14 Best FREE Things To Do in Montpellier France (with map)

The lively cosmopolitan city of Montpellier is one of the fastest growing cities in France. This university town has a youthful energy as well as plenty of historic attractions. Best of all, many of the top attractions in the city are absolutely free. In this Montpellier travel guide, we’ll show you the 14 best free things to do in Montpellier France.

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Top free things to do in Montpellier France

We love a good bargain, and there’s no better bargain than getting something for free! For ease of reference, here is our list of the top free things to do in Montpellier France.

1. Place de la Comédie
2. Parc Zoologique de Montpellier
3. Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Montpellier
4. Jardin des Plantes de Montpellier
5. Porte du Peyrou
6. Aqueduc Saint-Clément
7. Pavillon Populaire
8. Promenade du Peyrou
9. Halles du Lez
10. Antigone neighbourhood
11. Place Jean Jaurès
12. Place de l’Europe
13. Eglise Saint Roch
14. Office de Tourisme Montpellier

Keep reading to find out more about each destination.

Main square in Montpellier France: Place de la Comédie

About the Place de la Comédie Montpellier France

Place de la Comédie, also known as l’OEuf (the Egg) due to its oval shape, is the main square in Montpellier. Dating back to at least the 1700s, this square was named after a theatre that used to be here. There is now an opera house that dominates one end of the square called Opéra Comédie. Centrally located in the heart of Montpellier, this busy square is always filled with people. In the middle of the square there is a fountain called the Three Graces. The fountain depicts three goddesses and is also an emblem of the city. Place de la Comédie is a must visit destination for anyone visiting Montpellier.

Why visit Place de la Comédie Montpellier France

A major focal point of Montpellier, Place de la Comédie is a lively area. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. This central square is a large open space and often attracts buskers as well as other performers. Moreover, it’s a great place to come to people watch. Around the square are many shops and restaurants as well as the tourist information centre. If you visit at night, you’ll find the square lit up with colourful lights.

How long to spend at Place de la Comédie Montpellier France

It only takes about 5 minutes to walk through the square. However we recommend allowing half an hour to an hour to explore the area and enjoy the atmosphere. Allow extra time if you want to have lunch at one of the nearby restaurants.

Opening hours for Place de la Comédie Montpellier France

This free thing to do in Montpellier France is open at all hours.

If you have money to spend in Place de la Comédie Montpellier France

Shop ‘til you drop! There are plenty of shops around the border of Place de la Comédie. There’s also plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby.

Place de la Comédie Montpellier France address

34000 Montpellier, France

Best free attraction in Montpellier France: Parc Zoologique de Montpellier

About the Parc Zoologique de Montpellier

Parc Zoologique de Montpellier or Montpellier Zoo is a free zoo on the outskirts of Montpellier. It was previously named Parc Zoologique de Lunaret. The zoo spans over 80 hectares and also includes 11km of walking trails. Zebras, wallabies, rhinos, monkeys, oryxs, lions, wolves, camels, cheetahs as well as macaws are among the collection of animals at the zoo. Additionally, the zoo has is a large collection of plants. The zoo also has an Amazon themed greenhouse (currently closed for renovation as at 2024). It is possible to get to the zoo by bus.

Why visit Parc Zoologique de Montpellier

One of the best free things to do in Montpellier is visit the zoo. On the outskirts of the city, Parc Zoologique de Montpellier is a great place to spend a few hours. It has a good collection of animals, well maintained walking paths, children’s playgrounds as well as picnic areas to enjoy. Animals at the zoo include giraffes, cheetahs, zebras as well as rhinos. We were really impressed with the quality of this zoo, particularly as it’s absolutely free. Our favourite exhibit was the cheetahs, where you can get up close to these magnificent creatures. On the day we were there one of the cheetahs was sitting right beside the glass!

How long to spend at Parc Zoologique de Montpellier

We recommend spending at least a couple of hours exploring Parc Zoologique de Montpellier.

Opening hours for Parc Zoologique de Montpellier

Monday: Closed

Tuesday-Sunday: 10am-6pm

If you have money to spend in Parc Zoologique de Montpellier

Entry to the Amazon themed greenhouse costs 6.50 euro for adults (however the greenhouse is currently closed for renovation as at 2024). There is also a cafe just outside the zoo. Alternatively you can buy a picnic lunch to have inside the zoo.

Parc Zoologique de Montpellier address

50 Av. Agropolis, 34090 Montpellier, France

Plus Code: JVRJ+V4 Montpellier, France

Best religious building in Montpellier France: Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Montpellier

About Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Montpellier

Montpellier Cathedral (also known as Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Montpellier) is one of the main churches in Montpellier. It is a Roman Catholic church dedicated to Saint Peter. Built in the Gothic style, the church has had the designation Cathedral since 1536. The church was initially built in 1364 under Pope Urban V. It was rebuilt in the 17^th century after suffering extensive damage during the Wars of Religion between Catholics and Protestants. Cathédrale Saint-Pierre is the seat of the Archbishops of Montpellier. The Cathedral is listed as a national monument in France.

Why visit Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Montpellier

This national monument is a majestic church and is also one of the major landmarks of Montpellier. The church has a rich history dating back to the 1300s. Those interested in architecture will enjoy this magnificent example of Gothic engineering. The grand porch area as well as the two sky-high cylindrical pillars are particularly impressive. Inside the church there are 12 chapels as well as beautiful stained glass windows.

How long to spend at Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Montpellier

Ten to twenty minutes is plenty of time to admire the church.

Opening hours for Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Montpellier

Sunday-Friday: 9am-12pm, 2:30pm-7pm

Saturday: 9am-6:15pm

If you have money to spend at Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Montpellier

The church accepts donations.

Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Montpellier address

Rue Saint-Pierre, 34000 Montpellier, France

Plus Code: JV7F+6P Montpellier, France

France’s oldest botanical garden: Jardin des Plantes de Montpellier France

About Jardin des Plantes de Montpellier

Jardin des Plantes de Montpellier is a botanical garden in the heart of Montpellier. Dating back to 1593, it is France’s oldest botanical garden. It was constructed by order of Henry IV for prominent French botanist Pierre Richer de Belleval. The garden is home to around 2,680 species of plants, 500 of which are native to the Mediterranean region. About a third of the plants are in greenhouses and the rest are outdoors. The design of the garden served as a template for other botanical gardens in France, including the one in Paris.

Why visit Jardin des Plantes de Montpellier

One of the most relaxing free things to do in Montpellier France is to visit the Jardin des Plantes. Jardin des Plantes is a beautifully landscaped garden and importantly is the oldest botanical garden in France. It has a number of different sections, including an English garden, orangerie, greenhouse as well as a section called the Montagne de Richer.

How long to spend at Jardin des Plantes de Montpellier

Half an hour is enough time to enjoy a stroll through the gardens. However we recommend spending an hour at Jardin des Plantes to fully immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the area.

Opening hours for Jardin des Plantes de Montpellier

Monday: Closed
Tuesday-Sunday: 12pm-8pm

If you have money to spend in Jardin des Plantes de Montpellier

We recommend buying a picnic lunch from a nearby store and enjoying it in the garden.

Jardin des Plantes de Montpellier address

Bd Henri IV, 34000 Montpellier, France

Plus Code: JV7C+MQ Montpellier, France

Famous monument in Montpellier France: Porte du Peyrou

About Porte du Peyrou

Porte du Peyrou is a triumphal arch or Arc de Triomphe. This famous Montpellier landmark is dedicated to the Sun King, Louis XIV. This city gate is also reminiscent of the Arch de Triomphe in Paris. Dating back to 1693, the arch was designed by famous French architect François d’Orbay. Scenes depicting major events during the reign of Louis XIV adorn the arch such as the digging of the Canal du Midi. The arch is the entrance to the Royal Palace of the Peyrou. It is located across the road from Promenade du Peyrou and is also close to Aqueduc Saint-Clément.

Why visit Porte du Peyrou

Porte du Peyrou is one of the most famous monuments in Montpellier. It celebrates the reign of King Louis XIV. It is a distinctive structure and an interesting piece of history. The structure is great for photos, but watch out for traffic when trying to get the perfect shot!

How long to spend at Porte du Peyrou

5 minutes is plenty of time to see the arch and take a few photos.

Opening hours for Porte du Peyrou

This free thing to do in Montpellier France is open at all hours. However for the best views, we recommend seeing it during the day.

If you have money to spend near Porte du Peyrou

For around 10 euro you can climb up the arch (advance booking is required). There are also a number of restaurants and shops in the area.

Porte du Peyrou address

Rue Foch, 34000 Montpellier, France

Plus Code: JV6C+FX Montpellier, France

Best engineering feat in Montpellier France: Aqueduc Saint-Clément

About Aqueduc Saint-Clément Montpellier France

Aqueduc Saint-Clément is an 18^th century aqueduct that runs from the Saint-Clément spring to the water tower at Promenade du Peyrou. It was built in Roman style. The aqueduct is also known as Arceaux Aqueduct, due to its distinctive double arches. The structure spans 14km and supplies water to the many fountains dotted around the city.

Why visit Aqueduc Saint-Clément Montpellier France

Running all the way up to Promenade du Peyrou, Aqueduc Saint-Clément is an engineering marvel. This double tiered aqueduct takes inspiration from Roman architecture but dates back to the mid 1700s. It is a beautiful structure that adds an interesting element to the Montpellier landscape.

How long to spend at Aqueduc Saint-Clément Montpellier France

5 minutes is sufficient time to view the aqueduct and take some photos.

Opening hours for Aqueduc Saint-Clément Montpellier France

The aqueduct can be viewed at all hours. However it is best viewed during the day.

If you have money to spend near Aqueduc Saint-Clément Montpellier France

There are some great cafes and shops not far from the aqueduct. You could also rent a bike to ride alongside near the aqueduct and see it from different angles.

Aqueduc Saint-Clément Montpellier France address

Aqueduc des Arceaux, 155 Rue Hilaire Ricard 85, 34000 Montpellier, France

Plus Code: JV69+HG Montpellier, France

Best free art space in Montpellier France: Pavillon Populaire

About Pavillon Populaire Montpellier France

Pavillion Populaire is an art gallery that displays photographic exhibitions throughout the year. The exhibitions feature both national and international artists and there are around 3 exhibitions in the pavilion each year.

Why visit Pavillon Populaire Montpellier France

Art lovers will enjoy the contemporary photography on display at Pavillon Populaire. This free art space hosts high quality, beautifully currated exhibitions featuring French as well as international photographers. The building is also air conditioned, which is great on a hot summer day.

How long to spend at Pavillon Populaire Montpellier France

Allow half an hour to an hour to visit Pavillon Populaire.

Opening hours for Pavillon Populaire Montpellier France

Monday: Closed

Tuesday-Sunday:

• Winter: 10am-1pm, 2pm-6pm
• Summer: 11am-1pm, 2pm-6pm

Closed on December 25, January 1 and May 1.

If you have money to spend near Pavillon Populaire Montpellier France

There are a number of restaurants, cafes and shops nearby.

Pavillon Populaire Montpellier France address

Esplanade Charles-de-Gaulle, 34000 Montpellier, France

Plus Code: JV6J+4V Montpellier, France

Best views in Montpellier France: Promenade du Peyrou

About Promenade du Peyrou

Promenade du Peyrou is a wide boulevard and park area a short walk from the city centre. Set on the side of a hill, this expansive area has panoramic views. A prominent feature of the esplanade is an equestrian statue of King Louis XIV. The area also features an aqueduct, a water tower as well as tree lined manicured gardens. The promenade is across the road from the arc de triomphe.

Why visit Promenade du Peyrou

One of the most scenic places in Montpellier is Promenade du Peyrou. It is a beautiful park area with gorgeous views out over the mountains. There are plenty of places to sit and enjoy the ambience of the area. The promenade is well maintained and is decorated with statues and greenery. This free thing to do in Montpellier France is very pretty during the day but even more so after dark.

How long to spend at Promenade du Peyrou

It only takes 5-10 minutes to walk around the promenade. However we recommend spending around an hour here to enjoy the ambience and the views.

Opening hours for Promenade du Peyrou

Daily: 7am-midnight

If you have money to spend near Promenade du Peyrou

There are a number of cafes and restaurants near Promenade du Peyrou. Alternatively you could go to a nearby market and buy some food to enjoy in the park.

Promenade du Peyrou address

Promenade du Peyrou, Rue la Blottière, 34000 Montpellier, France

Plus Code: JV6C+F8 Montpellier, France

Hip markets in Montpellier France: Halles du Lez

About Halles du Lez

Halles du Lez (also known as Marché du Lez) is a funky marketplace near the river Lez. There are a number of buildings in the complex containing stores, restaurants, food vendors and bars. This Montpellier France free thing to do also has a lot of street art, a large food hall and several food trucks. Additionally, live music performances are often held here.

Why visit Halles du Lez

Halles du Lez is a great place to visit in Montpellier. The area has a fun, lively atmosphere and there’s lots to see and enjoy. The street art, the colourful food trucks as well as the cool bar areas are all very photogenic, which makes it a great place to come for excellent holiday photos. The food hall has a wide range of vendors selling local and international cuisine, ice cream and many other foods. There are also lots of shops and market stalls to visit while you’re there.

How long to spend at Halles du Lez

Allow a couple of hours to browse the shops and get something to eat or drink from one of the food vendors or bars.

Opening hours for Halles du Lez

Daily: 10am-1am

If you have money to spend near Halles du Lez

Halles du Lez Montpellier France is a great place to come to buy souvenirs and gifts. It’s also the perfect place to enjoy a drink or a meal. However keep in mind that prices here are on the high side.

Halles du Lez address

1348 Av. de la Mer-Raymond Dugrand, 34000 Montpellier, France

Plus Code: HWV4+36 Montpellier, France

Must visit neighbourhood in Montpellier France: Antigone Montpellier France

About the Antigone neighbourhood Montpellier France

Antigone is a neighbourhood in Montepellier, located between the historical centre and the river Lez. Joffre Barracks previously occupied this site. The Citadel of Montpellier is the only part of the barracks that still remains. The neighbourhood was developed in the 1970s, lead by mayor Georges Frêche and designed by Spanish architect Ricardo Bofill. The Antigone project was one of the largest single developments completed in France and gained worldwide interest. The district includes apartments, office buildings, shops, restaurants as well as an Olympic swimming pool. The design is very cohesive and takes inspiration from classical architecture. Additionally, trams service the area.

Why visit the Antigone neighbourhood Montpellier France

The Antigone neighbourhood is a very interesting area to visit. We were impressed by the thoughtful design of the area and the grand buildings and structures. The long promenades are a relaxing place to walk around and the neighbourhood’s proximity to the city centre as well as the Lez River makes it a convenient place to visit.

How long to spend at the Antigone neighbourhood Montpellier France

10 minutes is enough time for a quick walk through the neighbourhood, stopping to take photos and admire the views. However if you want to look around the shops and perhaps go to a restaurant, allow a couple of hours.

Opening hours for the Antigone neighbourhood Montpellier France

This free thing to do in Montpellier France is open at all hours.

If you have money to spend in the Antigone neighbourhood Montpellier France

There are plenty of restaurants and shops in the Antigone neighbourhood

Antigone neighbourhood Montpellier France address

34000 Montpellier, France

Leafy square in Montpellier France: Place Jean Jaurès

About Place Jean Jaurès

Place Jean Jaurès is a leafy square in the centre of Montpellier. There are a number of cafes, bars and restaurants located here. The square was named after French Socialist leader Jean Jaurès. There is a statue of Jean Jaurès in the square.

Why visit Place Jean Jaurès

Place Jean Jaurès is lively square full of cafes, restaurants and bars. It is a nice place to come for a meal or a drink.

How long to spend at Place Jean Jaurès

It takes around 5 minutes to walk around Place Jean Jaurès. However if you want to visit one of the bars or restaurants in the area, allow a couple of hours.

Opening hours for Place Jean Jaurès

This free thing to do in Montpellier France is open at all hours.

If you have money to spend near Place Jean Jaurès

There are a number of nice bars and restaurants in the square.

Place Jean Jaurès address

Place Jean Jaurès, 34000 Montpellier, France

Scenic square in Montpellier France: Place de l’Europe

About Place de l’Europe Montpellier France

Place de l’Europe (or Esplanade de l’Europe) is one of the most scenic areas in Montpellier. This large square is located in the Antigone region of Montpellier. It has a wide promenade surrounded by beautiful buildings as well as plenty of restaurants, bars and cafes. It is a short walk or tram ride from the city centre. The area is very peaceful.

Why visit Place de l’Europe Montpellier France

Place de l’Europe is a relaxing place to visit in Montpellier. The area is very tranquil with lots of space as well as beautiful architecture and statues to admire. In particular the copy of the Greco-Roman sculpture Winged Victory of Samothrace is very striking. The area has plenty of green space and is a nice place to come for a picnic.

How long to spend at Place de l’Europe Montpellier France

It only takes 5 minutes to walk through Place de l’Europe. However if you want to spend some time at one of the restaurants or enjoying a picnic, we recommend allowing a couple of hours.

Opening hours for Place de l’Europe Montpellier France

This free thing to do in Montpellier France is open at all hours.

If you have money to spend in Place de l’Europe Montpellier France

There are plenty of bars and restaurants in Place de l’Europe.

Place de l’Europe address

34000 Montpellier, France

Plus Code: JV5W+63 Montpellier, France

Important pilgrimage site in Montpellier France: Eglise Saint Roch

About Eglise Saint Roch Montpellier France

Eglise Saint Roch is a 19^th century Neo-Gothic church. The building dates back to 1867 and was built on the site that Saint-Paul church once occupied. The main features of the church are its beautiful stained glass windows, its sculpted pulpit as well as its relics, artworks and monuments relating to Montpellier-born Saint Roch. In particular, the church has bone fragments of Saint Roch as well as a statue of Saint Roch in a pilgrim’s habit. The church was designed by architect Jean Cassan.

Why visit Eglise Saint Roch Montpellier France

The Eglise Saint Roch is one of the most prominent churches in Montpellier. Located in the heart of the city, the church is dedicated to a saint that was born in Montpellier called Saint Roch. Saint Roch was known as a healer of plague victims as well as the patron saint of pilgrims. Many of the faithful come to the church to pray to the saint. An important day for Eglise Saint Roch is the feast day of Saint Roch, August 16. On this day each year the relics of the church are presented to the public.

The church building was built in Neo-Gothic style. Inside there are paintings depicting the life of Saint Roch, a marble statue of Saint Roch, stained glass windows, an organ as well as a 12 metre high pulpit. The church also holds relics of Saint Roch, including a leg bone, fragments of jawbone as well as his staff. The bell tower of the church currently has 3 bells, with one more bell waiting to be installed.

How long to spend at Eglise Saint Roch Montpellier France

5-10 minutes is enough time to have a good look around the church.

Opening hours for Eglise Saint Roch Montpellier France

Monday-Tuesday: Closed

Wednesday-Sunday: 10am-7pm

If you have money to spend in Eglise Saint Roch Montpellier France

The church accepts donations. There are also a number of cafes and restaurants near the church.

Eglise Saint Roch address

4 Rue Vallat, 34000 Montpellier, France

Plus Code: JV5G+G9 Montpellier, France

Useful first stop in Montpellier France: Office de Tourisme Montpellier

About Office de Tourisme Montpellier

Office de Tourisme & des Congrès Montpellier Méditerranée Métropole is a tourist office in the heart of Montpellier. The building is well signposted, which makes it very easy to find. Inside, there’s a gift shop as well as a service counter with very knowledge and attentive staff that speak both French and English. They have free maps and a good selection of brochures about the area.

Why visit Office de Tourisme Montpellier

The Office de Tourisme Montpellier is a fantastic resource for discovering what to do in the area. We found the staff very friendly and helpful. They also speak English. The building is centrally located in a popular area of Montpellier. They have tonnes of information, maps and brochures. A shop selling local products and souvenirs is also located in the building.

How long to spend at Office de Tourisme Montpellier

10-15 minutes is enough time to get all the information you need about the area.

Opening hours for Office de Tourisme Montpellier

Monday-Saturday: 9:30am-1pm, 2pm-7pm

Sunday: 10am-1pm, 2pm-5pm

If you have money to spend in Office de Tourisme Montpellier

The tourist office sells a selection of products local to the area as well as souvenirs.

Office de Tourisme Montpellier address

30 All. Jean de Lattre de Tassigny, 34000 Montpellier, France

Plus Code: JV5J+QH Montpellier, France

Montpellier France Blogs

For more information on Montpellier, check out our Montpellier Destination Guide.

Train to Montpellier France

Trains are a cheap and efficient way to get to Montpellier France. The main train station in Montpellier is Montpellier Saint-Roch. This is located in the heart of Montpellier. There is also a secondary train station, Montpellier Sud de France, which is on the outskirts of Montpellier. Montpellier Sud de France solely services TGV high speed trains.

We recommend using the app and website TrainLine to book intercity train tickets in France. This is the app we used. We found it very easy to use with great functionality. Another great feature is that you can see days ahead to see what times of the day were the cheapest rates. The TrainLine app was much easier to use than the SNCF website and app, which we found really cumbersome and difficult to use.

Where to stay in Montpellier France

We recommend the following accommodation in Montpellier France:

• Best hostel in Montpellier France – Le Maje Hostel is a modern hostel with friendly and knowledgeable staff. The hostel is very safe and secure with codes for the main door as well as each room. It is conveniently located next to the old town and also close to the train station. The beds are comfortable and there is a large common area.
• Best bed & breakfast in Montpellier France – Les 4 étoiles is a comfortable and clean bed & breakfast close to the historical centre of Montpellier. The host is warm and welcoming and the breakfasts are fantastic.
• Best 4 star hotel in Montpellier France – Pullman La Pléiade Montpellier Centre is a nicely renovated hotel with friendly and attentive staff. It is centrally located and has a nice roof terrace area with a small swimming pool. There is also an excellent breakfast buffet.
• Best luxury 5 star hotel in Montpellier France – Hôtel Richer de Belleval is set in a beautifully renovated historic building. The hotel is a work of art and is beautifully decorated, particularly the bar area. The beds are extremely comfortable.
• Best value self-contained apartment in Montpellier France – Aparthotel Adagio Montpellier Centre Comedie is ideally located near Place de la Comédie and Opera Comedie. The apartment is spacious and quiet and the staff are friendly.

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