Visiting Béziers
As the second-largest city in the Hérault department after Montpellier, Béziers offers plenty of character. Its mild climate, deep-rooted local traditions, and historical weight make it a compelling stop in the south of France. It is an ideal destination for a quick weekend getaway.
The passage of time
Béziers claims a fascinating history as potentially the oldest city in France, established in the 7th century BC by the Greeks. Archaeology enthusiasts should head to the site d'Ensérune in Nissan-lez-Ensérune, just southwest of Béziers. You will find well-preserved ruins of a Gallic village that was inhabited from the 6th century BC through the 1st century AD.
Closer to the modern era, the cathédrale Saint-Nazaire looms over the city. This imposing Gothic structure was built on the foundations of a former Roman temple and a Romanesque church. Its fifty-meter square tower is the city's most recognizable landmark and is officially classified as a historical monument. You can tour the interior to see the frescoes, paintings, and a manicured French garden.
Alleys, gardens, and arenas
The medieval town center is built for aimless wandering, especially on a warm summer afternoon. Its narrow lanes lined with small houses reflect centuries of cultural shifts. If you wander long enough, you will likely hit the allées Paul-Riquet, which serve as the boundary between the old town and the newer districts. This is a favorite local promenade, hosting a flower market every Friday. Continue your walk to the end of the allées to reach the plateau des Poètes. This 12-acre landscaped garden sits by a lake and is a quiet spot for a stroll. Craving a bit of Spain? The Arènes du Plateau de Valras have earned Béziers a reputation as a primary hub for bullfighting in France.
The Canal du Midi and the locks
Béziers is best experienced by the water, starting with the famous Canal du Midi. You can explore the towpaths on foot, by bike, or by boat. This engineering feat by Pierre-Paul Riquet (the same man behind the allées) stretches all the way to Toulouse in one direction and Marseillan in the other. The true stars are the écluses de Fonseranes. This 17th-century technical marvel remains impressive today. The staircase of eight locks and nine gates allows boats to navigate a vertical rise of 21.5 meters (about 70 feet). Crowds often gather along the banks of the Canal du Midi to watch boats make the transit.
When to go
You can visit Béziers almost year-round thanks to the generally favorable climate. June through September are the sunniest months and see the most visitors. If you want to experience the harvest season in the surrounding vineyards, autumn is an excellent time to visit.
Getting there
Béziers is accessible by train, bus, or plane (the Béziers-Cap d'Agde airport is a 15-minute drive from the city center). Taking the train is the most convenient option, with connections from across France. You can reach Béziers from Paris in 4 hours, Toulouse in 2 hours and 20 minutes, or Marseille in 3 hours and 20 minutes. If you are traveling by car, the city is less than an hour from Montpellier.
Comme tu le dis si bien, la voie politique suivie par la ville n'est pas très encourageante. C'est bien dommage