Montpellier: a multifaceted city

Montpellier Tourismus

Ten places to discover, where it is good to spend the holidays: all the pleasures of the sea and the sun, authentic fishing villages, immense and unspoilt beaches, a Mediterranean way of life. All this in a lively, festive and very friendly atmosphere. No doubt about it, you are in Montpellier, Languedoc Camargue!

One hundred percent pleasure destination!

11 km from the Mediterranean beaches which can be reached by bike, Montpellier is the ideal place to stay for heritage lovers. Here aesthetics combines with the past, present and future! The oldest university in the Western world, private mansions, designer tramways and even feats of contemporary architecture make Montpellier a reference in the field: art is everywhere. It's watching you, pushing you!

Not to be missed: the Fabre Museum, the brand-new contemporary art center (MOCO), the many internationally renowned festivals, without forgetting the many lively terraces, the gourmet markets, the natural gems just a stone's throw away. A destination to see, but above all to experience!

Place de la Comédie
Place de la Comédie © OT Montpellier

 

Sète: maritime city of character

In Sète (30 min from Montpellier), a little gem anchored in the Mediterranean, the passion for the sea punctuates the life of the city. From the Etang de Thau to the Grande Bleue, fishermen, sailors and oyster farmers share this iodized universe, a source of wealth and an art of living like no other.

From its quays with colorful facades to its picturesque neighborhoods, from its museums to its rich cultural programming, Sète is a little South in itself.

Sete Maritime city of character
Sete - maritime city of character © La_Bougeotte_Francaise

 

Alliance between sea and land

20 km of uninterrupted coastline, a group of 3 seaside resorts welcome you: Cap d'Agde, Vias and Portiragnes. Fine sandy beaches, volcanic or lined with pine forests are yours! Visit the authentic hinterland with its towns and villages with preserved heritage, living traditions and multiple artistic crafts. We can cite  Pézenas, the town of Molière but also Agde, the ancient Phocaean trading post, or even Montagnac, the great medieval fair town.

The Canal du Midi crosses the region from one side to the other and constitutes its backbone. We are tempted to come several times throughout the year because the range of activities and cultural events is so dense.

Cap d’Agde Mediterranean
Cap d’Agde Mediterranean © Cap d’Agde Méditerranée

 

A paradise for nature and wines lovers

Discover Pic Saint-Loup, a hidden gem in the south of France! With its breathtaking landscapes, scenic hiking trails and charming medieval villages, this destination is perfect for nature lovers and adventurers. The region is also renowned for its exceptional wines, crafted from sun-kissed vineyards and rich terroirs. Enjoy a wine tasting in one of the many local estates and savor the bold flavors of Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Whether you’re exploring the rugged cliff or relaxing with a glass of fine wine, Pic Saint-Loup offers an unforgettable experience.

Pic Saint-Loup
Pic Saint-Loup © G. Deschamps

 

Palavas-les-Flots: authentic village and natural environment 

Welcome to Palavas-les-Flots, a traditional fishing village in the heart of the wonderful Mediterranean! Every morning, go and meet fishermen who offer their fresh fish sold on the quays. Give in to one of their secret recipes, then set off for a walk or bike ride to discover the pink flamingos that inhabit the ponds.

Ideally located, 10 minutes from Montpellier, at the foot of the Cévennes, at the end of the Petite Camargue, Palavas-les-Flots will enchant you all year round.

Choose from water activities, outdoor sports, children's workshops, the prestigious Casino and cultural events, or even relax on the 7 km of wide, gently sloping fine sand beaches!

Palavas-les-Flots: Authentic village and natural environment
Palavas-les-Flots: Authentic village and natural environment © Instapadesstudio

 

Mauguio Carnon: city of characters

Between land and sea, Mauguio Carnon benefits from a privileged environment. Natural and historical heritage coexist; Camargue and Spanish culture intertwine.

Absolutely worth discovering: the Etang de l'Or, a natural gem. Nestled between the coastal resort of Carnon with its 7 km beach and Mauguio, the historic town, the Etang de l’Or is a protected and Natura 2000 classified site.

Sporty, nautical and festive, Mauguio Carnon offers a range of activities that will charm young and old with its markets, its nature walks, its gourmet breaks, its meeting places and its entertainment. With great vitality, the city cultivates conviviality and a certain art of living.

Mauguio Carnon: City of Characters
Mauguio Carnon: City of Characters © ChRuizMontpellier3m

 

La Grande Motte: the garden city emerging from the sand

La Grande Motte (20min from Montpellier) is renowned for its unique and daring pyramid-shaped architecture, its 7 km of fine sand beaches, its water activities but above all for its lush vegetation.

Indeed, with 70% green and natural spaces, La Grande Motte is the greenest city in Europe! The ideal city for strolling in the shade of the foliage and getting around thanks to gentle mobility on the numerous cycle paths which never cross the roads. An original, ecological and safe way, the bicycle has become the appropriate means of transport to get around the heart of this green oasis. A true Mediterranean art of living in the serenity of a green city.

In the evening, this solar city is adorned with light thanks to its numerous bars, restaurants and private beaches for a festive and friendly atmosphere with your feet in the sand.

La Grande Motte: the garden city emerging from the sand
La Grande Motte: the garden city emerging from the sand © Olivier Maynard

 

Aigues Mortes: a medieval town in the Camargue

Do you want an authentic and festive stay under the Camargue sun? Aigues-Mortes, land of traditions with its horses and bulls, is the destination for your holidays.

At 35 min from Montpellier, discover the treasures of the medieval city: its exceptional architectural heritage, its lively and colorful streets, the salt marsh and its shades of roses, in the heart of wild and preserved nature.

Observe pink flamingos in their natural environment.

Aigues-Mortes is also the capital of Vins des Sables: discover this mecca of Camargue gastronomy!

Aigues Mortes: a medieval town in the Camargue
Aigues Mortes: a medieval town in the Camargue © La_Bougeotte_Francaise

 

Pont du Gard: between Mediterranean sea and Camargue

Le Grau du Roi is a discreet and simple resort, people come there above all for the pleasures of the sea. The charm operates without us realizing it. You will have the pleasure of discovering an authentic fishing port, easily accessible family beaches, and the famous life-size beach of Espiguette.

At 40 min from Montpellier and the gates of the Camargue, Grau du Roi is also the leading marina in Europe, where it is good to sail. For the more active, go to the famous kitesurfing spots.

The good restaurants to enjoy, the glasses of rosé to sip, the small streets to stroll: it's a real twist of simple and authentic atmospheres, eternal or more contemporary.

Le Grau du Roi / Port Camargue
Le Grau du Roi, Port Camargue © Guillaume Payen

 

Nîmes: A journey through history

Explore Nîmes, a vibrant city at 30 min from Montpellier, where ancient Roman heritage meets modern charm. Stroll through its historic streets and admire the majestic Arena, one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters. Just a short drive away, discover the breathtaking Pont du Gard, a UNESCO-listed Roman aqueduct that stands as a masterpiece of engineering. 

Enjoy the stunning scenery, take a refreshing swim in the Gardon River, or hike along picturesque trails. Whether you’re a history lover or a nature enthusiast, Nîmes and the Pont du Gard promise and unforgettable experience.

Nîmes: A journey through History
Nîmes: A journey through history © Aurelio RODRIGUEZ

In cooperation with: Montpellier Tourismus

 

Published on 01.05.2025