Béziers

Béziers historic town rises in terraces from the banks of the river Orb and Canal du Midi.

Hérault, Languedoc-Roussillon, South of France

Béziers France - Towns South France

Béziers’ wealth was founded on its wine production, and today it makes wines of outstanding quality. Inland waterway tourism is the other major trump card in its economic development. Today, wine, rugby and the feria in the month of August are the main focal points of its colourful local way of life.

The Allées Paul Riquet in Béziers and the bronze statue of the creator of the Canal du Midi are surrounded by 19th-century buildings. This is where the great popular festivals take place in the shade of ancient plane-trees. The Plateau and Poets’ Gardens form an extension to the Allées and were laid out by the master-gardeners, the Bühler brothers.

Things to see in Béziers : - the 12th and 15th century Saint Nazaire Cathedral - 17th century town houses; theatre - the English style garden, ‘le Plateau des Poètes’, created in 1865 - Bullring - the 12th–13th century basilica of Saint Aphrodise; 19th century market halls - Museum of Fine Arts - Biterrois Museum of local history

Events in Béziers : - Festival of Saint Aphrodise and the ‘Procession of the Camel’ (the town’s emblem) in April - summer festival with bullfighting and shows in August - Festival of Sainte Cécile in November

Shopping

As well as pretty lanes lined with character shops, Béziers is famous for its markets. Head to the Allées Paul Riquet on Fridays for the all-day Flower Market, or on the first Sunday of each month for a second-hand market. Don’t miss the character market halls, which are heaving with produce and shoppers on Tuesday and Sunday mornings. Other produce markets can be found at the Place du 14 juillet on Friday morning, and the Place David d'Angers, also on a Friday. For great food shopping head over to the Place Emile Zola on Tuesday morning, and if you like shopping on Sundays, go to the market on the Place de La Madeleine from 7am to 1pm.

A suggestion for a tour of Béziers

A walk around Béziers that goes with the flow: discover the most prestigious works of art on the Canal du Midi: the canal bridge over the Orb, the New Port, the Orb lock and the extraordinary water-ladder at Fonsérannes.

Nightlife

Nightlife is relaxed here, rather than frenetic. There are several bars, pubs and restaurants along the Allées Paul Riquet. You'll also find a smattering of friendly nightclubs in the town centre, as well as the theatre and cinema. Further out of town are major events venues.

INFORMATION

Béziers Tourist Office website
Tél: + 33 (0)4 67 76 84 00

Hotels in Béziers