Attractions Nearby Montpellier, Day Trips and Excursions

(Montpellier, Herault, Languedoc-Roussillon, France)

Montpellier is certainly fortunate in its location. Ideally situated for both trips to nearby sandy Mediterranean beaches or inland to picturesque historic villages, visitors are conveniently close to all the attractions that this region has to offer.

It's definitely worth heading out of Montpellier city to enjoy lunch overlooking Séte's picturesque port, wander around the narrow streets of Aigues-Mortes, discover Roman history in Nîmes, or simply lounge on the beach and enjoy the coastal attractions at nearby Palavas-les-Flots.

Nîmes

Just 52 km / 32 miles from Montpellier, Nîmes is on the border between the two regions of Languedoc and Provence. The city boasts some fine Roman architecture, with the main historic attractions including an amphitheatre, temple, and the site of a former Roman baths. A range of museums brings the city's rich history back to life as well as showcasing all that's new in Nîmes in terms of contemporary art.

Sète

Also known as the 'Venice of Languedoc', Sète is located at the edge of the Mediterranean, just 31 km / 19 miles from Montpellier. Sète's charm lies in its links with the sea, its grand canal, as well as its many restaurants, tourist attractions and bustling streets. Stroll down the St. Louis Pier, watching the comings and goings of pleasure yachts or the fishing boats unloading their cargo. And when you need a rest and a bite to eat, what better way than to relax than with a good meal in a restaurant overlooking the sea.

Agde

Along the coast from Montpellier is the nearby seaside resort of Agde, just 63 km / 39 miles away. As well as splendid views of the L'Hérault estuary, Agde also offers plenty for visitors to see and do. Agde boasts a number of historic and religious buildings open to the public together with a quaint harbour, and narrow winding streets, which are home to numerous boutiques, restaurants and cafes.

Palavas-les-Flots

Just 9 km / 6 miles from Montpellier, Palavas-les-Flots offers all-year-round sun and entertainment. Once a humble fishing village, it has since been transformed into a family seaside resort with some 7 km / 4 miles of sandy beaches. Away from the beach attractions, the resort's latest attraction is the 'Phare de la Méditerranée', an amazing construction, which started out life as a water tower and now has been converted into a conference and tourist centre, complete with a revolving restaurant at the top.

Aigues-Mortes

Just along the coast from Montpellier is the walled town of Aigues-Mortes. This nearby historic town is one of the most important centres of the Camargue region. Its well-preserved town walls and Tour de Constance distinguish this historic town from many others in the region, which have succumbed to urban redevelopment. The salt marshes of Aigues-Mortes are said to be the oldest in the Mediterranean and are home to some fascinating flora and fauna.

St. Guilhem-le-Désert

Situated in the nearby Hérault Valley, this beautiful medieval village has managed to retain many of its links with the past. A stroll along its narrow streets reveals houses and similar attractions that have remained untouched for centuries. Classified as one of the 'Most Beautiful Villages in France', St. Guilhem-le-Désert's abbey has been listed as a World Heritage monument by UNESCO as part of the Pilgrimage Route of Santiago de Compostela.