From a Roman City to a Peaceful Abbey
This relaxed private tour combines two of the Narbonne region's greatest treasures.
Spend the morning discovering Narbonne, the first Roman colony founded outside Italy, with its remarkable cathedral, lively streets and famous covered market. After lunch in the heart of the city, continue through vineyards and Mediterranean landscapes to the magnificent Abbey of Fontfroide, a beautifully preserved Cistercian monastery nestled in a peaceful valley.
Perfect for travellers who enjoy history, architecture, local gastronomy and authentic places, this tour offers a wonderful introduction to the heritage of Southern France.
Discover Historic Narbonne
Founded in 118 BC as Narbo Martius, Narbonne became the capital of Roman Gaul and one of the Mediterranean's most important trading centres.
As you stroll through the historic centre with your private guide, discover the impressive Canal de la Robine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site linked to the Canal du Midi, the elegant Archbishop's Palace and the remarkable Cathedral of Saint-Just and Saint-Pasteur, whose soaring choir is among the tallest Gothic structures in France.
Along the way, you'll uncover over two thousand years of history, from Roman foundations to the prosperous medieval city that connected the Mediterranean with Northern Europe.
Les Halles de Narbonne
No visit to Narbonne would be complete without exploring its celebrated covered market.
Loved by locals and chefs alike, Les Halles brings together around seventy artisan producers, offering a vibrant showcase of the region's gastronomy.
Browse colourful stalls filled with cheeses, charcuterie, seafood, olives, fresh vegetables and regional specialities while learning about the culinary traditions that define the Languedoc.
Lunch in the Heart of Narbonne
Enjoy lunch in one of our favourite restaurants in the historic centre.
Lunch is included and served from the restaurant's set menu, accompanied by local wines.
For those wishing to make the day even more special, our Gourmet Experience replaces the restaurant's set menu with the freedom to order from the à la carte menu, together with an aperitif and a wider selection of regional wines.
Fontfroide Abbey
In the afternoon, leave the city behind and travel through vineyards and rolling hills to the magnificent Abbey of Fontfroide.
Founded in the eleventh century, this remarkably well-preserved Cistercian monastery is considered one of the finest abbeys in France.
Walk through its peaceful cloister, elegant chapter house and impressive church while discovering the daily life of the monks who transformed this remote valley into a thriving spiritual and agricultural community.
Your guide will also explain Fontfroide's important role during the Cathar Crusade and its remarkable survival through the centuries, before its restoration by the Fayet family in the early twentieth century.
Surrounded by gardens, cypress trees and vineyards, Fontfroide offers a peaceful conclusion to a day rich in history and beauty.
More Than a Historic Tour
This experience is about discovering two very different faces of the Narbonne region.
- A vibrant Roman city.
- A celebrated food market.
- Outstanding Gothic architecture.
- A timeless Cistercian abbey.
Together, they tell the story of a region shaped by commerce, faith, culture and the Mediterranean.
Tour Highlights
- Private experience exclusively for your party.
- Discover historic Narbonne with your private guide.
- Visit France's first Roman colony.
- Explore the famous Les Halles covered market.
- Lunch in the historic centre.
- Guided visit of the magnificent Abbey of Fontfroide.
- Learn about the Cistercian monks and the Cathar Crusade.
- Beautiful drive through vineyards and Mediterranean countryside.
- Relaxed pace with plenty of time to enjoy each site.
Tour at a Glance
- Departure: Pick-up from your accommodation
- Duration: Full day
- Pick-up: Carcassonne, Narbonne and surrounding areas (other locations available on request)
- Included
✔ Private transportation
✔ Private licensed guide
✔ Entrance to Fontfroide Abbey
✔ Lunch - Walking: Easy to moderate.
- Optional Enhancements: Upgrade to our Gourmet Experience for an à la carte lunch, an aperitif and a wider selection of regional wines.
- Customisation: As a private experience, the itinerary can be adapted, where possible, to suit your interests and preferred pace.
