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Diane Geddie, Product & Short Break Specialist

"Montpellier can be described as stylish, care-free and graceful, with many beautiful connotations associated with the city, it truly is the destination for sophisticated urban-travellers. Relax on one of Montpellier’s white-sand beaches, easily reached by bus and tram, but my top tip is to hire a bike and cycle to the beach from the centre - the beach of La Grande Motte is my favourite. The local life of Montpellier is best experienced in the flashy central square, The Comedie, which is home to many cafés and restaurants to dine in whilst watching the world go by. If you’re travelling with children, then I recommend the Odysseum shopping centre, which has climbing facilities, bowling, karting and an ice rink. "

Montpellier at a glance

This stylish, spirited yet easy going city is the 8th largest in France. A popular University town Montpellier is situated in the South of France just 10km inland from the Mediterranean sea.

The mild climate makes Montpellier a popular year-round destination, and with its mix of cultures and influences there is something for everyone to enjoy. The city has a youthful energy about it, its home to three Universities and the University of Montpellier founded in 1160 is one of the oldest in the world. From the famous Place de La Comedie, Montpellier’s lively historical central square with its fountain with a statue of the three Graces and the opera house, to the modern Antigone district Montpellier is sure to inspire and delight visitors.

Perfect if you’re looking for:

  • Arts and culture
  • Café culture
  • A perfect short break

Getting around

Much of the centre of Montpellier is pedestrianised making it easily accessible on foot, in fact there is no better way to explore the medieval streets of the city.

There is also an efficient bus service and tram line that connects different areas of the city, as well as onwards to the coast.

For those looking to pedal their way through the city, bike lanes along with an abundance of cheap and easy to rent bicycles encourages cycling in the city.

Shopping in Montpellier

With an array of independent fashionable boutiques as well as the bigger outlets such as Galleries Lafayette shopping in Montpellier is a delight. You can take a tram to the Odysseum or in the old town there is Le Polygone. Better still just explore the small boutiques in the winding, narrow streets of the old town or try one of the local markets.

Dining in Montpellier

Sandwiched between vineyards, mountains and the Mediterranean Montpellier is a dining pleasure! There is an abundance of good quality restaurants, bistros and cafés to suit all budgets.

Must-try local dishes:

  • Froe Gras
  • Local fish such as 'Rouget'
  • The local wine – a third of France’s wine is produced in the Languedoc-Roussillon region!

Get your tailor-made city break itinerary

Osprey Holidays can create a fabulous short break to Montpellier designed completely around your needs. We can arrange whatever you need, including:

  • All travel and transfers on days of your choice
  • Accommodation from our handpicked range of Montpellier hotels, to suit your budget and requirements

Our award-winning team can provide expert advice and recommendations, from general questions to tiny details. Contact us now for your tailor-made itinerary.

Important information
Population 257,351
Languages French
Currency Euro
Visa Information No visa required for UK citizens
Average temperatures

(monthly highs °C)

Distance from airports
Montpellier–Méditerranée Airport 11 km
Railway stations
Gare de Montpellier Saint-Roch