Eat, drink, beach comb, museum-hop…. You live it up in a thousand different ways in this Mediterranean hotspot!
For centuries, this slice of paradise in Southern France has drawn visitors with its great climate and cultural attributes that embrace the past and celebrate the contemporary all at once.
And it’s also a place where you can embrace the natural world in all of its forms, whether you’re bringing the family to some amazing animal parks or enjoying the many glorious beaches and hiking routes in the area.
Come see the diverse gem that still lays on the classic French charm, and enjoy the amazing things to do in Montpellier!
1 – Amble around Place de la Comedie
As one of the cultural centers of town (and somewhat the literal middle, too), this is a place where travelers and locals can come together… and with beautiful buildings all around to help set the scene!
Nicknamed “The Egg” because of its unusual design, the space is home to the opera house, several little cafes, and a magnificent fountain topped with a statue of the mythological Three Graces, said to represent beauty and joy.
This is also part of a larger neighborhood, L’Écusson, which bears plenty of traces of its former medieval glories, and now holds many of the coolest museums in town.
It is here that you’ll find treasures like the Fabre Museum (see #2) and the Montpellier Cathedral (see #9), along with enough unique shops to keep you happily browsing all day!
2 – Enjoy the breathtaking beauties at the Fabre Museum
Art is more than just a display at Musée Fabre… it’s a way of life!
This massive, nearly 200 -year old space is home to an incredible array of pieces, stretching all the way from the 1400s to the modern art scene.
Stroll through over 50 rooms of paintings, sculptures, abstract works, and decorative furniture, including an impressive collection of pieces by the Old Masters.
Along with displaying a wonderful cross-section of European art through the ages, the space also celebrates the importance of community involvement in cultural exhibitions; many of the gorgeous paintings you’ll see were donated from private collections.
And with perpetually rotating exhibits, you never know when you’ll encounter your next favorite art piece!
3 – Take in the splendor of Esplanade Charles-de-Gaulle
This is another great spot for a walk… and a beautiful one, too!
Surrounded by public gardens and some lovely water features, this path seamlessly leads you past the heart of town in style, offering some tranquil views all the way.
It’s also home to several lovely statues, and the Pavillon Populaire, a stately building that hosts all sorts of exhibits, including several photography displays.
And if you want to enjoy it in a whole different way, just hop aboard the miniature sightseeing train… or a horse-drawn carriage!
4 – Put your imagination (and your logic skills) to the test in an escape room
It’s not every vacation that lets you break out of prison, pretend to be a spy, or navigate the ins and outs of wizarding school… but that’s just par for the course when you’re exploring the escape rooms in Montpellier!
Here, you’ll find a number of exciting immersive worlds – and even more thrillingly, you’ll get to break out of them!
You and your teammates will need to utilize all of your problem-solving skills and creativity to succeed, and you may just find yourself getting sucked into the action in no time!
5 – Feel the pulse of the city at Promenade du Peyrou
King Louis XIV – also known as the Sun King – was France’s longest-serving king , and one with a complex and enduring legacy.
So naturally, there are tributes to him all over the nation… and Montpellier is no exception!
This whole area around the promenade is perfect for strolling and enjoying the scenery, and it’s also an extensive tribute to the late monarch and his exploits, from a decorative water tower to a local version of the Arc de Triomphe (see #6).
And the whole area is anchored by an impressive statue of the king, astride his horse, overlooking the scene.
This is also a great area to enjoy some of the famously beautiful views, with the sea, the mountains, and the city all laid out in wonderfully appealing fashion.
And if you happen to be visiting on Sundays, you can even swing by the bustling flea market!
6 – Enjoy an unusual bit of public history at the Arc de Triomphe
Much like its iconic Parisian counterpart, this large structure blends regal details with a powerful sense of place, serving as a portal to and from the Promenade de Peyrou.
Built in 1693, it’s also a powerful – if slightly unorthodox – narrative tool, covered in etchings and writings that depict some of the significant accomplishments of the Sun King’s long reign.
Examine the monument from all angles, and see the stories of military conquests and engineering projects unfurl before you in elegantly decorated fashion.
7 – Admire the Aqueduc Saint-Clement
This antiquated but powerful water system isn’t just a part of the city’s history… it’s part of the country’s!
As the largest private hydraulic project ever undertaken in the country, it has long served as both an engineering triumph and a unique part of civic life, steadily conveying fresh spring water to different parts of town.
It took an astounding 13 years to build, but with its two levels and 53 arches, it more than proves the worthiness of the task!
And for ongoing evidence of its impact, just look to the many fountains around town, happily bubbling with that same fresh water!
8 – Bop around on some segway tours
Picture this: you’re basking in the exciting energy of busy streets as you gaze at theaters, churches, and everything in between; but instead of using your feet, you’re rolling around with some wheels beneath you!
That’s all part of the adventure with the local segway tours, which show you all sorts of different aspects to the town – with the added bonus of a pleasant vehicle to maneuver!
With these versatile modes of transportation, you can explore the lovely public squares at length, and navigate through the city’s charming neighborhoods; and of course, there’s plenty of time to stop for pictures!
You can even get a little adventurous with a treasure hunt, and turn your journey into an action-packed, clue-filled extravaganza!
9 – Peek into the city’s worshipful side at the Montpellier Cathedral
What you’ll see as you approach this church is nothing less than a triumph of design, the beauty of Gothic elements and religious reverence coming together as one.
In 1364, the original version of the church debuted, but it took nearly 200 years before it became an official cathedral.
It’s also something of a survivor; in fact, this church is the only one from the era that survived the brutal Wars of Religion, when Protestants and Catholics battled for control over the country.
And ever since, it has been a vital part of the local religious infrastructure, serving as the home base for the city’s Archbishop.
Stop by and enjoy the gorgeous designs, which capture the centuries in stark relief.
If you’re lucky, you may even hear the peals of the church bells ringing proudly!
10 – Live out your National Geographic dreams at Montpellier Zoological Park
Not only is this one of the best things to do in Montpellier for families, but it’s also a boon for nature-lovers… and it’s free!
Step through the gates, and you’ll think you’ve traveled to the savanna, the jungle, and everywhere in between, with 141 species of creatures going about their days in wonderfully recreated environments.
Wolves and cheetahs, ibises and macaws, zebras and emus are all waiting to be visited; and the grounds themselves are worth the trip!
Taking on the safari park model, the Montpellier Zoological Park focuses on more spacious exhibits, giving the animals plenty of room to roam – and giving you a real sense of what it’s like to be out in the wilderness!
11 – Enjoy the unusual blooms (and some special trees) at Jardin des plantes of Montpellier
If you’re more into flora than fauna, then you’ll love a relaxing stroll through the amazing Jardin des plantes of Montpellier‘s set of gardens, where the scientific and the aesthetic perfectly blend.
And that beauty has certainly gained notice over the years; built in 1593, this space was the first of its kind in France, and it had a wonderfully noble mission: to cultivate the study of healing plants that might serve the larger community.
It also set the standard for many of the other terrific public gardens that would later flourish across the country, both in terms of the quality of the collection and its aesthetic charms.
As you stroll around, you’ll find yourself slowly and pleasantly transported to other worlds, from fields of bamboo and greenhouses to sweet-smelling fruit trees and a lovely pond full of lily pads.
You’ll also get to see plenty of fascinating medicinal specimens, hearkening back to the garden’s earliest days as a place of study and innovation.
And be sure to stop by the “wishing tree” before you leave; as the oldest specimen in the whole park, this 400-year-old treasure has a trunk gnarled and twisted by age, offering lots of little nooks and crannies where you can tuck a written version of your deepest desire!
12 – Sink into the music at some candlelight concerts
They’re romantic, they’re invigorating, they’re surprising… they’re candlelight concerts!
Held in beautiful venues all across the city, these performances run the gamut from film and video game scores to pop and rock, all reimagined for pianos or symphonic ensembles.
And while you’re listening to these gorgeous recitals, you can also enjoy the gentle glow of the candles all around you, creating an unforgettable and dreamlike world.
Though the experience may only last a few hours, this flawless blend of sound and image will utterly transport you!
13 – Enjoy the charms of Cirque de Navacelles
Many of the amazing things to do in Montpellier celebrate the glories of art and culture, but Cirque de Navacelles offers up a different sort of spectacle… a natural one!
This spectacular formation is tucked into the Massif Central mountains, a spacious, secret jewel amidst an already beautiful landscape.
Indeed, the trek out is a treat in its own right, with all of the magnificent hills and lovely little villages to keep you entertained.
And of course, the valley itself, deep, narrow, and brimming with gorgeous landscapes , makes for an unforgettable sight.
Watch the steady path of the Vis River as it cuts through the region, and admire the layers of limestone soaring above the scene.
The whole area shows off a slice of wilderness that’s totally different from the standard beaches near town – and it’s utterly intoxicating!
14 – Use a wine tasting to explore the region in style
This is one area that knows its grapes… and other treats, too!
The wine tours will show you all the finest drinks of the region, alongside the gorgeous, lush landscapes that foster them.
For a trip that also incorporates some cultural elements, don’t miss the Châteaux of Grès de Montpellier, a pair of historic residences with stunning grounds and years of wine-growing experience, plus a unique character that extends to both the houses themselves and the drinks that they produce.
But it’s not the beverages that are high quality around here!
Some of these tours also include an olive oil tasting or an oyster tasting, giving you some rich, mouthwatering treats to pair with your latest glass.
15 – Enjoy the power and glamor of Opera National Orchestre Montpellier
After a feast for the palate, it’s time to treat your ears at Opera National Orchestre Montpellier!
The opera scene in the city is as vivacious as the rest of its artistic offerings, with 31 powerful singers and 93 acclaimed musicians creating an ensemble that shakes the rafters and stirs the heart.
But perhaps the most interesting part isn’t what these performers do, but where they do it!
Depending on the needs of each individual show, the performers may appear in one of two excellent theaters: the Opera Berlioz, or the Opera Comedie.
And no matter where they show up, the sounds are always heavenly!
16 – Indulge in some scenic bike tours
Out in the mountains, along the beaches, or in the middle of stunning vineyards… the bike tours in Montpellier will take you to beauties you’d only dreamed of!
Whether you want a leisurely city ride or a slightly more rugged trip through the great outdoors, you’ll get a wonderful vantage point with every push of your pedals.
On the city tours, you’ll have the beauty of cathedrals and monuments to drink in as you roll along.
And on a mountain biking excursion, you can venture even further, swooping through vineyards, rural towns, and stunning sea views.
It’s the kind of jaunt that lights up your mind and invigorates your body, all at the same time; and let’s face it, there are few more pleasant ways to spend an afternoon than going on a little two-wheeled cruise!
17 – Enjoy a drinking experience with heaps of history at La Maison Noilly Prat
Time to indulge in another sort of flavor experience… underground, this time!
The splendid halls of La Maison Noilly Prat are home to one of the region’s most beloved exports: smooth, strong vermouth.
This renowned variant of wine has a growing and cultivation process all its own; and as you tour this factory, you’ll get to experience it firsthand!
Learn all about the specific white grapes that are used for the drink, and the careful process of barrel-aging, a process that has been going strong since the 1850s.
Along with the history and the manufacturing elements, you’ll get plenty of opportunities to taste the all-famous products, including a trip to the famous wine cellar itself.
As you sip and sample, you’ll get a crash course in how to use the beverage in different meals and drink mixes; by the end of the session, you’ll have the perfect idea of what to order on your next evening out – or what to pour for a classy evening in!
18 – Roam around Pic Saint-Loup
Thanks to all of the mountains and valleys, there’s no shortage of excellent hiking near Montpellier; and no trekking trip would be complete without some quality time on the Pic Saint Loup!
This is no mere scenic route; you’ll get to stop for refreshments in some of the best vineyards and farms in the region!
But of course, there’s plenty of time to enjoy some hiking as well; the lovely mountainous loop takes about three hours, with some incredible vistas all along the way.
Gaze out at the hills and the sea, and you’ll quickly see why this region has become such a beloved getaway… with a dose of rural delights to tie it all together!
19 – Walk the streets of Saint-Guilhem-le-Desert
On the quieter (but still exciting) side of things, you can immerse yourself in the older stories of the area with a trip to Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, a charming little burg that has been going strong for over 1,000 years!
The village has never been one of the liveliest around, but with its lovely abbey and quaint neighborhoods, it remains a wonderful, slow-paced relic of the medieval era, still perfectly preserved.
Explore every nook and cranny of this delightful spot, which has gained new life as a stop on the hugely popular Camino De Santiago hiking trail, and enjoy some of the traditional artisan communities at work, including a thriving pottery scene!
20 – See beyond the surface – literally – at Planet Ocean World
After spending all of that time looking at the sea, you might as well get a sense of what lies within it!
Planet Ocean World gets you as close as possible to the world beneath the waves, short of turning into a fish yourself!
Explore the complex, interconnected worlds of a mangrove swamp or a tropical lagoon; peer into the unique lives of corals and jellyfish, or probe the deeper mysteries that lie at the very bottom of the sea… or the furthest reaches of outer space!
And of course, you’ll encounter all sorts of amazing animals along the way – everything from clownfish to iguanas to penguins!
No matter what you know about the world’s seas beforehand, you’’ll feel like an amateur marine biologist after your visit!
21 – Lick the plate clean on a few food tours
Here’s another set of things to do in Montpellier that will light up your mind and your taste buds… food tours!
These are delightfully varied as the city’s cuisine itself, with the sweet, the savory, and the unusual all coming together to give you a wonderful flavor profile.
Chocolates, cheeses, fresh-baked bread, oysters – this is a city that loves its food, and it’ll get you to fall in love with it too.
And of course, you’ll get plenty of great wine to tie the meal together in fine French fashion!
22 – Take a relaxing walk through the House of Nature
If you want to stay close to the city, but still get a hearty dose of the great outdoors, set your sights on this marvelous park!
It focuses more on cultivating the natural landscape than on any new creations, with tons of native plants and lovely wetlands circling a picturesque lagoon.
When you set out on these trails, you’ll pass through the middle of a dynamic ecosystem that’s far more active than its seemingly gentle terrain would suggest.
From marsh plants to paddling turtles, each step yields a new glimpse into a fertile world, providing endless details to savor all throughout your walk.
And if you’re a bird fan, rejoice: storks and flamingos have frequently been sighted here!
23 – Experience a bit of upper-crust life at Château de Flaugergues and other Châteaux
Given the long and luxurious history in this town, it’s no surprise that there are plenty of excellent old houses to explore!
Châteaux tours are a great way to see how the other half lived – and you don’t need a blue blood pedigree to get in!
These mansions usually served as summer homes for France’s elite, so you’ll see an even more luxurious side of society than normal; and with spectacular gardens all around, the outside areas are a beautiful sight as well!
Château de Flaugergues is perhaps one of the most spectacular examples; it was diligently built over a period of 45 years, and boasts all of the stunning design details you’d expect from such an ambitious project, including a grand staircase that sweeps through much of the house.
You can also admire some antique tapestries and furniture that help showcase the original glamor of the space; and of course, we can’t neglect to mention one of this house’s most prized attributes (one shared with many of its neighbors)… the vineyards!
Sample the many different products of the estates – including some fine wines (see #14) -, and learn about the intriguing legacies of the aristocrats that once roamed these elegant halls!
24 – Go on a stand-up paddle excursion
With just the right blend of dexterity and leisure, paddleboarding is a sport, an adventure, and a meditative process, all rolled into one!
And if you’ve never tried it out before, this is the perfect place to start, with calm, clear waters that are easy to navigate – so you can start exploring almost immediately!
Get a crash course in the basics from your guide, or rent your own board and enjoy the tranquil, boat-free waters full of wildlife.
It’s a wonderful way to savor the sea at a different pace!
25 – Get some sand in your soul at the best beaches
There’s nothing quite like some quality time on a nice patch of sand to brighten up a holiday – and lucky for you, Montpellier is packed to the gills with great spots!
Enjoy the stunning black sands of La Grande Conque, or the acclaimed Espiguette, known for its incredible views and distinctive lighthouse.
Head to Petit Travers Beach and alternate between the bars and the sand dunes, or pop over to nearby Carnon-Plage, a thriving resort area.
Or enjoy a little bit of everything at La Plagette, which is almost right in the middle of town FIX, but still offers all of the best amenities: gorgeous terrain, lots of spots to sunbathe, and of course, some wonderfully refreshing waters!
26 – Swing by Domaine d’O for Theater and other shows
No matter what sort of show you’re craving, you’ll find something to satiate you at the beloved Domaine d’O!
This is one of the city’s best venues for live events, with circuses, plays, concerts, and film festivals keeping the calendar active and engaging.
And be sure to leave some time to enjoy the surrounding park, a lovely little world of olive groves, soaring pines, and even some small ponds.
27 – Test your limits and enjoy the wild ride of bungee jumping
Viaduc de Boussagues was built in 1853, and once served a major role in the local infrastructure.
But if you visit now, you might not be worrying about the flow of the current, but rather the air rushing past you as you take a leap off of it!
This is one of the best spots for bungee jumping near Montpellier, and all you need is a little bit of instruction before you strap on your cord and go hurtling into the open air!
Enjoy the thrilling freefall and the slight bounce at the end, then dangle around and enjoy the unusual views!
28 – Discover the wider world of Herault
When you’re ready to get a sense of the larger region around town, Hérault is filled with natural and cultural gems, with the coastal and the agricultural all acting in tandem.
In terms of scenery, you have dynamic treasures like The Devil’s Bridge, an old stone structure that cuts a daring path through the local rock formations and over the sparkling Herault River, and Lake Salagou, where the blue water and red rocks come together to create a work of art that’s 100% natural.
And when it’s time to go back to civilization, you can savor the quaint charms of Cirque de Moureze, a delightful holdover from the medieval days, or Saint-Guilhem-le-Desert, home to the acclaimed Gelone Abbey, which has been going strong since 804.
These trips are the perfect way to fall even more in love with this gorgeous section of France!
29 – Take your outdoorsy adventures to the next level along Via Ferrata du Thaurac
Within the larger paradise of Cevennes National Park, Via Ferrata du Thaurac gives you the chance to stretch those hiking muscles… and some climbing ones!
This trip takes you up and over some of the area’s famed rocky ridges, and thanks to your safety gear, you’ll be able to take on this adventure with total confidence!
Traverse winding routes along cliffs, scurry up rock walls, shimmy through passageways, and explore all of the different surprises that this wild terrain holds.
With novel experiences every step of the way, you can engage with the landscape on a whole new level, pushing your limits and enjoying the rewards!
30 – Find some new connections at The Panacee
This is certainly a city that loves its culture, and La Panacée is another great place to take it all in!
If you’re looking for artsy things to do in Montpellier, this is certainly a worthwhile trip; it’s not just a series of galleries, but also a hub for creators seeking to actively engage in a larger community.
Poke your head into the exhibition halls to see what’s on display, or drop in on some of the lively conversations forever flowing around you – it’s a rare chance to really participate in the arts scene!
31 – Poke through every corner of Marche du Lez
It’s time for a bit of shopping – but trust us, you’ll want to really focus on browsing Marche du Lez!
This public market is held on the banks of the Lez River (hence the name), and it’s quickly become a favorite social hub, with food trucks and all sorts of vendors to keep you entertained.
And if you like your souvenirs to have a bit of a story behind them, there’s also an active second-hand industry, where you can comb through some of the city’s coolest hidden gems – and maybe take some home!
32 – Try some phenomenal flavors at the best restaurants
As lovely as all of the tastings around here are, you might find yourself craving a whole meal at some point; and when that time comes, you’ll have your pick of options!
The best restaurants in Montpellier may vary in what they offer, but you’ll always be guaranteed a delicious bite to eat, with some phenomenal service thrown in for good measure!
Restaurant Ebullition will provide you with fresh produce, amazing wines, and some clever Mediterranean dishes, while Restaurant Leclere provides a mouthwatering menu that changes from day to day – and as an added bonus, both of these are Michelin-starred eateries!
For a more international twist, you can enjoy the wide variety of rolls at Namazu Sushi, or pop across the ocean with a trip to Empanadas Club, which offers heaps of variations on the classic Latin American treat.
And don’t forget about Buonanotte, home to traditional French cuisine with some creative and luxurious twists… and an atmosphere to match!
How to get to Montpellier?
Fliers, take note: there’s an airport right in town, and it hosts oodles of domestic and international flights!
And if you want to make your trip to the city even easier, there are plenty of airport transfers to help you out!
Enjoy a shared option or a private vehicle, and get fast, prompt service that will get you where you want to go with ease… it’s the perfect tension-dispelling option!
Where to stay in Montpellier?
You’ll get the star treatment right away at Domaine de Verchant Relais & Châteaux, a historic mansion that’s been repurposed into a wonderful hotel, complete with saunas, pools, a luxurious spa, and fine dining.
Or you could hang out at Belaroïa Montpellier Centre Saint Roch, where the finest cultural amenities are within walking distance, and the hotel itself spoils you rotten with its restaurant, bar, and gym.
Grand Hôtel du Midi Montpellier – Opéra Comédie is another cosmopolitan option (as the name suggests, it counts the opera house among its many distinguished neighbors, and also provides an atmosphere that’s both cozy and classy.
And at Hotel Campanile Montpellier Centre St Roch, you can easily walk to any treasure you’d desire in town, then settle in on the terrace for a bit of chill time in the sun.
You can also enjoy the treats of Hotel ibis Montpellier Center Comedie, you can fuel up at the restaurant, wind down at the bar, or saunter over to the museums and transit stations when it’s time for a little more activity!
Visiting Montpellier on a budget?
The free walking tours in Montpellier will bring you closer to the city than ever before – and on a lower budget, too!
Public art and ancient buildings, party areas and hidden neighborhoods, theaters and churches – you’ll get to see the city on a grand and small scale, in the company of local guides that know and love its streets deeply.
Bring some good walking shoes and a readiness to learn… and cash to tip your tour leaders!
Where to go next?
When you’ve soaked up all of the loveliness in town – at least for this visit -, you can keep on enjoying some of the greatest treasures of France… plus a bit of Spain!
Barcelona has long been beloved for its architecture, nightlife, cuisine, and museums that cover everything from sporting history to marijuana… and of course, that enviable Mediterrenean climate!
But of course, there are plenty of other places to visit in France, with great things to do as well!
Want to enjoy some unique art and beautiful views? Head to Toulouse, which draws influence from two seas, and has plenty of amazing histories to explore, along with a cool contemporary scene (wine bars and ambitious public art projects, anyone?)
Or maybe you’d prefer a livelier vibe, in the bustling city of Marseille, a port town with plenty of churches, markets, and marvelous neighborhoods that will have you embracing city life in no time.
The river town of Aix-en-Provence is perfect for outdoorsy types, with a whole range of hiking trails and beautiful parks… plus some amazing food!
And of course, Cannes has earned its reputation for glamor, with beautiful art galleries and public streets that you can stroll along just as scores of A-list celebrities have done in the past.
You can even stop by the aptly named Nice, which has everything from beaches and amusement parks to art, opera, and wine tastings… a perfect sampler platter for travelers!
Final thoughts
So, ready for a bit of adrenaline, a bit of learning, a bit of leisure, and a lot of fun?
Then pack those bags and brush up on your French, because you’ll always find new things to do in Montpellier, whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth.
And trust us – you’ll always come away dazzled!