Sunny climate, nearby beaches, a festive atmosphere and cultural and sporting events... A major regional city brought to life by a large student population, Montpellier is a shining example of dynamism and creativity. Well connected thanks to its avant-garde tramways and cycle paths, as well as vast pedestrianised spaces — first and foremost the famous Place de la Comédie —, it has all the makings of the good life. Standing alongside its historic centre, its new neighbourhoods symbolise a bold modernity. All surrounded by numerous, easily accessible natural sites like Mejean Nature Reserve, Pic Saint Loup and Lac du Salagou just waiting to be discovered.
The real estate market
With a 23% increase in three years and 37% over the last five years, the market has posted high growth. Prices have stabilised since the start of 2022 and are now in the €2,186 to €4,517 price bracket per square metre for an apartment (average price €3,384 per sq.m) and €2,633 to €5,484 per sq.m for houses (average price €4,087 per sq.m).
Our advice
The neighbourhoods to look at are Ecusson, Les Arceaux, Boutonnet, Aiguelongue, Les Beaux Arts and Port Marianne. For a fabulous Haussmann apartment, I’d definitely recommend the historic centre of Ecusson, and for houses, the neighbouring Les Arceaux area.
The trend. “The criteria to consider include a lift and an outdoor space. A patio, terrace, or garden if the apartment is on the ground floor.
The secret to Montpellier “The new Port Marianne district, nicknamed the “new Montpellier”. Slightly out of the way, offering peace and quiet and greenery, it is easily accessible by car and attracts students, families and pensioners alike all looking for a calm environment.” - Eric Perenchio, BARNES Montpellier/Occitanie
Art of living
The largest city in the Languedoc region welcomes visitors with a whirlwind journey of cultural and culinary discoveries. Here are the BARNES hot tips.
Culture
The Sabatier d'Espeyran museum of decorative arts
@Le musée des arts décoratifs Sabatier d’Espeyran
The Sabatier d'Espeyran museum of decorative arts, tucked away at the heart of a historic residence in the city of Montpellier. To discover: a collection of furniture, silverware and ceramics dating from the 18th and 19th centuries.
6 rue Montpelliéret, 34000 Montpellier
Galerie AL/MA
@La Galerie AL/MA
Galerie AL/MA, which presents a selection of works from emerging and established artists from France and the rest of the world. Founded in 2002, it is now run by Marie-Caroline Allaire-Matte. The latest exhibition is devoted to the sculptor Arnaud Vasseux.
5 rue du Plan du Palais, 34000 Montpellier
Galerie Vasistas
@Galerie Vasista
Galerie Vasistas showcases contemporary art. The artists on display include David Coste, whose main focus is landscapes altered by humans.
Rue Chamayou, 34090 Montpellier
Shopping or Out and about
Mona Mour
@Mona Mour
Mona Mour, a concept store dedicated to independent young creators. It stocks everything from jewellery to tableware and ready-to-wear.
8 boulevard du Jeu de Paume, 34000 Montpellier
Botanique et Vieilles Dentelles
@Botanique et Vieilles Dentelles
Botanique et Vieilles Dentelles, a florist full of charm that places the spotlight on French varieties. All as part of an eco-responsible approach that has found an avid audience with locals.
39 rue du Faubourg du Courreau, 34000 Montpellier
Château de Flaugergues
@Château de Flaugergues
Château de Flaugergues, where you can book a tasting of local wines in a bucolic setting.
1744 avenue Albert Einstein, 34000 Montpellier
L’Écusson
L’Écusson, one of the oldest and most iconic quarters of the city. Here, the streets are narrow and the boutiques arty. An opportunity to explore Montpellier in a different light.
The hottest reservations in town
Le Jardin des Sens
@Le Jardin des Sens
Le Jardin des Sens, a Michelin-starred restaurant run by brothers Jacques and Laurent Pourcel within the Hôtel Richer de Belleval. On the menu, classic yet elegantly revisited gastronomy against the backdrop of a historic décor: a frosted tomato tart from the Jardins de Costebelle, aromatic seasoning, and incredibly tender Occitania lamb, fresh vegetables and a tarragon seasoning...
Place de la Canourgue, 34000 Montpellier
Pastis
@Pastis
Pastis, a restaurant inspired by market produce. The menus here are concocted by Chef Daniel Lutrand who earned his stripes in the kitchen with Michel Bras. Wine-food pairing is given the utmost importance within this establishment.
3 rue Terral, 34000 Montpellier
Café Pitot
@Café Pitot
Café Pitot, serving inventive dishes made from regional products. In summer, food lovers can enjoy their food on the terrace.
2 place d'Aviler, 34000 Montpellier
La Réserve Rimbaud
@La Réserve Rimbaud
La Réserve Rimbaud, on the banks of the Lez. This Michelin-star restaurant is found in the magnificent décor of an old building surrounded by vegetation in the shade of the plane trees. The chef, Charles Fontes, plays on local, Occitan flavours with a simplicity and joy that can be tasted.
820 avenue de Saint-Maur, 34000 Montpellier
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