Montpellier, between the Mediterranean and history: our must-sees
People often come to Montpellier for a weekend and are already dreaming of coming back. More than a thousand years of history, a student life that keeps café terraces lively all year round, and the sea just minutes away: here are the places we recommend every week to the guests we welcome.
A destination with Mediterranean charm
With nearly 300 days of sunshine a year, Montpellier is worth visiting in every season. Spring and autumn are perfect for strolling around the city, summer for enjoying the beaches and festivals. Here, the day almost always ends on a terrace.
The Écusson, the historic heart
It all starts at Place de la Comédie, with its Opera House and the Three Graces fountain. Behind it, the Écusson unfolds its medieval lanes, its mansions and their hidden inner courtyards. Walk up to the Arc de Triomphe and on to the Promenade du Peyrou: at sunset, the view over the water tower and the Saint-Clément aqueduct is well worth the detour. Our tip: leave the car behind, the centre is best explored on foot.
The sea within easy reach
In 20 to 30 minutes, you can have your feet in the sand. Palavas-les-Flots for its family atmosphere and its walk along the canal, Carnon for its long beaches, La Grande-Motte for its famous pyramids and its marina. A day at the beach, dinner in town in the evening: that is the Montpellier way of life.
A city of culture and festivals
Montpellier lives to the rhythm of its festivals: Montpellier Danse and the Festival Radio France Occitanie Montpellier in summer, and Cinémed, the Mediterranean film festival, in autumn. As for museums, the Musée Fabre houses one of the finest fine-art collections in France, while MO.CO. showcases contemporary art.
Green spaces to unwind
The Jardin des Plantes, the oldest botanical garden in France, is a haven of calm in the city centre. With children, the Lunaret zoo is an ideal outing, and entry is free. For a walk or a bike ride, follow the banks of the Lez.
Tapas, food halls and fine dining
Montpellier cuisine blends Mediterranean influences with a southern spirit: tapas are happily shared over an aperitif. For local produce, head to Les Halles Castellane, right in the Écusson, or Les Halles Laissac. And for an exceptional evening, the city has several renowned gourmet restaurants. With a glass of Languedoc wine, of course.
Where to stay during your trip?
An apartment right in the centre, a house with a garden or a villa with a pool a few minutes from the beaches: discover our rentals, maintained and prepared by our team. And to round off your stay, find the recommendations of our partners.
