Sète is a bustling port town that blends charm of a typical Mediterranean fishing village with the vibrancy of a major seaport. One thing you'll notice straight away is the network of canals crisscrossing through the town - hence its epithet, the 'Venice of Languedoc.'
Arriving in Sète
Sète is served by various transport links. Béziers Cap d'Agde Airport is the closest airport (about 40-minute drive) while Montpellier–Méditerranée Airport is around an hour away. Sète also boasts a major train station with direct connections to Paris and Barcelona.
Navigating the Town
- Car Class Recommendations: A compact car is perfect for easily navigating Sète's narrow, winding streets.
- Mobility: The town is quite compact, so a car isn't strictly necessary. However, if you plan to visit nearby towns and attractions a car is definitely a wise choice.
- Parking: Due to the town's compact size, parking can be a challenge. Better to look for accommodation that offers parking, and use your car to explore further afield.
- Driving Routes: Sète is ideally located for road trips along the coast or into the hinterland. The drive to nearby Montpellier is particularly scenic.
Exploring the Wonders of Sète
Attractions
From museums to churches, to photogenic canals, Sète will not disappoint. Make sure to visit the Musée Paul Valéry for art, the Espace Georges Brassens dedicated to the poet and singer, and Le Quartier Haut, a colorful neighborhood famous for its street art.
Beaches and Outdoor Fun
Sète's sandy beaches are perfect for relaxing and the Thau Lagoon offers a variety of water sports activities. For hiking enthusiasts, the Mont Saint-Clair offers a panoramic view of the town.
Adapting to French Life
Currency
France uses the euro (€). There are plentiful ATMs and card payments are widely accepted.
Traffic Rules
- Familiarize Yourself with the Road Signs: French traffic signs may be slightly different from those in the UK. It's important to familiarise yourself before you start driving.
- Drive on the Right: Unlike in the UK, traffic drives on the right hand side of the road in France.
- Don't Forget Your Breathalysers: It's a legal requirement to carry an unused, certified breathalyser in your vehicle in France.
Seasonal Events
If you visit in August, you might experience the Festival of Saint-Louis, a spectacular water jousting tournament. Sète is also famous for its vibrant music events, particularly jazz.
In Conclusion
No matter what your interests are, Sète has something for everyone; stunning beaches, rich history, vibrant festivals, and delicious seafood. Armed with this information and a hired car, you're ready to enjoy everything this delightful town has to offer. Here's to a memorable trip!
