Montpellier

A national monument of France, this Roman Catholic cathedral, dedicated to Saint Peter, was originally founded as a church in 1364 and later became a cathedral in 1536. The architectural marvel is built in the Gothic style and captivates visitors with its stunning features, including beautiful stained glass, old religious paintings, and an attached garden.

To explore the Roquefort Société Caves, you must venture a bit off the beaten path, approximately 1 1/2 hours northwest of Montpellier. The prime period to witness the cheeses ripening in the caves spans from January through July. However, access to the caves remains available throughout the entire year.

Place de la Comédie, situated in the heart of Montpellier, is a bustling and iconic square that serves as the vibrant focal point of the city. Also known as 'Place de l'oeuf' (Square Egg) due to its oval shape, the square is surrounded by stunning architectural landmarks, including the Opéra Comédie and the Three Graces fountain. A lively hub of activity, Place de la Comédie is adorned with outdoor cafés, restaurants, shops, and street performers, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists.

The original church was destroyed during the religious wars of the 16th century, but it is still an exciting historical destination. The name, Notre-Dame des Tables, comes from the tables of the currency exchange that was linked to the spice trade, originally located in front of the church.

Espiguette Beach is a tranquil and low-key destination, known for its long, wide expanse of sandy shores. The shallow waters make it safe environment for younger swimmers. While this beach becomes a popular and bustling spot during the summer, the serene atmosphere and expansive coastline make it well worth a visit.

One of the biggest museums in France, exhibiting nearly 800 works with Flemish, Dutch, Italian, Spanish and French collections. Admire works from the 16th-18th centuries from painters like Zurbaran, Reynolds, Tenier, Veronese and Monet. On display are ceramics, sculptures and contemporary paintings.

It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in town, and no wonder why — it contains 3,500 animals from nearly 300 species which fills the 24 pools. Beyond its impressive marine life collection, the aquarium offers a unique experience with various marine landscapes and features cutting-edge exhibits, including storm and hurricane simulators.

Montpellier Zoological Park, sprawling across an 80-hectare site, boasts an impressive collection with 141 species and over 1350 animals. This expansive and diverse habitat offers a delightful experience for visitors, combining the joys of nature with the opportunity to observe a wide array of wildlife.

Located on the outskirts of Montpellier, Château de la Mogère is a magnificent 18th-century castle surrounded by sprawling gardens and vineyards. This historic estate, once a residence of Montpellier nobility, showcases classic French architecture with its elegant façade and meticulously landscaped grounds. The château is renowned for its well-preserved interiors, featuring lavish furnishings and period details that offer a glimpse into the aristocratic lifestyle of the past. Visitors can explore the beautiful gardens, adorned with fountains and sculptures, and savour the charm of this enchanting castle.

Europark, the largest indoor children's entertainment park in France, offers a paradise for children up to 13 years old. Packed with a plethora of activities, young visitors can indulge in delights such as swimming in the ball pool, exhilarating slides, bouncing on trampolines, and much more.

Pic Saint-Loup is the highest observation point in the Montpellier area and a perfect place to go for a rewarding hike. As you ascend, the true reward unveils at the summit, where lush valleys stretch out below, offering breathtaking panoramic views.