Ourmotorhome site near Perpignan, in Sainte-Marie-la-Mer (12 min from the centre), is the ideal base for visiting Perpignan by motorhome without the hassle of city-centre parking.
Visiting Perpignan by motorhome: where to park, what to see, how to get around
Perpignan, the French Catalan capital, is a must-see for any motorhomer heading south or exploring thePyrénées-Orientales. But how do you visit it without the struggle of finding parking suited to your vehicle? The solution:base yourself in Sainte-Marie-la-Mer (10 km) and reach Perpignan by bus, bike or accompanying car.
Historic city centre, narrow streets, limited heights, underground car parks inaccessible to motorhomes — Perpignan isnot suitedto motorhome parking right in the centre. Official motorhome sites in Perpignan itself are rare, often full in season and not very secure.
The best strategy: a secure motorhome site nearby, like ours in Sainte-Marie-la-Mer (66), and making round trips to Perpignan by transport.
The regional bus line connects Sainte-Marie-la-Mer to Perpignan in ~30 minutes, at a very affordable fare. Ideal for leaving the motorhome at the secure site and exploring the city with a free mind. See the tranquille. Voir notre bus access guidefor the timetable.
ThePyrénées-Orientales cycle pathslet you reach Perpignan by bike (~1h, 12 km) along canals and fields. Bikes available to rent in Sainte-Marie-la-Mer.
If you travel in a motorhome with a towed or accompanying car, allow 15-20 minutes via the A9 motorway (exit 41 Perpignan Sud) or the D617.Accompanying car: €1/24hat the Night 4 Camping-Car site.
A 13th-century medieval fortress, former seat of the kingdom of Majorca. Panoramic view over Perpignan, the Canigou and the Mediterranean Sea. Allow 2h.
A southern Gothic cathedral, a 14th-century gem. Free entry. Adjoining cloister to visit.
An emblematic medieval gate of the city, today home to the Casa Pairal museum (Catalan arts and traditions).
Historic heart with café terraces, market, events. A typical southern atmosphere, perfect for an aperitif.
A typical Roma district, lively and colourful. Discover authentic Catalan culture. Best done during the day.
Fine arts in an 18th-century palace. Permanent exhibition + quality temporary ones. Modest admission.
Fresh produce, Catalan charcuterie, cheeses, fruit from the Roussillon. Mornings only.
Narrow lanes, craftsmen's workshops, bohemian atmosphere. Perfect for strolling and lunch.
Salvador Dalí declared Perpignan station« Centre of the world »in 1965. A surprising artwork on the square. Painting and commemorative plaque to see.
A shaded walk along the river, perfect for digesting after the restaurant.
Catalan specialities to try:
Go for therestaurants of the Saint-Jean districtand theterraces of Place de la Logefor the atmosphere.
Secure motorhome site in Sainte-Marie-la-Mer + visits to Perpignan by bus / bike / accompanying car. It's the relaxed strategy to enjoy the Catalan capital without stressing about parking. And you combine it with beach, sun and premium services.
Book my motorhome stopover (no booking needed, free access)
From Sainte-Marie-la-Mer, line 5 of the Sankéo network takes you straight into the centre of Perpignan in about thirty minutes, at a small price. Leave the motorhome at the aire and explore the city with peace of mind — map, routes and timetables are all online.
Three must-see landmarks, 12 km from the aire: the Castillet, Saint-Jean-Baptiste cathedral and the Loge de Mer.
The smart strategy: sleep by the sea in peace at Sainte-Marie-la-Mer and reach Perpignan during the day. In the evening, back to the water’s edge.
| Mode | Duration | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| 🚌 By bus | ≈ 25–30 min | The easiest: no parking to manage, small budget. |
| 🚴 By bike | ≈ 45 min | Along paths and minor roads, for the sporty. |
| 🚗 Accompanying car | ≈ 20 min | Handy if you tow a car; park on the outskirts. |
Step out of the van. Slip on your sandals. Ten minutes' walk later, your feet touch the sand of the Mediterranean. It's as simple as that.
✨ Fewer than 5% of French motorhome sites are within 1 km of the sea.You're in the right place.
Over 30 km of cycle paths and greenwaysdirectly accessible from the site,without getting back in your motorhome. From your pitch, set off and ride between beach, harbour, nature and Catalan villages at your own pace.
Reach Perpignan easily along a pleasant avenue lined with plane trees and enjoy a cooler ride on sunny days.
Following the coastline southwards, discoverCanet-en-Roussillon, its harbour, its beaches and the lagoon with its typical landscapes between sea and nature.
Heading north, push the adventure on toLeucatefor a gourmet break and to savour the famous local oysters by the water.
Here, the journey doesn't begin at the wheel: it begins the moment you step off your pitch.
Welcome to our beautiful region of thePyrénées-Orientales, between the Mediterranean, nature and the good life. 🚐✨
Motorhome site 900 m from the Blue Flag beach, shops 50 m away, open 24/7 all year round.Sainte-Marie-la-Mer, Pyrénées-Orientales.
