Getting Around: Perpignan

Sankéo Bus Network

The Sankéo bus network covers Perpignan and its surrounding communes within the Perpignan Méditerranée Métropole. The buses are a reliable way to get around the city for locals and visitors.

The system is easy to use, with clear routes and schedules. Main hubs include Place de Catalogne and the Gare Routière (Bus Station).

Ticketing & Fares

Single Ticket: €1.30 (valid 1 hour with connections). Purchase from driver or machines.
10-Trip Pass: €10 (savings per trip).
Day Pass: €3.50 (unlimited travel for one day).
Contactless payment: Some buses accept bank cards.

Route Maps & Hubs

Main hub: Place de Catalogne. Gare Routière is another hub. Maps on Sankéo website and bus stops.

Accessibility

Most Sankéo buses have ramps for wheelchair access and designated spaces.

Efficiency Tips

Download Sankéo app for real-time tracking. Validate ticket every time you board.

Hours & Frequency

Operating Hours

Early morning (approx. 6:00 AM) until late evening (approx. 9:00-10:00 PM).
Reduced service on Sundays and public holidays.
Check specific route schedules for details.

Frequency

Main routes every 10-15 minutes.
Less busy lines every 30-60 minutes.
Frequency varies by line.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

White with "Taxi" sign on roof. Metered fares.

Hailing

Taxi stands at train station, Place de Catalogne, PGF airport. Calling is an option.

Typical Fares

City center ride: €8-€15. Airport transfers often fixed.

Ride-Sharing

Uber is available. Bolt and Free Now less common/not present.

Rental Options

Car, motorcycle, scooter, and bicycle rentals available. Car rental is good for exploring the broader region.

Car Rental

Major international companies (Hertz, Europcar) at airport/station.
Minimum age 21 (or 25 for some cars), valid driver's license.
Credit card in main driver's name is needed for deposit.

Motorcycle & Scooter

Specialized rental agencies in Perpignan.
Appropriate motorcycle license is needed.
Offers a nimble way to explore, especially coastal roads.
Good for scenic routes.

Bicycle Rentals & Cycling

Vélo Perpignan: bike-sharing system with city stations.
Several independent shops offer daily or weekly bicycle rentals.
Perpignan's city center is relatively flat, good for cycling.

Wear a Helmet (recommended).
Use lights at night.
Be aware of traffic on shared roads.

Driving Laws & Parking

Driving Side

Drive on the right-hand side of the road.

Speed Limits

Generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 110-130 km/h on motorways.

Alcohol Limit

The legal blood alcohol content limit is 0.05%.

Walking & Cycling

Perpignan's layout makes walking and cycling enjoyable. The historic city center is largely pedestrianized.

Pedestrian Areas

Historic city center is largely pedestrianized.
Areas around Castillet, Rue de l'Ange, Place de la Loge are great for walking.
Promenade des Barques along the Têt River provides pleasant paths.
The Perpignan Tourist Office offers guided walking tours.

Cycling Infrastructure

Growing network of dedicated bike lanes, especially along river.
Wear a helmet (recommended), use lights at night.
Motorways are off-limits to cyclists.
Stick to designated cycling paths.

Tour Buses

Hop-on-hop-off services not typical for Perpignan. Regional tour operators offer excursions.

Water Transport

No boat taxis within Perpignan. Boat tours available from coastal towns like Collioure.

Accessibility Services

Sankéo buses accessible. Some hotels offer accessible rooms. Cobbled streets present challenges.

Accessibility Travel Tips

Public Transport

Sankéo buses are equipped with ramps.
Designated spaces for mobility needs.
This makes public transport accessible.

City Exploration

Some hotels offer accessible rooms.
Newer parts of the city are generally more accessible.
Contact Tourist Office for specific attraction accessibility.

Local Travel Insight

Renting a bicycle permits exploration of the city's flat core and scenic river paths at your own pace.

This offers a different perspective on Perpignan.

Getting Around Perpignan