Find your perfect hire car at Perpignan Train Station
Perpignan in the Pyrenees Orientales is a cosmopolitan French city. Due to its location on the Spanish border, it has a distinctly Catalan flavour. Pick up your Avis car from Perpignan Train Station to discover a host of historic and natural treasures.Plan your journey from Perpignan Train Station
From Perpignan Train Station you’re just a 15-minute drive (via Avenue de Grande Bretagne) from the centre of Perpignan itself, where numerous attractions await.Top sights include the Palais des Rois de Majorque; built in 1276, this castle combines a mix of gothic and Romanesque styles and is arranged around three courtyards. The old town of Perpignan is also worth spending some time in, with several churches situated here. The most famous is Cathédrale Saint-Jean, which dates back to around 1324. The interior carvings and ornate altarpiece are distinctly Catalan.
Those in search of history might want to head to Casa Païral, a folklore museum featuring everything from traditional bonnets to a reconstructed 17th century kitchen.
When you want a break from monuments and museums head to the Parc St Vicens. Not only are these delightful gardens full of exotic trees and plants, but there’s also a large on-site shop selling textiles and unusual ceramics.
Art lovers should visit the Musée Riguad, which incorporates Perpignan’s Museum of Art. The building, once a 17th century palace, was the workshop of artist Hyacinthe Rigaud and was later a studio for the likes of Dufy, Cocteau and Picasso.
Explore Perpignan and beyond from the comfort of your rental car.
Beyond Perpignan Airport
The Pyrenees Orientales is an area in Southern France, located to the north of Catalonia, that offers nature and heritage in equal measure. With long, sandy beaches along the Mediterranean and Vermillion Coast, picturesque mountain villages and old walled towns, you’ll have a stunning backdrop for your French road trip.
Fort de Bellegarde
Drive for around 35 minutes from Perpignan Train Station (via the A9 and D900) to reach the impressive Fort de Bellegarde. This 17th century fortification, situated above the town of Le Perthus, is a must for all history enthusiasts and is open to the public from June to September. As well as the structure itself, visitors are able to browse exhibits explaining more about the fort’s history, archaeology and location.
Natural Regional Park of the Catalan Pyrenees
Travel for just under two hours from Perpignan Train Station (via the N116) to enjoy some of the most stunning scenery in the region. The expansive Natural Regional Park of the Catalan Pyrenees covers an area of 138 hectares and is home to 64 villages and seven nature reserves. There are 12 ski resorts within the park. Walkers and hikers can enjoy the abundance of nature trails here, especially during the warmer months.
Hire a car at Perpignan Train Station and start exploring the fascinating Pyrenees Orientales region. From Perpignan, the sights of south-west France are just a leisurely drive away. Don't forget to check out the common road rules for driving in France before you set off.