The south of France boasts many incredible travel destinations, and Montpellier stands out as an excellent place for a weekend getaway. Situated near the Mediterranean coast in the Occitanie region, this vibrant city is home to one of the world’s oldest universities, founded in 1220.
The dynamic atmosphere of this youthful, fast-growing city offers a variety of activities, from exploring the narrow streets of the historic center to shopping at unique vintage stores, enjoying the lively local cafés, and relaxing on sandy beaches. Here are some of the best experiences to enjoy during a weekend in Montpellier.
Getting to Montpellier from Paris
The train is a convenient option for traveling from Paris, with high-speed TGV trains reaching Montpellier in just over three hours. Multiple direct services are available, as well as routes with one transfer. Alternatively, flights from Paris to Montpellier take approximately 75 minutes.
Getting Around Montpellier
Montpellier is an ideal city for walking, but it also offers an efficient tram system. Single tickets cost 1.60€, a 10-trip pack is 10€, and a 24-hour pass is 4.30€.
Where to Stay
For a stylish and unique stay, La Mas de Lafeuillade is an excellent choice. Located in a historic park near the Antigone district, this boutique hotel was once a merchant’s villa. The spacious rooms feature modern art, mid-century furniture, and design elements. Guests can also enjoy a fine dining experience in the hotel’s restaurant, popular with locals for its seasonal cuisine and peaceful terrace overlooking the garden.
Tours
For those who prefer a guided experience, a walking tour of the city offers an excellent introduction to its history and landmarks. Alternatively, take a trip to a nearby medieval village and enjoy a local food tasting with an expert guide.
Day 1: Exploring the Old Town
Start a visit to Montpellier at the iconic Place de la Comédie, the city's bustling main square, which is surrounded by cafés, the 18th-century Fountain of the Three Graces, and notable buildings such as the 19th-century opera house.
From here, stroll up rue de la Loge to discover the old town, known as l’Ecusson. Before continuing, stop at Coldrip Food and Coffee for a takeaway coffee to enjoy as you walk. Then, head to rue Foch, where the Palais de Justice courthouse and the city’s Arc de Triomphe await. Built in the late 17th century, this monument honors historical victories.
Further along is the Promenade du Peyrou, a park with a statue of Louis XIV, the Château d’Eau monument, benches for relaxing, and panoramic views of the Saint-Clément Aqueduct, the Cévennes Mountains, and the Mediterranean horizon. For more green spaces, visit the Jardin des Plantes, the oldest botanical garden in France.
Cafés, Vintage Shops, and Concept Stores
Continue exploring Montpellier’s old town, where you’ll find the stunning Cathedral St-Pierre, dating from the 14th century. For lunch, head to Le Petit Jardin, a charming spot with bistronomic cuisine set in a beautiful garden. Alternatively, visit la Place de La Canourgue, which offers a modern garden surrounded by great lunch options such as Napoléon Dynamite.
Afterward, explore the nearby shops, including Les Créatures for fashion and home décor, and Champin for vintage clothing. On hot days, enjoy artisanal ice cream at Pandova or organic herbal tea at Infuse. The shopping district continues above Grand Rue Jean Moulin, where you’ll encounter pedestrian streets like Square Sainte-Anne and Saint-Roch, both filled with cafés and ideal for an afternoon break.
Dining and Local Food
Montpellier offers a wide variety of dining options, from sophisticated meals to casual street food. Enjoy a meal in the courtyard of Les Bains de Montpellier, a former 18th-century bathhouse, or visit Les Momes for contemporary cuisine in a lively setting. For a farm-to-table experience, book a table at Le Paresseur, or opt for a romantic dinner at the garden restaurant of La Mas de Lafeuillade.
For a more relaxed atmosphere, Le Marché is a revamped industrial area with pop-up shops, street food vendors, and cafés frequented by locals.
Day 2: Beaches, Flea Markets, and Modernist Architecture
When the weather is pleasant, spend the day at one of Montpellier’s nearby beaches. Carnon Plage, just 13 kilometers away, is accessible by tram (line 3). If you’re not interested in the beach, explore the nearby Antigone district, designed by architect Ricardo Bofill in the 1980s. This area features public squares and neoclassical architecture inspired by ancient Greece.
For antique lovers, head back to Promenade du Peyrou to visit Puces du Peyrou, a weekly flea market offering vintage goods.
Brunch, Museums, and Riverside Walks
Enjoy a leisurely brunch at one of Montpellier’s top cafés, such as Nina Café, which focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients, or Les Demoiselles de Montpellier, a quaint tea salon specializing in vegan and gluten-free cuisine.
Art enthusiasts can visit the Musée Fabre, one of the best art museums outside of Paris, housing works by artists like Rubens and Delacroix. Nearby, the Hôtel Cabrières showcases a stunning collection of decorative arts. For a relaxing afternoon, take a walk or bike ride along the river, where a scenic promenade offers beautiful views. If you missed the Marché, you can stop by again on this route.
Montpellier offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modern charm, making it an ideal destination for a memorable weekend escape.
Montpellier France Travel Guide: 11 BEST Things To Do In Montpellier
Before You Go
