Montpellier tours

Things to do in Montpellier

Montpellier offers a unique Mediterranean rhythm, where sunlit streets buzz with life and lavender scents fill the air. This city is a blend of historic richness and youthful spirit, with Roman ruins alongside modern shops. A local guide on Montpellier tours helps you delve deeper, bypassing queues at must-see attractions and discovering hidden spots like the peaceful Jardin des Plantes. Whether you're on a food and wine tour in lively markets or a leisurely walk under plane trees, your journey becomes a personal narrative filled with local insights and genuine experiences. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Montpellier. Explore Montpellier your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Montpellier tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Montpellier for every interest, including: Nature and Wildlife tours: Explore the Camargue to watch flamingos in the salt lagoons and meet the white horses on a 4x4 or horseback outing, then stop in Aigues‑Mortes to see the salt piles. Closer to town, walk the trails at the Maison de la Nature in Lattes or take a boat on the Étang de Thau to taste oysters at a farm. History tours: Wander l’Écusson’s medieval lanes with stops at the Faculty of Medicine, Saint‑Pierre Cathedral, and the Arc de Triomphe, with your guide arranging timed entry to the rare Mikvé when available. Finish at the Promenade du Peyrou to view the aqueduct and royal water tower. Montpellier’s old centre is easy to walk, and the tram network links stations, the Odysseum, and beach buses efficiently. For countryside, beaches, and vineyard or Camargue tours, you can book chauffeured tours or ask your local guide for tours with private transportation. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Montpellier inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Discover Montpellier on a private walking tour, and let a local guide show you the city’s vibrant neighborhoods. This is the best way to see the authentic side of Montpellier, with hidden gems and local secrets only they can reveal. - Écusson: The historic heart of Montpellier, Écusson is perfect for those intrigued by winding medieval streets and picturesque squares. Families and cultural tourists will find its history and architecture captivating, with plenty of cafes where everyone can rest and recharge. - Antigone: Designed in a neoclassical style, Antigone offers wide boulevards and modern architectural wonders. It's ideal for anyone interested in design and urban planning, and its open spaces make it accessible for groups of all ages. - Port Marianne: An up-and-coming area with a modern vibe, Port Marianne is great for multi-generational groups looking for leisurely strolls along the river and unique shopping experiences. Its contemporary atmosphere is a refreshing contrast to the older parts of the city. - Figuerolles: Known for its multicultural flair, Figuerolles is a hub for those seeking meaningful connections and an eclectic mix of cuisines. Explore its lively markets and street art, perfect for those looking to experience the city's diverse cultural tapestry. Day trip ideas from Montpellier From Montpellier, short day trips connect you to Roman sites, fishing ports, and hill villages, and your tour can lean into markets, sea air, or quiet stone lanes without rushing. - Nîmes: About 30 minutes by train, this Roman city pairs grand monuments and leafy squares with easy strolls; a smart pick if you enjoy architecture, clear photo angles, and a break for coffee on the Esplanade between sights. - Sète: Reach the canals and fishing quays in under 30 minutes, then split your time between seafood stands, wide beaches, and the walk up Mont Saint Clair for harbour views; handy for food lovers and anyone who wants a simple sea day without a long drive. - Saint Guilhem le Désert: In roughly 50 minutes you are in a limestone valley with a famed village, cool lanes, and river access nearby; good for short hikes, craft workshops, and quiet corners where you can slow down and take it in. - Aigues Mortes and the Camargue: Around 1 hour brings you to a walled town set by salt marsh and wide wetlands, where pink pools and birdlife change with the light; ideal if you like easy walking, wildlife viewing, and strong colours for photos. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Montpellier most travellers miss.