Day Trip To Montpellier By Train

Last Updated on March 6, 2025 by Sarah Wilson

I recently took a day trip by train to Montpellier, a beautiful city in the south of France, and I absolutely fell in love with the place.

Located near the Mediterranean coast, Montpellier is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively streets. It is also home to the University of Montpellier, one of the oldest universities in the world, established in 1220.

During my visit, I enjoyed several coffees, people-watched in the picturesque Place de la Comédie, and wandered through the medieval streets of the Old Town. There’s so much to love about this city, and I’m excited to share a few highlights from my trip!

Arriving By Train Into Montpellier

Note that Montpellier has two train stations. Gare Montpellier Saint-Roch is located right in the heart of the city and just 200 metres from Place de la Comédie and Gare Montpellier Sud de France, a TGV station outside of the city.

I didn’t know this, so I just booked my train ticket online and found myself at Gare Montpellier Sud de France. It’s not the end of the world if you do arrive here, but it’s a long walk to the city centre if you do. There is quite a lot of road construction around the station at the moment, so it was a 20-minute walk to the nearest tram stop. Take tram number 1 into town.

Fortunately, my return ticket was from Gare Montpellier Saint-Roch, which is so much more convenient.

Getting around Montpellier

Montpellier is easy to get around (more so if you arrive at the right station). The historic centre is compact and largely pedestrianized, offering a relaxing atmosphere perfect for wandering through its charming streets and quaint squares at your own pace.

Place de la Comédie

The Place de la Comédie is Montpellier’s main square and the city’s heart. It’s a large, open space surrounded by beautiful historic buildings.

The square is always bustling with life, featuring street performers, cafes, and shops. It’s a great spot to sit, relax, and enjoy the lively atmosphere while watching the world go by.

The Tourist Board has an office on the square where you can pick up some information or a map.

Esplanade Charles de Gaulle

Tree lined promenade but as winter trees are without leaves. A few people walking on the promenade

The Esplanade Charles de Gaulle is a tree-lined promenade leading from the Place de la Comédie, making it a pleasant walk spot.

However, if you visit in winter like I did, the trees are bare, and the scenery isn’t quite as vibrant as in other seasons. I imagine it’s lovely in the summer.

Explore The Old Town

Starting from the Place de la Comédie, you can easily stroll into Montpellier’s charming historic old town. The route is clearly signposted and has walking times to each spot.

Narrow streets of Montpellier with a view to the cathedral

Several streets, like Rue de l’Ancien Courrier, lead you into the charming neighbourhoods of Quartier Courrier, Quartier Saint-Roch, and Écusson, the heart of the old town.

In the old town, there’s also a covered market, Les Halles, which, like most markets in France, is always worth visiting.

Visit The Place Royale du Peyrou

Pass through Montpellier’s Arc de Triomphe, and just across the street, you’ll arrive at the Place Royale du Peyrou, one of Montpellier’s most iconic spots.

At the square’s centre is a statue of Louis XIV, with the 18th-century Château d’Eau, a decorative water tower, just behind it.

Climbing the stairs beside the tower offers excellent views of the Aqueduc Saint-Clément, which extends over 14 kilometres to the Saint-Clément spring.

Stroll Through The Jardin Des Plantes

Take a leisurely walk through the Jardin des Plantes. Founded in 1593, it is the oldest botanical garden in France and is home to nearly 2,700 plant species.

brick archways surrounded by trees and bushes at the Jardin Des Plantes

Enjoy Lunch At The Place de la Canourge

The Place de la Canourge is located between the Jardin des Plantes and the cathedral. It’s a nice spot for lunch. Even in the middle of January, I found a nice sunny spot to sit outside and enjoy some food.

Visit Saint-Pierre Cathedral

Montpellier’s Cathédrale Saint-Pierre is a large Gothic church and the biggest in the city. It was built in the 14th century as part of a monastery and became a cathedral in the 16th century.

One of its most eye-catching features is the huge porch with two tall, round pillars that make it look a bit like a fortress. Inside, you’ll find beautiful stained-glass windows and a richly decorated interior.

Catherdral in Montpellier with two bell towers and two pointy towers

The cathedral is open every day and is free to enter.

Explore Écusson (Old Town)

After lunch, continue exploring the old town. This area is full of narrow, winding streets and pretty little squares, making it a lovely place to explore.

Visit the Musée Fabre

This impressive museum has an extensive collection of European art from the 14th to the 21st century, including works by Rubens, Delacroix, and Courbet. Allow your visit at least an hour and a half to two hours.

Is One Day Enough Time In Montpellier?

Yes, Montpellier is a relatively small city, with most of its key attractions located within walking distance of each other. Most points of interest are centred around the old town (vieux ville), making it possible to explore all Montpellier has to offer in just one day.

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Sarah Wilson

Solo traveller, exploring the world one adventure at a time. Enthusiastic about trying new cuisines and uncovering hidden gems. Animal lover, often found house-sitting and making furry friends. Based in Malta, but always daydreaming about moving somewhere else.