The city of Perpignan is the perfect destination for a day trip. The historic district, the Palace of the Kings of Mallorca and the narrow streets filled with shops are just some of the things that will turn your day into a fantastic day. And you can get there in only 1 hour and 20 minutes Barcelona, on Renfe's AVE (high-speed) France trains, AVE (high-speed) International travelling between Spain and France. Are you in?
First thing in the morning, the AVE (high-speed) train will start its trip to Lyon and reach Perpignan in less than 90 minutes. Exit the station, take Avenue Général de Gaullen and you will reach the city centre in a little more than 10 minutes. It's that easy!
Built in the fourteenth century, it currently houses the Catalan Museum of Arts and Popular Traditions, but it used to be one of the main entrance gates on the wall and even a state prison. Its silhouette represents the city hall.
Le Castellet
A few steps away is the Cathedral of Saint-Jean Baptiste, built in a Gothic style. The inside of the Cathedral features a large central nave with beautiful stained glass windows and a spectacular fifteenth-century organ.
After you leave the cathedral, follow the high street to reach the Perpignan Town Hall, a small and charming building, in which you will find a beautiful sculpture of Aristides Maillol in its courtyard houses. The nearby streets are packed with small shops and bars. Sit down and enjoy a nice cup of coffee before walking towards the Palace of the Kings of Mallorca.
Palace of the Kings of Mallorca
Walk up Rue des Archers to find the Palace entrance. This eighteenth century fortification built in a Gothic style is a sight to see, both outside with its magnificent gardens on the entrance to the palace, and its interior. This was a military headquarters building for more than five centuries. At the end of World War II, its doors were opened to the public. It has been preserved in very good condition, and you can enjoy amazing views of the city from the promontory.
After visiting the Palace, take a break to have lunch in one of the many city centre's restaurants, you won't be disappointed.
Finally, enjoy a nice walk around the canal area before you take the train back home, where you will find many shops selling souvenirs and enjoy a delicious coffee on one of its terraces.
On the way to the station, you will pass the spectacular Theatre Archipelago, the work of Jean Nouvel and Brigitte Metra on the banks of Tet River, where different multidisciplinary shows are held throughout the season.
Theatre Archipelago
All in all, a walk through the narrow streets of Perpignan allows you to discover the incomparable richness of its past. Buy your train ticket to Perpignan now and travel on our Alta Velocidad (high-speed) International trains!
Moreover, if you wish to discover more about France, you can't miss the other cities connected to each other and to Spain. Hop on our AVE (high-speed) International trains to Béziers, Montpellier, Lyon, Marseille or Aix-en-Provence, always from city centre to city centre.
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