Top 5 activities in Montpellier

Thanks to its pleasant location – halfway between Spain and Italy, and just ten kilometres from the sea – Montpellier is a favourite destination for those who love intense heat, festivities and continuous sunshine. In fact, from the very first days of spring, the entire area is bathed in comforting sunshine (a good omen for the months to come!).

If you’re lucky enough to spend a weekend or more here, you’ll love the friendly locals and the holiday atmosphere.

And it’s at this relaxed pace that you’ll set out to discover the city’s treasures. On the programme: a multitude of cultural activities, visits to museums and the historic centre, contemplation of architectural monuments (Arc de Triomphe, the Fountain of the Three Graces, Saint-Pierre Cathedral…) and walks in the parks (the Promenade du Peyrou), there’s so much to do. In addition to its universities, Montpellier is not known as “Montpellier la surdouée” (Montpellier the gifted) for nothing!

Then it’s on to the more unusual or sporting activities to put you to the test! Whether you’re a child, young or old, or a team-builder, there’s a whole host of sporting and leisure activities on offer in Montpellier. There’s something to suit (and surprise) even the most daring.

What to do in Montpellier? 5 ideas for activities

The range of activities on offer in Montpellier is fantastic! You can take part in all your favourite ‘classics’ during a visit, such as a beer tasting and brewing session, a bike tour with or without a guide, tourist trail games… Or you can take the discovery game all the way, trying out new and original experiences. To each his own! One thing’s for sure, whether you’re a couple, a family or a group of friends, you’ll never be short of choice in Languedoc Roussillon.

1 – Discover the heritage of the Château-Domaine de Flaugèrgues

Category: €€ / €€€ / Gastronomic / Cultural

Description: Get off at the “Millénaire” or “Odysseum” tram stop and discover the pretty Château de Flaugèrgues, its gardens and wine estate. In the Languedoc region, this type of country residence is known as a “folie”, typical of the local bourgeoisie and nobility of the Ancien Régime. Take a guided tour of the château and its gardens, and sample some of the estate’s wines – an oenological excursion less than four kilometres from the Place de la Comédie. A visit to this château is a great activity to do in Montpellier with family or friends.

2. Climb the Pic Saint-Loup on an electric bike

Category : €€ / Sportive

Description: This is an ideal outing for combining sport and exploring the countryside. In Marseille, Cassis or La Ciotat, you’ll discover the calanques vertically! Accompanied by experienced instructors, you’ll enjoy a unique experience full of thrills on the famous cliffs bordering the Mediterranean, the ancestral pride of the people of Marseille.

Good to know: The electric bike is the most accessible and practical way of doing this tour, but it’s not the only one. The classic bike will remain the favourite option for the more sporty. Alternatively, for a new kind of thrill, try an electric scooter! Don’t forget to pack some drinks and food to keep you going along the way!

3. Bring your own cuddly toy to life

photo credit pixabay

Category: €€ / Unusual

Description: In Montpellier city centre, just two minutes from Place de la Comédie, you’ll find a magical place that will amaze the little ones and send the grown-ups back to childhood. At the Atelier de la peluche, you can let your child create the cuddly toy of their dreams. Choosing the shape, a personalised sound, stuffing and dressing the cuddly toy are all part of a magical experience to share with your child!

4. Shiver at the anatomy conservatory

Category: €€ / Unusual / Cultural

Description: Founded in 1220, Montpellier’s Faculty of Medicine is the oldest in the world still in operation. The anatomy conservatory, meanwhile, was created in the 18th century. You’ll find real human and animal anatomical parts, foetuses with malformations, and wax reproductions. An activity that some will find macabre, while others will find fascinating!

5. Introduction to wine tasting

Category: €€€ / Gastronomic

Description: Do you dream of taking part in wine tastings, but lack basic knowledge is holding you back? Then this workshop is for you! Surrounded by experts who love good vintages, you’ll gain a solid grounding in the vast world of oenology and wine-balancing techniques. As well as theoretical knowledge, you’ll take part in every stage of the tasting of 7 different wines! More than just an activity, this is a superb gift idea to offer yourself or to share when you visit Montpellier.

After reading about all the things you can do in and around Montpellier, from the many sites to the many walks, there’s no doubt that everyone will find this city in the south of France appealing, but to make up your own mind, the best thing is to try it out!