Perpignan: A historical and geographical city in the Occitanie region
Perpignan is the 32nd city in France by population and is located 850 km from Paris. It is located 13 km from the Mediterranean Sea and 25 km from the Spanish border, offering a panoramic view of the Roussillon plain.
History and identity
Perpignan was the continental capital of the Kingdom of Majorca and belongs to historic Roussillon, former territory of the Principality of Catalonia until 1659, then province of the Kingdom of France until 1790. Today prefecture of the Pyrénées-Orientales, it remains deeply marked by its position between French and Catalan spaces.
What to see
The urban landscape opens to the south towards the Pyrenees, to the west towards the Corbières and to the east towards the Mediterranean, 13 kilometers away. The Canigou, 2,784 meters high, is visible from the city center. Further south, the Albères range marks the border with Spain and drops to the Col du Perthus.
Understanding the place
To visit Perpignan, check current access to historical and natural sites. The Canigou peak and the Perthus pass are emblematic viewpoints to visit.
Where to stay
A hotel in the center facilitates tours dedicated to the history of Roussillon and the Kingdom of Majorca. To combine the city with the coast or the Spanish border, compare road access, parking and travel times before booking.
Prepare for the visit
Timetables, access conditions and transport may change. Consult the official pages linked from the source before the trip, protect the heritage and leave the entrances to the houses free. Source in local language.