Browsing: Montpellier

Montpellier, a vibrant city in the Languedoc-Roussillon region of Southern France, offers a delightful mix of history, culture, sunshine, and a lively student atmosphere. It’s a great destination for those seeking a taste of Mediterranean life. Here’s a breakdown of what you can do in Montpellier:

Historic & Architectural Highlights:

  • Place de la Comédie: The heart of Montpellier, a grand square surrounded by elegant buildings, including the Opéra Comédie. It’s a bustling hub of activity and a great place to people-watch.
  • Vieux Montpellier (Old Town): Wander through the charming narrow streets, admire the medieval architecture, and discover hidden squares. It’s a pedestrian-friendly area perfect for exploring.
  • Arc de Triomphe: A triumphal arch built in the 17th century, commemorating the reign of Louis XIV.
  • Cathédrale Saint-Pierre: A Gothic cathedral with a distinctive facade, originally part of a Benedictine monastery.
  • Faculté de Médecine: One of the oldest medical schools in the world, still in operation today. You can visit the anatomical theatre and museum.

Museums & Culture:

  • Musée Fabre: Montpellier’s main fine arts museum, with a collection spanning from the 14th century to the present day.
  • Musée Languedocien: Dedicated to the history and culture of the Languedoc region.
  • Musée d’Art Brut: Showcases a collection of outsider art.
  • Pavillon Populaire: A photography and contemporary art exhibition space.

Food & Drink:

  • Mediterranean Cuisine: Montpellier offers a delicious blend of French and Mediterranean flavors. Try local specialties like “tielle” (a savory pie), “brandade de morue” (a codfish dish), or “clafoutis” (a fruit flan).
  • Local Wines: The Languedoc-Roussillon region is a major wine producer. Sample local wines from the Pic Saint-Loup, Costières de Nîmes, or other appellations.
  • Local Markets: Explore the markets for fresh produce, cheeses, olives, and other regional specialties.
  • Restaurants & Cafes: Montpellier has a wide range of dining options, from traditional French cuisine to international flavors.

Shopping:

  • Rue de la Loge: A pedestrianized shopping street with a mix of high-street brands and boutiques.
  • Polygone Montpellier: A large shopping mall.
  • Les Halles Castellane: A covered market where you can find local produce, cheeses, meats, and other delicacies.

Other Activities:

  • Jardin des Plantes: A beautiful botanical garden, one of the oldest in France.
  • Promenade du Peyrou: A scenic promenade with panoramic views of the city and the surrounding area.
  • Parc de Grammont: A large park with a lake and a variety of plants and flowers.
  • Beaches: The beaches of the Mediterranean coast are within easy reach of Montpellier (about a 15-minute drive).
  • Day Trip to Nîmes or other nearby towns: Montpellier is a great base for exploring other towns in the Languedoc-Roussillon region, such as Nîmes, Arles, or Sète.

Tips for Planning Your Visit:

  • Getting There: Montpellier has an international airport and is well-connected by train (TGV) to other major cities.
  • Getting Around: The city has a good public transportation system, including trams and buses. Walking is also a great way to explore the historic center.
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather. Summer can be hot and crowded.
  • Language: French is the official language. While English is spoken in tourist areas, knowing some basic French phrases is always appreciated.

Montpellier offers a vibrant and sunny atmosphere, with a rich history, a thriving cultural scene, and easy access to the Mediterranean coast. Whether you’re interested in exploring historic sites, visiting museums, indulging in local cuisine, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of a Southern French city, Montpellier has something to offer.