Car Rental Perpignan - Exploring Perpignan

Perpignan is in a privileged location with its close proximity to some outstanding cities, both French and Spanish. The Pyrenees are also nearby, and for a spectacular drive, take the N116 highway to the west of the city heading for the mountains. Visit the charming mountain villages of Saillagouse, Caldegas, Targassonne and Font-Romeu before returning on the D118 highway north and the D117 back into Perpignan.

About 60kms to the north lies the lively town of Narbonne. It is dominated by the massive Palais des Archevêques and the Cathédrale St Just et St Pasteur, with its fine cloisters, 14th century stained glass and beautiful tapestries.

The lavishly decorated Palais Neuf houses museums of archaeology and painting. Roman remains here include the underground granaries of the Horreum, while to the south of the canal are fine mansions and a wonderful food market.

To the west of Narbonne is the spectacular old town of Toulouse with its red-brick mansions, many fine restaurants and multitude of cafés. The Gothic masterpiece, the Église des Jacobins, is most noted for its incredible vaulting high above the apse, while the Basilique St Sernin (a Romanesque basilica) has a fine octagonal belfry.

South of Perpignan and into Catalonia, lying sandwiched between sparkling seas and green hills, is Spain's second-largest city, Barcelona. It has a vibrant Mediterranean seaport and a thriving cultural centre. Essential sightseeing must include the Gothic Quarter, with many buildings dating back beyond the 15th century.

The famous Las Ramblas stretches from the town square all the way to the harbour. This tree-lined avenue with its intriguing little alleyways leading off in all directions is a delight for strolling in the daytime, and has much to keep you entertained. Barcelona also has many excellent museums featuring superb art collections.

Evidence of Antonio Gaudí's handiwork is all around, including his unfinished masterpiece La Sagrada Familia (Church of the Holy Family), with its gigantic spires. Other works by the local genius include the Casa Batlló on Passeig de Grácia and the Parc Güell.