Montpellier city centre

Nicknamed the Écusson for its shield-shaped outline, downtown Montpellier seduces with its lively and authentic atmosphere and its exceptional heritage. Discover our selection of must-see sites and let yourself be carried away by the sweetness of life of this superb Mediterranean city!

The center of Montpellier: a medieval jewel to discover

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With its maze of narrow streets and picturesque little squares, the Écusson district in Montpellier is typical of small southern towns. Built 10 centuries ago, Montpellier experienced a real demographic evolution in the Middle Ages.

Its city center was equipped in the 13th century with fortifications intended to protect the heart of the city.

On rue de Terral, you can still admire a 14th century house, witness to Montpellier's medieval past!
 
Over time, successive architectural trends have left their mark on downtown Montpellier. The classical era, in particular, gave the city some of its most beautiful monuments, such as the Comédie theater or the fountain of the 3 graces.

Historical sites of Montpellier

The city is full of historical and tourist sites, the majority of which are concentrated in the Écusson district.

Saint-Pierre Cathedral

With its two massive towers and imposing porch, Saint-Pierre Cathedral has the look of a fortress. It is the only medieval church in the Écusson to have survived the Wars of Religion. 

The Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe of Montpellier was built in the 17th century at the location of the Porte du Peyrou giving access to the fortified city.

Ochre and yellow in color, it is adorned with bas-reliefs and medallions. Climb its 90 steps to enjoy a striking view of the city and its surroundings!

The Saint Clément aqueduct

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14km long, the Saint-Clément aqueduct is part of the project to beautify Montpellier in the 18th century. It crosses the

Peyrou valley over more than 800 meters to bring clear water to the city.

With its double row of arcades influenced by Roman architecture, it is inspired by the Pont du Gard and offers impeccable aesthetics.

The waters transported by the Saint-Clément aqueduct are stored in the superb water tower which dominates the Peyrou promenade, one of the most beautiful squares in Montpellier.

The Palace of Justice

Located on rue Foch, in the heart of the Écusson, the Palace of Justice was erected on the site of the former fortress of the Guilhems, lords of Montpellier.

A jewel of neoclassical architecture, it impresses with its massive columns and sculpted frescoes.

The emblematic squares of the city

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Impossible to walk in the city center without strolling on the squares of Montpellier!

Lively and friendly, they offer a refreshing break appreciated by locals and tourists alike.

Climb on the Peyrou promenade at sunset, drink a coffee at the foot of the church on Place Saint-Roch…

On the Place de la Comédie in Montpellier, admire the opera of the same name and the famous statue of the Three Graces. 

Faculty of Medicine

The Faculty of Medicine of Montpellier is the oldest in the Western world still in operation. Dating from the 12th century, its visit offers a wealth of information on the history of medicine. Do not miss the Anatomy Conservatory: an unusual place where skeletons, mummies, wax casts and the famous Écorché by Alphonse Lami are exhibited.

Jardin des Plantes

Founded in the 16th century, it is the oldest botanical garden in France and one of the most beautiful green spaces in Montpellier! The royal garden offers a superb place for a walk for a family or romantic outing. It houses, among other species, a bamboo forest, a hundred-year-old hackberry tree and a phillyrea, a wishing tree planted in 1604…

Museums to visit in Montpellier

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Fabre Museum

Dedicated to art from the 15th century to the present day, the collections of the Fabre museum exhibit numerous renowned artists.

A rich and diversified visit that highlights the history of European creation.

Museum of the History of Montpellier

Located in the basement of the former Notre-Dame des Tables church, this museum traces the history of the city using visual and sound animations. 

MO.CO panacea

Dedicated to emerging creation, the contemporary art center of Montpellier exhibits new artists from 4 continents.

It is installed in the former college of medicine and brings together an art school and several exhibition spaces. Free admission all year round.

Going out in the center of Montpellier

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There is no shortage of good places to have a drink or eat something in the city center! From the tapas bar to the gastronomic brasserie, it is not difficult to find a good restaurant in Montpellier center. On rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau, you will even find several starred tables. At night, the districts of Montpellier come alive to the rhythm of after-work and student evenings…
 
Want to go shopping? Between small designer boutiques and major brands, the city center is full of pretty shops. Marshmallow, fougasse, grisettes… discover local specialties in delicatessens and local shops!

Where to sleep in downtown Montpellier?

Looking for a base for your stay in Montpellier? Book your night in our hotel in Montpellier center!
 
Ideally located for easy access by car or public transport (bus, tram), our establishment welcomes you all year round for a weekend with your partner, tourism with family or a business trip in the Hérault.
 
Put your bags down in a comfortable, modern and bright room, with a private bathroom and high quality bedding. At B&B HOTELS, it's possible at a low price! Are you traveling with children? Opt for a family room, ideal for accommodating your entire tribe. And if you need a baby bed, just ask: it awaits you on request at reception. 
 
Check out the list of available rooms in our hotels in Montpellier now!