When you cruise to Sete in the Occitanie region of southwest France, you’ll immediately feel the lure of the shore excursions Sete, France has to offer. From your Mediterranean cruise, spend your time ashore here touring UNESCO World Heritage Sites, strolling past cathedrals and castles, exploring market squares, and visiting working vineyards.

Popular shore excursions in Sete, France include a chance to step back in time as you visit the hilltop town of Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the town that was originally settled as early as the 6th century B.C. and became an important strategic site during the Crusades in the 13th century. Wend your way through the castle, peeking out of small window openings from which you can glimpse the beautiful sloping vineyards of the Languedoc-Roussillon wine region below. Stroll the narrow, winding streets of the town, stopping to browse the chocolatier, fromagerie, and cave à vins shops, boutiques, and galleries. By all means, pause for an espresso or aperitif at one of the many cafes, bars, or brasseries. 

Other shore excursions in Sete, France include trips to Montpelier, where you’ll find art and architecture front and center. Find out about the town’s rich history, including its establishment of the first school of medicine during the Middle Ages. Enjoy hearing fascinating facts as your guide walks with you to the Place de la Comedie, the Fountain of the Three Graces, the Cathedral of St. Pierre, and Peyou Square. See the spectacular view of the surrounding countryside from the Port du Peyrou, a triumphal arch constructed in 1693. The arch’s bas relief panels show four major events from the reign of the “Sun King,” Louis IX. Top off your lovely day in the country with a visit to Chateau de Flaugergues, a winery set in the heart of the Languedoc wine-producing region. Tour the chateau filled with 18th century furniture and beautiful tapestries, wander the manicured gardens, and enjoy a special wine tasting. 

Explore the city known as “the Rome of France” on Mediterranean cruise excursions to Nȋmes. The city’s Roman roots are on display at Maison Carée, a well-preserved Roman temple, the Temple of Diana, the Tour Magne, and Les Arenes, the Roman amphitheater. See the most famous Roman ruin and UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Pont du Gard, one of the few and finest remaining Roman aqueducts. Wander through the Jardins de la Fontaine, one of the oldest parks in France, and shop and lunch at Les Halles de Nȋmes, the city’s covered marketplace.