Montpellier is a hidden gem for families traveling through southern France. Whether your kids love animals, history, space, or simply running around in a beautiful park, this city offers plenty of activities to make your trip both fun and educational. After exploring Montpellier with my own family, I can confidently say it’s one of the most family-friendly destinations in France.
I’ll share three activities that we personally experienced and four more must-visit places that are perfect for families. I’ll also provide tips on booking, transportation, and money-saving deals to help you make the most of your trip!
My Top 3 Family Activities in Montpellier
Montpellier is a dream destination for families, offering a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and interactive learning. Whether you want to explore nature, discover history, or dive into the ocean and space, this city has something for everyone. During my trip, I found three exceptional family-friendly attractions that made our visit both exciting and memorable.
1. Exploring the Montpellier Zoo and Amazonian Greenhouse 🦁🌿
Overview
Montpellier Zoo (Parc Zoologique de Montpellier) is one of the largest free zoos in France, covering over 80 hectares of land. What makes this zoo unique is its natural, open-air design, which allows animals to live in spacious enclosures that mimic their natural habitats. Walking through this zoo feels more like a real wildlife expedition rather than a typical zoo visit.
The highlight of the visit? The Amazonian Greenhouse, an immersive indoor rainforest filled with exotic plants, tropical birds, and free-roaming animals. Unlike the rest of the zoo, this section requires a ticket, but I can confidently say it’s worth every euro.
Location & How to Get There
📍 50 Avenue Agropolis, 34090 Montpellier, France
🚆 By Tram: Take Line 1 to St-Eloi, then transfer to Bus 22 and get off at Agropolis.
🚗 By Car: Free parking is available near the entrance.
What We Loved
✅ The Amazonian Greenhouse (€6 per adult, €3 per child)
- Walking through a realistic rainforest setting, surrounded by lush greenery, colorful parrots, and even free-flying butterflies, was breathtaking.
- My kids were thrilled to see a sloth hanging from the trees above us!
- It’s warm and humid inside, so dress accordingly.
✅ The Big Cats Area
- Seeing majestic lions, cheetahs, and leopards roam their large enclosures was an unforgettable sight.
- We were lucky enough to catch a feeding session, where the zookeepers explained how they train and care for these animals.
✅ The Scenic Nature Trails
- Unlike many city zoos, Montpellier Zoo offers long walking trails surrounded by trees, making the visit feel like a hike through a nature reserve.
- We brought a picnic lunch and found plenty of shaded picnic spots.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros: Free entry, large enclosures for animals, immersive rainforest experience, scenic walking trails.
❌ Cons: Some animals (like bears and wolves) were difficult to spot because of the dense enclosures.
Booking & Tips
💡 Entry to the zoo is FREE, but the Amazonian Greenhouse requires a ticket.
💡 Arrive early to see morning feeding sessions (especially for the lions and giraffes).
💡 Bring comfortable walking shoes, as the zoo is quite large.
2. Riding the Little Tourist Train Around Montpellier 🚂🏛️
Overview
The Petit Train de Montpellier is a small, charming open-air train that takes families on a relaxing sightseeing tour of Montpellier’s historic center. If you’re traveling with young kids or tired feet, this is a fantastic way to explore the city without too much walking.
The ride lasts about 40 minutes and includes a fun audio guide that tells the history of Montpellier in French, English, and Spanish.
Location & How to Get There
📍 Place de la Comédie, Montpellier, France
🚆 By Tram: Take Line 1 or 2 and stop at Comédie.
What We Loved
✅ The Fun Audio Guide
- The stories were entertaining and informative, even for the kids.
- We learned fun facts about Montpellier’s medieval history, its famous physicians, and hidden alleyways.
✅ Great Views Without Walking
- The train passes by some of Montpellier’s most iconic landmarks, including:
- The Arc de Triomphe
- The Promenade du Peyrou (a stunning hilltop park)
- Saint-Pierre Cathedral
- It was amazing not having to climb steep streets while still enjoying the beautiful architecture.
✅ A Kid-Friendly Adventure
- My kids loved the novelty of riding a “mini-train” through the narrow streets of Montpellier.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros: Comfortable for families, great for tired kids, informative.
❌ Cons: Only operates from April to October (no winter rides).
Booking & Tips
🎟️ Tickets: €8 per adult, €4 per child.
🎟️ No reservation needed – just buy tickets at the departure point.
3. A Hands-On Adventure at Planet Ocean Montpellier 🦈🚀
Overview
Planet Ocean Montpellier is an aquarium and planetarium combined into one exciting experience. If you have kids who love sharks, space, and interactive exhibits, this is a must-visit.
Location & How to Get There
📍 Allée Ulysse, 34000 Montpellier, France
🚆 By Tram: Take Line 1 to Odysseum station.
What We Loved
✅ The Shark Tunnel
- Walking underneath swimming sharks was a jaw-dropping experience.
- The massive glass tunnel gives an up-close view of stingrays and tropical fish.
✅ The Space Dome (Planetarium)
- The 360° immersive space show took us on a virtual journey through the galaxy.
- My kids loved seeing the solar system and constellations up close.
✅ Interactive Exhibits
- One of the coolest features was the climate simulation zone, where kids could control the weather and create storms.
- We also “piloted” a virtual submarine to explore deep-sea creatures.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros: A mix of science and adventure, high-tech exhibits, great for all ages.
❌ Cons: Can get crowded on weekends and holidays.
Booking & Tips
🎟️ Tickets: €18 per adult, €13 per child.
🎟️ Buy tickets online in advance to avoid long lines.
🎟️ Check the showtimes for the planetarium sessions when you arrive.
If you’re visiting Montpellier with kids, these three activities offer the perfect mix of adventure, education, and fun. Whether you’re observing wildlife, exploring history, or diving into the deep sea and outer space, there’s something for every age group.
4 More Family-Friendly Activities in Montpellier
4. A Day at Parc de Lunaret – A Nature Escape in the City
For a relaxing outdoor experience, Parc de Lunaret is an excellent spot. It’s located next to the zoo and offers vast open spaces where kids can run freely.
📍 Avenue Agropolis, 34000 Montpellier, France
🚆 By Tram: Take Line 1 to “St-Eloi,” then Bus 22 to “Agropolis.”
💰 Entry: Free
What Makes It Great for Families?
- Huge Green Spaces – Great for picnics.
- Easy Hiking Trails – Short, family-friendly walks with scenic views.
- Perfect for Strollers – Unlike many parks, the paths here are stroller-friendly.
5. Ice Skating at Vegapolis – An Indoor Winter Wonderland
Vegapolis is one of the best ice-skating rinks in southern France, making it a great spot for kids and parents to enjoy together.
📍 Odysseum Shopping Center, Montpellier
🚆 By Tram: Line 1 to “Odysseum.”
💰 Entry: €6 per adult, €4 per child
Why We Loved It
- Multiple Ice Rinks – One for beginners and one for experienced skaters.
- Fun Music and Lights – Great atmosphere, especially in the evenings.
💡 Pro Tip: Arrive early on weekends to avoid crowds.
6. Visiting the Montpellier Botanical Garden – A Historic and Peaceful Retreat
The Jardin des Plantes de Montpellier is one of the oldest botanical gardens in France and a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle.
📍 Boulevard Henri IV, 34000 Montpellier
💰 Entry: Free
Family-Friendly Features
- Educational Plant Displays – Teach kids about local and exotic plants.
- Shady Walking Paths – Perfect for hot days.
- Great Photo Opportunities – Beautiful historic greenhouses and fountains.
7. Puppet Shows at La Vista Theatre – A Magical Cultural Experience for Kids
If you’re looking for a creative and cultural experience, head to La Vista Theatre for puppet shows and children’s performances.
📍 Rue Adam de Craponne, Montpellier
💰 Entry: Varies by performance
Why It’s Worth Visiting
- Engaging Storytelling – Kids love the colorful, animated characters.
- Small Theater – Cozy setting where every seat has a great view.
💡 Pro Tip: Check the schedule in advance; performances change frequently.
Why Montpellier is the Ultimate Family Destination
Montpellier has truly surprised me as one of the most family-friendly cities in France. Unlike larger cities like Paris or Lyon, it offers a more laid-back atmosphere, making it easier to explore with kids. The variety of activities available—from zoos and aquariums to cultural experiences and outdoor parks—means that there’s always something for every age group.
One of the biggest advantages of visiting Montpellier with kids is the accessibility of attractions. Many activities, such as the Montpellier Zoo and the Botanical Garden, are completely free, making it an ideal destination for families on a budget. Even the paid attractions, like Planet Ocean and Vegapolis, offer excellent value for money with their interactive exhibits and immersive experiences.
Another huge plus is how walkable and well-connected Montpellier is. Whether you’re using the efficient tram system or walking through the historic city center, getting from one attraction to another is quick and hassle-free. Unlike busier cities, you won’t feel rushed, and there are plenty of child-friendly restaurants and cafés where you can take a break in between activities.
Why Montpellier Stands Out for Families
🌟 A mix of educational and entertaining attractions – From history and science museums to wildlife and nature parks, there’s always something fun and informative for kids.
🚋 Convenient public transportation – The tram system is one of the best in France, making it easy to navigate the city without a car. Plus, kids love riding the trams!
🎭 A strong cultural scene – With puppet shows, theaters, and interactive exhibitions, kids can experience French culture in a fun and engaging way.
🌳 Plenty of green spaces – Unlike many urban centers, Montpellier has beautiful parks, gardens, and even a zoo, providing plenty of outdoor playtime.
💰 Budget-friendly options – A large number of free attractions and affordable ticket prices make Montpellier a great choice for families who want to have fun without breaking the bank.
Whether you have a weekend or a full week, Montpellier is a perfect destination for families looking for adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences all in one place. I was amazed by how easy and enjoyable it was to explore with kids, and I know I’ll be coming back again to discover even more.
So if you’re planning a family trip to France, don’t overlook Montpellier! It’s a city that truly caters to kids and parents alike, offering an experience that is both fun and memorable. Pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to create incredible family memories in this beautiful Mediterranean city!
