Montpellier: complete guide to 2025

Montpelliercapital ofHéraultis a must-see destination in the south of France. At once historic, vibrant and MediterraneanIt attracts thousands of visitors every year. In this guide, we take you on a journey into the unique world of this sunny city, at the heart of the French Riviera. the countryto find out all about its treasures, neighborhoods and best addresses.

Montpellier, a city of history and culture

Located between sea and mountains, Montpellier is a city of rich medieval past. Founded in the 10th century, it quickly established itself as a major center of commerce, science and education. Even today, its university of medicineEurope's oldest operating plant, bears witness to this heritage.

Emblematic monuments 

• Saint Peter's Cathedralwith its two massive towers, is an impressive example of Gothic architecture.

• La Tour des Pins and the Babotte Tower recall the medieval ramparts that once encircled the city.

• Visit Medieval mikveha 13th-century Jewish ritual bath, is one of the oldest vestiges of the Jewish presence in France.

What to do in Montpellier - 15 must-sees

You're wondering What to do in Montpellier - 15 must-sees ? This guide takes you on a journey of discovery of places, flavours and experiences not to be missed. the country.

1. Stroll around Place de la Comédie

It's the ideal starting point for any visit. La Place de la Comédie is the Montpellier's living heartlined with Haussmann buildings, the Opera House and adorned with the Fountain of the Three Graces.

👉 Perfect place to have a coffee and watch the hustle and bustle of the city

2. Explore the historic center, the Écusson

A veritable labyrinth of medieval alleywaysthe Écusson plunges you into the Montpellier in days gone bywith its mansions, shady squares and colorful facades.

📌 Worth seeing: the Rue du Bras de Ferthe Place Jean Jaurès and the Babotte Tower.

3. Visit the Musée Fabre

Housed in a former 18th-century town house, the Fabre Museum is one of the major museums in the south of France. It houses works by Courbet, Delacroix, Bazille...

👉 For lovers of classic and contemporary art.

4. Relax at the Jardin des Plantes

Visit Jardin des Plantes de Montpelliercreated in 1593, is France's oldest botanical garden. It boasts over 2,500 plant species.

📌 Quiet, shady location, perfect for a nature break in the city.

5. Admire the Promenade du Peyrou

Perched on a hilltop, the Promenade du Peyrou offers an exceptional view of the Cévennes. The area is dominated by thearc de triomphe and the water tower.

👉 Ideal at sunset.

6. Discover the modern districts of Antigone and Port Marianne

Antigone, designed by Ricardo Bofill, features a futuristic neoclassical architecture. Port Marianne seduces with its design buildingsparks and trendy cafés.

📌 Two neighborhoods that illustrate the modernity of Montpellier.

7. Enjoy nearby beaches

Even though Montpellier is not by the sea, but the beaches are nearby: Carnon, Palavas-les-Flots, La Grande-Motte. Easy access by car, tram+bus or bike.

👉 For a lazy day or a seaside sunset.

8. Visit St. Peter's Cathedral

This is Montpellier's main religious building. Built in the 14th century Saint-Pierre Cathedral impresses with its massive towers and Gothic architecture.

📌 A place steeped in history and spirituality.

9. Explore street art in Montpellier

Giant murals adorn the walls of many neighborhoods, including Figuerolles and Lemasson. Urban art is everywhere!

👉 Don't miss Fresco for kidsvery popular.

10. Shopping on rue de l'Ancien Courrier

Artisan boutiques, concept stores, local designers... the rue de l'Ancien Courrier is one of the best places for original shopping in Montpellier.

📌 Chic, bohemian ambience.

11. Attend a cultural festival

Montpellier vibrates to the rhythm of many festivals :

• Radio France Festival

• Printemps des Comédiens

• Cinémed

👉 A lively, cultural city.

12. Taste local specialities

What would Montpellier be without its gastronomy ? Don't miss :

• Visit tielle

• Visit pélardon

• Visit Bouzigues oysters

• Visit Pic Saint-Loup wines

👉 For those curious about southern flavors.

👉 Discover our bons plans cuisine du sud

13. Strolling along the Lez

Visit Lez crosses Montpellier and offers the perfect setting for a walk or bike ride. Popular with families and sports enthusiasts alike.

📌 The perfect spot to take a break from nature.

14. Discover Lunaret zoo

Visit Montpellier zoo is free! It's home to over 150 species in a vast natural park.

👉 A family day out in the great outdoors.

15. Climb to the top of the Corum

Visit Coruma congress centre and opera house, boasts a panoramic roof accessible to the public. Unique view of the city's rooftops and the sea in the distance.

📌 Little-known but impressive photo spot.

What to do in Montpellier: must-see sites to visit

It's impossible to visit the city without exploring its iconic places. Every street corner reveals a surprise, a work of art or a place steeped in history.

Must-see essentials:

• Place de la Comédiethe lively heart of the city, is lined with cafés, the Opéra Comédie and the Trois Grâces fountain.

• The Fabre Museum houses one of the richest art collections in southern France, ranging from classical painters to contemporary artists.

• Jardin des Plantescreated in the 16th century, is France's oldest botanical garden.

• Old Montpellier (l'Écusson) is a maze of medieval alleyways, perfect for a stroll.

• The Promenade du PeyrouThis magnificent esplanade overlooking the Cévennes is dominated by an impressive triumphal arch.

Secondary key words used : places not to be missedwalk, city center, heritage, museums.

Frequently Asked Questions: what to do in Montpellier - 15 must-sees

Is Montpellier child-friendly?

Yes, with nearby parks, beaches and interactive museums like the Planetarium.

Are there any free activities in Montpellier?

Yes: the Jardin des Plantes, the Promenade du Peyrou, the zoo and temporary exhibitions.

👉 The article Visit the South of France: regional guide offers other ideas for visits the country around Montpellier.

Montpellier's most beautiful districts

Each district  has its own unique atmosphere. Whether you're looking for the hustle and bustle of the city center or the calm of the banks of the Lez, there's something for everyone.

• The ÉcussonThe historic center is a labyrinth of narrow streets, ideal for lovers of history and old stones.

• Antigonedesigned by Ricardo Bofill, is a modern neoclassical complex inspired by Antiquity.

• Port MarianneThis dynamic, new development features futuristic architecture and a pleasant riverside setting on the banks of the Lez.

• Les Arceauxknown for its 17th-century aqueduct, has a bohemian ambience.

• The Beaux-Arts districtA popular spot for artists, it's packed with galleries, cafés and local markets.

Montpellier, a dynamic student city

With over 70,000 studentsThe city is one of the youngest in France. The atmosphere is festive, creative and resolutely forward-looking.

Pillars of student life :

• L'Paul-Valéry University and the Faculty of Medicine are among the world's most renowned institutions.

• Numerous events and festivals punctuate academic and cultural life.

• Visit street art and open-air concerts contribute to theartistic effervescence.

Climate and nature around Montpellier

The town benefits from Mediterranean climate mild all year round, with over 300 days of sunshine. The surrounding countryside offers a multitude of outdoor activities.

To discover around Montpellier :

• The beaches of Carnon, Palavas-les-Flots and La Grande-Mottejust 15-20 minutes away.

• Visit Hérault gorgesperfect for canoeing.

• Visit vineyards and garriguesideal for bike rides or tastings.

Restaurant Montpellier: where to eat well in the sunny city

If you're looking for a good restaurant in Montpellieryou've come to the right place! A Mediterranean city par excellence, Montpellier offers a rich and varied gastronomic offeringThere's something for everyone, from traditional cuisine to culinary innovation and regional specialties. Whether you're just passing through or a resident, there's a wide range of addresses to satisfy every taste, from cosy bistros to Michelin-starred restaurants.

A city of gastronomy at the heart of Occitanie

The Montpellier region is a cultural and culinary crossroadsIt's a place influenced by the Mediterranean, the Languedoc terroir and the modernity of its inhabitants. Here you'll find seafood restaurants than vegan addressesand world cuisine and many French breweries revisited.

It's the perfect place to discover fresh produce, homemade dishes and regional wines like those from Pic Saint-Loup.

The best areas to find a restaurant in Montpellier

📍 The Écussonthe city's historic center, is filled with charming alleyways, ideal for stumbling upon a romantic restaurant or a small artisanal creperie.

📍 Les Arceaux offer a more bohemian ambience, with numerous locavore tables and market-inspired menus.

📍 Antigone and Port Marianneare more modern, offering trendy restaurantsoften with large terraces and a designer ambience.

A few must-try addresses

👉 Leclere - Cuisine d'Arrivage for a gourmet experience with fresh produce

👉 Pastis Restaurant fine local Mediterranean cuisine

👉 Les Caves de Trinque Fougasse for fans of wine and charcuterie/cheese boards

👉 La Diligence A historic setting and refined dishes in a former 17th-century stable

👉 Burger and Blanquette From gourmet street food à la française

👉 Green Lab for fans of vegetarian and organic cuisine

A city for every budget

From daily menu at €15 at gourmet dinner at €80Montpellier offers something for everyone. Many restaurants also offer affordable lunch optionsperfect for students and professionals alike.

Don't forget to book, especially in high season or on weekend evenings, as some addresses quickly sell out.

Gastronomy and local specialities

Visit montpellier gastronomy reflects all the richness of the Languedoc region. You'll enjoy fragrant Mediterranean cuisine, rich in fresh produce.

Specialities to savour :

• La tielle (octopus pie from Sète)

• Bouzigues oysters

• Pic Saint-Loup wines

• Pelardon cheese (goat cheese)

• Visit markets (Arceaux, Beaux-Arts) offer organic and local produce.

Access, transport and mobility

Easy to reach, the city is well connected to major French and European cities.

How to get there :

• By train TGV from Paris in 3h30

• By plane Montpellier Méditerranée Airport

• By car quick access via the A9

Getting around town:

• Tramway modern (4 lines)

• Self-service bicycles

• Numerous park-and-ride facilities

Events not to be missed

Cultural life is punctuated by recognized festivals and popular events.

Mark your calendars:

• Radio France Festivalclassical music and jazz in summer

• Printemps des Comédienscontemporary theater

• Les Estivalesgourmet evenings on the Esplanade

• CinémedMediterranean Film Festival

Tips and ideas for original activities

Want to get off the beaten track? The town also offers unusual activities for young and old.

Original suggestions :

• Ride electric scooter along the Lez river

• River cruise on the Rhône à Sète canal

• Guided tours theme nights (ghosts, legends)

• Street food tour or cooking workshops

👉 Discover also our ideas offamily activities in the south on this article

Must-see places and villages around Montpellier

Looking for ideas for nature, culture or heritage getaways? Visit Sites and villages to visit around Montpellier are numerous, authentic and often little-known. In less than an hour's drive, you can discover the jewels of southern France, between beaches, vineyards, medieval villages and spectacular natural landscapes. Here is our selection of the most beautiful discoveries to make the country around the Hérault capital.

1. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert: a listed medieval gem

45 minutes from Montpellier, Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is classified among the France's most beautiful villages. Perched in the Hérault gorges, this emblematic site is a haven of peace with cobbled streets, dominated by theGellone Abbeya Romanesque masterpiece listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

2. Pic Saint-Loup: nature, wine and panoramas

30 minutes to the north, the Pic Saint-Loup is an emblematic mountain of the region. Ideal for hikingIt offers breathtaking panoramic views over the Hérault plain and the Mediterranean.

The surrounding area is full of wine estates where you can taste wines of character.

👉 For nature and adventure loverswine tourismit's a must.

3. Villeneuvette: the old manufacturing town

50 km from Montpellier, this listed village is a former 17th-century royal factory, now peaceful and green. The historic buildings, the river, the flower-filled streets... Villeneuvette has a timeless charm all of its own.

Keywords : industrial architectureheritage, walking, charm.

4. Pézenas: the town of Molière

This city of art and history is famous for having welcomed Molière and his troupe. Its narrow streets art galleries, artisan workshopsand middle-class homes. On Saturday, the Pézenas market attracts the whole region.

👉 1h from Montpellier, perfect for a cultural and gourmet day out.

5. La Grande-Motte and Palavas-les-Flots: a seaside getaway

Less than 30 minutes away, these seaside resorts offer quick access to the Mediterranean. La Grande-Mottewith its modernist architecturecontrasts with the more authentic atmosphere of Palavasa former fishing village.

Ideal for a beach breakcycling or aperitifs on the terrace.

Visit Sites and villages to visit around Montpellier offer an incredible diversity between nature, heritage, culture and gastronomy. Whether you're looking for peace and quiet, historical discoveries or breathtaking landscapes, you'll always find a nearby destination to enrich your stay in Montpellier.

ENT Montpellier: the essential digital tool for students

L'ENT Montpellier (Environnement Numérique de Travail - Digital Working Environment) is the central platform that enables students, teachers and administrative staff at universities to Montpellier to access all their digital services. Whether you're aUniversity of Montpellierat theUM3 Paul-Valéry or in a partner school, this tool is indispensable to keep up with your schooling.

What is ENT Montpellier?

L'ENT Montpellier is a secure online interface. It provides access to a host of services essential to the smooth running of your studies:

• Personalized timetable

• Notes and results

• University messaging

• Online course platforms (like Moodle)

• Administrative files

• Pedagogical registration

• News and resources

Accessible 24 hours a day from a computer, tablet or smartphone, ENT is an easy-to-use centralized digital tool to simplify student life.

How do I connect to ENT Montpellier?

To connect to theENT Montpelliersimply :

1. Go to the website : ent.umontpellier.fr

2. Click on "Login

3. Enter your student ID (usually your student number) and your Password

4. Once logged in, you can access your personalized dashboard

👉 In the event of password loss, a password reset is available online.

How does ENT fit into student life?

ENT Montpellier plays a crucial role in the course follow-upand school management. Thanks to this tool, students can :

• Download their school certificates

• Follow their test results

• Register for UE (teaching units)

• Communicate via internal mail

• Access to online courseshomework, forums

The ENT is also used to distribute important informationThese include campus closures, exam dates and room changes.

ENT Montpellier and distance learning

Since the rise ofhybrid teaching and e-learningENT Montpellier has become an even more important tool. It provides access to digital teaching resourcesand online exams.

Platforms such as Moodleintegrated into the ENT, make it easy for teachers to put content online and interact with students.

Frequently asked questions about Montpellier

When is the best time to visit Montpellier?

Spring and autumn are ideal for enjoying the pleasant climate and avoiding the summer crowds.

Is Montpellier a safe city?

Yes, Montpellier is generally safe, although some areas should be avoided at night.

How many days does it take to visit Montpellier?

A weekend is enough to discover the essentials, but 4-5 days are ideal for exploring the surrounding area.

Is it possible to swim near Montpellier?

Absolutely! The beaches can be reached by streetcar or car in less than 30 minutes.

Is Montpellier a good place to live?

Yes, it combines dynamism, culture, a mild climate and proximity to nature.

What are Montpellier's culinary specialities?

Seafood, pélardon, tielle and local wines are a must.

How to get around Montpellier without a car?

Streetcars, bicycles and buses make it easy to get around the city.

Is Montpellier child-friendly?

Yes, many family activities, parks and beaches are accessible to children.

Which towns to visit around Montpellier?

Nîmes, Sète, Béziers, the Pont du Gard and Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert are all less than an hour away.

Is Montpellier a green city?

Yes, with its many parks, gardens and natural areas within easy reach.

Conclusion

Montpellier is a multi-faceted destination It's vibrant, historic, sunny and resolutely forward-looking. Whether you're visiting or thinking of settling here, the city has a lot to offer. Its Mediterranean atmosphere, cultural richness and dynamism make it an ideal place to live. favorite city in the south of France.