13 of the best things to do in Montpellier, France

Montpellier – nicknamed the surdouée, the wonder child – is a city that buzzes with life and Mediterranean light.

In its medieval glory days, Montpellier was a cosmopolitan center of trade and learning with influences from the Arab, Jewish and Christian worlds. But it slipped off the beaten track until the 1980s, when it changed from a sleepy town to one of France’s fastest-growing cities.

Now, its culture of technical innovation and universities – along with its fairly reliable sunshine – make it one of the most popular places to live in France. The simple pleasures of this stylish southern city let you easily slip into the Mediterranean good life, whether it’s spending time in the terrace cafes and bars, plunging into the vibrant music and art scenes or heading out to the nearby sea.

Here are the best things to do in Montpellier.

1. Explore the art and architecture along the city streets

The best way to start exploring Montpellier is on foot. To get a feel for the rich past of Montpellier, saunter through the Ecusson quartier, where even locals can get lost in the narrow streets with honey limestone walls, whorled balconies and carved marble heads from the Belle Epoque.

Enjoy the architecture of Cathédrale St-Pierre and the bustling rue de l’Université. Amongst this history, Montpellier’s walls display spectacular street art. Don’t miss the trompe l’oeil at place Edouard Adam. For those wishing to really see all the dozens of graffiti murals, bikes coming out of walls and Invader mosaics, the tourist office does guided tours.

For a look at modern Montpellier, walk down through the faux ancient-Greek architecture of the Antigone neighborhood and then along the banks of the Lez river. Don’t miss the dramatic sculpture of the man and horse Orlando Furioso by exiled Catalan sculptor Apel·les Fenosa. Admire the dazzling Arbre Blanc building, with its balconies jutting out like leaves on a tree, and the eco-districts in Parc Marianne.

2. Visit the oldest medical school in Europe

In the medieval era, Montpellier became famous for its Faculty of Medicine, and today, it’s the oldest still-operating medical school in Europe, situated inside an impressive Benedictine monastery and dating back more than 800 years.

You can take a guided tour, where you will learn about the history of medicine and teaching. In the entrance hall, admire the portraits of…