I was fortunate to go to the southern French city of Montpellier at the end of April 2024.
I left Denmark in cold and miserable weather hoping to enjoy some famous Mediterranean sunshine and warmth that I’d heard so much about. After spending a week there with mostly grey skies and cool temperatures, I arrived back in Denmark to be greeted by glorious blue skies and warm temperatures that lasted several weeks. C’est la vie!
Anyways I did some sightseeing and found many things of interest – here’s a few photos from my trip.
Arc de Triomphe 
A bit of Denmark in France Sainte-Anne church Still working out where the drum kit goes
The city of Montpellier seemed rather hectic with an incredible volume of cars squeezed into very narrow streets. I have to say my interest was peeked by discovering that below the main square, named Place de la Comédie, there is a 4 story deep parking house. Gotta rack my brains to figure out how they built that without tearing up the whole thing.
Apart from the bustling noise of a big city, I also had the pleasure of visiting some picturesque harbour towns and enjoyed both sunrises and sunsets on the Mediterranean coast.
Le Grande Motte sunrise Le Grande Motte harbour Gotta love them palm trees! 
Someone didn't like my drum solo
It is a beautiful area and I would certainly give it a thumbs up and recommend it to anyone considering visiting this region of the world!
For those interested, here are some facts about Montpellier that I discovered on my travels:
MONTPELLIER
Historical Significance
Montpellier is one of the oldest cities in France with a rich history dating back to the 10th century. It has played a significant role in the region’s cultural and intellectual development over the centuries. It has an historical center that mixes different eras, offering visitors a journey back in time.
1
Educational Hub
The city is renowned for its prestigious universities in Medicine and Law, including the University of Montpellier, which is one of the oldest universities in the world. It attracts students from around the globe who help contribute to the city’s vibrant and diverse atmosphere. In fact, with a high concentration of universities, Montpellier is a young city, with 70% of its population being students.
2
Cultural Diversity
Montpellier is known for its cultural diversity, with influences from Mediterranean, Spanish, and North African cultures, creating a unique blend of traditions, cuisine, and architecture that sets it apart from other French cities.
3
Architectural Marvels
The city boasts stunning architecture, including the historic Place de la Comédie, the neoclassical Opéra Comédie, and the medieval streets of the Ecusson district, offering visitors a glimpse into its rich architectural heritage. In recent years, Montpellier has seen the emergence of new districts and unique contemporary architecture, such as the Millénaire and les Rives du Lez.
4
Mediterranean Climate
Montpellier enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers, making it an attractive destination for tourists seeking pleasant weather and outdoor activities throughout the year. Montpellier is perfectly situated between the sea and the mountains, with easy access to both, and boasts bicycle paths that make getting around convenient. Montpellier is one of the sunniest cities in France, with approximately 300 days of sunshine per year.
5
Culinary Delights
The city is a paradise for food enthusiasts, offering a wide array of culinary delights, including fresh seafood, local wines, and traditional Mediterranean dishes, making it a haven for gastronomes and wine connoisseurs. Its vibrant culinary scene offers something for every budget. Interestingly, when Thomas Jefferson was appointed ambassador to France (1784 to 1789), he appreciated the wine of a village near Montpellier so much that, when he became President of the United States, he had it served at the White House.
6
Cultural Events
Montpellier hosts numerous cultural events and festivals, such as the Montpellier Dance Festival and the Montpellier International Guitar Festival, showcasing its commitment to the arts and providing entertainment for locals and visitors alike.
7
Innovation and Research
The city is a hub for innovation and research, particularly in the fields of biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and medical research, contributing to its world-renowned reputation as a center for scientific advancement and technological development.
8
Green Spaces
Montpellier is adorned with beautiful parks and gardens, such as the 16th-century Jardin des Plantes, that provide residents and visitors with serene natural retreats within the urban landscape. The city has a strong focus on ecology and nature preservation, and can be accessed by a network of cycle paths.
9
Vibrant Lifestyle
With its lively street markets, bustling cafés, and a thriving nightlife, Montpellier offers a vibrant and dynamic lifestyle, attracting people of all ages and interests to experience its energetic urban culture. Montpellier is a dynamic city with a bustling calendar of events, including festivals, concerts, and shows, ensuring there is always something to do or discover.
