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20 Unmissable Attractions in Montpellier

Montpellier
Montpellier | © Wolfgang Staudt / Flickr

Montpellier does the south of France proud. It is France’s fastest-growing city and it overflows with sights and attractions. Here are 20 that simply cannot be missed.

Cathédrale St-Pierre

This Roman Catholic cathedral lies in the historic centre of Montpellier. Take note of the canopy porch supported by two monumental cylindrical pillars – quite impressive.

Montpellier Cathedral

Promenade du Peyrou

Created to house the statue of Louis XIV on horseback, the Peyrou esplanade offers incredible panoramic views of Montpellier. From here you can see the ancient arches Aqueduc de Castries.

Promenade du Peyrou

Château de Flaugergues

To the east of the centre of Montpellier, the Flaugergues Castle is an example of the follies (country mansions) that were built by wealthy merchants. The gardens, here, are particularly lovely.

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Place de la Comédie

This is Montepllier’s central square and is nicknamed ‘The Egg’ because of its original oval shape. It is one of the largest pedestrian areas in Europe and no matter where you wander, you’ll find yourself here at some point.

Place de la Comédie

Bois de Montmaur

Escape the hustle and bustle to Montmaur Wood, just north of the centre of Montpellier.

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Carré Sainte Anne

Le Carré Sainte-Anne is a contemporary art space housed in a neo-Gothic church. It’s free to enter and definitely deserves a visit.

Carré Sainte Anne

Musée Fabre

Founded in 1825 by painter François-Xavier Fabre, this celebrated museum is one of Montpellier’s main sights and it is classified as a Musée de France, such is its national importance. Recently renovated and housing big names in European art, Musée Fabre is a must-see.

Musée Fabre

Les Bains

An elegant restaurant located in the historic public baths of Montpellier.

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Porte du Peyrou

Montpellier’s very own Arc de Triomphe.

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Le Rebuffy

Exactly the type of drinking setting you hope for when you think of the south of France. One of the prettiest terrace settings in the city.

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Antigone

The most architecturally thrilling neighbourhood in Montpellier, located between the historic centre and the river Lez. Take your camera.

Antigone

Halles Castellane

One of the traditional covered markets of Montpellier, where you can pick up everything from seafood to local wines. A must-visit to take in the ambiance of French city living.

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Odysseum

Miami meets the south of France! This is the city’s shopping district/mall.

Centre Commercial Odysseum

La Panacée

A contemporary choice for lunch onwards, La Panacée is an art space with a thriving cafe.

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Jardin des Plantes

Jardin des Plantes was created in 1593 to help students of Montpellier’s Medical School to familiarise themselves with medicinal plants. On top of that use, today, it is a gorgeous green hideaway for visitors and locals alike.

Jardin des Plantes

Hôtel de Varennes

Formally a medieval private mansion in Montpellier, Hôtel de Varennes has been restored and now houses several museums.

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Aqueduc de Castries

This aqueduct is the largest hydraulic structure ever created in France for a private individual. It’s well worth visiting the Tourist Information for details on the walking trail.

Aqueduct de Castries

Château de la Mogère

The second mansion worth vising in Montpellier, located towards the airport. The interior has remained intact since the 18th century.

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Esplanade Charles de Gaulle

Four rows of plane trees edge this magnificent promenade; a welcome area of city calm.

Esplanade Charles de Gaulle

Faculté de médecine

Montpellier’s Medical School is one of the oldest in the world.

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About the author

Holly is a freelance writer based in Béziers, South of France. From London to a life in the Languedoc, she has written for French Property News and Living France among other titles and covers travel, lifestyle and culture. She can be followed at: www.lostinthelanguedoc.com

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