Things To Do
in Lattes
Lattes is a charming coastal commune just north of Montpellier, where citrus and olive groves meet the Mediterranean breeze. It blends a relaxed village atmosphere with easy access to a vibrant city, making it a perfect base for beach days and day trips. The nearby Etang de l'Or and the Languedoc coastline offer tranquil nature walks, seafood markets, and sunset views over the blue sea.
Whether you stroll the village lanes or hop over to Montpellier for a nightlife fix, Lattes is a gateway to southern France's sun-kissed lifestyle.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey by strolling through the charming streets of Lattes, admiring the historic buildings and picturesque squares. Visit the local market to sample fresh produce and regional delicacies, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere. Don't forget to take a moment to appreciate the stunning architecture and the unique blend of old and new.
After lunch at a cozy bistro, head to the nearby Parc Naturel Régional de Camargue for a leisurely hike. The natural beauty of the regional park will captivate you with its unique landscapes and diverse wildlife. Capture memories with your camera as you explore the trails and perhaps catch sight of the famous pink flamingos.
As the sun sets, return to Lattes for dinner at a traditional French restaurant. Enjoy local specialties paired with exquisite regional wines while soaking in the ambient atmosphere. Cap off the night with a relaxing walk along the canals, where the soft glow of lights reflects on the water, creating a serene end to your day.
Begin your day with a visit to a nearby vineyard for a guided wine tasting experience. Learn about the wine-making process and the different grape varieties that thrive in the region. Savor the exquisite flavors of Languedoc wines while breathing in the fragrant vineyard air.
After tasting, indulge in a leisurely lunch at a nearby vineyard restaurant that boasts a breathtaking view of the countryside. Relish in dishes made from local ingredients and paired with the wines you tasted earlier. The peaceful setting allows you to relax and truly appreciate the beauty of the surrounding landscapes.
Return to Lattes and join a cooking class that focuses on traditional French cuisine. Engage with a local chef who will guide you in preparing regional specialties, enriching your culinary skills. Enjoy the fruits of your labor at dinner, sharing the meal with fellow participants in a lively communal atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Café or beverage | $3-5 |
| 🚌Public transit (one-way) | $2-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $110-170 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close access to Montpellier's culture and beaches
- Relaxed village vibe with Mediterranean cuisine
- Smaller nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Limited services within Lattes; require trips to Montpellier
- "Bonjour" - Hello (good day)
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est la plage ?" - Where is the beach?
- "Pouvez-vous recommander un plat local ?" - Can you recommend a local dish?
Places to Visit in Lattes
Visit one of these nice places.
A grand square with fountains, arcades, and the Opéra; ideal for people-watching, long exposures, and architectural shots with the tram passing by.
Renaissance-era esplanade with the triumphal arch, water features and city views; dramatic lines and sunset silhouettes.
Medieval lanes and colorful façades; great for street photography, texture shots, and moody alleyways.
Curved, futuristic hotel towers along a long palm-lined promenade; striking modernist shapes and vivid sunsets.
Marina and harbor with boats, reflections, and fishing activity; best at blue-hour for reflective water scenes.
Food in Lattes
Lattes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy cod and olive-oil mash, traditionally served with bread or potatoes; great with a green salad and a glass of wine from nearby Pic Saint-Loup.
Must-Try!
Garlic mayonnaise served with boiled fish, potatoes, and vegetables; a coastal staple during spring and summer.
A baked layering of vegetables (often zucchini, tomatoes, onions) with olive oil and herbs, a comforting Provençal dish.
Crispy chickpea fritters popular as street food or as a tapa-style snack; a tasty vegetarian option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly outdoor market in the village center offering fresh produce, seafood, baked goods, and local cheeses.
A short ride away, this bustling indoor market in Montpellier is perfect for sampling olives, tapenades, seafood, and prepared dishes.
Seasonal stalls along the coast offer grilled sardines, octopus, socca-style chickpea dishes, and panisses with lemon.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' and use 'Monsieur/Madame'; maintain polite tone in conversations and in shops.
Keep hands visible, use utensils properly, and avoid rushing meals; wait for everyone to be served before eating.
French is the primary language; basic phrases in French are appreciated; English is understood in tourist areas.
Safety
Tipping in Lattes
Ensure a smooth experience
A service charge (service compris) is often included; rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated for good service.
Cards (especially contactless), cash, and mobile payments are widely accepted; many places add a small fee for card payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with long daylight hours. Expect crowded beaches, sea breezes, and lively outdoor dining; stay hydrated and use sunscreen.
Mild days with cooler evenings; great for long walks along the coast and forested trails; harvest-time markets sparkle with seasonal produce.
Mild to cool with rare frost; quiet streets and shorter days; good for museums, cafés, and gentle walks along the shore.
Temperatures rise gradually; wildflowers along hiking paths and markets fill with fresh produce; perfect for cycling and outdoor meals.
Lattes at Night
Hiking in Lattes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular day hike with sweeping views over vineyards and the surrounding Languedoc plain.
Gentle hikes through scrubland and coastal hills with seasonal wildflowers.
Airports
How to reach Lattes by plane.
Major regional airport with frequent national and some international connections; about 15-20 minutes from Lattes by car.
Smaller regional airport serving low-cost carriers; handy for a weekend break in the region.
Medium-sized airport with a number of seasonal routes; about a 1-1.5 hour drive from Lattes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant share of the regional population attends universities and research centers in Montpellier.
Many families live in Lattes and the surrounding towns, enjoying beaches and parks.
A reasonable portion of residents are retirees drawn by a mild climate and seaside lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport throughout the region; you may catch local club matches on weekends.
Many locals support regional teams and enjoy matches at municipal stadiums.
Sailing, windsurfing and paddleboarding are common along the coast and lakes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lattes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared without meat; request vegetarian versions of local plates, enjoy panisse, ratatouille-style dishes, aubergine-based specialties, and salads with olive oil and lemon.