Top 13 Must-Do Activities in Montpellier, France

Montpellier – referred to as the surdouée or wonder child – is a city vibrant with life and Mediterranean radiance.

During its medieval prosperity, Montpellier was a cosmopolitan hub for trade and education, reflecting influences from Arab, Jewish, and Christian cultures. However, it fell off the radar until the 1980s, transitioning from a quiet town to one of France’s rapidly expanding urban centers.

Today, its reputation for technological innovation, combined with a number of esteemed universities and a consistent supply of sunshine, renders it one of the most attractive locations to reside in France. The uncomplicated pleasures of this chic southern city allow visitors to seamlessly embrace the Mediterranean way of life, whether by indulging in terrace cafes and bars, immersing oneself in the vibrant music and art scenes, or venturing to the nearby coastline.

Below are the most noteworthy activities to undertake in Montpellier.

1. Explore the art and architecture along the city streets

The most effective way to commence your exploration of Montpellier is by walking. To grasp the city’s historical richness, meander through the Ecusson quartier, where even residents can find themselves disoriented within the narrow passages adorned with honey-colored limestone walls, spiraled balconies, and intricately sculpted marble heads from the Belle Époque.

Take pleasure in the architectural beauty of Cathédrale St-Pierre and the lively rue de l’Université. Amidst this heritage, Montpellier’s walls showcase remarkable street art. Make sure to observe the trompe l’oeil at place Edouard Adam. For those keen on experiencing the numerous graffiti murals, intricate bike depictions, and space-invader mosaics, the local tourist office frequently conducts guided explorations.

For a glimpse of contemporary Montpellier, stroll through the faux ancient-Greek architecture in the Antigone neighborhood before making your way along the banks of the Lez river. Be sure to take in the striking sculpture of Orlando Furioso, depicting a man and horse by the exiled Catalan artist Apel·les Fenosa. Appreciate the visually striking Arbre Blanc building, with its balconies extending out like leaves on a tree, along with the eco-districts located in Parc Marianne.

2. Visit the oldest medical school in Europe

In medieval times, Montpellier gained renown for its Faculty of Medicine, which continues to hold the distinction of being the oldest active medical school in Europe, housed within a remarkable Benedictine monastery that dates back over 800 years.

Guided tours are available, allowing participants to delve into the history of medicine and education. In the entrance hall, observe portraits of eminent educators whose legacies span centuries. Take a moment to reflect on the illustrious individuals who studied here: Rabelais in 1537 notably documented themes of sexuality, humor, and the adventures of the young giant Gargantua; Rondelet was responsible for establishing the first anatomy amphitheater for dissection demonstrations; and Nostradamus was expelled for insubordination.

Savor the vibrant ambiance cultivated by today’s students while admiring the impressive architecture, and visit the Conservatory of Anatomy, housing 5000 anatomical specimens and wax models that illustrate medical advancements over the past two centuries.

Detour: For those intrigued by Nostradamus, seek out the Tour des Pins, one of the two remaining 12th-century fortified towers. According to legend, two pines once flourished atop this tower adjacent to the medical school, and Nostradamus prophesied that when the two pines perished, so would Montpellier itself. Fortunately, Montpellier endures, even in the absence of those trees. The tower also served as a sanctuary for Catholics escaping Protestants in the 16th century and as a prison during the Revolution of 1789.

3. Linger with a coffee in Montpellier’s squares

Residents often invest hours at a cafe terrace situated within one of the many squares scattered throughout the city. Each square possesses its unique character and clientele, inviting you to unwind and observe the bustling activity around you under the sun.

For an engaging atmosphere, select one of the cafes on the Place de la Comédie. Observe shoppers and flâneurs congregating by the fountain of the Three Graces. Look skyward to appreciate the Haussmannian architecture and the facade of the Gaumont cinema adorned with grapevine insignia – a testament to Montpellier’s 19th-century prosperity.

An alternative option for a more tranquil coffee experience can be found in the place de la Canourgue, where tall trees offer shade for unhurried residents who settle in with the morning newspaper. To immerse yourself in the local rhythm, visit Les Salins, located just off Plan Cabanes, where you can witness passersby pedaling to work and shoppers browsing the nearby market.

4. See the city’s North African culture

Montpellier has maintained a significant Muslim population since the 1960s, allowing you to experience a wealth of North African influences right within the city center.

Stroll along cours Gambetta, passing by shops offering diverse assortments of spices and clay tagine cookware. Acquire delectable baklava and date makroutes at Delices de Carthage before sipping mint tea in the sun at one of the many cafes located around Plan Cabanes. During Ramadan, after sunset, wander near Figuerolles and inhale the aromas of traditional dishes prepared at makeshift tables set along the streets.

This influx of culture has enriched the local music scene, particularly with the emergence of traditional gnawa music from Morocco. Keep an eye out for musicians specializing in this entrancing genre at Délirium cafe on place Salengro.

Detour: To delve deeper into the local culture, take the tram to the end of the line and explore the Mosson district, known for its bustling market on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, alongside the renowned Sunday flea market.

5. Cycle to the beach for a splash

Rent a bike from one of the Vélomagg stations and cycle to the nearby beaches. Begin the journey in Port Marianne on a 12 km (7 miles) path leading to Palavas. This ride follows a conveniently flat route along the Lez river, culminating near the shimmering waters of the Méjean lagoon, where you might spot vibrant pink flamingos.

Choose from the beaches flanking Palavas or continue cycling an additional 5 km (3 miles) to the more secluded Prévost beach, situated between Palavas and Villeneuve-lès-Maguelone. The beach’s initial section caters mainly to nudists, while the further area welcomes both nudists and clothed visitors.

Local tip: Opting to bike or take the tram to the beach is advisable during summer when crowds swell and parking becomes scarce. If fatigue sets in, you can easily take your bike on the tram for a more relaxed return journey, although cycling may prove challenging on particularly windy days.

6. Shop for local food at the Arceaux market

Every Tuesday and Saturday morning, the marché des Arceaux stands as Montpellier’s largest food market and a gathering place for residents seeking fresh regional produce. It is not uncommon to see locals catching up with friends over leisurely conversations.

Located beneath the impressive 18th-century St-Clément aqueduct, the market buzzes with activity, accompanied by street musicians and a zealous mint-tea vendor who navigates through the crowd with a mobile tea stall. Sample the Mediterranean with tielle, the famed octopus pie from nearby Sète, or savor brandade, a creamy blend of dried cod, olive oil, and potatoes. Indulge in oysters from the nearby Thau lagoon and be sure to try pelardon, the region’s delightful goat cheese.

Local tip: The market can become particularly crowded during the summer months, so if you prefer a more tranquil atmosphere, consider arriving early in the morning. Extend your visit with a picnic in the grassy areas of the nearby Promenade du Peyrou.

7. Relax in the Jardin des Plantes

Stroll the pathways of the Jardin des Plantes, celebrated as France’s oldest botanical garden. This 5-hectare space was established in 1593 to support the medical university’s research initiatives. It serves as a beloved spot for botanists, students, couples, scientists, and travelers alike, offering delights throughout all seasons.

As you meander past towering bamboo groves, ponder beside the lotus pond, and admire the striking giant cactuses, it’s easy to lose oneself amid the urban bustle. Don’t miss the wishing tree, where bits of paper expressing dreams hang gently from its branches.

8. Watch the setting sun from Place Royale du Peyrou

This public garden and promenade remains popular among both locals and visitors throughout the day; however, the most enchanting moments occur in the evening when the monuments glisten in golden light, and the atmosphere resonates with sounds of students strumming guitars, the clattering of petanque players, lively family chats in the twilight, and the rhythmic beats from capoeira dancers.

From Peyrou, gaze northward to revel in views extending towards the Cévennes hills, encompassing a majestic line of historical monuments, including a towering statue of Louis XIV astride his horse. Move through the gates framed by statues of lions and angels, standing beneath Montpellier’s own Arc de Triomphe, the Porte du Peyrou, which leads further into the heart of the city.

9. Catch a live show

Despite its relatively small size, Montpellier boasts a thriving live performance scene, with numerous venues scattered across the city offering a plethora of concerts and shows each night. To stay informed about upcoming events, refer to Mama Sound, a comprehensive guide to concerts, or browse online listings.

Two prominent opera houses in the center provide performances for enthusiasts of opera and classical music. Additionally, local bands can be found performing in laid-back bars such as Black Out and the lively Délirium. For jazz concerts and world music, visit the Jam, a music academy. The Gazette Café features live music every evening, including swing every Thursday, while those seeking late-night DJs can explore the Rockstore. La Halle Tropisme blends a conference center with co-working spaces, food trucks, debates, and after-work activities.

Montpellier has also cultivated a vibrant neo-Occitan music scene, featuring artists who sing in Occitan to promote the revival of this unique language. Keep an eye out for musicians such as Lo Barrut and L’Âne Solo.

Furthermore, Montpellier’s diverse theaters, including Théâtre Jean Vilar and Domaine d’O, host a variety of circus performances, while dance enthusiasts should consult the schedule for Montpellier Danse, which features international performers.

10. Hit the water of the lagoons at Étang de Thau

Located just south of Montpellier, the shimmering blue waters of Étang de Thau span 5,000 hectares and offer an excellent destination for enthusiasts of outdoor sports, particularly wind-related activities given their shallow nature and sheltered environment, which minimizes the risk of being swept out to sea. Local businesses such as Tramontana provide lessons for windsurfing or wing-surfing.

These lagoons epitomize biodiversity and are renowned for their seahorse population, with many organizations offering snorkeling and diving excursions.

Local tip: Snorkeling in the lagoons may not yield guaranteed results; optimal conditions require calm weather devoid of wind or rain in prior days to maintain water clarity.

11. Meet for an apéro in Montpellier’s lively bars

Enjoying an apéro (a pre-dinner drink) is quintessentially French, and nowhere is this more evident than in Montpellier. Fueled by a vibrant student community, the city offers a variety of lively bars catering to distinct interests every night of the week. For a local experience, head to the narrow lanes of Ecusson, either to the Palace or the Beaux Arts district, where the unpretentious Bar du Marché serves quality tapas.

The craft beer movement has flourished in Montpellier; Le Discopathe attracts trendy young professionals with a diverse selection of brews, while the cozy Hopulus Brewpub brews its fare right on site. Experience the energetic student atmosphere in the bars of place Candolles, beneath the shade of trees at Rebuffy, or at the bustling Broc Café, which enjoys the evening sun next to the Jardin des Plantes, also popular for affordable burgers and refreshing basil-and-pink-peppercorn daiquiris.

Detour: For a countryside wine tasting rather than an urban bar experience, venture outside the city to Terre Mégere, a representative vineyard of the region. They host tastings paired with food trucks on Tuesdays, and on weekend mornings, you might have the chance to witness a game of tambourin, a traditional local pastime similar to tennis or squash.

12. Delve into contemporary art in Montpellier’s new museums

For fans of contemporary art, the MO.CO. (Montpellier Contemporain) boasts two locations. The MO.CO. Panacée in the Ecusson neighborhood serves as a contemporary art center dedicated to showcasing emerging creators, complete with a restaurant and a café featuring a serene zen garden.

The recently opened site near the train station, MO.CO., inaugurated in 2019, hosts an ever-evolving array of exhibitions representing modern art from worldwide sources. Recent temporary displays reflect on the 2000s through one of Europe’s most substantial private collections. This location also includes a café and restaurant positioned within the Garden of Five Continents, showcasing botanical specimens from across the globe.

For those inclined towards traditional art, a visit to the Musée Fabre is recommended, featuring one of the most extensive public collections in France. Wander through the exhibition halls to trace the evolution of artistic expression since the Renaissance, appreciating works by renowned realist Gustave Courbet, which include his impressions of the nearby Palavas beach, as well as local impressionist Frédéric Bazille, who depicted the picturesque landscapes surrounding Montpellier, such as bathers at the Lez river.

Photography enthusiasts should visit the Pavillon Populaire, a compact venue showcasing temporary exhibitions that delve into social and cultural narratives.

13. Go bird-watching in Méjean nature reserve

Situated a mere 8 km (5 miles) from central Montpellier and easily accessible by bike or tram, the 220-hectare Méjean nature reserve encompasses a captivating mosaic of lagoons and land. Start your visit at the Maison de la Nature, featuring informative panels identifying species native to the area. Spend time in bird-watching hides or embark on footpaths to observe migratory birds including flamingos, herons, and the bustling nests of storks.

This article was first published on April 3, 2023, and was updated on November 28, 2023.