Montpellier offers many different enjoyable things for a family to do while visiting. Attractions will appeal to both kids and parents and there are several places to take the kids where they can play in the square and watch the fountains.

Place de la Comedie

The Place de la Comedie is in the heart of Montpellier and is a huge pedestrian area-- so you don’t have to worry about competing with traffic unless it has two legs. There is a large fountain in the center of the square which is lined with cafes and little shops and an old fashioned carousel with painted animals on which the kids can take a ride.  

Tourist Tram

A small blue and white tram travels a loop around the city, taking visitors to the area where the museums are and to the water tower and promenade. It also goes near the Arc de Triumph and the Botanical Gardens and back. You can just go to the Place de la Comedie and ride the train to all those sites. The “Petit Train” comes back to the same place it started so you can find your way back to your hotel.

Charles de Gaulle Esplanade

Also near Place de la Comedie is the Charles de Gaulle Esplanade which is a park with many trees, fountains, benches and the all important play areas where kids can run off some of their excess energy and have a good time.

Aquarium Mare Nostrum - Odysseum

Montpellier is the home of Aquarium Mare Nostrum-Odysseum where you can explore jellyfish, moray eels, sharks and Mediterranean sea life. Next door is an interesting 2- level skating rink called Vegapolis that is open all year. There is also Altissomo where kids and parents can climb an indoor climbing wall. Acrochats is an indoor play area for little kids and Kartingstar is a go cart track. Children will also love seeing the stars at the Galilee Planetarium.

Parc Zoologique du Lunaret

The local zoo, Parc Zoologique du Lunaret, has more than 100 different animals to look at. There are no cages but there are safe enclosures where you can see the animals in their natural habitat. Admission is free and this zoo is open every day. You can bring a picnic as there are several picnic sites in the park.

Hotels

When you are tired at the end of a day, be sure to go back to a hotel that has facilities for children. Many have play areas and child care facilities so parents can take advantage of the nightlife of Montpellier.