Perpignan is a lively city with easy access to the diverse landscapes of southern France’s Pyrénées-Orientales. It’s a place where you can explore charming streets, enjoy regional wines, and venture into scenic countryside—all of which makes it ideal for a variety of guided tours. We especially love the Private Commented Excursion in Argelès-sur-Mer by 2 CV Citroën for its nostalgic vehicle and the insider insights offered. This tour captures the essence of local culture with a fun ride in a classic Citroën, plus stops in picturesque towns like Collioure and Port-Vendres. It’s a perfect blend of comfort, charm, and storytelling.
For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the Força-Réal Sunset tour en VTT à assistance électrique offers a memorable way to watch the sunset while cycling at high elevations. Meanwhile, travelers seeking a quick overview of Perpignan itself might prefer the 2-hour Best Intro Walking Tour with a Local, which covers the main sights and tucked-away corners in a small-group setting. Lastly, wine lovers should consider the Rivesaltes: Private vineyard tour with tasting, a private experience focusing on rare vintages and regional traditions. Below, we explore each of these options in detail to help you find your ideal tour.
1. Private Commented Excursion in Argelès-sur-Mer by 2 CV Citroën
Starting at about $53.36 per person for approximately 2 to 3 hours, this private excursion in a vintage Citroën 2 CV offers a delightful way to explore the Catalan coast and nearby towns. What sets this tour apart is the vehicle itself—a classic car that’s instantly recognizable and packed with character. The routes wind through small roads and paths, avoiding the busy main roads, allowing you to see the vineyards of Valmy, the port of Argeles-sur-Mer, and scenic viewpoints overlooking Collioure from Fort St Elme.
The tour is led by Cyril, who provides remarkably original and detailed commentary tailored to your interests. He shares anecdotes and insights about local history, flora, and fauna—making it more than just a scenic drive. The itinerary includes stops at Collioure’s heights, Port-Vendres, and the panoramic Tour Madeloc, which offers unforgettable views. The stops are flexible, and questions are encouraged, making for a lively, engaging experience. Despite the brief stops, the scenery and stories make it feel like a full-day adventure.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a unique combination of nostalgia, scenery, and culture, perfect for travelers who enjoy driving, storytelling, and a pinch of humor. It’s especially suited for those who want a relaxed, intimate experience with plenty of photo opportunities.
2. Força-Réal Sunset tour en VTT à assistance électrique
At just $59 per person for a 2.5-hour ride, this electric mountain bike tour is a fantastic choice for outdoor lovers. It takes you up to Força Réal, a peak at 507 meters, where you can enjoy a 360° panoramic view of the Pyrénées-Orientales. The ride uses electric bikes, which make tackling the ascent easier, even if you’re not a seasoned cyclist.
What makes this tour stand out is the awe-inspiring sunset view over the mountains and coast, plus the experience of riding through quiet trails away from the city. The route includes a picnic or aperitif break at the summit, so you can relax and take in the scenery. The guide provides commentary on the landscape, local geology, and wildlife along the way. The ride is designed for those with a moderate fitness level, and the electric assist means you won’t get worn out before the sunset.
Bottom Line: This tour combines physical activity with breathtaking views, great for active travelers who want to see the Pyrénées from a new perspective. It’s ideal for sunset chasers and those who enjoy nature.
3. Perpignan: 2-hour Best Intro Walking Tour with a Local
For around $151, this 2-hour walking tour delivers a deep dive into Perpignan’s highlights and lesser-known corners. Led by a local guide, the tour is perfect for first-timers wanting a quick, authentic introduction to the city. You’ll see top sights like the Palais des Rois de Majorque and the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, along with hidden alleys and local markets.
What makes this tour exceptional is the personalized insight into Perpignan’s traditions, food, and neighborhood stories. The guide offers tips on where to eat, drink, and explore after the tour, making it a valuable resource for planning your stay. With a small group of up to 8 travelers, the experience feels intimate and relaxed, allowing for questions and spontaneous discoveries. It’s a good choice if your time in Perpignan is limited but you want a thorough overview that includes secret spots.
Bottom Line: This walking tour is perfect for those who want a quick, in-depth introduction to Perpignan with a friendly local. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate a personalized approach and insider tips.
4. Rivesaltes: Private vineyard tour with tasting
Priced at approximately $60 (check current availability), this private vineyard tour focuses on Rivesaltes Ambré, a regional specialty. It includes a guided tour of the estate, where you’ll learn about the production of the rare vintages. You get to taste four different vintages—2008, 1982, 1966, and 1952—offering a real taste of history.
What makes this experience special is the rarity of the vintages and the private setting. The guide shares detailed insights into the aging process, regional wine traditions, and collector’s value. The tour lasts about an hour, followed by a tasting that combines regional cheeses or local foods, depending on availability. Reviews highlight the uniqueness of tasting such old vintages and the personalized service. It’s perfect for wine enthusiasts or those interested in collecting.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine lovers eager to sample rare vintages and learn about regional winemaking in an intimate setting. It’s a memorable experience that offers a rare glimpse into the region’s wine heritage.
How to Choose Your Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and travel style. If you love vintage cars and scenic drives, the private Citroën excursion offers a charming, relaxed experience. For outdoor activity enthusiasts, especially those who enjoy cycling and sunset views, the VTT sunset ride provides both adventure and spectacular scenery.
If your goal is to get to know Perpignan quickly and authentically, the walking tour gives a personalized, local perspective. Meanwhile, wine aficionados should not miss the private vineyard experience, which combines rare tastings with a deep dive into regional wine-making.
Consider your budget, how active you want to be, and whether you prefer indoor, outdoor, or cultural experiences to pick the best fit. Booking early is advisable, especially for small-group or private options, to secure your preferred time.
Perpignan offers a wide range of engaging tours, whether you’re into scenic drives, outdoor adventures, cultural insights, or wine tasting. For a classic experience, the Citroën ride combines fun and storytelling, while the sunset bike ride is perfect for active, sunset-seeking travelers. If you want a quick yet comprehensive city overview, the walking tour hits the mark. And for wine lovers, the Rivesaltes vineyard visit offers a taste of regional history with rare vintages.
Whatever your interests, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on these top-rated experiences. Happy exploring!