Things To Do
in Millau

Millau is a picturesque town located in the south of France, nestled in the stunning Tarn Valley. Known for its impressive viaduct, which is one of the tallest bridges in the world, Millau also offers a rich blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The area is famous for its outdoor activities, including hiking and paragliding, making it a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts.

With its charming streets, local markets, and vibrant atmosphere, Millau provides an authentic experience of French life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Millau
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Millau Viaduct, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and take photos.

afternoon
:

Explore the town center, visiting the local shops and the historic Saint-Etienne Church.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, sampling traditional dishes, and take a leisurely stroll along the Tarn River.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Spend the morning hiking in the Grands Causses Regional Natural Park, enjoying the scenic landscapes.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market to taste local cheeses and charcuterie, then take a guided tour of a nearby farm.

evening
:

Relax at a café with live music, enjoying the vibrant nightlife atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15-$25
Coffee$2-$4
🍷Glass of wine$4-$8
🚌Public transport ticket$2
🏨Hotel night stay$70-$150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities
  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Delicious local cuisine, particularly cheeses and wines
  • Limited public transportation options
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season
  • Some areas may have language barriers for non-French speakers
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où est ...?" - Where is ...?
  • "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please

Places to Visit in Millau

Visit one of these nice places.

Millau Viaduct

Capture stunning aerial views of this engineering marvel from various vantage points around the town.

The Tarn River

The riverbanks offer picturesque scenes, especially during sunset, perfect for landscape photography.

Saint-Etienne Church

The Gothic architecture and the surrounding square provide a beautiful backdrop for photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Millau

Millau's culinary scene is a delicious blend of local flavors, showcasing the region's rich agricultural heritage and traditional recipes.

Millau Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Aligot

A creamy dish made from mashed potatoes and melted cheese, often served with sausages.

Must-Try!

Roquefort cheese

World-famous blue cheese made from sheep's milk, hailing from the nearby Roquefort-sur-Soulzon.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Millau Market

Held every Friday, this vibrant market offers fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisan products.

Climate Guide

Weather

Millau experiences a temperate climate with hot summers and mild winters. Average summer temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0°C (32°F). Rainfall is common in spring and autumn, with dry spells in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A polite greeting is important; saying 'Bonjour' when entering shops is customary.

Dining manners

Keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) during meals, and say 'Bon appétit' before eating.

Dress code

Casual yet neat attire is preferred in restaurants and shops; avoid overly casual clothing.

Safety Guide

Safety

Millau is generally a safe destination for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions such as being aware of your surroundings and securing personal belongings are recommended, especially in crowded areas.

Tipping in Millau

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping customs

Service charge is usually included in the bill; rounding up or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment methods

Most places accept credit cards; however, carrying some cash is advisable for markets and small businesses.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather attracts tourists; ideal for hiking and enjoying local festivals.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and fall colors create a stunning landscape, perfect for photography.

Winter

Though colder, winter sports are popular in nearby areas, and the town is less crowded.

Nightlife Guide

Millau at Night

Millau offers a lively nightlife scene with a mix of bars, cafes, and occasional live music events. Locals enjoy socializing in outdoor terraces during warmer months. The vibe is laid-back, making it easy to meet people and enjoy a drink after a day of exploring.

Hiking in Millau

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier des Moulins

A scenic 8 km trail that takes you past historic watermills and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Le Cirque de Navacelles

This challenging hike features dramatic cliffs and impressive rock formations, perfect for experienced hikers looking for adventure.

Airports

How to reach Millau by plane.

Rodez-Marcillac Airport

Located approximately 75 km from Millau, this regional airport offers limited flights primarily to Paris and other domestic destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Millau is quite walkable, with most attractions located within a short distance from each other. The town features pedestrian-friendly streets, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some steep areas may require moderate physical fitness.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Millau has a diverse population, with a mix of families, retirees, and young professionals contributing to its vibrant community.

Tourists

The town attracts a significant number of tourists, especially during summer, drawn by its natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Rugby

Rugby is a popular sport in the region, with local teams competing at various levels.

Cycling

The scenic routes around Millau attract many cycling enthusiasts, especially during the summer months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Millau is generally manageable, with main roads leading into and out of the town. Public transportation is limited but includes buses connecting to nearby towns and cities. Visitors are encouraged to explore on foot or rent bicycles for a more immersive experience.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Millau.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, though it is advisable to ask for specific options.

Gluten-free

Gluten-free options are becoming more available; however, it’s best to inform your server about dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Millau is of good quality, with several clinics and a hospital available for residents and visitors. In case of emergencies, the local hospital offers a range of services. Travelers should have appropriate health insurance to cover any potential medical expenses.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide