The do and don’t of living in Montpellier
You’ve considered moving to Montpellier, but apart from its youth, sunshine, historical heritage and beaches, you’re not sure what more to expect? Being one of France’s most beautiful and popular cities, Montpellier has plenty to offer. Its mild, temperate Mediterranean climate is also a quality that is attracting more and more newcomers to the city. In this article, we’ll give you a useful list of things to do and not to do to make the most out of your stay in Montpellier.
Do choose the right neighborhood to live
Montpellier is a pleasant city to live in, both in the city center and on the outskirts. Each of its neighborhoods offers a different atmosphere, depending on what you’re looking for. However, in some neighborhoods, insecurity has become increasingly problematic in recent years. So it’s essential to choose a safe neighborhood that will allow you to enjoy Montpellier to the fullest during your stay. Furthermore, when moving overseas to Montpellier, it’s also important to factor in the cost of living, which can be higher than in some other parts of France, and rental prices in each neighborhood might differ from one another.
If you’re looking for a quiet neighborhood, the Gambetta district won’t disappoint. According to its residents, its strong points are that it’s well served and close to many beaches, as well as to the airport, making it easy to get to nearby towns and cities. The district has also received good reputation for its accessibility and proximity to key amenities. Many of Montpellier’s best-known places for going out, such as Parc Clémenceau and Place de la Comédie, play an active role in its dynamism.
For those looking for a livelier but still safe neighborhood, what a great idea to live in the Port Marianne district. Constantly evolving, this district impresses many fan of bold architecture. It’s also a perfect place to live for students, as you’ll find business and economics faculties and university campuses within easy reach. What’s more ? The vibrant nightlife with plenty of cafés and restaurants make this district an ideal meeting place for young people.
Discover our list of furnished apartments and studios in Montpellier.
Do go to Arceaux market every Tuesday and Saturday
Open every Tuesday and Saturday morning, the Marché des Arceaux, located in Les Arceaux district, is Montpellier’s largest food market. Looking for organic and local products to fill your empty fridge ? You’re at the right place ! Here you’ll be able to find everything you need in an atmosphere that offers the vibe of the South of France. You can also try some Mediterranean specialties such as tielle (octopus pie), brandade and pélardon. A unique experience not to be missed if you want to live like a local.
Do learn french before coming to Montpellier
Before packing your bags for Montpellier, take the time to master French. This advice isn’t to be taken lightly, as you might be surprised to know that very few French people speak English fluently. Unlike Paris, where English is more widely spoken due to it being the second most popular tourist destination in the world, where Parisians have received a basic understanding of English phrases from dealing with tourists, the people of Montpellier are no exception and are particularly proud of their language. That means you’ll be likely to encounter many locals who won’t speak a English word.
Learning French will not only make daily conversations easier but will also help you get closer to the locals. Imagine being able to chat with your baker about the best croissant in town or share jokes with your neighbor. This will make your experience much more enriching and authentic.
Don’t delay in your apartment search
In the world of real estate, proactivity is everything. Every year, Montpellier welcomes about 6,000 new residents, including many students, for whom the housing hunt is more difficult than in other major cities in France. Hot tips : according to Montpellier residents, as there has been an unprecedented shortage of apartments in recent years, it is strongly advised to start your search around 3 to 4 months before your planned arrival. Everyone needs a home that lives up to their expectations, don’t they? Starting your search early enough will give you time to determine which neighborhood offers you the most pleasant living environment and is best suited to your lifestyle.
Rental demand in Montpellier increases during the peak season from May to September, while the supply of rental properties is limited. In fact, the city’s increasing property prices has never stopped people from renting. As soon as a rental ad is placed online, it’s gone very quickly, even if the rent is high. Stay reactive, because the more time passes, the fewer options you have. And of course, the last thing you want to experience in searching for your new apartment is pressure. A good preparation will help you move with ease.
Don’t spend all your time at the beach : there’s more to do
Thanks to its favorable geographical location in the south of France, Montpellier residents can enjoy weekends at the beach at any time, especially before the touristy season arrives, when the beaches are less crowded. However, Montpellier is not just a young and dynamic city ; it is also a green city. In Montpellier, there are plenty of good things for you to do in order to recharge after a stressful week. Outing ideas go far beyond the beaches, as the city also has many green places where you can spend your free time the whole day. To enjoy a walk in a fresh area, head to the Jardin des Plantes, the oldest botanical garden in France. Right in the city center, you can also visit Les Beaux-Arts area, one of the liveliest neighborhoods in Montpellier. Nearby shops, cafés, terraces and restaurants are also perfect to join your friends and catch up on the latest news you’ve received. These are all great reasons to spend quality time in Montpellier on the weekends, apart from the beaches!
Don’t be reliant on public transportation
Unlike Paris, which has an extensive public transportation network, Montpellier’s public transportation is less developed and less appreciated by its residents, even though its tram and bus network are both efficient. During the summer, there are shuttles in the city, but they are often overcrowded due to tourists. However, the absence of a metro system in Montpellier is a major source of frustration for many residents. If you live outside of the city of Montpellier, let’s say in an area that is more than 10 km away, a car is a must-have. In Montpellier, some areas are not well-served by public transportation, and it is often faster to take a bike than hop on a bus or tram. Therefore, the economic accessibility of biking can make it a good transportation option if you do not own a car.
Have you been contemplating moving to Montpellier ? If that’s the case, what a good decision! Because we can’t imagine a better life than one where you’re surrounded by beautiful beaches, a temperate climate all year round, and beautiful sceneries. We hope our list of do and don’t has given you clear insights about the city of Montpellier and has helped you better prepare for your stay here.
As a real estate expert for 25 years in France, Lodgis supports you on every step of renting the ideal accommodation that meets all your expectations. If you are looking for furnished accommodation, check out our furnished apartments and studios in Montpellier.
