Montpellier sits six miles inland from the Mediterranean on the south coast of France, and was founded in the 10th century when settlers moved in from the coast. Modern day Montpellier is famous for its student population, with around a third of its residents at college, while it’s said that the University of Montpellier has been open in its various different forms since the 12th century. Hire a car from Montpellier Airport and enjoy the drive into the city; Montpellier HSC play at the Stade de la Mosson, which hosted several games at the 1998 World Cup and is one of France’s top sports venues.
Soak up Montpellier’s history at the Place de la Comédie, which sits at the city’s heart and is home to the 19th century Opera Comédie. See the triumphant Porte du Peyrou and take in the grand, elegant Place Royal du Peyrou. Stroll up to the magnificent, angular Cathédrale St-Pierre, which was extensively rebuilt in the 17th century. Nearby, the beautiful Jardin des Plantes is a city-centre jungle filled to the brim with tropical plants. See all these beautiful places and much more of the Languedoc-Roussillon region by renting a car from Montpellier Airport. Take in the coastline and explore the brilliant beaches nearby. The fishing town of Sète is 25 miles drive southeast and boasts a serene 12-mile stretch of beach.
