Things To Do
in Montpellier
Montpellier is a vibrant city in the southern region of France, known for its beautiful architecture and rich history. The city is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, attracting a young and dynamic population. Montpellier boasts a Mediterranean climate, with plenty of sunshine and nearby beaches.
It is also famous for its lively cultural scene, with numerous festivals, museums, and galleries to explore.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $35
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $2.00
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Stroll through the charming narrow streets of the historic Écusson district. Don't miss visiting Place de la Comédie and the stunning opéra.
Visit the Fabre Museum to admire its extensive collection of European art. Enjoy lunch at a local café, savoring traditional French cuisine.
Relax in the botanical gardens, Jardin des Plantes, which is one of the oldest in France. Afterward, dine in a lively bistro and savor a glass of local wine.
Head to Parc Zoologique and explore various animal exhibits and lush landscapes. Bring a picnic basket to enjoy amidst the greenery.
Continue your zoo visit and discover the unique habitats of animals from all over the world. Stop for a refreshing drink at one of the park's snack bars.
After a fun-filled day, enjoy a relaxing dinner at a cozy restaurant nearby. Try the regional specialties and watch the sunset.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Pleasant Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters.
- Rich cultural heritage with historical architecture, museums, and festivals.
- Vibrant student population due to several universities, creating a lively atmosphere.
- Proximity to beautiful beaches and natural parks, enhancing outdoor activities.
- Good public transportation system, making it easy to navigate the city.
- High cost of living compared to other smaller towns in France.
- Tourist crowds can be overwhelming during the peak season.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors, particularly for non-French speakers.
- Public services and infrastructure may be strained during peak tourist times.
- Transportation strikes and delays can occasionally disrupt travel plans.
Best Activities in Montpellier
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful botanical garden and enjoy a leisurely stroll among diverse plant species.
Relax and enjoy a picnic in the picturesque gardens with stunning views of Montpellier.
Embark on a rewarding hike to the summit and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the region.
Tours
Uncover the best of Montpellier with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Montpellier
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city and is a great spot for photography
Iconic square with beautiful architecture and lively atmosphere, ideal for people-watching and capturing city life
A little farther from the city, but offers stunning views of the countryside and vineyards, especially at sunset
Food in Montpellier
Montpellier Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Provençal fish stew, rich in flavor and made with a variety of local fish and shellfish. Must-try at Le Petit Bistrot.
Must-Try!
A savory pie filled with octopus, tomato, and spices; a staple of Sète cuisine. Best enjoyed at La Tielle Sètoise.
A creamy blend of salt cod, olive oil, and mashed potatoes, often served with crusty bread. Savor this dish at La Maison de la Brandade.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Montpellier better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This renowned market offers an array of fresh local produce, cheese, olives, and charcuterie. Ideal for a charming food walk.
Here, you'll find an assortment of street food vendors offering regional specialties like Socca, a chickpea flour pancake, and Panisse, a chickpea fritter.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Montpellier, it's important to greet people with a handshake, particularly in formal situations. It's also common to use 'Bonjour' (Good morning/afternoon) as a greeting throughout the day.
When dining in Montpellier, it's polite to keep your hands on the table, avoid starting to eat before everyone is served, and to say 'Bon appétit' before beginning the meal.
In Montpellier, it's customary to be mindful of personal space and to avoid standing too close when engaging in conversations.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Montpellier with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Montpellier
Ensure a smooth experience
In Montpellier, France, tipping is not obligatory as a service charge is included in the bill at most restaurants. However, it is common to leave a small amount of change or round up the bill as a gesture of appreciation for good service.
In Montpellier, France, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payments. Contactless payment is becoming increasingly popular, and major establishments usually accept mobile payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Montpellier.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Montpellier as the weather is mild and the city comes to life with beautiful blooming flowers and outdoor events. It's a popular time for tourists and you can expect pleasant temperatures and vibrant landscapes.
Summer is a peak tourist season in Montpellier due to its warm weather and numerous festivals and events. Expect crowded beaches, lively nightlife, and hot temperatures, making it perfect for outdoor activities and beach relaxation.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, making it a great time for exploring the city and its surrounding areas without the crowds. The fall foliage adds a beautiful touch to the scenery, and it's a good time for wine enthusiasts to visit nearby vineyards.
Winter in Montpellier is relatively mild compared to other parts of France, but it can still be chilly and rainy. While many outdoor activities are limited during this time, the city still offers cultural events, Christmas markets, and a peaceful atmosphere for those who enjoy the winter ambiance.
Montpellier at Night
Hiking in Montpellier
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent mountain offering stunning views and multiple hiking trails, suitable for various skill levels.
A scenic spot known for its panoramic views and diverse landscapes, with well-marked hiking paths.
Beautiful gorges that provide scenic trails alongside a river, ideal for both hiking and exploring nature.
A regional park with a variety of trails amidst Mediterranean scrubland, great for hiking and observing local wildlife.
A larger national park located a bit further from Montpellier, offering countless hiking routes with stunning natural beauty.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Montpellier through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Montpellier by plane.
The closest international airport to Montpellier, offering various domestic and limited international flights.
Located approximately 170 km from Montpellier, it is one of the largest international airports in the region, providing a wide range of international flights.
Located about 50 km from Montpellier, this airport offers some low-cost international flights and is mainly used for regional travel.
Approximately 250 km from Montpellier, this airport serves as a hub for several international airlines and offers numerous destinations worldwide.
Located about 300 km from Montpellier, it is the second-busiest airport in France and serves many international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Montpellier, comprising individuals holding French citizenship.
A significant portion of the population with roots in North African countries, such as Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia.
Includes individuals from various countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, contributing to the multicultural landscape of the city.
Citizens from other European Union member states, including Spain, Italy, and Germany.
A growing demographic group, including individuals from countries such as China, India, and Vietnam.
Residents with origins in the Caribbean islands or Indian Ocean territories.
The Soul of Montpellier
Discover the essence of Montpellier through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football, or soccer, is extremely popular in Montpellier, with Montpellier HSC being the city's main team competing in Ligue 1.
Rugby is another major sport in Montpellier, known for its passionate fanbase and the Montpellier Hérault Rugby club.
Handball has a strong following in Montpellier, with the Montpellier Handball club being one of the top teams in France.
Basketball sees significant participation and support, with the Montpellier Basket team playing in the French league.
Cycling is popular in and around Montpellier, with many paths and events supporting cycling enthusiasts.
Volleyball has a solid community with clubs and competitions being held regularly in the area.
Tennis is played widely in Montpellier, supported by numerous clubs and facilities for both recreation and competition.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Montpellier.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Montpellier offers numerous vegetarian-friendly options, with many restaurants having dedicated menus for vegetarians.
While vegan-specific establishments are limited, most restaurants are accommodating and can offer tasty vegan dishes upon request.
Several restaurants and cafes in Montpellier provide gluten-free alternatives, and many are willing to adapt dishes to accommodate gluten-free diets.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Montpellier with these cultural adventures.
