Things to do in Montpellier : 7 places revealed by a local
If you really want to discover what to do in Montpellier from a local perspective, I’m going to take you to those corners that make the city feel like a small town, perfect for leisurely strolls, chatting with locals and enjoying a terrace in the sun.
Montpellier is full of iconic places that every tourist has on his list: the majestic Place de la Comédie, the imposing Opera, the Jardin des Plantes among others. All these sites are impressive, no doubt, but there is already plenty of information about them everywhere.
Montpellier is a lovely place to discover. I tell you that I have been coming here for more than 15 years, first when we lived in Barcelona to visit my wife’s family, and now frequently since we live a few kilometers away.
This city, which at first glance may seem large and bustling, has some corners that make you feel as if you were in a small town, one of those that invite you to stroll leisurely, to chat with neighbors and enjoy a good terrace in the sun.
My friend Margot, who also lives here, has revealed some of her secrets to me, and as a good friend, I can do nothing but reveal them to you.
What I am going to share with you here goes beyond the classics, because, together with the advice of my friend Margot, we are going to discover those hidden corners that will make you feel as if you were in a small town.
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La Place de la Canourgue
I have always loved this square and it has always been one of my favorite places. It offers an intimate atmosphere, like the one you are looking for when you want to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and feel in a quiet corner, surrounded by nature.
The square is lined with leafy trees, and, at one end, the Fontaine des Licornes captures all eyes. Two imposing unicorns seem to guard the place with elegance and a touch of magic.
All around, you will find charming restaurants and bars, perfect to sit on a terrace, enjoy a good coffee, a glass of wine or Champagne, and let the time pass without rushing. This is one of those places where you feel like you are in a small town, even though you are in the heart of the city.
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La Rue de la Vieille
Rue de la Vieille is another one of those hidden gems you can’t miss in Montpellier. This little alley has a unique charm, thanks to two incredible boutiques that give it a very special air. Both are dedicated to stationery, posters, postcards and picture framing, and what you will find here is simply amazing: the street seems to be upholstered with thousands of old and colorful postcards, each one more beautiful than the other. I assure you, there are so many that you won’t know which one to choose!
In addition, you can find classic movie posters, reproductions of paintings, unusual notebooks and chic objects that you will not see anywhere else. Every time I come to Montpellier, I come here to take something with me, and I strongly recommend you to do the same. This corner is a little treasure, ideal for those who enjoy unique details.
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Climb the Arc de Triomphe
I did this excursion a few years ago when my mom came to visit us, and I assure you it is well worth it. We went up to the terrace of the Arc de Triomphe in Montpellier, and the views from there are breathtaking.
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You have a beautiful view of the majestic Rue Foch, with the Court of Appeals on one side and, on the other, the elegant Place Royale du Peyrou, crowned by the imposing statue of Louis XIV on horseback.
It is a place full of history and, from the height, you can appreciate all the beauty of this monumental corner of the city. If you are looking for a different experience, away from the tourist circuit, climbing to this terrace is a wonderful way to see Montpellier from another perspective.
To take this tour, you must book the guided tour on the website of the tourist office or do it directly there.
ℹ️ Price of the visit 5 €.
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Le Quartier de la Méditerranée
The Quartier de la Méditerranée is one of those neighborhoods in Montpellier that still has an authentic and less crowded face. A neighborhood that I discovered thanks to my friend Margot and that I loved. Here the old and the modern mix, which gives it a unique character, full of neighborhood life.
It is a place where you can see locals chatting in the street, small local stores and a relaxed air that makes you feel like you are in a small town, despite being in a big city.
In addition, this neighborhood is a true street art center. Everywhere you go you will find incredible murals and graffiti that give color and personality to every corner. It is a space that vibrates with creativity and where the traditional and the contemporary coexist in perfect harmony.
If you want to explore a different side of Montpellier, without the hustle and bustle of tourism, stroll and get lost in the Quartier de la Méditerranée, which is the ideal place.
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Le Marché des Arceaux
I discovered the Marché des Arceaux thanks to my friend Margot, and it was a real crush to the heart. This market has a unique charm, located under the majestic arches of the Aqueduct des Arceaux, an environment that transports you to another time and where you will find the most genuine flavors and aromas of the region.
It is the perfect place to lose yourself among the stalls of cheesemongers, fishmongers, greengrocers and bakers, all local producers who prioritize organic and quality products.
This is where the chefs of Montpellier’s many gastronomic restaurants come to get their raw materials, and where the residents of the charming neighborhood also come to do their shopping. It is a corner where the authenticity and freshness of the products can be breathed in every stall.
If you are lucky enough to be in Montpellier on the days indicated. Get up early and go for a walk here in the morning. You will start your day in the best way!
👉👉 You can also book a private cooking class with specialized chefs.
ℹ️ The Arceaux market takes place on Tuesday and Saturday mornings from 7 am to 1:30 pm.
What is the aqueduct des Arceaux ?
The Aqueduct des Arceaux is an impressive work of engineering built in the 18th century to bring water to the city of Montpellier. Inspired by the ancient Roman aqueducts, it stretches along the Place des Arceaux with its elegant arches that give it its name. It is one of the historical symbols of the city and offers a charming setting, especially when it hosts the Marché des Arceaux. In addition to its architectural value, it is a very photogenic place and perfect for strolling and enjoying the view of Montpellier from its surroundings.
Les Halles du Lez
Les Halles du Lez is one of those places where we love to come to stroll and enjoy a good meal. It is a super cool tasting market, open to all tastes and where some of the biggest names in local gastronomy meet. It is the ideal place to discover local flavors and appreciate the quality of seasonal products, but also to taste cuisines from all over the world.
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This space invites visitors to taste on site, either at the large shared tables or on the outdoor terraces, or to take away their products as in a classic market. Les Halles du Lez has 38 food stalls, 8 themed bars, 12 boutiques and plenty of vintage food trucks that give it a retro and charming feel.
In addition, the rooftop is a true oasis: three large spaces for dining and relaxation, with fully vegetated terraces where you can enjoy the view while enjoying a meal or a drink. Without a doubt, it is an unmissable stop if you are looking for an authentic and varied gastronomic experience in Montpellier.
La Square de la Babote
The Square de la Babote is a small oasis of tranquility in the heart of Montpellier, ideal to take a break and enjoy a breath of fresh air in the middle of the city. Next to it is the Tour de la Babote, an ancient medieval tower that was part of the ramparts that protected Montpellier. In 1745, the States of Languedoc promoted the construction of an observatory on this tower, giving even more historical value to the place.
In addition to its relaxed atmosphere, around the square you will find several picturesque bars and restaurants where you can relax and enjoy a meal or a drink, making this corner a perfect place to unwind for a while, surrounded by history and good atmosphere.
ℹ️ Square de la Babote is open all year round from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m.
Things to do in Montpellier : Map of the lesser known places
Also : Charming villages to see near Montpellier
Dear reader,
This article has been written by me, Diego, who has been living in France for a few years and traveling this beautiful country for many more! And it is inspired by my experiences and the tastes of me and my family.
I love to show you the charming villages of France and all there is to do here and I know that many times the organization of a trip can be complicated. That’s why, through my guides, I try to inspire you and help you in your planning.
I hope you have enjoyed reading this article and, above all, that it has been useful.
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