Whenever we think of Sète, the picturesque image of the Pointe Courte with its colorful boats and fishing nets comes to life before our eyes. This unique town has long inspired renowned artists such as poet Paul Valéry and singer Georges Brassens. Both found this Mediterranean port an inexhaustible source of creativity. La belle vibrates to the rhythm of its canals, and its authentic maritime tradition. From its vibrant alleyways to the rhythm of nautical jousting, to its markets teeming with seafood products, Sète invites you to explore its many colors and flavors. Join us as we discover the treasures of this city of art and history, a jewel of the French coastline! This pearl of the Mediterranean abounds in cultural, gastronomic and artistic activities. Here are the 10 must-sees for your visit.
1. Mont Saint-Clair
Escalar la còla ! Climb to the top of Mont Saint-Clair for a picturesque view. There are three incredible itineraries to choose from. But the reward is beyond your expectations! For an impressive panoramic view of Sète and the surrounding area, a trip up Mont Saint Clair is a must. The panorama is simply breathtaking, and there's no better way to recharge your batteries! Lose yourself in the Klein-blue horizons of the meandering sea. This sublime landscape in the heart of Occitanie encompasses the sea, the lido, the Etang de Thau, and the colorful roofs of the town.
2. Quartier Haut
On your way back down to the heart of town, stroll through the Quartier Haut, famous for its picturesque facades painted by renowned artists and its typical narrow streets. This is the artistic heart of Sète, with its many art studios and galleries : a feast for the eyes and the heart!
3. Musée Paul Valéry
As you pass the Musée Paul Valéry, stop off in this tree-lined artistic haven. Located just above the marine cemetery, it boasts major art exhibitions and a breathtaking view of the sea! It houses over 4,000 works, including paintings by famous artists and the Paul Valéry collection.
4. The Marine Cemetery
Continue on to the famous Cimetière Marin, immortalized by Paul Valéry, where the poet himself is laid to rest. It's a unique place for meditation, with a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean. Enjoy this enchanting, iodized moment. This is one of the sights to be found in the Top 10 most beautiful ports in France.
5. Les Halles de Sète
As you continue your stroll, charming fragrances draw you irresistibly to Les Halles! Did you know that Les Halles was voted the 3rd most beautiful covered market in Occitanie and contested the final of the most beautiful market in France? Built in Baltard style in 1890, they were demolished in the 1970s and rehabilitated in 2011 following a competition won by architect François Fontès. Magnificently reinvented, the structure features a facade wrapped in stainless steel mesh. This elaborate weave pays homage to men of the sea, evoking the fishermen's nets that have long shaped the city's identity. What's more, the renovation is designed to improve energy efficiency. Immerse yourself in the Place To Be! This place is a must for gourmets. Discover local products such as tielle, oysters from the Etang de Thau, and octopus à la sétoise.
6. The Canal Royal
The heart of Sète beats around this canal, where the famous Saint Louis nautical jousts are held. Attend this traditional show or simply enjoy a stroll along the quays. DuringEscale à Sète, prestigious ships from all over the world drop anchor for a week of traditional maritime festivities, including the Belem and the Galéon!
7. Beaches of Sète
Enjoy a relaxing day in the sun on sandy beaches such as Plage de la Corniche or Plage des Quilles . The sublime Plage du Lazaret and its picturesque rocky outcrops invite you to idleness and la dolce vita. If you're wondering What to do in Hérault? The beaches of Sète are one of the 19 must-sees!
8. Espace Georges Brassens
Discover thespace dedicated to Georges Brassens, which retraces the life and work of this Sète-born artist through a museographic tour. It's a delightful immersion in French culture to the rhythm of the famous singer's songs.
9. Sète flea market
For bargain hunters, the flea market is a must. Every Sunday, discover hidden treasures and collectibles. The "Brocante des Sétois " every Thursday is also a must! Last but not least, the Sète Nautical Flea Market brings together boat enthusiasts for one-off events!
10. Sailing on the Etang de Thau
Embark on a cruise on the Etang de Thau, famous for its oyster beds and exceptional biodiversity. Discover the rich aquatic life and traditional oyster farming techniques directly from local producers. Let yourself be charmed by the picturesque landscapes lining the shores, a perfect blend of wild nature and harmonious human activity. Book your walk here!
Last but not least, here are some mythical places not to be missed if you're in Sète!
- At La Pointe Courte, meet the generous and authentic Sétois, who will tell you all about the legends of the Bassin de Thau;
- Across the street, stroll through La Plagette and stop off at La Cabanette, where dishes are an ode to salty sea spray and sunny summer evenings!
- Discover passionate artists through their works exhibited in numerous art galleries such as Galerie Maylin Bruniquel and Le Réservoir;
- And among the Top 12 unusual museums to visit in France, don't miss MIAM!
Find out more about the hottest activities in Sète here:
Finally, head for the Môle and the Saint-Louis lighthouse, where you can relax on the terrace of theAmar Café. The view is sublime, as is the welcome and the deliciously concocted bistronomy!
Where to stay in Sète?
To make the most of your stay in Sète, here are three hotels offering comfort and good value for money:
- CAFÉ DE PARIS - Hotel : emblematic and centrally located, this hotel offers easy access to the city center and elegantly decorated rooms.
- LE GRAND HÔTEL-RESTAURANT QUAI 17: Belle Époque and Art Deco style from the 19th century, this refined, centrally-located 3-star establishment offers 43 elegant rooms.
- HÔTEL DE LA PLAGE : this family-run beachfront hotel offers 16 comfortable, modern rooms, some with sea views, others with views of Mont Saint-Clair. The welcome is warm and the setting enchanting.
Where to eat in style?
Here are our favorites, and that's an understatement in Sète! Because here, the heart beats very fast! The island's many restaurants delight the palate and delight the taste buds. Authenticity is matched only by the freshness of the products selected to delight you. Here are our top 3:
- Paris-Méditerranée for its signature dish and delightful patio;
- Le Boucanier for its character and large counter;
- La Prohibition for its atmosphere and flavors!
Also discover the delicious tielles from Fabrique de Tielles Sophie CIANNI & CO!
Sète is a city of arts and traditions! There's something for every visitor, whether exploring its rich heritage, sampling its local cuisine or relaxing by the water. Come and discover its uniqueness and its many charms. You won't want to leave..
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