Holiday Homes & Rentals in Perpignan

The centre of the red-roofed city of Perpignan is only a few minutes’ drive from the beach, so if you prefer to stay in the city or by the sea you’ll have easy access to the best of both worlds. The countryside just outside Perpignan is extraordinarily beautiful, and holiday homes here are quiet, peaceful and offer amazing views over the rolling hills.

Holiday homes in the main part of town in Perpignan are primarily delightful air conditioned properties, modern in style, in a great location to explore this interesting and vibrant part of the world. Homes in the old town are of particular interest for those who appreciate a view of attractive historical buildings. Head out of the centre and you will find lovely rentals to let for larger groups, and you don’t need to go far to get a sea view and serene, well-kept gardens.

Perpignan is in the far south of France, on the border with Catalonia, and as such has a very strong Catalonian influence. High-speed trains from the major cities of France and Spain head to Perpignan, or you can fly into Perpignan Llabanere or Carcassonne Salvaza Airports. Once there, you can get around on the efficient local buses, although a car is useful for sightseeing a little further outside of town. There’s so much to explore in Perpignan. It has a very strong Spanish influence – in fact Perpignan used to be part of Spain and in the Middle Ages it was the Capital of the Kingdom of Mallorca!

Not only does Perpignan have strong influences from its Spanish roots, but also Arabic roots. This can still be seen in the area around Place Joseph Cassanyes which is to this day predominantly populated by people of Arabic descent. You will discover myriad beautiful North African offerings here, from street cafes to jewellery, herbs and spices and the sweet, sticky delicacy that is baklava.

Perpignan is a gorgeous city, with a remarkable array of simply exquisite buildings. See how the history and architecture of the city merges in fascinating ways. Palais des Rois de Majorque dates to 1276, but the variety of styles speak volumes about the influences of different rulers over the years. Look out for signs of Arabic, Spanish, Gothic and Moorish design. Even away from the major attractions, the city of Perpignan is itself an architectural gem, so no matter where you are you’ll be surrounded by buildings and structures of real interest.

Thursdays in high summer in Perpignan are the time to come here to experience the cultural delights of what they call ‘Les Jeudis de Perpignan’. You’ll experience street theatre, dancers, musicians, and street markets. Perpignan’s Thursdays attract an incredible 800+ musicians to delight and entertain you, rounded off each evening with a colourful fountain display. Another interesting cultural event is held at the Place de la Loge in the old town, where traditional Catelonian dances can often be seen. Come at Easter to see the very Spanish parades with the ‘Capirote ‘, the traditional pointed headdress, a profoundly religious piece of head wear.

Take this tourist train around all the major sights of Perpignan, and the commentary will provide you with a wealth of information about what the city.

Le Castillet was built as a fortification and main city entrance and much of this important historical monument is intact for visitors to enjoy. For those able to manage the stairs to the top the view is a delight.

Well worth making a special effort to get to, this theatre is housed in multiple buildings, each with its own architectural style. Some you will love, some less so, but what is for sure is that you have never seen anything quite like it. And why not also take in a show while you’re there?!

This most tranquil of parks has a secondary function – it is designed to offer flood protection to the town! As such it contains irrigation canals and floodplains which support a vast range of regional plants.

This incredible Cathedral, built in Catalonian-Gothic style, has been the main church of Perpignan since its founding in 1324. Experience the beautifully ornate and impressive architecture, and delight in discovering its naves and side chapels, all which provide an explanation of the imagery.