Montpellier

Introduction

Located in southern France near the Mediterranean Sea, Montpellier serves as a major urban center within the region of Occitania and acts as the prefecture for the department of Hérault. You will find yourself in one of the largest cities along the Mediterranean coast.

As you explore the city, you are among the Montpelliérains and Montpelliéraines who call this coastal destination home.

Before you go

While you explore the city, remain vigilant against various scams targeting tourists and locals alike. Be cautious of individuals who approach you with their hands out for money. You should be particularly wary of people posing as charity workers; these individuals may present a paper claiming to collect funds for the disabled or deaf, sometimes using emotional pressure if you decline to sign or donate.

Be careful when navigating public transportation near the main train station. Some individuals may offer to assist you with the tram ticket machines but will subsequently demand payment for their "service" or ask for your change. While central Montpellier is generally safe, be aware that crime rates increase in the outer areas of the city.

Getting there

You can reach Montpellier by air via the Méditerranée Airport on the outskirts of the city. From there, a shuttle bus connects you to Place de l’Europe or the Sud de France TGV station. To reach the center of town from Place de l'Europe, you can board the blue tram line toward Place de la Comédie.

Train travelers can arrive at either the Saint-Roch station in the heart of the city or the modern Sud de France high-speed station located southwest of the center. If you prefer to travel by coach, several companies provide service from Nantes to a station located near the main train station. For those arriving by car, multiple exits along the A9 motorway provide access to the city. Since parking in the town center is difficult, you may choose to park at a tramway station and complete your journey by rail.

• Direct flights connect the airport to various international destinations including cities in France, Germany, Morocco, and Spain.
• High-speed trains connect Montpellier with Paris, while regional and intercity trains serve most areas of Southern France.
• The nearby port of Sète offers ferry crossings to Corsica, the Balearic Islands, and the Maghreb.

Getting around

Because Montpellier is a compact city, you can easily explore the entire city centre on foot. For longer journeys or to reach locations beyond the immediate center, you can utilize an integrated public transport network consisting of trams, buses, and a bike-sharing scheme. The tram system provides a clean and comfortable way to travel across the city with several lines connecting at the Montpellier-Saint-Roch railway station. Trams offer better views than buses and operate until midnight, making them a convenient option for traveling after dark. You can purchase interchangeable tickets for both trams and buses from multi-lingual machines at each stop or from the driver; however, you must validate your ticket in the machine on board the tram to avoid a fine.

If you prefer cycling, the city features an extensive network of cycle paths, including a route that leads all the way to the beaches at Palavas-les-Flots and Carnon. You can rent bicycles through the VéloMagg scheme at various locations in the center, such as near the tourist office on place de la comedie or adjacent to the train station. Be aware that some streets in the old center are actually staircases, which may be difficult for standard bikes to navigate. For those traveling by bus, specific lines like the 28 connect you to the beach, while the L'Amigo service provides a late-night option to the outskirts of town. If you choose to travel by car, it is advised to avoid the city center due to heavy traffic and limited signage; instead, park at a tram station at the end of a line or at the Polygone shopping center.

Where to stay

You can choose from a variety of accommodations depending on your preferred atmosphere. For those seeking a boutique experience, you can stay in a small hotel located just steps away from Place de la Comédie. If you prefer a more central location with modern amenities like flat-screen televisions and spa facilities, there are options situated in the heart of town or within beautifully renovated 18th-century buildings that feature swimming pools and gyms.

• A boutique hotel located near the main square.
• A center-town hotel offering rooms with private bathrooms and television access.
• A spa hotel set in a historic building featuring a restaurant, bar, and fitness facilities.
• A hostel option located on Rue des Ecoles Laiques.

Food & drink

Experience a cosmopolitan culinary scene in Montpellier that offers everything from traditional French cuisine to a wide variety of ethnic dishes. While the town square features many options for convenience, you can find more authentic experiences by heading toward Place St Roch, Place Jean Jaurès, or the sprawling area in the north-east near Basilique Notre Dame des Tables. For a classic French cafe experience, visit the bistros near La Place de la Comedie, or seek out a relaxed atmosphere at a café near the Louis Blanc tramway stop. If you prefer a specific coffee style, certain spots like Fairview Coffee and Café BUN are noted for serving high-quality lattes.

The local drink culture is deeply rooted in the Languedoc Roussillon region's wine production. You can enjoy red wines such as pic st loup or chilled reds during the summer months, while white wines like picpoul de Pinet pair perfectly with local seafood and oysters. For those seeking a sweet finish, nearby towns produce high-quality muscat. Embrace the local culture by trying Pastis, a traditional apéritif of the south, which is typically served over a single ice cube. You can also find specialized environments like an Irish pub for cider or a cozy lounge bar offering exotic cocktails and tea.

What to see and do

Explore the historic atmosphere of the old town, known as Écusson, where you can wander through winding streets that pass under stone arches. While many modern businesses now occupy these spaces, the area retains its historic feel, particularly in the vicinity of Place Saint-Roch. You can also visit the nearby Promenade du Peyrou, a large esplanade featuring a grand statue and the Château d'Eau. For a different architectural experience, walk through the Antigone district to admire its neo-classical buildings and symmetrical designs. Other notable sites include the historic Jardin des Plantes botanical garden, the massive Hôtel des Trésoriers de la Bourse with its grand courtyard, and the Musee Fabre.

Experience the city's culture by visiting the Place de la Comédie or exploring the unique architecture of the Antigone district. If you prefer a guided experience, join a walking tour to access restricted sites like the Arc de Triomphe, where you can climb to the top for an expansive view, or take a small train tour through the narrow streets. For those seeking nature and relaxation, spend an afternoon on the tree-lined Esplanade Charles-de-Gaulle or visit the local zoo. If you prefer the coast, travel to the nearby beaches of Carnon or Palavas-les-Flots to enjoy the seaside.

Three days in Montpellier

Day one, you arrive in the heart of Occitania and settle into the atmosphere of southern France. You can explore the local surroundings near the Mediterranean Sea to experience the coastal spirit of the region.

Day two, you travel through the streets of Montpellier. You can immerse yourself in the culture of the Montpelliérains and Montpelliéraines as you discover the character of this Mediterranean destination.

Day three, you take in the sights of the local area before your departure. Whether you are looking toward the nearby coast or preparing for a journey further into Europe, you enjoy the final moments of your stay in the south.