Montpellier, a city rich in both historical and contemporary treasures, is a Mediterranean crossroads and a destination of character and distinction.
As the capital of Languedoc-Roussillon, Montpellier is located just 7 km from the Mediterranean.
A cultural city, Montpellier is also—and above all—a wonderful place to stay: after sightseeing, there’s nothing quite like some free time spent shopping in the medieval alleys, relaxing on a terrace, or visiting museums and exhibitions...
Place de la Comédie and its Three Graces
Montpellier’s central square takes its name from the construction of the city’s first opera house. The Comédie is a true crossroads of the city, situated between the Saint-Roch train station and the historic center. The Haussmannian style dominates this central square, a meeting place for all Montpellier residents.
The Fountain of the Three Graces is the only feature on Place de la Comédie that dates back to the 18th century. This iconic sculpture represents the values of the city of Montpellier: grandeur, wealth, and well-being.
L’Ecusson
L’Ecusson, the historic center ofMontpellier—largely pedestrian-friendly—is a charming place to stroll. The boulevards surrounding it follow the paths of the medieval moats that once bordered the city’s main wall.
A visit to this neighborhood is a must:
Rue de l’Ancien Courrier
Place Saint-Roch: its church and its trompe l’oeil
Place de la Canourgue
Place Sainte-Anne: the cathedral has been renovated and converted into an exhibition center
The School of Medicine, the oldest continuously operating medical school in the world
The Jardin des Plantes, France’s oldest botanical garden
The Promenade du Peyrou, built to honor Louis XIV
In addition, street art is everywhere inMontpellier; numerous artists—from amateurs to world-renowned figures—decorate the city’s walls. The city’s colorful trams were designed by Christian Lacroix, Garouste, and Bonneti, with the latest design byMiss.Tic.
Montpellier’s Architectural “Folies”
A modern city, Montpellier is sure to captivate you with its buildings designed by some of the world’s leading architects. As a major player in urban development within its region, the city of Montpellier is committed to driving and fostering architectural innovation.
The Antigone neighborhood, designed by architect Ricardo Bofill in the early 1980s, was inspired by ancient Greek architecture.
Montpellier City Hall, designed by Jean Nouvel and François Fontès, is a steel structure clad in aluminum and glass facades that reveal shades of blue.
L’Arbre Blanc, an eccentric tower concept envisioned by Japanese architect Sou Fujimoto in the Richter neighborhood, is scheduled for completion in late summer 2018.
Le Nuage, the fitness center created by Philippe Starck, stands out for its outer shell made of a transparent membrane that forms a gently undulating bubble around the solid structure.
Want to discover more?
Montpellier’s location makes it possible to take day trips—all within an hour’s drive—to exceptional sites listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, major natural landmarks, and picturesque spots that are well worth a visit... Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Nîmes and its Roman heritage, the Hérault Gorges, the Cirque de Navacelles...
