Things to do in Sète

Sète is known as the “Little Venice of Languedoc.” A maze of canals winds through the city, linking Thau lagoon and the sea. The water is reflected on the colorful facades, giving the town irresistible charm.

Quays and Canals

Tip: Strolling along the quay is undoubtedly the best way to enjoy this unusual backdrop. There are twelve bridges to explore. Rest reassured, Sète is so small, you can’t get lost.
Or let yourself glide over the water aboard a boat. Join a maritime excursion or hire a boat for a private group (for more information).

In Sète, the Royal canal is like a public square. The city grew up around it, and it is still the center of the city’s life today.
Very popular nautical jousting tournaments have been taking place between the two bridges throughout the summer since July 1666.

Quai Général Durand, commonly known as “Quai de la Marine” is lined with restaurants. They are showcases for Sète’s gastronomy, Mediterranean fish, and the shellfish from Thau lagoon. Sètes tuna boats proudly wait to head out bluefin tuna fishing along the quay.

Mont Saint Clair Viewpoint

Climb to the top of Mont Saint-Clair to take in the panoramic views and get a good grasp of Sète. The view is a reward for the effort.

Discover the stunning view from the site at the foot of the cross, which can be seen from kilometers away. And don’t miss Notre-Dame-de-la-Salette chapel. The simple facade shelters captivating frescoes and ex-votos placed by families of fishermen.

Upper District

At the foot of the hill of Saint-Clair is the picturesque upper district, the oldest district in Sète where most Italian fishermen settled.

It has also become an artist’s lair with intimate workshops.
Expressive, joyful, and endearing, the district prolongs Sète’s spirit.

In the center of the upper district, Saint-Louis church is the oldest in the city and the most important, which is why it’s called a “decanal” church.
The church was built in dressed stone in 1702, according to architect Daviler, who worked with Mansart—dedicated to the city’s patron saint, Mansart became a historical monument in 1989.
The virgin “Regina Maris,” queen of the seas, dominates the church and watches over the fishermen.

The Old Port

The fishing port in the Royal canal, sheltered from the old port, is a unique attraction that has always seduced sea lovers visiting Sète. Tourists can admire the fabulous spectacle of trawlers returning to port every afternoon from the breakwater or the promenade overlooking the old dock.

In the heart of the old port, the Sète fish auction provides produce throughout France, including Paris, Lyon, Toulouse, Marseille, Italy, and Spain. With 2,200 tonnes caught throughout the year, Sète is the biggest fishing port in the French Mediterranean. The Sète’s fish auction was the first in Europe to become digital in 1967.