Historic bridges, a theatre that has preserved its original aesthetic, gardens and activities along the Canal du Midi give Beziers a range of reasons to visit. When looking for accommodation, you can first consider whether architectural history, the performing arts, green spaces, activities on the water or an event in August will shape your stay. The lengths of two bridges can be compared; along the Canal du Midi, several different kinds of activities are available.
Bridges, theatre and ancient traces
The Vieux pont sur l’Orb was built or rebuilt before 1134. It is 241.46 metres long and has fifteen arches. It has been classified as a historic monument since 18 June 1963. The Pont-Canal over the Orb is also 240 metres long, but 28 metres wide. The two structures are therefore almost the same length; the fifteen arches of the Vieux pont and the width of the Pont-Canal offer an additional point of comparison.
The Théâtre Municipal de Béziers was inaugurated in 1844. It is an Italian-style bonbonnière theatre and has fully preserved its original aesthetic. Its annual programme includes theatre, dance, new circus, lyrical singing, music and performances for young audiences. Here, a theatre whose aesthetic has been preserved over time meets a programme spanning a variety of performing arts.
The Roman amphitheatre of BĂ©ziers dates from the 1st century AD. Surviving elements and the ancient layout have been restored; the layout is marked in the street. An interactive augmented-reality presentation brings the amphitheatre to life. In this way, the archaeological elements and the markings of the ancient layout are complemented by a digital form of interpretation.
The Cathédrale Saint Nazaire et Saint Celse stands on the remains of a Roman temple and a Romanesque cathedral and is listed as a historic monument. Individual visits are free and possible at any time; guided visits are available on request. If you plan to take a guided visit, note that it is offered on request. Check the current visiting arrangements before your visit.
Gardens and views
The five-hectare Parc Plateau des Poètes is in the city centre. The garden features an open-air theatre, grottos, busts of Occitan poets and exotic plant species. The park has been classified as a historic monument since 1995. Its combination of landscaped grounds, architectural features and busts of poets makes it a different focal point from the historic bridges and theatre.
The Jardin des Évêques is laid out in terraces and offers views across the Orb plain and the Mediterranean. If you would like to include landscape views as well as architectural history on your trip, these two gardens complement the historic sights with green spaces of different designs: one is described by its size and named features, while the other is characterised by its terraces and views.
Activities along the Canal du Midi
The Canal du Midi near Béziers is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers visitors a mix of history, nature and activities on the water. At the 9 écluses de Fonseranes, you can explore a botanical trail featuring Mediterranean plant species on foot or by bicycle. The family treasure hunt “Alice et la fontaine magique” is another named activity. An immersive film, lasting 14 minutes, is also shown at the Maison de Site.
The boat options also differ: visitors can travel along the 9 Ă©cluses de Fonseranes on cruises on the Canal du Midi or go independently by electric boat. This means you can choose between a trip as part of a cruise and an independent trip by electric boat. Which activity you include in your trip depends on whether you prefer to get around on foot, by bicycle or on the water.
Another annual event is La FĂ©ria de BĂ©ziers, held every August. The exact dates and programme vary from year to year. So if you want to plan your trip around the FĂ©ria, check the dates for the relevant year.
If you have a specific event date in mind, checking the exact dates is part of planning.
Discover more destinations: Grabels, Campagne, Lavérune, Cazevieille, Cesseras, Balaruc-Les-Bains, Caussiniojouls, La Boissiere
Back to the regional travel overview: HĂ©rault.
