Written by Anto
30 April 2025
read in 1 min
Summary
Top 10 things to do in Elne
1 - Discover the cloister and cathedral of Elne
Located in the medieval town, the cloister and the Cathedral of Saint Eulalia and Saint Julie are must-see sites. Listed as historical monuments since the 20th century, they were the residences of canons and bishops.
Between Romanesque architecture and Gothic sculptures, these marvelous buildings will not fail to seduce you!
A little tip: Escape via one of the stone staircases and succumb to the breathtaking view of the Canigou massif and the Mediterranean.
On a rainy day, don't know what to do in Elne? Come discover this architectural city open all year round.
From 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Sunday
Duration of the visit: approximately 60 minutes
Prices:
- Full price: €4.50
- 10-25 years: €3.00
- Child rate (under 10 years old): free
Credit card accepted
2 - Swiss maternity
Also known as Château d'En Bardou, the Swiss Maternity Hospital is located on the road to Bages. Built by Eugène Bardou in 1901, this historic monument represents hope and solidarity. Between 1939 and 1944, it was rented by Secours Suisse to welcome children of all nationalities.
Built in the 19th century style, this bright building will offer you emotions and serenity!
Don't hesitate to come and visit it: a good activity around Elne.
From 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Sunday
Duration of the visit: approximately 60 minutes
Prices:
- Full price: €4.50
- 10-25 years: €3.00
- Child rate (under 10 years old): free
Credit card accepted
3 - The Terrus Museum
Located near the cathedral, this museum of modern art highlights the talent of Etienne Terrus (1857-1922), a painter born in Elne.
Inspired by Paul Cézanne, Henri Matisse and Aristide Maillol, his still lifes and landscapes of Roussillon in watercolor come to life!
The Terrus Museum, created following the death of this emblematic figure in Elne, houses the artist's various paintings as well as a few temporary exhibitions during the season.
Open from May to September, every day from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Duration of the visit: approximately 60 minutes
Prices:
- Full price: €4.50
- 10-25 years: €3.00
- Child rate (under 10 years old): free
4 - Play a treasure hunt, between legends and truths
What if you set off on an unusual discovery of the town of Elne? Equip yourself with your smartphone and sturdy shoes to discover this architecturally rich town, inhabited by legends, step by step. An enriching and rejuvenating activity to do with family, children, or alone when you don't know what to do in Elne!
Duration of the walk: approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
Free
5 - Visit the Garden of Crafts
Located in the heart of the city, close to the Terrus Museum and the Cathedral, discover the Elne Arts and Crafts Garden.
Catalan artists and local artisans welcome you to their workshops. Take the opportunity to participate in a chocolate and rousquilles workshop or visit Véronique Puig's ceramics workshop.
Renovated in April 2022, this great artistic and culinary address will not fail to seduce you!
Open Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
6 - Taste wine at the Elne cellar
Located behind the cooperative winery, on the Argelès-sur-mer road, the Elne wine cellar offers all kinds of local wines for purchase and tasting.
The year-round sunshine and Mediterranean climate allow the soils and vines to produce quality products.
Not sure what to do in Elne during the heat? Take advantage of the cool stone walls of the cellar to participate in a tasting session.
Schedules :
Open Tuesday to Saturday
9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. / 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Closed on Sundays, Mondays and public holidays
7 - Take a walk in the “Tropic of the Butterfly”
The Tropic of the Butterfly located in the Pyrénées-Orientales immerses you in bucolic and tropical landscapes.
This covered garden is full of excitement. Admire the different species of butterflies, observe all sorts of plants (mimosas, bamboo, and lavender), and, for the more epicurean, enjoy a moment of relaxation in the restaurant area.
One of the best places in Elne to visit with the family.
Schedules :
Open every day from 10am to 7pm
Prices:
- Adults: €10
- Children aged 3 to 12: €8
8 - The Casa Carrère in Bages
This cultural heritage site is located in Bages, very close to Elne and its beautiful landscapes. This 1950s Baroque building has welcomed residents and national artists. After serving as the Museum of Naïve Arts, Casa Carrère is now part of the town's heritage.
This building is popular for cultural events and various occasions: the Saint Jordi celebrations and musical performances by the Jazz trio.
For a great activity around Elne? Admire this magnificent building from the outside and explore the Roman remains, on the outskirts of the town of Bages, a true architectural treasure trove in the Pyrénées-Orientales.
9 - The Saint André discovery farm
Over 300 animals are waiting to be explored during a visit to the Discovery Farm! Whether with family or friends, the Saint André Discovery Farm is a place to share and learn about protected and endangered animal species.
Share a moment of relaxation and conviviality during an immersive walk on the farm.
Duration of the visit: approximately 2 hours
Prices:
- Child (2 to 13 years): €7
- Adults (from 14 years old): €9
- Free for children under 2 years old
10 - Enjoy the beaches
6 km from the town of Elne, enjoy protected beaches in the towns of Argelès-sur-Mer and Saint-Cyprien. Popular with couples or families, these fine sandy beaches offer a wide range of activities: pedal boats, paddleboards, catamarans, sea kayaks, and more.
For the more athletic, walk along the beach and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Mas Larrieu nature reserve. You might even spot some bird species!
And if you'd like to explore the seaside resorts of Saint-Cyprien and Argelès-sur-Mer, be sure to check out the dedicated articles. For great places to visit in Saint-Cyprien and Argelès, we recommend the Botanical Gardens, the museums, and Valmy Park.