Millau
,Millau is a picturesque town located in southern France, known for its stunning location at the confluence of the Tarn and Dourbie rivers. The town is most famous for the Millau Viaduct, the tallest bridge in the world, which spans the Tarn River valley and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Millau is surrounded by rugged landscapes, including the Grands Causses Regional Natural Park, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking and rock climbing.
The town is also known for its charming medieval architecture, with narrow cobbled streets and historic buildings dating back centuries.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $100
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Millau
morning
:Start your day with a visit to the Millau Viaduct for breathtaking views. Enjoy breakfast at a local café before exploring the surrounding nature trails.
afternoon
:Visit the Millau Museum to learn about the region's history and craftsmanship. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a traditional French bistro.
evening
:For dinner, indulge in some local specialties at a nearby restaurant. Take a leisurely stroll along the town's scenic riverfront.
Photo Day
morning
:Capture stunning photos of the Millau Viaduct during sunrise. Grab a coffee from a local shop as you walk around town photographing its architecture.
afternoon
:Head to the Tarn Gorges for spectacular landscapes, perfect for nature photography. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the scenery.
evening
:For dinner, indulge in some local specialties at a nearby restaurant. Take a leisurely stroll along the town's scenic riverfront.
Highlights
Good
- Stunning architectural landmark: The Millau Viaduct is one of the tallest bridges in the world, offering breathtaking views and a unique experience.
- Beautiful natural scenery: Millau is surrounded by the scenic landscapes of the Grands Causses Regional Natural Park, offering opportunities for outdoor activities.
- Rich history and culture: The town has a history dating back to Roman times, showcased in its architecture, museums, and local traditions.
- Thriving outdoor activities: The area is popular for hiking, paragliding, and rock climbing, attracting outdoor enthusiasts.
- Gastronomic delights: Millau is known for its local specialties, including Roquefort cheese and excellent wines, providing a taste of the region.
Bad
- Limited public transportation: The town may have limited options for public transport, making it harder to explore without a car.
- Seasonal tourism: In the off-season, some attractions and restaurants may close or have limited hours, impacting visitorsâ experiences.
- Small town amenities: As a smaller town, some larger city amenities and services may be lacking.
- Weather variability: Weather can be unpredictable, with hot summers and colder winters, which may not be ideal for all visitors.
- Crowding during peak seasons: The popularity of the Millau Viaduct and surrounding areas can lead to increased tourist crowds during the summer months.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Paragliding
Experience breathtaking views of the Tarn Valley while paragliding in Millau.
Canoeing/kayaking
Explore the Tarn River and its picturesque surroundings with a canoeing or kayaking excursion.
Rock climbing
Discover exhilarating rock climbing opportunities in the stunning natural landscapes around Millau.
Cycling
Enjoy scenic cycling routes through the beautiful countryside of Millau, including the challenging climbs and descents of the nearby CĂ©vennes mountains.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Millau with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Viaduc de Millau
The viaduct offers stunning views of Millau and the surrounding area, providing great photo opportunities of the magnificent architecture.
Peyre
This picturesque village located on a hillside across from the Viaduc de Millau offers panoramic views of the bridge and the Tarn Valley.
Point Sublime
Located in the Gorges du Tarn, this viewpoint offers breathtaking vistas of the river and the natural beauty of the area, perfect for capturing stunning photos.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Aligot
A creamy blend of mashed potatoes, Tomme cheese, garlic, and butter. It's usually served with sausages and pairs perfectly with a glass of local red wine. Sample this hearty dish at Restaurant Le CĂ©venol.
Must-Try!
Roquefort cheese
This pungent, tangy blue cheese is aged in the limestone caves of Roquefort-sur-Soulzon, just outside Millau. Enjoy this iconic cheese on a fresh baguette along with some local honey at Fromagerie Carles.
Tripous
A traditional dish made from sheep offal stewed with onions, carrots, and herbs. This hearty meal is available at La Maison des MĂ©tiers and pairs well with a glass of local beer.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Millau better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Millau Market
Every Friday, the Millau market comes alive with stalls selling a wide variety of regional products such as cheeses, sausages, fresh fruits, and vegetables. Don't miss the opportunity to try the local charcuterie and artisanal bread.
Les Halles de Millau
This covered market is a treasure trove of gourmet delights including foie gras, local wines, and freshly prepared ready-to-eat dishes. Be sure to sample the freshly shucked oysters and regional pastries.
Crepes from Street Vendors
As you wander through Millau, keep an eye out for street vendors offering delectable crepes made to order. Whether you prefer sweet or savory fillings, these thin pancakes are a delightful snack any time of day.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings
In Millau, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, and it is polite to use formal titles such as 'Monsieur' or 'Madame' when addressing someone you don't know well.
Meal Etiquette
When dining in Millau, it is important to wait for the host to indicate where you should sit. It is also polite to keep your hands on the table, and to say 'Bon appétit' before starting your meal.
Respecting Personal Space
In Millau, personal space is important. It is polite to avoid standing too close to others and to refrain from physical contact unless invited.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Millau with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In France, including Millau, tipping is not mandatory as a service charge is usually included in the bill. However, it is common to round up the bill or leave a small tip as a token of appreciation for good service. If the service was exceptional, a tip of 5-10% can be given.
Payment
In Millau, France, cash is widely accepted for making payments, especially in smaller establishments. Major credit and debit cards are also widely used, and contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular. It's always best to have some cash on hand, especially in more rural areas or for smaller purchases.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Millau.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March - May)
Spring is a great time to visit Millau as the weather is mild and the countryside is in full bloom. The Tarn Gorges and surrounding nature sites are particularly stunning during this time.
Summer (June - August)
Summer is the peak tourist season in Millau, with warm weather perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, canoeing, and paragliding. The Millau Viaduct is especially impressive in the summer months.
Autumn (September - November)
Autumn is a wonderful time to visit Millau, as the landscape transforms into a symphony of red, orange, and gold hues. The cooler temperatures are great for exploring the region's charming villages and vineyards.
Winter (December - February)
While Millau is quieter in the winter, it can still be a charming time to visit for those who enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. The surrounding mountains may be dusted with snow, creating a picturesque backdrop for winter walks and cozy evenings by the fireplace.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gorges du Tarn
A stunning canyon offering a variety of hiking trails along the Tarn River, featuring impressive cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and diverse flora and fauna.
Parc Naturel RĂ©gional des Grands Causses
A regional natural park with numerous hiking paths through limestone plateaux, deep gorges, and picturesque villages, ideal for nature lovers.
Causse Noir
A vast limestone plateau known for its beautiful landscapes and challenging trails, offering panoramic views of the surrounding region.
Roquefort Caves
Explore the area around the famous Roquefort cheese caves with scenic hikes through the valleys and hills, combined with visits to local cheese producers.
Tarn Valley
Enjoy hiking alongside the Tarn River, with easy to moderate hiking routes that provide beautiful views of the river and surrounding cliffs.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Millau through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Millau by plane.
Toulouse-Blagnac Airport (TLS)
Located approximately 165 km from Millau, Toulouse-Blagnac Airport is the nearest major international airport, serving numerous domestic and international flights.
Montpellier-Méditerranée Airport (MPL)
Located about 170 km from Millau, Montpellier-Méditerranée Airport offers a range of flights mainly to European destinations.
Nice CĂŽte d'Azur Airport (NCE)
Approximately 300 km from Millau, Nice CĂŽte d'Azur Airport is one of the busiest airports in France, connecting travelers to global destinations.
Marseille Provence Airport (MRS)
Located around 210 km from Millau, Marseille Provence Airport serves both domestic and international flights and is a major hub in the region.
Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS)
Situated about 300 km from Millau, Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport is a significant international airport in southeastern France, connecting to numerous countries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
French nationals
The majority population, mainly consisting of indigenous French citizens.
European expatriates
Includes individuals from European Union countries living and working in Millau.
North African immigrants
A significant population group with origins from North African countries.
Sub-Saharan African immigrants
A smaller population group with origins from various Sub-Saharan African countries.
Middle Eastern immigrants
Includes individuals from Middle Eastern countries, though this group is less prominent.
The Soul of Millau
Discover the essence of Millau through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Climbing
Millau is known for its stunning limestone cliffs and is a popular destination for rock climbing enthusiasts.
Paragliding
The region's favorable winds and picturesque landscapes make Millau a popular spot for paragliding.
Cycling
With numerous scenic routes, cycling is a favored activity among locals and tourists alike.
Rugby
Rugby holds a significant place in the local sports culture, with various clubs and community support.
Basketball
Basketball is a popular sport in Millau, with local teams engaging in community and regional competitions.
Hiking
The natural surroundings offer numerous trails for hiking, attracting outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While traditional Aveyron cuisine tends to be meat-centric, many restaurants in Millau offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives. Look for places that serve delightful salads, roasted vegetables, and flavorful soups made with locally sourced ingredients.
Gluten-free Options
Individuals with gluten intolerance will find several restaurants in Millau that cater to their dietary needs. The use of corn, buckwheat, and rice flour in local dishes provides opportunities to savor gluten-free versions of traditional meals such as crepes and quiches.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Millau with these cultural adventures.
