A lively university city near the Mediterranean in southern France, symbolised by the marble Place de la Comédie, its old town and boldly designed trams; nearby Thau lagoon oysters and Sète’s seafood pies are on every menu.
Weather: April–June and September–October are best; July–August is hot with crowded beaches, and winters are mild. source
Times to avoid: Public transport is free for metropolitan residents, but visitors need a ticket. source
Weather varies from year to year; check the forecast before you go.
Don't miss in Montpellier
Musée Fabre Montpellier’s major museum of European painting and Pierre Soulages. source
Thau lagoon and Sète Oyster beds on the lagoon and the canal port of Sète, a short train ride away. source
Place de la Comédie The marble square before the opera, the city’s tram-and-café hub. source
Where to stay in Montpellier
Écusson (Old Town)
A walk to Place de la Comédie, the Musée Fabre and restaurants.
Around Saint-Roch station
Rail and tram hub, handy for day trips.
What to eat in Montpellier
Bouzigues Oysters — Oysters from the nearby Thau lagoon
Tielle Sétoise — Sète’s pie filled with squid in tomato sauce
Brasucade de Moules — Mussels grilled over a wood fire
Montpellier tips and things to watch out for
Montpellier travel tips
A 1h30 tram/bus ticket costs €2.10, with 4-hour and 24-hour tickets too; buy them in the M’Ticket app or at stop machines. source
Good to know in France
French restaurants use service-included pricing, and tipping is not mandatory; check the bill before paying. source
Many shops close on Sundays, while some in tourist areas open; check opening hours before visiting. source
Watch out for in France
Pickpockets work tourist sites and the metro; wear your bag in front. source
Avoid people pushing petitions or friendship bracelets on you. source
General advice for the whole country. Check official government travel advice for entry rules and safety before you go.
Restaurant prices for Montpellier are still being collected. The estimate also uses some official meal and transit prices checked in other cities in France.
Montpellier attraction & theme park tickets
Official sellers’ prices for one adult admission. Select attractions in the calculator to add them to your budget.