Top 11 Best Things To Do in Montpellier

Plan your trip to southern France with the best things to do in Montpellier. Stroll through L'Ecusson, sip Languedoc wines, and uncover hidden local gems. This guide gives you a well-rounded mix of highlights and unique experiences, plus helpful tips to make the most of your stay.

Montpellier isn’t the first city that comes to mind when planning a trip to France, and that’s exactly why it surprises you. The top things to do in Montpellier unfold in old 17th-century mansions beside street art, markets under aqueducts, and the Mediterranean beaches just minutes away from the city center.

There’s no shortage of things to do here, but what truly stands out is the mix of daily life, history, and unique local spots. Some of the top experiences and tours in Montpellier unfold in quiet alleyways or sunny plazas that locals pass through every day.

If you enjoy discovering a place at your own pace, there are plenty of incredible itineraries in Montpellier that pair iconic sights like the Musee Fabre with lesser-known local favorites. And if you’d rather not plan everything yourself, perfectly curated Montpellier vacation packages take the pressure off, so you can just focus on being here.

Whether you're into food, art, nature, or just aimless wandering, this list of the best things to do in Montpellier covers it all. 

11. Discover the Beauty of the Chateau de Flaugergues

Just 1.9 miles (3 kilometers) from the city center, the Chateau de Flaugergues is one of the last surviving “folies” or country mansions built by Montpellier’s nobles as summer retreats. Still owned by the same family after 300 years, it feels more like a lived-in home than a museum.

Inside, you’ll see salons adorned with antique furniture, Flemish tapestries, and a grand pink marble staircase. Outside, the gardens span three hectares, blending French design with Mediterranean plants, including olive trees and lavender. 

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If you’re short on time, you can visit just the gardens and vineyard. One of the best things to do in Montpellier for wine and history lovers is exploring the chateau grounds. With its own vineyard producing AOP Coteaux du Languedoc wines, it’s one of the few places in France where you can explore a historic home and taste estate wine in one visit. 

For something special, take a guided tour of the Chateau de Flaugergues and enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at one of the city's hidden treasures. You’ll get access to private rooms not open to the general public and hear personal stories about the family who still lives there today. 

It’s a rare, intimate experience and one of the best things to do in Montpellier if you’re into history with a personal touch.

Practical Tips and Information

• From June to September, the chateau is open Monday to Friday from 09:30 to 19:00, and Saturday from 14:00 to 19:00. Between October to May, it’s open Monday to Friday from 09:30 to 18:00, and Saturday from 14:00 to 18:00.
• Guided tours are available, but it's best to book in advance, especially for wine tastings or the backstage experience.
• Wear comfortable shoes. The grounds are large and have gravel paths.

10. Relax on the Beaches Near Montpellier

If you need a break from the city heat, you're in luck—some of southern France’s best beaches are just 20 to 30 minutes from Montpellier. Each one has its own vibe, so whether you're into sunbathing, swimming, or just grabbing seafood with your feet in the sand, there's a perfect spot nearby. 

Montpellier beach vacations are easy, relaxing, and full of local flavor. They’re also some of the best things to do in Montpellier, especially when you need a quick escape.

Here are a few local favorites:

• La Grande-Motte – This beach town is around a 35-minute drive from the city and is known for its wide, clean beaches and its striking pyramid-shaped buildings. With palm-lined promenades and modern resorts, it’s great for families or anyone looking for a bit more comfort.
• Palavas-les-Flots – This classic beach town is about a 25-minute trip by car or tram-bus combo. It gets busy in summer but has a fun, easygoing feel. Expect plenty of restaurants, a long promenade, and a mix of families, locals, and first-time visitors.
• Carnon-Plage – This low-key beach is about 30 minutes by car or bus from central Montpellier. It's less touristy than its neighbors, with a relaxed vibe. You can lounge on the sand, eat ice cream, or fish off the rocks.

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You don’t need a car to enjoy the coast. One of the easiest ways to get there is by booking a private ride from Montpellier to the beach. It’s stress-free, with no transfers or schedules to worry about—just grab your towel and go. 

Once you arrive, rent a lounger and umbrella if you’re planning to stay a while. The stretch between Palavas and Carnon has a flat shoreline that’s perfect for walking, with beautiful sea views the whole way. 

For lunch or a snack, stop by a seafood shack and try oysters or crispy calamari with a cold glass of local Picpoul. And if you time your visit for late afternoon, you’ll catch the golden hour when the light is perfect and the breeze starts to pick up. It’s one of the best things to do in Montpellier to enjoy a summer evening by the sea.

Practical Tips and Information

• Most beaches are free to access, but loungers and umbrellas are available to rent if you want extra comfort.

• Palavas and La Grande-Motte are the easiest to reach by tram and bus.

• Bring cash. Some beach cafes still don’t take cards.

• Public restrooms and showers are available, but some close early.

• Water quality is usually excellent, but check beach flags before swimming.

9. Explore Montpellier's Street Art Scene

Montpellier might be known for its grand mansions and historic squares, but its walls tell a different story—one that’s bold, modern, and always evolving.

Exploring the urban art scene is easily one of the best things to do in Montpellier if you're into photography, creative culture, or alternative perspectives on the city.

One of the best places to start is near Rue du Faubourg du Courreau, just west of the old town. Here, entire buildings are wrapped in layered graffiti and murals. Look out for bursts of color near Quartier Figuerolles and along tram lines 2 and 3, as many stops have become art galleries in their own right. 

For a deeper look, city sightseeing in Montpellier often includes stops at major street art locations. Keep an eye out for works by well-known local artists like Zest, SMOLE, and AL. Their pieces pop up all over the city, often in surprising places such as alleys and rooftops. 

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Go street hunting and you’ll quickly see that Montpellier wears its creativity on its walls. It’s casual, creative, and totally free—one more reason it’s among the best things to do in Montpellier.

Start with Halles Laissac, where a massive mural by the artist Sunra wraps around the building in bold colors and geometric shapes. It’s hard to miss and a great place to kick off your street art stroll.

Head over to Lez Market in the Port Marianne district. This spot is part flea market, part food court, and part open-air gallery. Murals cover shipping containers and walls, changing regularly, so there’s always something new to see while you snack or shop.

If you’re up for a quieter walk, explore Quartier Boutonnet, where smaller works hide in residential streets. It feels more personal and unfiltered than the larger murals downtown.

Practical Tips and Information

• Start early in the day to avoid the heat, especially in the summer.
• Wear comfy shoes. Some of the best pieces are tucked away down side streets.
• If you’re exploring solo, use a map app and tag spots you find. It’s easy to get turned around in the smaller neighborhoods.
• Combine your street art walk with a stop at a local cafe or food stall. Many murals are near great places to grab a bite.

8. See World-Class Art at Musee Fabre in Montpellier

If you're into art, Musee Fabre is one of the best places to visit in Montpellier. The building itself is part of the charm. Grand staircases, vaulted ceilings, and quiet corners make it a serene place to slow down and truly appreciate the works on display.

Inside, you’ll find 17th-century masterpieces and bold contemporary works shown in a mix of modern galleries and beautifully restored historic rooms. Expect to see works by Fabre (the founder), Delacroix, Cabanel, and Courbet, alongside modern pieces by artists like Soulages and Bazille, who was born in Montpellier. 

Visiting Musee Fabre is not just one of the best things to do in Montpellier; it’s also one of the best ways to get a feel for the city’s artistic soul.

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Start your visit with the museum’s permanent collection, featuring masterpieces like “The Fallen Angel” by Cabanel. It’s thoughtfully curated and easy to follow, with lots of space to take it all in. If you’re short on time, focus on the French 19th-century section.

After your visit, take a stroll through the surrounding streets. This part of Montpellier is full of cozy cafes and tucked-away bistros, where you can unwind with a coffee or linger over a light lunch.

You can also pair your museum visit with an exploration game and tour of Montpellier’s highlights, which turns the surrounding streets into an interactive game. You'll uncover local legends tied to places like Place Jean Jaures—a fun contrast to the calm elegance of Musee Fabre, and another reason this area offers some of the best things to do in Montpellier.

Practical Tips and Information

• The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 11:00 to 18:00. It’s closed on Mondays.
• Entry is free on the first Sunday of each month.
• Lockers are available, and bags aren’t allowed inside the galleries.
• Take your time. The museum’s layout is spacious and quiet, perfect for a slow visit.

7. Unwind at the Jardin des Plantes

The Jardin des Plantes is one of Montpellier’s most peaceful green spaces. Founded in 1593 under the order of Henri IV, it's the oldest botanical garden in France and still one of the most beautiful. 

Shaded walkways wind through over 2,000 plant species, including ancient cypress trees, vibrant irises, towering bamboo, and rare medicinal herbs once used by apothecaries. You’ll even find a centuries-old Ginkgo biloba tree and a cactus garden tucked behind stone walls. 

Quiet benches are scattered throughout, making it a calm retreat from the city buzz. This garden is easily among the best places to visit in Montpellier if you enjoy nature, history, or simply a slow afternoon surrounded by greenery.

For those planning Montpellier city breaks, it’s the ideal place to unwind between sightseeing stops. Whether you’re strolling solo or resting your feet with a sandwich and a book, visiting the Jardin des Plantes is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Montpellier.

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Follow the garden’s winding paths past small ponds and into the tucked-away greenhouse filled with tropical plants. You can also come here to sketch, read, or relax in the shade. It’s simple, quiet, and free—a rare combination in the middle of the city.

To make the visit even easier, consider a bike taxi tour through Montpellier. You’ll glide through the city’s highlights like Place de la Comédie and the Arc de Triomphe, with a stop at the garden. It’s a laid-back way to explore without walking and one of the best things to do in Montpellier if you prefer comfort with a touch of fun.

Practical Tips and Information

• The Jardin des Plantes in Montpellier is open daily from 07:30 to 20:00.
• Entry to the garden is free.
• Bring your own snacks and water. There are no cafes inside the garden.
• Early afternoons tend to be the quietest time to visit.
• Combine your garden visit with nearby sights like the Saint-Pierre Cathedral or the Faculty of Medicine.

6. Take Easy Day Trips From Montpellier

If you’re ready to explore beyond the city, Montpellier makes a great base for day trips into the surrounding countryside. Within an hour or two, you can visit the medieval village of Saint-Guilhem-le-Desert, the ancient Pont du Diable spanning the Herault River, or the breathtaking Cirque de Navacelles, a vast natural canyon.

For hiking and wine tasting, head to the Pic Saint-Loup region, renowned for its rugged trails and bold red wines. History lovers can explore the Roman ruins of Ambrussum, where ancient roads and arches still stand. The seaside town of Sete offers a mix of canals, beaches, and seafood, while the artificial lake of Salagou is perfect for a peaceful escape. 

These spots feel quieter, wilder, and full of local charm, making day trips one of the best things to do in Montpellier when you’re ready to step outside the city.

To make the most of your time, it’s worth considering the season. Visit in the summer for long daylight hours and great swimming spots, but expect more visitors. 

Late spring and early autumn offer colorful landscapes, milder temperatures, and fewer crowds. For a broader look at seasonal highlights, check out this guide on the best time to visit France, specifically in southern France.

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For a full-day adventure, join the Grands Sites de l’Herault tour. You’ll visit highlights like Saint-Guilhem-le-Desert, a medieval village tucked into limestone cliffs, and Pont du Diable, an ancient bridge stretching over deep green waters.

Another great option is a trip to the Cirque de Navacelles. It’s a natural amphitheater carved by water and time, with dramatic rock formations and a small village at its heart. Taking a day trip here tops the list of the best things to do in Montpellier and beyond if you want nature, history, and big views all in one unforgettable outing.

Practical Tips and Information

• Bring water, snacks, and sun protection, since shade can be limited in open areas.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes with a good grip, especially when walking on uneven village streets or rocky trails.
• Download maps ahead of time, as many small villages and natural sites don’t have reliable phone service.
• Always check weather conditions before leaving. Mountain and canyon weather can shift quickly.
• Book your tour in advance, especially in summer and on weekends.

5. Experience Adrenaline at a Montpellier Escape Room

Looking for something indoors and fast-paced? Montpellier’s escape rooms are a fun, interactive way to test your brain, solve puzzles, and share a few laughs (or shouts) with friends. Each room has its own theme and set of challenges—some spooky, some silly, all intense.

For puzzle lovers and thrill-seekers, escape games are among the best things to do in Montpellier when you're in the mood for something different. Each game brings its own twist—lasers, dungeons, magic, and more. It’s a great option for small groups, rainy days, or anyone who likes a bit of pressure.

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Here are some popular escape rooms to check out in Montpellier:

• Saw 2 and Squid Game: Navigate a horror-themed escape room packed with jump scares, mind games, and dark twists.
• Prison Break: Plan your great escape and outsmart the guards before time runs out.
• Harry P: The Sorcerer’s School: Cast spells and solve magical mysteries in this wizarding world-inspired room.
• Mission Possible (or Not): Channel your inner agent with spy gear, secret codes, and sabotage.
• Star Wars: Against Emperor Tinepalpa: Solve sci-fi puzzles and uncover galactic secrets in a Force-filled adventure.

Each room is timed, fully themed, and perfect for birthdays, groups of friends, or unique weekend plans. Challenging yourself in an escape room is one of the best things to do in Montpellier if you’re looking to mix problem-solving with pure fun.

Practical Tips and Information

• Most escape rooms are open daily, typically from early afternoon until late evening.
• Book ahead, especially on weekends or during school holidays.
• Arrive 10–15 minutes early to receive a quick briefing and settle in.
• Wear comfy clothes; you might be crawling, ducking, or moving around a bit.
• Rooms are usually played in French, but many also offer English versions—just ask when booking.

4. Eat Like a Local at Montpellier Markets

Sampling local food is one of the best things to do in Montpellier if you want to experience the city through taste, not just sights.

Start your morning at Marche des Arceaux, a laid-back market under stone arches where local producers sell seasonal fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and flowers. It’s open Tuesdays and Saturdays from 07:30 to 13:30, and it feels more local than touristy. Grab a pastry and coffee and enjoy the slow pace.

Another local favorite is Les Halles Castellane, a covered market in the heart of the city. It’s great for picking up cured meats, fresh seafood, and a warm slice of pissaladiere (a southern French onion tart). There are also small counters where you can eat on the spot with a glass of regional wine.

Depending on the time of year, Montpellier also hosts several seasonal markets worth checking out.

• In winter, the Marche de Noel transforms the city center into a festive hub with wooden stalls selling mulled wine, handmade gifts, and holiday treats.
• During spring and autumn, the Grand Bazar takes over the streets with pop-up stands, live music, and street food, mixing shopping with a festive, open-air vibe.

There’s more to explore than just the markets. You’ll find bakeries tucked into quiet alleys, cafes spilling into sunlit squares, and specialty shops selling wine and handmade chocolates. 

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Take your food experience further with a delightful Montpellier food tour. You’ll visit local shops, hidden corners, and market stalls. There, you’ll sample regional specialties like goat cheese, fresh oysters, tielle setoise (a spicy seafood pie), artisan chocolate, and local Languedoc wines. 

Along the way, you’ll hear the stories behind the flavors and the people who make them. Joining a guided food tour is truly one of the best things to do in Montpellier for foodies.

Practical Tips and Information

• Bring cash. Some small vendors don’t accept cards.
• Get there early for the best produce and fewer crowds.
• Look out for seasonal items. In summer, try local melons and tomatoes. In winter, go for chestnuts and truffles.
• Reusable bags are helpful and more sustainable than plastic ones.
• Pair your market stop with nearby cafes or bakeries for a full local food experience.

3. Visit the Arc de Triomphe and Promenade du Peyrou

One of the best places to visit in Montpellier is right in the heart of the city. The Arc de Triomphe, built in the late 1600s, stands tall at the edge of the historic center. It's modeled after the one in Paris but on a smaller scale. 

The Arc is located at the western end of Rue Foch, right next to the Faculty of Medicine. From the top, you’ll get panoramic views of the rooftops, cathedral spires, and even the distant Pic Saint-Loup on a clear day.

Right behind the arch is the Promenade du Peyrou, a wide, open square that feels made for slow strolls and sunset photos. The esplanade features a statue of Louis XIV on horseback, tree-lined paths, and a view that stretches all the way to the Saint-Clement Aqueduct. Strolling here is one of the best things to do in Montpellier if you love architecture and open skies.

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To really bring the area to life, consider joining a private walking tour of Montpellier’s highlights. A guided walk through the historical center gives you insight into the city’s architecture, as your guide shares stories about the Arc and explains how the promenade fits into Montpellier’s past.

It’s a great way to see more than just the views, and one of the best things to do in Montpellier for first-time visitors.

Practical Tips and Information

• Climbing the Arc is sometimes available during guided events or city festivals.
• Sunset is a great time to visit for cooler weather and golden light.
• Bring water in summer. The area is beautiful but exposed to sunlight.
• The promenade is flat and stroller-friendly.

2. Taste Local Wine on a Montpellier Wine Tour

Montpellier sits in the heart of one of France’s largest wine regions: Languedoc-Roussillon. This means you don’t have to go far to sip something special. 

Just outside the city, you’ll find rolling vineyards, small family-run estates, and sun-soaked terraces where wine is poured with pride. Expect bold reds like Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvedre, along with crisp whites like Picpoul de Pinet and aromatic Viognier. 

Tasting local wine is one of the best things to do in Montpellier, especially if you’re curious about the region’s laid-back food and wine culture. Many wine tours also include local cheeses, olives, or even fresh oysters to pair with your glass.

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Joining a wine and food tour in the Pic Saint-Loup region is a favorite starting point. You’ll explore one of the region’s most scenic wine areas, visiting two estates and enjoying tastings with food pairings. Expect a mix of bold reds and fresh local bites, all in the shadow of the Pic Saint-Loup mountain.

For something a little different, try a wine and oyster tour in Languedoc. You’ll visit a coastal vineyard and an oyster farm near the Thau Lagoon, where the salt air and sea views add to the flavor. 

Spending an afternoon enjoying wine, seafood, and stunning scenery is one of the best things to do in Montpellier when you want to slow down and appreciate the countryside.

Practical Tips and Information

• Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you’ll be walking through vineyards.
• Don’t skip breakfast. Wine on an empty stomach is never a good idea.
• Bring a bottle carrier or tote bag in case you want to take a few wines home.
• Book your wine tours in Montpellier in advance, especially during summer (June-August) and harvest season (September–October).

1. Wander Through the Ecusson (Montpellier's Old Town)

The Ecusson is the city’s historic heart and one of the best places to visit in Montpellier. Its name comes from the shield-like shape of the district, and its layout hasn’t changed much since medieval times. Imagine winding alleys, secret courtyards, and golden stone buildings with iron balconies and painted shutters—that’s L’Ecusson.

As you wander, you’ll stumble across key sights like Place de la Comedie, the impressive Saint-Pierre Cathedral, and the Faculty of Medicine, one of the oldest still-active medical schools in the world. 

Exploring the old town is one of the best things to do in Montpellier for anyone who enjoys walking, learning about history, or just soaking up the atmosphere. Street musicians play in quiet corners, shops spill into the cobbled lanes, and around nearly every turn, there’s something beautiful to look at.

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Get more context on the sights of the old town and beyond with a private walking tour of Montpellier. A local guide will lead you through hidden passageways, share stories behind the architecture, and point out details you might miss on your own.

If you’d rather sit back and enjoy the ride, glide through Montpellier’s highlights on a private bike taxi tour. You can choose where to go, whether that’s a scenic loop around the city or a slow ride with a stop in the old town. 

It’s an easy, breezy way to cover more ground, especially if you're short on time or want a break from the heat. Both options are among the best things to do in Montpellier for seeing the city at your own pace with a fresh perspective.

Practical Tips and Information

• Wear comfortable walking shoes. The Ecusson is mostly pedestrian-only and stroller- and kid-friendly, but some alleys are bumpy with uneven stones.
• Plan your lunch breaks accordingly, as shops typically close between 12:30 and 14:30. 
• Early mornings are the quietest times to explore.
• Most of the old town is free to access, and you can spend as little or as long as you like.
• Stop for a coffee at Place de la Canourgue. It’s quieter than Comedie and just a 5-minute walk.

3. Capture Montpellier’s Most Instagrammable Spots

Exploring Montpellier with someone who knows where to go makes it easy to capture the city’s best angles without the usual crowds.

A city tour of Instagrammable spots with a local is one of the best things to do in Montpellier for travelers who want to take home more than just memories. And, not just pretty pictures, but the stories behind them too!

Top photo spots include Place Rondelet, with its blend of street life and classic Montpellier charm, and Quai du Verdanson, where bold street art stretches along the canal walls. For the best light and fewer people, go early or close to sunset. Timing and a local guide can help you catch Montpellier at its most photogenic.

2. Play for Wine in a Tasting Game in Montpellier

Tasting wine doesn’t have to be serious. One playful wine experience in Montpellier swaps formal tastings for a blindfold and a challenge—using your senses to guess aromas, textures, and notes of local Languedoc wines. It’s immersive, fun, and surprisingly informative. For something completely different (and delicious), this is one of the best things to do in Montpellier.

1. See Montpellier From Above on a Sightseeing Flight

One of the most unforgettable ways to experience Montpellier and nearby areas is from the air. An authentic small-plane experience gives you a true sense of flight and freedom.

From above, you’ll see the curve of the Mediterranean coastline, the terracotta rooftops of the old town, and the vast wetlands of the Camargue dotted with flamingos and salt marshes.

Watching the city unfold from above is both peaceful and thrilling. Without question, it’s one of the best things to do in Montpellier for a unique perspective.

How do you get around Montpellier?

Montpellier is easy to explore without a car. The city has an excellent tram system that covers most major areas, including the city center, university, and beach shuttle connections. Most of the old town—the Ecusson—is pedestrian-only and best seen on foot. 

For a relaxed option, bike taxis and e-scooters are also widely available. If you plan to explore the countryside or take day trips, you can rent a car in Montpellier for more flexibility beyond the city.

What is the best time to visit Montpellier, France?

Spring (March to May) and early fall (September to October) are ideal times to go to Montpellier. The weather is warm but not too hot, and the city isn’t as crowded as it gets in July and August. 

Summer is fun too, especially for beach days and festivals like the Montpellier Danse Festival, but expect heat and more visitors. If you enjoy a lively atmosphere, it’s still one of the best times to enjoy the top things to do in Montpellier.

What is the closest airport to Montpellier?

Montpellier-Mediterranee Airport (MPL) is just 5 miles (8 kilometers) from the city center, making arrivals quick and easy. It’s a small, efficient airport with short lines and simple navigation. 

A taxi from the airport to downtown takes about 15–20 minutes. And while there’s no tram directly at the airport, you can take the airport shuttle (Navette Aeroport) to Place de l’Europe, where you’ll find a tram station with easy connections into the city.

For a smooth and private option, consider booking an arrival transfer from Montpellier Airport to the city. It's a relaxed way to start your trip, especially if you're planning to dive right into the best things to do in Montpellier.

Is Montpellier a walkable city?

Yes. The historic center is almost entirely pedestrian and filled with cobbled lanes, shaded squares, and hidden courtyards. Many of the best things to do in Montpellier, such as visiting museums, browsing markets, relaxing at cafes, and exploring historic sites, are within easy walking distance of each other.

What should I pack for Montpellier?

Montpellier is sunny, walkable, and full of outdoor spots to explore. What you bring depends a bit on the season, but a few essentials will help you enjoy the best things to do in Montpellier in comfort and style.

• Lightweight clothing and sunscreen for sunny summer days

• A light jacket for cooler mornings, especially in spring or fall

• Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the old town and hilly areas

• A reusable water bottle, as you’ll find public fountains throughout the city

• Sunglasses and a hat, since Montpellier is one of the sunniest cities in France

What major cities are near Montpellier?

High-speed trains connect Montpellier with many amazing destinations in southern France. This makes it easy to combine the top things to do in Montpellier with day trips to nearby cities.

Here are a few major cities near Montpellier worth adding to your itinerary:

• Nimes, France: around 1 hour by car and 30 minutes by train

• Avignon, France: around 1.5 hours by car or train

• Marseille, France: around 2 hours by car or train

• Toulouse, France: around 3 hours by car or train

• Barcelona, Spain: around 4 hours by car and 5 hours by train