Where to stay in Montpellier [Best Places to Stay for 2024]

Let’s explore Montpellier, a thriving student oasis in the south of France, just a stone’s throw from the dazzling blue waters of the Mediterranean.

With a thriving nightlife scene, a charming old town, and easy access to the sea, Montpellier has everything you could hope for in a fun, yet relaxing weekend away.

As the seventh largest city in France, Montpellier is home to many different districts, so knowing where to stay in Montpellier can be challenging, especially for first timers.

We’ve put together a list of the best accommodation in Montpellier France for anyone and everyone, whether it’s a seaside breeze or a bustling nightlife that you’re hankering for.

The best neighborhoods and hotels in Montpellier: A complete guide

❤️ Best Area first timers	Montpellier Historic Centre or Saint-Anne
💸 Best Luxury Hotel	Hôtel Richer De Belleval
👪 Best Hotel for For Families	Mercure Montpellier Centre Comédie
🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotel	Me and Mrs Jones Suite Jacuzzi Hypercentre
🛏️ Best Budget Hotel	Loc’Apparts Montpellier
✨ Best Hostel	Le Maje Hostel

Below are 7 of the best neighbourhoods in Montpellier to help you make the right decision when trying to work out the best area to stay in Montpellier for you. We have tried to make the guide as easy to follow as possible.

We have also included some things to do or places to visit as well as some eatery suggestions of either our favourite places or some funky places to eat at within the areas in Montpellier so you can use this as a go to guide.

Montpellier Historic centre – where to stay in Montpellier for nightlife

Bunking down in the Montpellier Historic centre–our top pick for where to stay in Montpellier City for nightlife–puts you in the centre of it all.

Here’s why Montpellier Historic centre one of the best neighborhoods in Montpellier and also what to do while you’re there.

Why stay in Montpellier Historic centre

Montpellier’s Historic centre is the beating heart of this lively, yet all together laid back mediterranean city.

The historic centre is a cobblestone adorned, pedestrian friendly labyrinth of charming alleyways and regal architecture, and its central location means that the top places to visit in Montpellier will never be far away.

Also a hotspot for the local student population with plentiful bars and clubs around, a stay in Montpellier’s Historic centre truly checks off all the boxes: location, history, and fun.

Things to do in Montpellier Historic centre

• Place la Comédie

Embark on your Montpellier adventure with a visit to Place de la Comédie, the impressive pedestrian plaza that resides in the centre of the historic district. We recommend beginning your day here to orient yourself to this neighborhood and the city as a whole.

Not only is this a fantastic starting off point to acquaint yourself with the city, but there are no shortage of cafes and restaurants, either. So sit back, enjoy a drink, and indulge in some top notch people watching before starting your day.

• Jardin du Champ de Mars

A long, linear garden dotted by fountains and several museums, Jardin du Champ de Mars is an urban oasis in the middle of Montpellier centre.

Though some reviews claim that the gardens have become rundown, it remains a sunny, lively spot to have a picnic or just take a stroll.

Along the park’s Esplanade Charles-de-Gaulle promenade, you’ll find outdoor cafes and restaurants, and you might even run into some pop-up food stands.

• Musée Fabre

Musée Fabre is an expansive art museum in the heart of Montpellier, boasting some of the best art exhibits in all of France (it frequently trades exhibits with the Louvre in Paris).

The museum was founded in 1892 and houses renowned artwork by the likes of Monet and other famous artists.

If you’re visiting Montpellier in the summer and need a break from the heat, this climate controlled museum is your best bet.

• Église Saint-Roch de Montpellier

A short distance from the Place de la Comédie, you’ll find the Église Saint-Roch de Montpellier (Saint Roch Church), which is dedicated to the patron saint of Montpellier.

The church is technically ‘unfinished’, meaning that its architectural plans never fully came to fruition, adding to the mystique of this otherwise traditional Catholic church.

• Montpellier Nightlife

As one of the premiere student cities in France and home to one of the oldest universities in the entire world (The University of Montpellier dates back to the year 1220), Montpellier has no shortage of nightlife options.

Opting to stay in Montpellier centre means you’re just a stone’s throw away from some of the best nightlife the city has to offer. Here are some of our top picks for a great night out in Montpellier: 

• Smash Bar
• Times – Bar à Vins Montpellier
• Panka – Bar de Joie
• Juniper – The G&T Bar
• Bonsoir Cocktail Bar
• High Five Bar

Best places to stay in Montpellier Historic centre

Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in Montpellier Historic centre

• Le Maje Hostel

Budget accommodation in Montpellier Historic centre

• Le musée Fabre, appart de Charme avec clim et parking gratuit
• L’Aiguillerie
• Superbe studio centre historique Ecusson
• Ambre…La perle rare

Mid range accommodation in Montpellier Historic centre

• Me and Mrs Jones Suite Jacuzzi Hypercentre
• Appartement tout confort proche gare et centre ville
• Appartement de caractère au cœur du centre-ville
• LGC Habitat – Studios Hyper Centre

Family Friendly accommodation in Montpellier Historic centre

• Le Chapeau Rouge – Centre Historique – Corum
• L’Agora Home HH – Centre Historique Corum – Netflix & Prime Video
• La Terrasse du Marché aux Fleurs
• Magnifique 2 pièces – Plein centre

Affordable Luxury accommodation in Montpellier Historic centre

• Crowne Plaza Montpellier Corum, an IHG Hotel
• Hôtel Richer De Belleval

Sainte-Anne – where to stay in Montpellier with tourists

Adjacent to the Montpellier Historic Centre is Saint-Anne, a small district within the city centre that offers a bit of separation from potentially noisy nightlife, while still allowing visitors to be in the centre of Montpellier’s best attractions. 

Why stay in Sainte-Anne

Saint-Anne Square is the epicentre of this cozy little district, filled with inviting cafes and restaurants, yet so close to the hustle and bustle of Montpellier’s historic centre.

Not only is Sainte-Anne perfectly located, but it also houses an impressive number of art galleries, tourist attractions, and high end shopping.

Given its incredible location and surprising serenity, Sainte-Anne is considered a best area to Montpellier. 

Things to do in Sainte-Anne

• Église Saint-Anne

This beautiful, yet understated church sits at the forefront of the Sainte-Anne Square, the heart of this district. It’s definitely worth a visit if you are in the area.

• Carré Sainte Anne

What was formerly a Gothic church has been transformed into an expansive art exhibit space in the heart of the Sainte-Anne district.

The renovated church has become a transfixing space for art exhibits, where you’ll find a rotating roster of incredible artwork on display.

• Arc de Triomphe

Not terribly dissimilar to its Parisian counterpart, Montpellier’s Arc de Triomphe is an imposing archway symbolizing the ‘triomphe’ (triumph) of France. Montpellier’s arc, however, is in a notably quieter area than Paris’ (anyone who has been to Paris knows the traffic means it’s nearly impossible to get a good photo at the arc due to traffic).

Some consider Montpellier’s arc to be the most famous landmark in the city. Located within the stately Jardins de Peyrou and sitting adjacent from a statue of Louis XIV, be sure to stop by for a photo opp and to soak in some history. 

• Promenade du Peyrou

Just beyond the Arc de Triomphe is the Promenade du Peyrou, a dramatic, tree lined esplanade that makes for a great walk or picnic spot.

• Jardin des Plantes de Montpellier

Following the theme of urban parks, the Jardin des Plantes de Montpellier (Montpellier Botanical Gardens) dates back to 1593 and is home to over 2,000 plant species. This impressive and beautiful park is certainly worth spending a few hours getting lost in.

You’ll find plants you’ve never seen before, surrounded by intriguing architectural features like arches and bridges. There’s even placards throughout the gardens detailing certain aspects of its history. You won’t want to miss this.

• Montpellier Cathedral

At first glance, Montpellier’s flagship church, Cathedrale St. Pierre, might not look like a church at all, but rather more like a fortress.

Its arched entryway is flanked by peaked tower like structures on either end, giving the impression that you’re about to enter a medieval castle, not necessarily a church.

The cathedral’s unusual entryway is just the beginning of its intrigue: once inside, you’ll find ornate stained glass, an impressive church organ, and a glimpse of the building’s troubled history. 

Best places to stay in Sainte-Anne

Budget accommodation in Sainte-Anne

• Ida Chambres d’hôtes B&B
• Joli studio avec terrasse, coeur historique
• Rare Loft vue sur les toits – Suites Gaya Centre Historique
• B&B “Chambre d’Autres”, Massages

Mid range accommodation in Sainte-Anne

• Un Jardin dans la ville – Premiere conciergerie
• Comedie etuves – Premiere conciergerie
• Appartement lumineux et rénové – Coeur de ville
• L’Esprit Montpel “St Roch”

Family Friendly accommodation in Sainte-Anne

• La Parenthèse Roucher Montpellier – Duplex Climatisé T2 Cœur écusson
• En Ville et sous les Arbres
• Duplex Copé Cambes – Eglise Saint Roch – Première Conciergerie
• Montcalm climatisé en plein Écusson

Les Arceaux – where to stay in Montpellier on a budget

Slightly further from the historic Montpellier centre is Les Arceaux, a cozy, village like neighborhood where visitors are likely to find peaceful, wallet friendly accommodation while remaining close to the heart of the city.

Why stay in Les Arceaux

Les Arceaux (‘the arches’) is a charming and inviting neighborhood built under and around the famed archways of the Acqueduc Saint-Clément.

This leafy, comfortable neighborhood is walking distance to the historic city centre, while maintaining a feeling of being in a small village.

About the neighborhood, the official Montpellier tourism website says, “It has always been a smart, bourgeois neighbourhood, with beautiful mansions and gardens”.

That said, given its separation from the city centre, plus its plentiful accommodation options, travelers looking to stick to a budget should set up shop in Les Arceaux. 

Things to do in Les Arceaux

• Aqueduc Saint-Clément

Dating back to the 18th century and comprising of an incredible 236 arches is the Acqueduc Saint-Clement. This magnificent piece of Roman inspired architecture provided the people of Montpellier with drinking water through the 1960s.

Today, this 800 metre long aqueduct supplies the Montpellier’s many fountains with clean water, and it also serves as an unforgettable landmark by which to recognize the city. Stopping to take a photo here is a must while in Montpellier. 

• Marché des Arceaux

Nestled under the arches of the Aquedux Saint-Clément, you’ll find a fabulous twice weekly (Tuesdays and Saturdays) year round street market called the Marché des Arceaux.

Depending on the time of year, you’ll find an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables, plus local delicacies such as lavender, cheese, baked bread, and even some roasted chicken. If you’re planning a picnic for later in the day, this is a great place to grab provisions from.

Best places to stay in Les Arceaux

Budget accommodation in Les Arceaux

• Charmants appartements centre ville
• Loc’Apparts Montpellier
• Les arceaux de Montpellier
• Havre de paix rénové aux Arceaux

Mid range accommodation in Les Arceaux

• Villa avec piscine en plein cœur de ville
• Magnifique rooftop de 80 m2climatisé aux ARCEAUX
• Les 4 étoiles
• Grande suite sur jardin dans Montpellier centre

Family Friendly accommodation in Les Arceaux

• Suite Farniente classée 4 étoiles, avec Patio , Garage
• Hotel des Arceaux
• Artistic Loft, Downtown Montpellier
• Suite Oisivité classée 3 étoiles avec Terrasse, Climatisation

Beaux Arts – where to stay in Montpellier for foodies

Slightly north of the historic centre of Montpellier lies the Beaux Arts district, a recently transformed hub that is today known for its food scene and artwork.

Why stay in Beaux Arts

What was once a slaughterhouse neighborhood long overlooked by locals as dirty and undesirable, the Beaux Arts district has undergone a complete transformation in recent years.

Today, this quaint and quiet neighborhood just north of the city centre is home to some of Montpellier’s very best food and artwork. Here you’ll find a lively atmosphere known for its popularity with after work happy hour crowds.

Some say that this neighborhood is reminiscent of Paris, especially given its eclectic “bourgeois-bohemian” atmosphere. In any case, foodies on the hunt for Montpellier’s best cuisine should definitely opt for a stay in Beaux Arts.

Things to do in Beaux Arts

• Beaux-Arts market

Arguably one of the best street markets in all of Montpellier, the Beaux-Arts market takes place every Monday to Saturday from 7am to 1:30pm, giving you plenty of time to stock up on local produce and goods.

Foodies who want to try their hand at cooking (or just have a picnic) should stop by this market to stock up.

• Try Montpellier’s best food

As the foodie hub of Montpellier, the Beaux-Arts district is teeming with cafes and restaurants throughout.

A short walk will delight you with plenty of lively options for places to grab a bite or a quick drink. Here are some of our favorites:

• Le Spot des Beaux Arts
• Bisciù Pizzeria
• O Pain Delicious
• Bar du Marché – Tapas
• Chic Et Boheme

• Musée d’Art Brut 

This museum is dedicated to “art brut”, the work of self taught artists from the early twentieth century through today. Some incredibly important artwork is housed in the museum’s over 8,600 square feet of exhibits. 

• Brass Bands Festival

If you’re lucky enough to be in Montpellier at the end of June, you might be able to catch the Brass Bands Festival, which takes place in the Beaux-Arts district yearly.

At least ten brass bands flock to Montpellier every year and march through the streets playing music, and the neighborhood erupts into celebration around them.

• Verdanson Quays

Lovingly referred to as a ‘real street art museum’, the Verdanson Quays are a series of concrete walls where graffiti artists are welcome to express their talents. 

Best places to stay in Beaux Arts

Budget accommodation in Beaux Arts

• Appartement cocooning 4 Pers, Parking privé
• Simone’s Tiny House
• *Appt du Faubourg Boutonnet, 4 personnes, Wifi*
• Le Couleur Vintage

Mid range accommodation in Beaux Arts

• Résidence Néméa – Beaux Arts Montpellier
• Appartement avec Jardin proche Corum
• # CLIM – TRAM – Centre ville – Sous les toits #
• Beaux Arts T3 Duplex, Rénové Lumineux + Garage

Family Friendly accommodation in Beaux Arts

• Le Ben’s – Plaisir & Pratique – L&R Homes
• Appartement avec Jardin proche Corum
• Beaux Arts T3 Duplex, Rénové Lumineux + Garage
• Hôtel du Parc

Antigone – where to stay in Montpellier with family

Our top pick for family oriented stays in Montpellier is the Antigone district, a safe neighborhood offering spacious accommodation and convenient transport options for families.

Why stay in Antigone

Built on the grounds of what was formerly the Joffre military barracks, the Antigone district of Montpellier of today is a spacious, comfortable area intentionally designed for residential use.

Antigone’s transformation from military to civilian housing was completed by Ricardo Bofill, a famous Catalan architect, in the 1980s, and it is famous for being the single largest development of space ever undertaken in 

France. Antigone is conveniently located just a few tram stops away from Montpellier’s centre, but this moderate distance comes with significant advantages: plentiful space, parks, and a family friendly atmosphere, making it our top pick for families visiting Montpellier. 

Things to do in Antigone

• Polygone Shopping Centre

Antigone is home to the largest shopping centre in the region, where you’ll find all of the major French brands you could hope for (Fnac, Galleries Lafayette).

The building itself is also an architectural beauty, with a neo-classical design and winding staircases that people lovingly refer to as ‘the ladders of the town’. There are over 100 shops and 10 restaurants here, and the mall is serviced by four tram lines.

• Place de Europe

A spacious and open green area on the banks of the Lez River, the Place de Europe–also designed by Ricardo Bofill–is a popular spot for walking, relaxing, and soaking in the local architecture. 

It is at the far end of the Antigone district, designed by the architect Ricardo Bofill, that this other meandering urban itinerary starts, at “Place de l’Europe” or “Rives du Lez” station.

• Antigone Market

If you’re in the area on a Wednesday or Sunday, be sure to stop the Antigone Market, where you’ll find loads of local goods to enjoy right away or even take home with you as a souvenir. 

• Wednesday, 7am to 2pm (winter) and 7am to 5.30pm (summer)
• Sunday, 8am to 1.30pm

Best places to stay in Antigone

Budget accommodation in Antigone

• Hotel de La Comédie
• Hôtel Mistral Comédie Saint Roch
• Hôtel Colisée-Verdun Centre Gare Saint-Roch
• Appartement – City center

Mid range accommodation in Antigone

• Mercure Montpellier Centre Antigone
• Hotel d’Aragon
• ibis Styles Montpellier Centre Comedie
• Best Western Plus Comedie Saint Roch

Family Friendly accommodation in Antigone

• Du Guesclin Comédie (connecté & climatisé)
• Mercure Montpellier Centre Comédie
• Privilège Hôtel & Apparts Eurociel Centre Comédie
• Citadines Antigone Montpellier

Affordable Luxury accommodation in Antigone

• Pullman La Pléiade Montpellier Centre
• Novotel Suites Montpellier Antigone

Port Marianne – where to stay in Montpellier for nature lovers

A modern and comfortable district with intentionally designed architecture and outdoor spaces, Port Marianne is our top pick for nature lovers visiting Montpellier.

Why stay in Port Marianne

Port Marianne is noticeably different from the other neighborhoods we love in Montpellier, particularly in its incredible modernity.

This district is the newest in all of Montpellier, complete with contemporary, angled architecture where the glass facades beautifully reflect the year round sunlight and nearby banks of the River Lez.

With miles of walking and biking paths, Port Marianne is perfect for nature lovers and tourists who want to stay active on their trip.

Things to do in Port Marianne

• Charpark

A massive park in the middle of the Port Marianne district, the Charpak covers 8 hectares and features over 500 trees, reflecting pools, terraces, open meadows, and more.

The city is also in the process of building play areas for children and relaxation spots for adults. Every year, the Montpellier fireworks are held here on July 14.

• Biking

Port Marianne has an extensive network of biking and walking paths, which are an easy 11.5 km away from the ocean.

A pleasant ride or walk along these paved paths will bring you right to the shores of the Mediterranean Sea.

• Extreme Sports Festival

The Montpellier International Extreme SPorts Festival is Europe’s largest extreme sports competition, held yearly in May. Sports lovers won’t want to miss this. 

Best places to stay in Port Marianne

Budget accommodation in Port Marianne

• 5ème Ciel – Première Conciergerie
• T1 30m² avec vue sur arbre blanc
• Appartement port Marianne Jacques Coeur
• Superbe appartement avec terrasse

Mid range accommodation in Port Marianne

• Résidence GOELIA Sun City
• Appartement avec terrasse, parking et proche tramway
• Olivera – Première conciergerie
• Nice and bright flat near the Montpellier train station – Welkeys

Family Friendly accommodation in Port Marianne

• 3 rooms with a view of l’Arbre blanc, Beach 15mn
• Port Marianne City Cosy Apparemment
• Aparthotel Adagio access Montpellier Centre
• Holiday Inn Express Montpellier – Odysseum, an IHG Hotel

Affordable Luxury accommodation in Port Marianne

• Courtyard by Marriott Montpellier

Palavas-les-Flots where to stay in Montpellier near the beach

A charming seaside district just six km away from Montpellier proper, Palavas-les-Flots evokes the feeling of a small fishing village, while still being close to the city centre.

This is one of the best places to stay near Montpellier without being in the centre itself.

Why stay in Palavas-les-Flots

Our top pick for visitors to Montpellier wishing to be close to the sea, Palavas-les-Flots is a quieter alternative to downtown Montpellier and lands you right on the shores of the Mediterranean.

Technically a town in its own right, Palavas-les-Flots has a small city centre of its own, along the edges of the River Lez, which ultimately leads to the sea.

We love this neighborhood for anyone looking to get a resort like feel while still having Montpellier proper at your disposal.

Things to do in Palavas-les-Flots

• Lighthouse of the Mediterranean

This newly renovated former water tower today houses a revolving restaurant with incredible views over the Mediterranean and town below. Be sure to stop by for an unforgettable atmosphere and top notch drinks.

• Beach

Palavas-les-Flots is home to 7 km of beach, complete with piers, walking paths, and plenty of water sports, too. Sometimes, you might even catch sight of a flock of flamingos.

• Maguelone Cathedral

A quick car or taxi ride will get you to the Maguelone Cathedral, an imposing and impressive church built on a small volcanic island that’s attached to the mainland merely by a small strip of land.

The cathedral dates back to the 11th century; its walls are 2 metres thick and its passageways are narrow. This makes for a fascinating day trip for history lovers. 

Best places to stay in Palavas-les-Flots

Budget accommodation in Palavas-les-Flots

• Résidence de Tourisme l’Albatros
• Hôtel Le Carnon
• Le Grand Large Bord de Mer Hotel & Appartements
• Hotel Le Petit Baigneur Palavas Plage

Mid range accommodation in Palavas-les-Flots

• Bord de plage – Première conciergerie
• Face à la mer – Première conciergerie
• Appartement * Palavas-les-flots * Piscine
• HoteI de la Plage Montpellier Sud

Family Friendly accommodation in Palavas-les-Flots

• Superbe appartement sur la plage – Le Zénith
• Hôtel les 4 éléments
• The Originals Boutique, Hôtel Neptune, Montpellier Sud
• Superbe ! Appart T3 – Vue mer – Garage

Affordable Luxury accommodation in Palavas-les-Flots

• Hôtel Plage Palace & Spa

Montpellier-Méditerranée Airport (where to stay in Montpellier near the airport)

Location, location, location! For those of you looking for convenience, look no further than accommodation in the Montpellier-Méditerranée Airport district, our top pick for stays close to the airport.

Why stay near Montpellier-Méditerranée Airport

The Montpellier area is home to a large airport conveniently located within earshot of Provence, Languedoc, and even Catalonia in Spain.

This airport is serviced by many major airlines with direct connections to major cities throughout Europe and beyond, making it an ideal stop along nearly any multi city European itinerary. 

Things to do near Montpellier-Méditerranée Airport

• Montpellier Exhibition centre

Close to the airport is the Montpellier Exhibition centre, where a rotating roster of conventions and exhibits take place throughout the year. Check their website to see if anything piques your interest.

• Beach

A mere 10 minute drive from the airport will get you to the beach. Nearby, you’ll find Plage Le Petit Travers, Palavas-les-Flots, and even the Feu de la jetée Sud-Ouest (lighthouse), too. These are some of the best beaches in Montpellier.

• Arènes de Pérols

A traditional, old school sports arena that’s typically free to visit, this is a fascinating spot near the Montpellier airport. You’ll find interesting events here such as bull shots, various types of racing, and sports. There’s also a children’s park nearby.

Best places to stay in Montpellier Airport

Budget accommodation in Montpellier Airport

• Ibis Budget Montpellier Aéroport Parc Des Expos
• Le mas du bosc
• Les Loges de la Mer – Pérols
• Grand studio lumineux

Mid range accommodation in Montpellier Airport

• Charmante villa proche de la plage
• Appartement Pérols Centre
• Le Constance
• Villa 3 pièces avec jacuzzi privé

Family Friendly accommodation in Montpellier Airport

• Eurotel Parc Expo Airport Montpellier
• Brit Hotel Montpellier Parc Expo
• Aeroport Hotel – Parc Expo
• Forme-hotel & Spa Montpellier Sud-Est – Parc Expositions

Areas to Avoid in Montpellier

Although generally regarded as a very safe place for tourists to visit, there are of course areas in Montpellier that visitors should avoid, like any other city.

Like many other major European cities, risks for pickpocketing and theft are moderate, but any threats beyond that are considered quite a low probability.

Some neighborhoods to consider avoiding, particularly at night time, include:

• La Paillade-Hauts de Massane
• La Mosson
• Le Petit Bard
• Celleneuve

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