Montpellier Self-Guided City Walk

Located 10km inland from the Mediterranean coast, Montpellier is the capital of the Hérault department in southern France. The city was founded when 2 hamlets were combined and a castle and walls built around them. The city was first mentioned in documents in 985AD.

The wealth of Montpellier came from the wine industry. But in the 1890s a fungal disease spread amongst the vineyards and the grapes were no longer able to be grown.

There is a youthful vibrancy in the city with three universities located here. Founded in 1160, the University of Montpellier is one of the oldest in the world.

Principal sights of this walk include the imposing fort-like cathedral, the botanic garden, impressive museums, and stunning plazas.

Walk Distance 3.6km / 2.3 miles, mostly flat.