Sete is a lively port town on France’s southern coast, famous for its seafood, canals, and maritime charm. What makes Sete stand out for travelers is its diverse range of tours that bring you close to local life, whether it’s sampling fresh oysters or cruising through the city’s intricate waterways. We particularly like the Loupian oyster farm tour, because it offers an authentic look at oyster farming with a tasty finish. It’s a simple, affordable way to connect with the region’s prized delicacies and learn about the process.
Another favorite is the Sete: 3-in-1 tour of the city via the canals, the sea, and the lagoon. It combines comfort, local commentary, and a chance to see Sete from different angles, perfect for those who want a comprehensive introduction to the town. Whether you’re interested in food, scenery, or culture, Sete offers a variety of tours that fit different interests and budgets. Below, we break down each of these options with detailed insights to help you choose.
1. Loupian: Tour guide of our oyster farm and tasting
At just $11 per person, the Loupian oyster farm tour is a no-brainer for seafood lovers. This 1.5-hour guided experience takes you to a working oyster farm located in the Thau basin, south of France. The tour covers every stage of oyster cultivation, giving you a clear understanding of how these mollusks go from seed to plate. The highlight for many is the tasting session, where you sample different types of oysters, fresh and briny.
What makes this tour stand out is its authenticity and intimacy. You’re not just watching a demonstration—you’re walking through the actual farm, learning about sustainable practices and local traditions. The guide’s expertise helps demystify oyster farming, making it accessible even if you’ve never tried an oyster before. This tour is perfect for foodies, curious travelers, or anyone who appreciates a bit of hands-on learning. The small-group setting (just 1.5 hours) means you can ask plenty of questions and enjoy a relaxed tasting.
Bottom line: For an affordable, authentic taste of local marine life, this oyster farm tour offers genuine insight and delicious oysters in a friendly setting.
2. Sète: 3-in-1 tour of the city via the canals, the sea, and the lagoon
Priced at just $12 per person, the Sete: 3-in-1 tour offers a full day’s glimpse into the many faces of this maritime town. This tour takes place on a sleek, 100% electric boat, making for a smooth and quiet ride through Sete’s canals, out into the sea, and around the Thau lagoon. The boat is comfortable, accessible, and designed for an eco-friendly experience, which is a bonus for environmentally conscious travelers.
The tour includes a 50-minute guided walk in the city center, where you’ll see the lively markets and historic streets. The local fisherman providing commentary adds a personal touch, sharing stories and insights that you won’t find in a guidebook. Both daytime and nighttime options are available, offering different perspectives of the town’s beauty. This trip is well-suited for those who value authentic local stories and want a stress-free way to see the city from multiple vantage points.
Bottom line: The Sete 3-in-1 tour delivers a comprehensive, comfortable experience of Sete’s waterways and streets, with a friendly local touch.
3. Marseillan: La Maison Noilly Prat Premium Tour
For around $20 per person, the La Maison Noilly Prat Premium Tour is a one-and-a-half-hour journey into the world of French vermouth production. Located in Marseillan, this tour unlocks the secrets of Noilly Prat, one of France’s most iconic brands. You’ll get exclusive access to centuries-old cellars where the wine is aged in large tuns, and learn about the unique aging process that gives Noilly Prat its distinctive flavor.
What sets this apart is the combination of a historical perspective and a tasting of aged wines right from the tuns—something only this tour offers. The guide’s storytelling brings the process to life, making it a particularly engaging experience. An added feature is the private visit to the cooperage, a historical monument that normally isn’t open to the public. The small group size ensures personalized attention and a chance to ask questions about traditional wine-making techniques.
This tour is ideal for wine aficionados or those interested in the craftsmanship behind France’s famous fortified wines. While it might be pricier than some other options, the focus on exclusive access and tasting makes it good value.
Bottom line: If you’re curious about French wine and want an in-depth look at a world-renowned producer, this premium tour is a top choice.
4. Béziers: Wine and Oyster Tasting Tour at Thau lagoon
At $111 per person for about four hours, the Wine and Oyster Tasting Tour from Béziers offers a blend of culinary indulgence and regional exploration. It’s designed for those who want to indulge in both white wine and fresh oysters with stunning lagoon views. The tour starts with a visit to a Picpoul de Pinet winery, where you’ll taste aromatic, crisp white wines that perfectly complement the lagoon’s oysters.
After the wine tasting, you’ll head to Thau Lagoon to learn about oyster farming practices, ending with a tasting of fresh oysters paired with your chosen wine. The small-group format makes for a relaxed atmosphere, and the 80-minute Meze food tasting provides a generous sampling of regional fare. The scenic drive in a comfortable van adds to the experience, making it suitable for travelers who want a comprehensive, hands-on taste of Languedoc’s flavors.
Although the price point is higher, the combination of wine, oysters, and the picturesque setting makes this a memorable outing. It’s especially well-suited for food and wine enthusiasts eager to enjoy local specialties.
Bottom line: For a luxurious and tasty introduction to Languedoc’s seafood and wines, this tour offers excellent value given its all-inclusive nature.
5. Montpellier: Sète Guided Tour with Tastings & Views
At $81 per person, the Montpellier: Sète Guided Tour combines city exploration with local flavors. Starting from Montpellier, it takes you on a 4-hour journey around Sète, focusing on its historic streets, lively markets, and scenic viewpoints. The tour includes tastings of regional specialties at Les Halles de Sète, which is a bustling hub of local gastronomy.
The highlight is the panoramic view from Mont Saint-Clair, accessible via a scenic drive, where you’ll enjoy sweeping vistas of the coast. The guided walk and food market visits reveal the town’s authentic character, making this suitable for travelers who want a cultural and culinary snapshot in one outing. The combination of sightseeing, tasting, and scenic viewpoints makes for a well-rounded experience.
While the price is higher, the inclusion of tastings and a scenic stop justifies it for those who want a richer, more immersive tour. It’s perfect for travelers with limited time who want an introduction to both Sete and its surrounding region.
Bottom line: This guided tour is a premium way to see Sète with tastings and views, best suited for those looking for a full, curated experience.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Sete
When selecting a tour in Sete, consider your interests, budget, and physical activity level. If seafood is your focus, the oyster farm tour offers authentic insight at a low price. For a comprehensive exploration of the town’s waterways, the 3-in-1 boat trip provides a relaxing, eco-friendly way to see multiple sights. Wine lovers might prefer the Noilly Prat or wine and oyster tours for their exclusive tastings and scenic settings.
Timing can also influence your choice—some tours run only during the day, while others offer evening options with different views and ambiance. Booking early is wise, especially during peak summer months, to secure your spot on these popular experiences.
Final Thoughts
Sete’s variety of tours means there’s something for every type of traveler. Seafood aficionados will love the oyster farm visits, while those interested in local wines can indulge at La Maison Noilly Prat or enjoy a combined wine-oyster experience. For a broad taste of the town’s culture and scenery, the sete: 3-in-1 tour and the Montpellier guided tour offer immersive days out.
No matter which you pick, these tours give you a deeper connection to Sete and its surroundings. Booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out—these popular excursions tend to fill quickly. Dive into these authentic experiences and make your time in Sete truly memorable.