Looking to escape and spend pleasant moments with family or friends in a healthy environment, close to nature? Enjoy your stay at the Vias Plage campsite to explore Languedoc and, in particular, its capital, Montpellier, located about 60 km away.
Montpellier, a city steeped in history
Just 10 km from the Mediterranean, Montpellier is one of the most visited cities in the Hérault region. This destination is renowned for its rich historical and cultural heritage. Visiting this city feels like taking a fantastic leap into the distant past. Take the time to wander through its medieval streets and let yourself be charmed by the elegance of its 19th-century buildings, as well as the daring contemporary architectural masterpieces.
A must-see among the must-sees, the Place de la Comédie is one of the largest pedestrian areas in Europe. A popular meeting and relaxation spot for locals and visitors alike, it is lined with numerous terraces. The setting is enhanced by the beautiful facades surrounding it and by iconic landmarks such as the city's Opera House and the Three Graces fountain.
Other noteworthy sites in Montpellier include the Saint-Pierre Cathedral. Recognizable by its Gothic architecture and especially by its massive baldaquin porch, this religious building, whose origins date back to 1364 (when it was merely a chapel), became a cathedral in 1536 after extensive enlargement and embellishment work. The church has accompanied Montpellier's history since its inception and, in some ways, France's history too. It bears the scars of the Wars of Religion, during which it was targeted by numerous Protestant assaults.
Another unmissable spot is the Place de la Canourgue, the city's oldest square, ideal for a stroll with family or friends. The same goes for the Place Royale, which opens onto the Arc de Triomphe and the water tower, extended by the Saint-Clément Aqueduct.
If you have some time left, make sure to visit the covered markets. From the city center, it’s also easy to reach Montpellier Airport or explore nearby towns such as Sète or La Grande Motte.
Must-See Places in Montpellier
Several sites in Montpellier captivate and even fascinate visitors. We have selected 10 must-visit locations for your stay:
- The Arc de Triomphe: Climbing this iconic monument of the city, with its 90 steps, is undoubtedly a physical effort, but once at the top, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking panorama of the Languedoc capital.
- The Jardin des Plantes: France’s oldest botanical garden, dating back to the 16th century, is linked to the Faculty of Medicine's botany department. This place invites visitors to relax and take a leisurely stroll.
- Exploring Odysseum: Odysseum is a modern complex of a unique kind. It features a cultural center with attractions such as a planetarium and an aquarium, along with a shopping mall housing numerous boutiques. Climbing walls are also available.
- The Faculty of Medicine: The world’s oldest continuously operating medical faculty is located in the heart of Montpellier's historic center. Take the time to explore the origins and evolution of this emblematic institution.
- The Historic Center: The city’s oldest part is full of must-see attractions, including architectural gems dating back several centuries and bold contemporary works. You can explore the historic center aboard a small train or an open-top mini-bus.
- The Lunaret Zoo: Covering 80 hectares, this large zoological park in France welcomes families, couples, and groups of friends. Visitors can explore the Lez nature reserve, encounter animals and plants, and visit the largest Amazonian greenhouse in France. The zoo is free to enter, while access to the greenhouse is paid; however, it is currently closed for renovations.
- Place de la Comédie: This lively square is one of the city’s most iconic spots. From here, you can wander the medieval streets of the historic center and enjoy the many shops, studios, galleries, and restaurants that line them.
- The Fabre Museum: This art museum, one of the most important in France and Europe, spans 9,200 m² and showcases works of fine art from the 17th century to the contemporary era.
- The City Opera: Take the opportunity to visit Montpellier’s opera house, where you can even explore behind the scenes of this institution, dating back to 1888.
Staying at a 4-star campsite near Montpellier can also be an opportunity to enjoy guided tours centered on contemporary architectural works or the city’s private mansions. Don’t miss the chance to admire street art or dive into the history of medicine.
Discover Montpellier with Your Family
Montpellier became the capital of Bas-Languedoc in the 17th century under the reign of Louis XIV. For the city, this new status bestowed by the monarch marked the beginning of a prosperous period for the local economy. The city became more attractive to the upper bourgeoisie of the time, with the elite settling in an upscale district filled with cultural houses.
Take advantage of your stay in Montpellier, perhaps with a last-minute booking at our campsite, to discover or deepen your knowledge of the city’s history. The old town is a must-see. Enjoy a stroll through this historic center, adorned with the elegant homes of the upper class of yesteryear. This family outing will also allow you to admire many iconic monuments that contribute to the city's reputation.
The City’s Culture and Heritage
Proud of its rich heritage, the city applied in 2019 for the title of "European Capital of Culture." It must be said that Montpellier boasts many assets. The city is home to some of the most majestic squares in Europe, particularly the Place de la Comédie. Visitors also appreciate the many medieval and contemporary architectural gems that line the streets of its historic center. The charm is heightened by the juxtaposition of ancient landmarks such as the city's opera house or the Saint-Pierre Cathedral with modern establishments like boutiques, restaurants, and bars.
Montpellier's architectural treasures also reveal aspects of the city and region’s history. Among the most striking monuments is the Arc de Triomphe, a royal gateway completed in 1693, whose inscriptions and reliefs commemorate significant events from the reign of Louis XIV. One notable scene depicts the Netherlands paying homage to the French monarch following the capture of Namur during the "Nine Years' War."
The Charles-de-Gaulle Esplanade is another major attraction. It is home to the Pavillon Populaire, an "Art Nouveau" building dating back to the 19th century. This emblematic monument in central Montpellier has hosted numerous exhibitions for over a century. The public can enjoy photography and temporary exhibits, featuring works by notable figures like Brassaï, Bernard Plossu, and Jakob Tuggener, some of the greatest photographers of the last century.
How to Visit Montpellier?
To explore this city rich in heritage, it’s recommended to start with the historic center. This will give you the chance to discover several iconic sites and monuments, as well as renowned squares lined with restaurants, shops, and beautiful facades – Place de la Comédie, Promenade du Peyrou, Esplanade Charles-de-Gaulle…
To make exploring the city easier, you can opt for a guided tour. This not only saves you time but also ensures you don’t miss any major sites or monuments. Check with the local tourist office, which may offer, for example, a two-hour tour or a "grand loop" lasting three hours. Other options include a two-hour visit to the Faculty of Medicine or excursions to explore the culture and history of nearby destinations.
Lastly, it’s always possible to control your vacation expenses. To do so, we recommend booking your trip as early as possible. For instance, by contacting the Hérault campsite where you plan to stay several weeks in advance, you can enjoy favorable rates, particularly for accommodations. Additionally, you are more likely to come across promotional offers.
Another tip is to travel off-season. Besides the financial benefits, this option has several practical advantages. Many accommodations remain available, as do parking spaces and various activities. The main tourist sites, typically crowded in July and August, are also much quieter.
Experience shows that "last-minute" travel deals also allow you to save significantly, typically 30% to 50%.