Montpellier

The Promenade du Peyrou, or the Place du Peyrou as it is also sometimes called, is a beautiful city square and walking area that feature a historic water tower and part of an ancient aqueduct. Visitors can view the impressive statue of King Louis XIV on horseback, and take photos from the base of the intricate arc de triomphe at the entrance to the square. The water tower, with its stately pillars and wide sweeping staircase, is built in the classical style, as is the aqueduct that extends from it. The Promenade du Peyrou is a lovely place for sightseeing as well as relaxing, and is a favorite spot among locals.

34000 Montpellier, France

The Chateau de Flaugergues was built in the 17th century, and in the French architectural world, it is known as one of the “Follies.” At the time, a new class of aristocrats began to emerge based on their service directly to the king, and with the wealth and titles bestowed upon them, these new aristocrats went into the country and built grand houses out in the rural countryside, surrounded by intricate gardens. Chateau de Flaugergues in particular is a beautiful building with lovely hedged gardens and parks, as well as a fully functioning vineyard which produces wine from vines which have been cultivated since the time of the Romans.

1744 Avenue Albert Einstein, 34000 Montpellier, France, Phone: +33-4-99-52-66-37

This large public square is located quite centrally in the city of Montpellier, and is located directly over the site where part of the city’s fortifications once stood. Locals who live in the city often refer to Place de la Comedie as L'Oeuf, which means “the egg” in French, due to the square’s oval shape when it was originally built. Today, this public area is proudly marked by a statue of three goddesses, The Three Graces, and on most days, La Place de la Comedie is often full of local street artists creating and selling their wares, tourists wandering the area, and plenty of people enjoying a drink or some food on the streetside terraces of the cafes which line the area.

Place de la Comédie, 34000 Montpellier, France, Phone: +33-4-67-60-60-60

Recommended Activities for Families

Bois de Montmaur is a large public park near Montpellier. For active people, it can be difficult to find a place to go for a run or get some exercise while on vacation, especially when you’re in a place where the incredible food and wine makes you feel less like exercising and more like partaking in another glass of Bordeaux. But Bois de Montmaur has a plethora of beautiful, scenic trails that are perfect for running, cycling, or just a relaxed walk among the trees and green space. Bois de Montmaur is located a bit outside of the city center but is accessible via Montpellier’s city bus system.

Chemin du Réservoir de Montmaur, 34090 Montpellier, France

The city of Montpellier experienced a period of huge economic growth during the 19th century, largely in part to the growth of the wine industry, and it was during this time that the Carre Sainte Anne was built. This beautiful church has a distinctive appearance and a loud bell which can be seen from its tall tower and heard all over Montpellier. Carré Sainte Anne is no longer an active church, but it has been lovingly renovated to become a contemporary art museum. At Carré Sainte Anne, visitors will find cultural displays and exhibits from local and traveling artists, in a unique and beautiful space that is a veritable host for events and art festivals throughout the year.

2 Rue Philippy, 34000 Montpellier, France, Phone: +33-4-67-60-82-11

The Musee Fabre is a museum named in honor of Francois-Xavier Fabre, the man who founded the institution in 1825. Francois Xavier Fabre was a painted, and the museum he created would go on to serve as a cultural institution and haven for works of fine art. Located in the center of the city, right alongside the main square, the Musee Fabre is one of the most popular sightseeing destinations in Montpellier, and the collection at this museum is so impressive and significant that Musee Fabre has been named a Museum of France by the French Ministry of Culture. The museum’s collection features a number of extremely well known artists, and it is not a destination to be missed.

39 Boulevard Bonne Nouvelle, 34000 Montpellier, France, Phone: +33-4-67-14-83-00

Attractions for Couples

Enjoying a meal in the plush purple-upholstered seats of Les Bains’ dining room is both relaxing and delicious. The fine dining room has elaborate chandeliers and is situated around the perimeter of a courtyard, and has large windows that overlook the courtyard, where guests who prefer outdoor seating can enjoy their food and drink in a scenic garden terrace environment, complete with towering palm trees, scenic ponds, and lush greenery. Les Bains was once a public bathhouse, but these days, the historic building has a fantastic menu that focuses on Mediterranean and Italian inspired foods.

6 Rue Richelieu, 34000 Montpellier, France, Phone: +33-4-67-60-70-87

The Porte du Peyrou is a grand triumphal arch located in the Jardin du Peyrou in Montpellier. This beautiful piece of architecture was completed in 1693, and it was modeled to look like the stunning Porte Saint Denis, which is located in Paris. The Porte du Peyrou is a beautiful landmark in Montpellier, and it is a great place for a quick photo opportunity. It is located along the Promenade du Peyrou, so visitors can explore the surrounding park and scenic area as part of their daily sightseeing activities. Visitors can also opt to take a guided tour of the arch, which will allow them the opportunity to climb the 90 steps to the top and see Montpellier from above.

Rue Foch, 34000 Montpellier, France, Phone: +33-4-67-60-60-60