Montpellier Hotels

Montpellier, a magnificent synthesis of classical and modern French architecture, is the fastest-developing city in the country in terms of population and economy. Montpellier, also known as a student city, ranks third among the cities bordering the Mediterranean, following Marseille and Nice.

Montpellier, a vibrant and bustling city, captivates its visitors with its numerous attractions, stunning natural beauty, and delectable cuisine. Montpellier, famous for its seafood dishes because it is a Mediterranean city, is renowned not only for its cuisine but also for its deliciously aromatic wines. Montpellier, the 12th largest city in France, is flooded with visitors every year. What are you waiting for to discover this city that fascinates with its beauty and offers you a wonderful French breeze with its culture?

Things To Know Before Going To Montpellier

• Montpellier's 800-year-old medieval streets offer a captivating journey through history and architectural splendor.
• Home to the world's oldest medical school, founded in 1220, Montpellier boasts a rich academic and scientific heritage.
• Explore Europe's historic Jardin des Plantes de Montpellier, established in 1593, a tranquil oasis of diverse plant life and natural beauty.
• Montpellier's vibrant atmosphere is fueled by its diverse international student community, enriching the city's cultural scene.
• Enjoy Montpellier's delightful Mediterranean climate, perfect for year-round outdoor exploration and leisure activities.

Montpellier Tips From Locals

• Download the M'Ticket app to purchase digital tickets for Montpellier's local tram system. It's efficient and easy to use.
• The city center is small enough to explore on foot. While Uber is available, the tram or walking are usually sufficient.
• Tourists may find it helpful to maintain a respectful distance from local police, especially late at night or in groups.
• If traveling with a group of up to 5 people, consider the "group" ticket for unlimited public transport within 24 hours for just €6.50.

Where To Stay In Montpellier?

Here’s a quick table of which areas in Montpellier are great for tourists:

Best Hotels in Montpellier  

Montpellier hotelsare waiting for you to enjoy France here!

Places To Visit In Montpellier

Montpellier, located in the south of France, offers a blend of history, culture, and vibrant city life. Here are some places to visit in Montpellier:

• Place de la Comédie: This iconic square is the heart of Montpellier, known for its lively atmosphere, cafes, and street performers. It's a great starting point for exploring the city.
• Montpellier Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Pierre): This stunning Gothic cathedral dates back to the 14th century and features impressive architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.
• Promenade du Peyrou: A picturesque park with panoramic views of the city and a monumental water tower. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic.
• Porte du Peyrou: A triumphal arch built in the 17th century, marking the entrance to the old town. It's an iconic landmark and a great spot for photos.
• Musée Fabre: One of the largest art museums in France, housing an extensive collection of European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the Renaissance to the contemporary period.
• Montpellier Botanical Garden (Jardin des Plantes): Founded in the 16th century, this botanical garden is one of the oldest in Europe. It features a wide variety of plant species, as well as greenhouses and a zoo.
• Aquarium Mare Nostrum: A fascinating aquarium showcasing marine life from the Mediterranean Sea and around the world. It's a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
• Pavillon Populaire: A contemporary art gallery housed in a beautiful 19th-century building. It hosts regular exhibitions featuring works by local and international artists.
• Château de Flaugergues: A majestic 18th-century castle surrounded by vineyards. Visitors can explore the castle's interior, stroll through the gardens, and enjoy wine tastings.
• Odysseum: A modern entertainment complex featuring shops, restaurants, a multiplex cinema, and attractions like an ice rink and a planetarium.

Where is Montpellier?

Montpellier is a city located in southern France, located 10 km inland from the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. It is the capital of the Hérault département and the second largest city in the Occitanie region.

Is Montpellier Safe?

Montpellier is generally considered a safe city, with occasional trouble between local youths in suburbs that visitors are unlikely to reach. The city center, particularly the "oeuf" (egg) area, is known for being lively and safe, with numerous restaurants and cafes, street performers, and groups of young people. However, it is always recommended to take normal city precautions, especially when walking alone at night or in less crowded areas

Is Montpellier Expensive To Visit?

Montpellier is generally considered to be an affordable destination for travelers. The average cost of a one-week trip for a solo traveler is around $1,232, while a couple can expect to spend around $2,213 for the same duration. Montpellier offers accommodation options for every budget, catering to both budget travelers and high-budget travelers.

Montpellier Currency

Montpellier, France, uses the Euro (€) as its official currency. This is a common currency used in many European Union countries. While card payments are widely accepted in many shops and restaurants, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially in small towns or areas away from tourist spots where card acceptance may be limited.

Montpellier Language

In Montpellier, the predominant language is French, as in the rest of the country. However, there is also a presence of the Occitan language, which is spoken in the Languedoc region, including the Montpellier area. Occitan is a Romance language with roots dating back hundreds of years. Additionally, because Montpellier is home to a large student population, English is widely spoken in tourist areas and among younger people.

How Many Days To Visit Montpellier?

With three days in Montpellier, you will have plenty of time to explore the city and the surrounding area, from the wine-producing Languedoc region to the historic city of Arles, which is full of ancient Roman architecture.

What To Do in Montpellier?

• Wander through the Ecusson quartier to see the city's rich history in its narrow streets and architecture.
• Admire the architecture of Cathédrale St-Pierre and the bustling rue de l'Université.
• Spot the city's vibrant street art, with guided tours available from the tourist office.
• Linger with a coffee at lively squares like Place de la Comédie and the quieter Place de la Canourgue.
• Explore the North African shops selling spices, tagines, and pastries along Cours Gambetta.
• Listen to traditional gnawa music from Morocco at venues like Délirium cafe on Place Salengro.
• Visit the Fabre Museum to enjoy its breathtaking art collection.
• Spend time on the stunning black sands of La Grande Conque or the acclaimed Espiguette beach.
• Head to Petit Travers Beach with its bars and sand dunes, or the thriving resort area of Carnon-Plage.
• Catch a play, concert, circus, or film festival at the Domaine d'O venue.

When Is The Best Time To Stay In Montpellier?

The best time to visit Montpellier is during the months of May to July, as it offers excellent weather conditions without the peak travel crowds. Summer temperatures peak around 29°C (84°F), while winters, particularly in January, can see lows of 1°C (34°F). July stands out as the month with the longest sunlight hours, making it an ideal period to explore the city with extended daylight and engage in optimal daytime activities.

What To Pack For Your Visit To Montpellier?

Here is a packing list for your trip to Montpellier based on the seasons:

Spring (March to May):

• Light layers
• Rain jacket or umbrella
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunscreen

Summer (June to August):

• Lightweight clothing
• Swimwear
• Hat and sunglasses
• Sunscreen

Fall (September to November):

• Light layers
• Rain jacket or umbrella
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunscreen

Winter (December to February):

• Warm layers
• Waterproof jacket
• Comfortable shoes

Montpellier Food

Montpellier has a very unique cuisine with delicious traditional dishes and world-renowned wines. Here are some of the must-try foods in Montpellier:

• Cassoulet: It is a stew made of meat and white beans, which is a traditional dish in Montpellier.
• Les Caparolettes: It consists of Pisa snails boiled and prepared in a spicy vinaigrette dressing.
• Le Tielle Setoise: It is a spicy pie prepared with calamari and octopus, tossed in a spiced tomato sauce.
• La Chichoumeille: It is a vegetarian stew, similar to a hot ratatouille with added zucchini, and is a staple of Catalan cuisine. It features a simple recipe and a distinct flavor. It consists of courgette, onion, garlic, eggplant, and tomato.
• Tielle Sétoise: A savory pie filled with tender octopus, tomatoes, onions, and spices, originating from nearby Sète, and is a popular street food in Montpellier.
• Bouillabaisse: A flavorful fish stew with a rich broth infused with saffron, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, showcasing the Mediterranean's bounty and a must-try in Montpellier.
• Brandade de Morue: Creamy and indulgent spread made from salt cod, olive oil, garlic, and mashed potatoes, enjoyed as an appetizer or spread on crusty bread, reflecting the culinary heritage of the Languedoc region.
• Pélardon: A small, creamy goat cheese beloved by residents of Montpellier, made from goat's milk.
• Macarons: Delicate almond meringue cookies available in a variety of flavors, from traditional to inventive, found in patisseries throughout Montpellier, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
• Fougasse: Traditional Provençal bread with a soft interior and crispy crust, available in various shapes and flavors like olive, cheese, or herbs, ideal as a snack or accompaniment to a meal.
• Picpoul de Pinet: Crisp and refreshing white wine with bright acidity and citrus notes, produced in the Languedoc region and perfect for pairing with seafood dishes.
• Pastis: An anise-flavored liqueur enjoyed as a refreshing apéritif, diluted with water and ice, and a quintessential part of the Provençal drinking culture in Montpellier.

Montpellier Nightlife

Montpellier’s nightlife is vibrant and colorful with many bars and cafes. Visitors can have fun during their Montpellier trip. Here are some of the best nightlife spots in Montpellier:

• Le Rockstore: Iconic nightclub known for its live music performances, DJ sets, and themed parties. It's famed for its vibrant atmosphere, diverse music genres, and energetic crowds.
• Le PZ: Trendy lounge bar offering craft cocktails, fine wines, and tapas. With live music events and DJ sets on weekends, it provides a chic and dynamic nightlife experience.
• Mama Shelter Rooftop Bar: Chic rooftop bar with panoramic views of Montpellier. Serves creative cocktails and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, with a relaxed ambiance and occasional live music performances.
• La Villa Rouge: Popular nightclub with multiple dance floors, VIP areas, and a diverse lineup of DJs playing electronic, house, and techno music. Known for its high-energy atmosphere and lively crowds.
• Le Yaka Club: Hip nightclub featuring themed parties, live music events, and international DJs. Offers a stylish interior, state-of-the-art sound system, and VIP bottle service.
• Le Barrio Latino: Salsa club and Latin dance venue with a lively atmosphere and spacious dance floor. Offers salsa lessons, live music performances, and DJ sets playing a mix of Latin and international music.
• Le Mojito Club: Vibrant cocktail bar specializing in Mojitos, with an extensive menu of creative variations. Features a lively ambiance, Latin music, and occasional dance performances.
• Le Piano Bar: Intimate piano bar offering live music performances, cocktails, and tapas in a cozy setting. Known for its relaxed ambiance and talented musicians.
• Le Jam: Funky live music venue hosting jazz, blues, and soul performances in an intimate setting. Features a cozy lounge area, well-stocked bar, and eclectic lineup of musicians.
• Le Bar à Vin: Elegant wine bar offering a curated selection of local and international wines, along with cheese and charcuterie platters. Features a sophisticated ambiance and knowledgeable staff.