that, take a short drive outside of the city to visit the charming village of Collioure, known for its beautiful beaches and its association with Fauvism art movement.
- Return to Perpignan for lunch, and then spend the afternoon visiting the Palace of the Kings of Majorca, the Castillet and the Cathedral of Saint-Jean.
- Finish your weekend with a farewell dinner at a traditional Catalan restaurant.
Perpignan is a great destination for those who appreciate the beauty of medieval architecture, art, and culture, It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the Catalan region.
Zoom on Cathedral of Saint-Jean
The Cathedral of Saint-Jean in Perpignan, also known as the Cathédrale Saint-Jean, is a Gothic-style cathedral located in the city of Perpignan, in the south of France. The cathedral dates back to the 14th century and is considered one of the most important landmarks of the city.
The cathedral is built in the Gothic architectural style, it features a beautiful facade, with intricate carvings and sculptures, and a bell tower. Inside the cathedral, you will find a nave and two aisles, with ribbed vaults and pointed arches, and a beautiful apse with a choir.
One of the most striking features of the cathedral is its stained glass windows, which date back to the 15th century, they are considered some of the most beautiful in the region.
The Cathedral also houses a number of important works of art, including a beautiful altarpiece, a wooden sculpture of the Virgin Mary, and a 14th-century statue of the Virgin and Child.
You can take a guided tour of the cathedral, which will give you an insight into the history and architecture of the building, and also an opportunity to admire the art and sculptures inside.
The Cathedral of Saint-Jean in Perpignan is a great destination for those who appreciate the beauty of Gothic architecture and art, it’s a great way to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the Catalan region. The Cathedral is also a great place to admire the views over the city, the surrounding area and the Pyrenees Mountains.
Don’t miss The Castillet
The Castillet in Perpignan, also known as the Casa Pairal del Castell, is a medieval fortress located in the city of Perpignan, in the south of France. The Castillet is one of the most famous landmarks in the city and is a must-see for visitors.
The Castillet was originally built in the 14th century as a fortress to protect the city and it was later used as a residence for the Kings of Majorca. The fortress features a unique triangular shape and it is made of brick and stone. The fortress has four towers and a central courtyard, and you can climb to the top of the towers for great views of the city and the surrounding area.
Inside the fortress, you will find the Museum of the Roussillon, which tells the history of the region, from prehistoric times to the present day. The museum also has a collection of art and artifacts that reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage, including pottery, textiles, and paintings.
The Castillet is also a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, it has a beautiful garden where you can take a stroll and enjoy the views of the city. The fortress is also a popular spot for events and concerts during the summer.
The Castillet in Perpignan is a great destination for those who are interested in history, architecture, and culture. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the rich history of the Catalan region and to discover the unique heritage of Perpignan.
