Things To Do
in Canet-en-Roussillon
Canet-en-Roussillon is a sun-soaked Mediterranean town in southern France, renowned for its long sandy beaches, a lively marina, and an inviting promenade. It blends family-friendly seaside charm with easy access to natural reserves, such as the Mas Larrieu, and the historic centers of nearby Perpignan and Catalan towns. The town serves as a gateway to both the coast and the foothills of the Pyrenees, making it ideal for sunbathers, cyclists, and nature lovers.
With Catalan influences in cuisine and culture, Canet-en-Roussillon delivers scenic coastlines, warm hospitality, and delicious seafood experiences year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by wandering through the charming streets of Canet-en-Roussillon’s historic center, where you can admire the traditional Catalan architecture. Stop by the local bakery to sample fresh croissants and pain au chocolat, paired with a café au lait. As the sun rises higher, make your way to the picturesque Place de la République, a perfect spot for people-watching.
After a leisurely lunch at a local bistro, spend your afternoon visiting the Canet-en-Roussillon Church, known for its stunning stained glass windows and serene atmosphere. Next, take a stroll along the charming canals that run through the town, where you can often spot local wildlife. Don’t forget to explore the quaint artisan shops that offer unique handmade crafts and souvenirs.
As the sun sets, head to a seaside restaurant to indulge in fresh seafood dishes, enjoying views of the Mediterranean. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the beach, where the sound of the waves creates a peaceful backdrop. Conclude your evening by sipping a glass of local wine at a beachfront bar, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Start your day with a refreshing swim in the Mediterranean Sea, enjoying the soft, sandy beaches of Canet-en-Roussillon. After your swim, rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the beautiful coastline and take in the stunning views of the surrounding area. As you paddle, keep an eye out for local marine life, such as colorful fish and playful dolphins.
After a morning of water sports, relax on the beach with a good book or enjoy a picnic lunch under the sun. In the afternoon, consider signing up for a windsurfing lesson, where you'll learn the basics from experienced instructors. Alternatively, simply bask in the sun and take in the lively beach atmosphere, dotted with sunbathers and beach volleyball games.
In the evening, treat yourself to dinner at a beachside restaurant, where you can enjoy local specialties like paella or bouillabaisse. As night falls, watch the sky change colors while relaxing on the beach with a cocktail in hand. For a fun night out, explore the nearby beach clubs that often feature live music and dancing.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🥖Fresh bread (loaf) | $1-2 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short trip) | $10-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning Mediterranean coastline with wide beaches
- Proximity to Perpignan and Catalan culture
- Excellent seafood and fresh market produce
- Gentle winter climate and long outdoor season
- Crowds in peak summer months
- Some areas are touristy and parking can be challenging in season
- Public transit within Canet can be limited; requires car or bike for distant sites
- Catalan-influenced dishes may be heavy on seafood for non-fish eaters
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est la plage ?" - Where is the beach?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
- "Je ne comprends pas" - I don't understand
- "Aidez-moi" - Help me
- "Je voudrais ..." - I would like ...
Places to Visit in Canet-en-Roussillon
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful boats, calm waters, and golden evening light create ideal reflections for coastal and portrait photography.
Wide beachfront promenade with long lines of palm trees, perfect for wide-angle seascapes and candid street photography.
Marshes, dunes, and tree-lined boardwalks offer birdlife and landscape compositions with a natural, windswept mood.
A short trip into the nearby city provides contrasting urban and historic backdrops for architectural photography.
Food in Canet-en-Roussillon
Canet-en-Roussillon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A garlic and olive oil emulsion served with boiled fish, potatoes, and vegetables; a regional classic found in many seaside eateries.
Must-Try!
Catalan salted cod salad with tomatoes, onions, and peppers; light, refreshing, and widely available in seafood spots.
A pepper-tomato sauté often served with eggs or cod; a staple of Catalan-inspired dishes in the area.
A regional take on a Provençal-style fish soup with fresh catches; look for offerings labeled as bouillabaisse or soupe de poisson along the coast.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market (often Saturdays) with fresh seafood, fruit, vegetables, cheeses, and local specialties; great for grabbing ingredients or a quick bite.
Seasonal stalls along the marina offering grilled seafood, socca-style chickpea flatbreads, and small tapas-style bites perfect for a casual lunch.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say bonjour or bonsoir when entering shops or meeting people; use 's'il vous plaît' and 'merci' to show courtesy.
Food is often shared in a family-style way; keep hands above the table, use utensils properly, and wait for everyone to be served before eating in many restaurants.
Respect local Catalan culture and language presence; attempting a few phrases in French or Catalan is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Canet-en-Roussillon
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, a service charge is often included; leaving a small extra tip (5-10%) for good service is appreciated but not mandatory. Rounding up cash payments is common in casual places.
Cards are widely accepted (Visa, MasterCard, contactless). Cash is always handy, and many places accept mobile payments like Apple Pay or Google Pay.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming landscapes, and lighter crowds; ideal for hikes in Mas Larrieu and outdoor dining.
Hot, sunny days with lively beaches and long evenings; expect peak crowds, water sports, and vibrant seaside dining.
Pleasant warmth with fewer crowds; excellent for coastal walks, markets, and tasting seasonal seafood.
Milder than much of inland France; milder coastal weather with occasional wind and rain; great for relaxed strolls and museum visits in nearby towns.
Canet-en-Roussillon at Night
Hiking in Canet-en-Roussillon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate coastal dunes and marsh boardwalks with opportunities for birdwatching; accessible year-round.
Scenic coastal walking and biking routes offering sea views and opportunities to explore neighboring shorelines.
Airports
How to reach Canet-en-Roussillon by plane.
The closest airport to Canet-en-Roussillon, about a 25–45 minute drive depending on traffic; good for seasonal flights and regional connections.
Located in Catalonia, Spain, roughly 1.5–2 hours by car; useful for low-cost international options and city breaks in the region.
A larger distance to the south; alternative for regional flights with longer drive times.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Large influx of families in summer; long-standing local residents throughout the year.
Visiting by car or rail, drawn by beaches, cuisine, and nature reserves.
Regionally influenced by Catalan traditions, language, and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular along the coast with rental shops near the marina.
Common on busy beaches during summer; courts may appear seasonally.
Enjoyed by locals; matches occur in nearby towns and clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Canet-en-Roussillon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
As a coastal destination with strong seafood emphasis, look for vegetable-based dishes, pipérade, ratatouille, grilled vegetables, salads, and cheese plates. Most restaurants can adapt seafood dishes to be vegetarian or offer meat-free options; communicating clearly in French helps.