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Things To Do In Montpellier – Month By Month

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Written by David Mason | 16th Jan 2024

TLDR: This guide offers essential insights for solo explorers immersing themselves in Montpellier, France – a city renowned for its coastal charm, historical treasures, and vibrant city life. Montpellier seamlessly combines modern energy with a rich cultural heritage, providing a distinctive experience in the heart of the French Mediterranean.

Highlight

A notable feature in Montpellier is the Esplanade Charles de Gaulle, a scenic promenade in the city center. This iconic space offers breathtaking views, a laid-back atmosphere, and the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of the surrounding area – a must-visit for solo travelers seeking enchantment in the heart of Montpellier. Read more like this below.

About Montpellier

Montpellier, a city pulsing with youthful energy and rich historical charm, is nestled in the heart of France’s southern region, Occitanie. This dynamic city, known for its elegant medieval streets and vibrant contemporary culture, strikes a perfect balance between historical depth and modern innovation.

The city’s architectural grandeur is epitomized by the Place de la Comédie, a lively square that forms the city’s social hub. The medieval district, with its narrow lanes and stately mansions, leads to the majestic Montpellier Cathedral, a fortress-like structure that dominates the skyline. The Antigone district, a striking example of modern urban planning, contrasts beautifully with the old town’s winding streets.

Montpellier’s gastronomic offerings reflect the rich bounty of the Languedoc region, with local markets and bistros serving specialties like brandade de morue (salt cod puree) and tielle sétoise (spicy octopus pie). The surrounding vineyards contribute to the city’s reputation for fine wines, including the renowned Languedoc and Roussillon varieties.

Culturally, Montpellier is a vibrant center of arts and education, home to the oldest medical school in Europe still in operation. The city hosts numerous festivals, including the Montpellier Dance Festival and the Comédie du Livre. Museums like the Fabre Museum, with its extensive collection of European art, add to the city’s cultural appeal.

The city is blessed with abundant green spaces, including the Jardin des Plantes, France’s oldest botanical garden, offering a peaceful retreat. The nearby Mediterranean coast, with its sandy beaches and seaside resorts, provides ample opportunities for relaxation and water sports.

Montpellier enjoys a Mediterranean climate, making it a delightful destination all year round. Its location in the Occitanie region offers easy access to explore the natural beauty of the Camargue, the medieval charm of Carcassonne, and the dynamic city of Toulouse.

Montpellier offers a unique experience, combining the elegance of its medieval past, the vivacity of its student population, and the warmth of the Mediterranean lifestyle. It’s a city that invites exploration, relaxation, and discovery in the sunny south of France.

Travel Tips for Solo Travellers in Montpellier

Accommodation Tips

Solo Friendly: Montpellier offers a range of accommodations that cater to solo travellers. Staying in the historic center, especially near the Place de la Comédie or the Écusson district, places you in the heart of the city. This area is brimming with character, offering easy access to cafes, shops, and key attractions like the Musée Fabre. For a more modern and relaxed vibe, consider areas near Antigone or Port Marianne, which are a bit quieter but still well-connected to the city’s main sights.

Eating Out

Dining Solo: The culinary scene in Montpellier is a delightful blend of traditional southern French cuisine and Mediterranean influences. Solo travellers can enjoy a variety of dining experiences, from quaint bistros in the old town to trendy restaurants in the newer districts. Local specialties like “brandade de morue” (a cod dish) and “tielle sétoise” (a spicy octopus pie) are must-tries. The areas around the Place de la Comédie and Rue de l’Ancien Courrier are particularly welcoming to solo diners, offering a friendly and authentic dining atmosphere.

Safety in Montpellier

Staying Safe: Montpellier is generally a safe city for solo travellers. However, it’s always advisable to exercise caution, especially at night in less crowded areas. Keep an eye on your belongings in busy places, and stay aware of your surroundings. The city center and popular tourist spots are typically safe during the day.

Language and Culture

Language Basics: Knowing some basic French will greatly enhance your visit to Montpellier. Phrases like “Bonjour” (Hello) and “Merci” (Thank you) are essential. While many locals in tourist areas speak English, not everyone is fluent, so a basic understanding of French can be helpful.

Getting Around

Transportation: Montpellier’s historic center is largely pedestrian-friendly, making it ideal for exploring on foot. The city also has an efficient tram system, which is a convenient way to travel to areas outside the center, like the Odysseum or the Quartier Antigone. Renting a bike is another excellent option for a more local experience and to enjoy the city’s many cycling paths.

Solo Hotspots

Meeting Fellow Travellers: The vibrant Place de la Comédie and the historic Écusson district are great places for solo travellers to meet both locals and other tourists. The city’s numerous cafes and bars in these areas provide a relaxed environment to socialize and enjoy Montpellier’s lively atmosphere. Attending cultural events or exploring local markets can also be fantastic opportunities to connect with others.

Budgeting

Cost-Saving Tips: Montpellier can be a budget-friendly destination. Many of its main attractions, such as the Jardin des Plantes and the historic city center, are free to explore. Enjoying street food or dining in smaller local restaurants is an affordable and authentic way to experience the local cuisine. Utilizing the tram system for transportation is cost-effective and allows you to cover more ground than walking. Additionally, visiting during the shoulder seasons can result in lower prices for accommodations and a less crowded experience.

What’s On In Montpellier Month By Month

Whether you visit Strasbourg in January, December, or somewhere in between, there is a reason to visit the city all year round. Here are our top picks for the best things to do in Strasbourg month by month. Something for everyone.

January: Montpellier Danse Festival

Kick off the year with the “Montpellier Danse Festival,” a renowned contemporary dance festival featuring performances, workshops, and dance exhibitions by international artists. It takes place in various theaters and cultural venues across the city.

Location: Various theaters and cultural venues in Montpellier.
Budget: Ticket prices may vary.
Who would like it: Dance enthusiasts, art lovers, and those interested in contemporary performance arts.
Why: This festival offers a chance to witness captivating and innovative dance performances, making it a unique start to the year.

February: Montpellier Short Film Festival

In February, Montpellier hosts the “Montpellier Short Film Festival,” an event that celebrates short films from around the world. It includes screenings, discussions, and opportunities to meet filmmakers.

Location: Various cinemas and cultural venues in Montpellier.
Budget: Ticket prices may vary.
Who would like it: Film enthusiasts, aspiring filmmakers, and those interested in short film artistry.
Why: This festival provides an intimate and artistic experience, allowing attendees to explore the world of short films and engage with filmmakers.

March: Les Estivales de Montpellier (Montpellier Wine and Gastronomy Festival)

March brings “Les Estivales de Montpellier,” a wine and gastronomy festival where you can sample regional wines and gourmet food from local producers. It’s a weekly event held in the city center.

Location: Esplanade Charles de Gaulle, Montpellier.
Budget: Entry fee for wine tasting; costs for food purchases may vary.
Who would like it: Food and wine enthusiasts, connoisseurs of local flavors, and those looking for a culinary adventure.
Why: This festival offers a delightful sensory experience, allowing visitors to savor the best of Montpellier’s gastronomic offerings.

April: Montpellier Street Food Festival

In April, indulge in the “Montpellier Street Food Festival,” a culinary extravaganza featuring a wide variety of street food vendors offering dishes from around the world. It’s a flavorful and vibrant event that celebrates global gastronomy.

Location: Designated area for the festival in Montpellier.
Budget: Costs for food purchases may vary.
Who would like it: Foodies, culinary adventurers, and those looking for a diverse and delicious food experience.
Why: This festival provides a fantastic opportunity to savor international street cuisines, creating a delightful culinary journey for visitors in April.

May: Montpellier Dance Day

May brings “Montpellier Dance Day,” a one-day event where the city comes alive with dance performances, workshops, and open-air shows. It’s a city-wide celebration of movement and expression.

Location: Various streets, squares, and cultural venues in Montpellier.
Budget: Mostly free; some workshops may require a fee.
Who would like it: Dance enthusiasts, families, and those looking for an interactive and energetic day out.
Why: Montpellier Dance Day offers a chance to immerse yourself in the joy of dance and witness spontaneous performances throughout the city.

June: Montpellier Pride Festival

In June, join the “Montpellier Pride Festival,” celebrating diversity and inclusion with a vibrant parade, live performances, and cultural events. It’s a lively and colorful celebration of LGBTQ+ pride.

Location: Parade through the city center and various cultural venues in Montpellier.
Budget: Mostly free; costs for certain events and merchandise may vary.
Who would like it: LGBTQ+ community, allies, and those looking to support and celebrate diversity.
Why: This festival promotes unity, acceptance, and the celebration of LGBTQ+ culture, making it an inclusive and uplifting experience.

July: Festival Radio France Occitanie Montpellier

July brings the “Festival Radio France Occitanie Montpellier,” one of the country’s largest classical music festivals. It features orchestral concerts, chamber music, and outdoor performances in iconic locations.

Location: Various historic venues and outdoor spaces in Montpellier.
Budget: Ticket prices may vary.
Who would like it: Classical music aficionados, music lovers, and those seeking cultural enrichment.
Why: This festival offers a world-class classical music experience in the enchanting backdrop of Montpellier’s historic sites.

August: Montpellier Beach Festival (Alternative Event)

In August, experience the “Montpellier Beach Festival,” a unique urban beach event with sand, sun loungers, beach games, and live music performances. It takes place in a specially designed beach area within the city.

Location: Dedicated beach area in Montpellier.
Budget: Free access to the beach; costs for activities and refreshments may vary.
Who would like it: Beach lovers, music enthusiasts, and those seeking a relaxed and enjoyable summer day.
Why: This event offers a taste of the beach atmosphere within the city, providing a perfect summer escape.

September: Montpellier Mediterranean Film Festival

September hosts the “Montpellier Mediterranean Film Festival,” dedicated to showcasing films from Mediterranean countries. It features screenings, discussions, and opportunities to interact with filmmakers.

Location: Various cinemas and cultural venues in Montpellier.
Budget: Ticket prices may vary.
Who would like it: Film enthusiasts, those interested in Mediterranean culture, and those looking for unique cinematic experiences.
Why: This festival offers a window into the diverse cinematic world of Mediterranean countries, allowing attendees to explore cultural narratives on the big screen.

October: Montpellier Contemporary Art Fair

In October, Montpellier hosts the “Montpellier Contemporary Art Fair,” an event that showcases contemporary artworks from both local and international artists. The fair features paintings, sculptures, installations, and more in a dynamic and creative atmosphere.

Location: Montpellier Exhibition Center.
Budget: Entry fee; costs for artwork purchases may vary.
Who would like it: Art enthusiasts, collectors, and those interested in contemporary visual arts.
Why: This fair offers a unique opportunity to explore the cutting-edge of the art world, making it a must-visit for art lovers in October.

November: Montpellier Chocolate Fair

November brings the “Montpellier Chocolate Fair,” a delightful event dedicated to all things chocolate. It features chocolatiers, tastings, and chocolate-themed workshops.

Location: Parc des Expositions de Montpellier.
Budget: Entry fee; costs for chocolate purchases and workshops may vary.
Who would like it: Chocolate lovers, foodies, and those seeking a sweet and indulgent experience.
Why: This fair offers a chocolate paradise where visitors can savor artisanal creations and explore the world of cocoa.

December: Montpellier Luminous Gardens (Alternative Event)

In December, experience the “Montpellier Luminous Gardens,” a unique event where public gardens are transformed into magical illuminated spaces, creating a mesmerizing winter atmosphere.

Location: Various public gardens in Montpellier.
Budget: Mostly free; some special garden displays may require a fee.
Who would like it: Those seeking enchanting and serene moments in a luminous garden setting.
Why: This event offers a chance to stroll through beautifully illuminated gardens, providing a peaceful and visually stunning winter experience.

Heading Back

Alright, that wraps up the Montpellier story – a year-round escapade ready for intrepid backpackers like you to plunge into. Imagine immersing yourself in the vibrant spirit of Montpellier or leisurely wandering through its time-kissed streets that share whispers of days gone by. Montpellier is more than just scenic views and delightful bites; it’s an open invitation to discover a city pulsating with stories, culinary delights, and a lively cultural vibe. With each passing month, new escapades await, ensuring your journey is as thrilling as the city’s unique attractions. Bon voyage, and relish every moment in Montpellier!