Holidays in the south of France are popular among sun-seeking Britons, but affordability isn’t at the top of their appeal.
The French Riviera is generally considered a very expensive place to holiday, particularly in popular tourist towns like Cannes, Monaco, and Saint-Tropez.
However, tucked away in the Occitanie region lies Narbonne. With a fraction of the number of tourists as the Côte d’Azur, the small settlement has all the charm of the coastal hotspots without being overrun with tourists.
According to the travel expert team at eurochange, Narbonne was one of the cheapest holiday destinations in 2024.
A spokesperson said: “A UNESCO World Heritage site, this southern French town has everything you could ever wish for from a holiday to France, including vineyards, a beautiful cathedral, a canal and a gorgeous sandy beach.
“Known as France’s ‘secret Riviera’, Narbonne’s two promenades sit on both sides of the canal, making them ideal for post-dinner evening strolls.”
With its rich history, stunning architecture and proximity to the Mediterranean coast, Narbonne offers a delightful escape without breaking the bank.
Intrepid explorers can soak up authentic French culture as they wander through the town’s historical attractions, many of which are completely free. Admire the Canal de la Robine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit the impressive Narbonne Cathedral – a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
The Abbaye de Fontfroide is the town’s top-rated attraction on Tripadvisor. The 1,000-year-old abbey is just 10 minutes outside of Narbonne and boasts extensive landscaped gardens, plus a restaurant serving lunch.
One Tripadvisor member wrote: “Remarkable monastery. Peaceful, architectural landmark of the region, beautiful gardens and stunning windows in the church.”
Narbonne-Plage, just a short drive from the town centre, is a Blue-Flag beach known for its crystal-clear waters and soft sands.
As for where to eat and drink, TripAdvisor recommends several top-rated eateries.
Chez Bebelle, known for its simple menu and great food, offers a unique dining experience within the market hall. The steak tartare and homemade fries are highly recommended.
Enface – A cosy and warm restaurant with excellent food and service. The duck dishes and steak with fries are particularly popular.
Les Grands Buffets offers a unique culinary experience on the edge of Narbonne. It serves a remarkable selection of starters, cold meats, and an extensive wine list at reasonable prices.
The cost of a beer in Narbonne can vary depending on the type of establishment and the specific beer you choose. On average, you can expect to pay around €3 to €5 for a beer at a local bar or café. Prices may be higher at more upscale venues or tourist hotspots.
Accommodation is affordable in early March, Narbonne’s shoulder season. The region enjoys highs of 15C at this time of year, and you’ll find deals on hotels like the Inter Hotel Le Puech.
The hotel offers a four-night stay for £64 between March 1 and 5. It’s close to some of Narbonne’s most popular landmarks, such as Canal de la Robine (1.3 miles) and Palais des Archeveques (1.4 miles). Logement Onze offers a more luxurious retreat for visitors, with prices from £75 for the same dates in March.
Those seeking a summer getaway to enjoy the warmer weather (18-26C in June) will find accommodation for around £100 for a three-night stay in June. La Maison Gustave costs £109 with breakfast included, while Hôtel Ibis Narbonne costs just £67 for the same dates (11 to 14 June, 2025).
