Last Updated on 05/10/2024 by secretmoona

I recently went on a wonderful trip to the southwest of France, where I spent a week exploring Toulouse, Béziers, and the beautiful city of Montpellier. Among all the places I visited, Montpellier stood out as a city that skillfully combines the old and the new. From its medieval streets and charming restaurant terraces to its striking modern architecture, Montpellier captures the essence of southern France in a way that’s both timeless and refreshing.

With its abundant sunshine, the scent of the nearby Mediterranean, stunning landscapes, and a blend of historic and cutting-edge architecture, Montpellier is truly a treasure for any admirer of France. It’s a city that exudes youthful energy while still retaining the charm of centuries-old traditions. It should definitely be on every Francophile’s travel list.

Let’s delve into the top things to do in Montpellier and discover what makes this city so captivating.

Place de la Comédie: The Heartbeat of Montpellier

In every city, there’s that one spot where life buzzes with energy—and in Montpellier, it’s the Place de la Comédie. Easily accessible from the main train station, Montpellier Saint-Roch, this iconic square is where locals and visitors alike gather. Surrounded by stunning Haussmann-style buildings, including the grand Opéra Comédie, and brimming with vibrant cafés and shops, this square is the perfect starting point for your adventure.

At its centre stands the Three Graces Fountain, which adds a touch of classical elegance, transporting you back in time. It’s impossible not to feel the pulse of the city as you take in the scene.

We happened to arrive on the night of the World Cup final, and the atmosphere was electric. As soon as France won, the square exploded with joyous chants of “On est les champions!” The energy was infectious—it felt like the entire city had come alive in an instant.

Address: Place de la Comédie, Montpellier, France

Wander Through History in the Old Town

If you, like me, have a fondness for cities rich in history, Montpellier’s Écusson (Old Town) will capture your heart. The winding cobblestone streets are filled with architectural wonders, exuding a certain charm that is truly captivating.

As you stroll through Rue de l’Ancien Courrier and Rue des Trésoriers de la Bourse, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Charming cafés and boutique shops line the streets, offering the perfect blend of history and modern French culture.

Take a moment to relax at a terrace in Place Saint-Roch, enjoy a coffee, and take in the view of the Saint Roch Church. The atmosphere here is simply magical, which is why I consider Montpellier to be one of the most beautiful cities in southern France.

Arc de Triomphe & Promenade du Peyrou: A Majestic View of the City

While Paris is home to the famous Arc de Triomphe, Montpellier’s Porte du Peyrou has its own unique charm. This smaller triumphal arch, modelled after the Porte de Saint-Denis, proudly stands at the end of Rue Foch and opens into the serene Promenade du Peyrou.

Lined with trees and offering stunning views of the city, the promenade leads to the striking 18th-century Château d’Eau—a water tower framed by a picturesque pond. Beyond it, the impressive Saint-Clément Aqueduct stretches out, reminding visitors of the ancient Roman influence in the region.

This spot is ideal for a leisurely stroll, a quiet moment to appreciate Montpellier’s beauty, or simply cooling off in the Mediterranean sun.

Address: Promenade du Peyrou, Place Royale du Peyrou, Montpellier

Jardin des Plantes: France’s Oldest Botanical Garden

Tucked away from the hustle and bustle, Montpellier’s Jardin des Plantes offers a peaceful escape. Established in 1593, it’s the oldest botanical garden in France and a true hidden gem. Classified as a Historical Monument, this green oasis houses over 2,500 plant species and exudes an air of tranquillity.

We were fortunate enough to meet a kind gardener who took the time to give us a mini-tour of his section, sharing fascinating details about the various plants. The lotus pond and the historic greenhouses (though closed during our visit) were particularly enchanting.

For anyone who appreciates nature, this garden is a must-visit. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, read a book, or just sit on a bench and admire the lush greenery.

Address: 1 Boulevard Henri IV, Montpellier

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Visit the Antigone District

If you are fascinated by modern architecture, you will be amazed by Montpellier’s Antigone District. This neighbourhood was designed by the visionary Catalan architect Ricardo Bofill and is inspired by the grandeur of ancient Greece. As you walk through its expansive plazas and esplanades, you will feel like you have stepped into a futuristic interpretation of a Greek metropolis.

Antigone features impressive landmarks such as the Olympic pool and the modern Town Hall, designed by Jean Nouvel. Make sure not to miss the iconic L’Arbre Blanc (The White Tree), a strikingly modern tower designed by Sou Fujimoto that symbolizes Montpellier’s forward-thinking spirit.

Take a ride to the A Day at the Beach: Sun, Sea, and Relaxation..beach

Montpellier has an excellent transport system that makes it easy to reach the beautiful beaches of the Hérault region. Whether you rent a bike or hop on tram line 3, you’re just a short ride away from the sandy shores.

Once you reach the “Pérols” stop, you can cycle or stroll to the beach and enjoy the sun, sea breeze, and laid-back Mediterranean atmosphere. It’s the perfect way to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of southern France.

For Street Art Lovers

Montpellier is a city where history meets vibrant street culture. Thanks to its large student population, the city is brimming with creativity, and you’ll find incredible street art at every corner, especially in the Verdanson district.

From thought-provoking murals to quirky installations like half-bikes and cars protruding from building facades, Montpellier’s street art scene is a testament to the city’s youthful, dynamic energy. If you’re interested in learning more, you can join a walking tour offered by the Tourism Centre to learn about the artists and the stories behind the works.

Shopping in Montpellier: Where Tradition Meets Chic

Don’t forget to check out the following places for shopping while visiting Montpellier:

In the Écusson area, there are charming boutiques and well-known French brands. You can visit La Maison Roux for delicious macarons and La Cure Gourmande, an artisan boutique selling sweets.

We discovered La NEF, a beautiful art boutique situated in the restored Chapel of the Visitation at the heart of the historic centre. The shop offers a wide selection of unique items crafted by French artisans and craftsmen. During our visit, the showcased items were themed around the “Zoo,” featuring exceptional pieces created by jewellery designers, ceramists, and sculptors. I was impressed by how they integrated the heritage of the location with the art they sell. It’s definitely a place worth visiting.

If you prefer mainstream shopping, you can go to Polygone and the iconic Galeries Lafayette, where you can find a mix of French and international brands.

• La NEF, Atelier d’artisans d’art, 41 rue de l’Université, Montpellier 
• Polygone, 1 Rue des Pertuisanes, Montpellier            

Where to stay in Montpellier

We chose to stay at the Crowne Plaza Corum, which is part of the IHG Hotels group, for a comfortable experience in the heart of Montpellier. The hotel is conveniently located near the Place de la Comédie, the Esplanade Charles de Gaulle, and the Corum Conference Centre. Additionally, there is a tram station nearby, allowing for easy exploration of the city.

The hotel itself combines modernity with a hint of Asian influence. The lobby and rooms are adorned with beautiful Chinese and Japanese artefacts, including dolls and vases, creating an exotic atmosphere. Our deluxe room was cosy and elegant, and the aromatherapy pillow sprays provided a peaceful night’s sleep despite our proximity to the elevator.

Each morning, we enjoyed a delicious breakfast buffet with a variety of hot and cold dishes. The hotel also has a swimming pool, which was a perfect way to cool off after a day of sightseeing. The staff went above and beyond, making our stay even more enjoyable. I wouldn’t hesitate to stay here again.

Address: Crown Plaza Corum, 190 Rue D’argencourt, Montpellier

Preparing your trip

For the best experience in Montpellier, I recommend visiting the Montpellier Tourist Information Centre. They can provide advice on accommodations, tips for getting around the city, and information on guided tours. You can visit them in person or online to make your trip planning easy.

Address: 10 Place de la Comedie, Montpellier

Getting to Montpellier

Montpellier is easily accessible from many European cities. You can fly directly into Montpellier Méditerranée Airport or take a scenic train journey from Paris or other French cities.

If you’re travelling from the UK, EasyJet offers convenient flights from London Luton and Gatwick. Alternatively, you can take the Eurostar to Paris, then transfer from Gare du Nord to Gare de Lyon for a high-speed train to Montpellier Saint-Roch station. Check Omio or Trainline for the best train fares.

Once you arrive, getting around the city is easy thanks to its efficient tram system. There’s even a shuttle bus that runs every hour from the airport to Place de l’Europe for just €1.50 one way.

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Montpellier is a city that will steal your heart. Its balance of history, culture, modernity, and natural beauty makes it a must-visit destination for any lover of France. Whether you’re wandering the ancient streets of the Old Town, admiring the city’s modern architecture, or simply soaking up the sun at the beach, Montpellier offers an experience you won’t soon forget.

So, are you ready to explore Montpellier? Have you been to the south of France? What part of French culture speaks to you the most?

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