Perpignan: The capital of the Pyrénées-Orientales region

There are many reasons: its weather, Catalan culture, authenticity and canals are certainly the main ones. The town lies at the heart of an agricultural plain, famous for its large-scale flower-growing. Its favourable position, just a few kilometres from the sea, means that the population can enjoy a sunny climate and find a little coolness close to the coast.

Perpignan has a Mediterranean climate. This means that winters are mild (only 4 days of frost a year) and summers are hot and dry. The city and surrounding region suffer from regular droughts. The average annual temperature is over 15°C. The Perpignan region is one of the hottest in France. The summer season is an ideal time to visit if you want to enjoy the city and the water-based activities along the coast. To avoid the crowds caused by the school holidays, I recommend that you travel before or after the summer season, so that you can get around the city more easily and suffer less from the heat.

The Castillet is the city's main symbol, and now home to the Musée Catalan de l'Art et de la Tradition Populaire (Catalan Museum of Art and Popular Tradition), it's a must-see for all tourists visiting Perpignan. Visiting the museum is like immersing yourself in Catalan history and culture. The visit ends with a climb up 142 steps to the top of the monument. The view of Perpignan's old town is sublime.

Built in Perpignan between the 12th and 14th centuries, the Palais des Rois de Majorque was commissioned by Jacques II de Majorque, King of Majorca and Count of Roussillon and Cerdagne. He wanted a residence worthy of the name in the département. Today, the former fortress residence is open to the public, giving visitors a chance to discover another facet of Perpignan, at a time when the city was the continental capital, encompassing the whole of the Balearic Islands, as well as the Montpellier conurbation and parts of northern and southern Catalonia.

One of the advantages of Perpignan is its historic centre, full of charm and shops. It's a great place to stroll around and do a spot of shopping without having to go to a shopping centre. Amid the city's narrow, colourful streets, you can walk into a souvenir shop or a large clothing store. There's something for every taste and budget.

At the end of the day, after travelling for miles, don't miss a final stop at Galeries Lafayette, on Quai Vauban. As well as making a few purchases, the establishment has a small, cosy service area on the top floor with a roof terrace. It's the perfect place to enjoy a magnificent view of Perpignan's historic centre, the Castillet and the Ferris wheel, while savouring a delicious snack.