Things To Do
in Montpellier
Montpellier is a sun-soaked university city in southern France that blends medieval charm with contemporary energy. Its historic center, the Écusson, weaves narrow lanes, fountains, and architectural gems with lively squares and cafés. Modern districts showcase daring architecture and a vibrant arts scene, while the nearby coast and vineyards add natural variety.
The city is known for its youthful vibe, excellent food markets, and a well-connected tram system that makes exploring easy.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Place de la Comédie, where you can enjoy a fresh croissant and café au lait at a local café. After breakfast, stroll through the narrow streets of the historic center, taking in the beautiful architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Don’t forget to visit the Opéra Comédie, an architectural gem that captures the essence of Montpellier's cultural heritage.
Spend your afternoon exploring the Musée Fabre, which boasts an impressive collection of European art. Afterward, wander through the Promenade du Peyrou, where you can admire the stunning views of the city and the grandeur of the Château d'Eau. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the nearby bistros, sampling local delicacies such as tapenade and ratatouille.
As the sun sets, head to the lively neighborhood of Antigone for dinner at a trendy restaurant that features local wines. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the Lez River, where you can admire the beautifully lit bridges and modern architecture. Cap off your evening with a nightcap at a rooftop bar, soaking in the panoramic views of Montpellier’s skyline.
Begin your day with a peaceful stroll through the Jardin des Plantes, the oldest botanical garden in France. As you wander the pathways, take time to appreciate the diverse plant species and tranquil atmosphere, ideal for a morning escape. Don't miss the chance to visit the garden's greenhouse, where you can marvel at exotic plants from around the world.
After enjoying a picnic lunch in the garden, make your way to the nearby Montpellier Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Explore the interior, where the stained glass windows and intricate stonework will leave you in awe. Spend the remainder of the afternoon shopping in the boutiques along Rue de la Loge, where you can find unique souvenirs and local crafts.
In the evening, treat yourself to dinner in the charming neighborhood of Les Beaux-Arts, known for its artistic vibe and cozy eateries. Enjoy a meal featuring fresh seafood or traditional French cuisine, paired with a glass of local wine. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the streets, appreciating the vibrant street art that adorns many of the buildings.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-20 |
| ☕Coffee in café | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $100-180 |
| 🚆Public transit monthly pass | $40-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent access to beaches and outdoor activities
- Vibrant student-driven nightlife and cultural scene
- Rich markets, seafood, and Provençal/Mediterranean flavors
- Compact, walkable historic center with an efficient tram network
- Crowds can be heavy in peak summer tourist season
- Some neighborhoods can be busy late at night
- Limited high-altitude hiking directly in the city region; requires day trips
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où sont les toilettes?" - Where are the restrooms?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The check, please
- "Je voudrais..." - I would like...
Places to Visit in Montpellier
Visit one of these nice places.
A grand central square framed by opera and arcades, ideal for daytime and golden-hour photography.
An wide esplanade with the triumphal arch, aqueduct, and city views—great for perspective shots.
Historic botanical garden with winding paths, greenhouses, and seasonal blooms.
A bold 20th-century architectural ensemble by Ricardo Bofill—sharp lines and geometric compositions.
Food in Montpellier
Montpellier Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy salt cod purée with potatoes, a coastal classic often served as a starter with crusty bread.
Must-Try!
A garlicky sauce served with boiled potatoes and fish or seafood; a comforting summer dish in many brasseries.
Crisp chickpea fritters that are a common street-food or tapas-style snack in the region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling covered market offering fresh seafood, cheese, olives, fruit, and regional specialties.
Casual stalls and eateries offering panisse, socca-inspired bites, and grilled seafood.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say 'Bonjour' (and 'Bonjour, Madame/Monsieur') in shops and restaurants; thank with 'Merci'.
Keep hands visible, wait for everyone to be served before starting, and place utensils on the plate when finished.
Safety
Tipping in Montpellier
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service is usually included (service compris). If you’re happy with the service, rounding up or leaving 5–10% as an extra is appreciated but not required.
Cards (including contactless) are widely accepted; cash is always useful for small cafés and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot and sunny; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon. Beaches at Palavas-les-Flots and La Grande-Motte are popular; stay hydrated and use sun protection.
Mild temperatures and blooming gardens make walking tours especially pleasant. Markets are abundant and terraces fill up with diners.
Warm days with cooler evenings; harvest season in nearby vineyards adds color. Fewer crowds than summer, great for relaxed sightseeing.
Mild but can be chilly and wet; many museums and indoor attractions are ideal for rainy days. Coastal winds can be brisk.
Montpellier at Night
Hiking in Montpellier
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic peak just north of Montpellier with well-marked trails and panoramic vineyard views.
River canyons and forested trails within a short drive; scenic for day hikes and swims in summer.
Extensive hiking opportunities through forests, lakes, and highland scenery about an hour from the city.
Airports
How to reach Montpellier by plane.
Primary airport serving Montpellier; quick access to the city center by tram or taxi.
Regional airport about an hour away by car; serves domestic and some seasonal international flights.
Coastal airport within a short drive; convenient for connections to southern beaches and towns.
Larger international hub a couple of hours away by train or road; offers more long-haul options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large and active student population from the university and higher education institutes, contributing to a lively nightlife and cultural calendar.
Long-term residents balancing work, family life, and leisure across diverse neighborhoods.
A steady stream of tourists and expats drawn to the coast, markets, and Mediterranean lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Strong regional passion with local clubs and occasional professional matches in the area.
Popular sport with matches and local club culture across the city and surrounding towns.
Active amateur and professional scenes; city arenas host games and events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Montpellier.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Montpellier, vegetarian options are common in markets and bistros. Look for dishes based on vegetables, legumes, olive oil, and cheese; many places can adapt menus on request.