: Montpellier

Montpellier is the dynamic capital of the Hérault department and the Occitanie region. It is one of France's fastest-growing cities, with a young population centered on its historic university (founded in 1289), the oldest medical school in the Western world. The city blends a beautiful medieval core, grand 18th-century boulevards, and bold contemporary architecture.

Montpellier Saint-Roch station is a major TGV hub, with high-speed services from Paris (3.5 hours), Lyon, and Barcelona. Montpellier Méditerranée Airport has flights across Europe. By car, the A9 and A75 motorways intersect. An extensive tram network covers the city.

The old town (l'Écusson) is pedestrianised and best explored on foot. Four efficient tram lines cover the city and serve beaches and suburbs. Vélomagg' bike-share.

Place de la Comédie with the Opera House. The Musée Fabre (world-class art museum). The Cathédrale Saint-Pierre. The Arc de Triomphe and Promenade du Peyrou. The Antigone district (Ricardo Bofill).

Explore the Écusson's boutiques. Montpellier Danse, Printemps des Comédiens, film festivals. The nearby beaches 20 minutes by tram.

Brandade de morue, tielles (spicy squid pie from Sète), gardiane de taureau. Michelin-starred to casual bistros.

Languedoc wines (Pic Saint-Loup, La Clape, Grès de Montpellier). Vibrant nightlife around Corum and Place de la Comédie.

Luxury hotels near Place de la Comédie, mid-range in the Écusson, budget near the station.

Independent fashion boutiques in the Écusson. Halles Laissac and Halles Castellane markets. Languedoc wines.

Mediterranean beaches (Palavas, Carnon). Nîmes, Arles, Pont du Gard. Sète (30 minutes). The Cévennes.