Montpellier is a city full of surprises, where tradition meets modern living. With its sights set firmly on the future and a love for art in all its forms, the city's plentiful cultural venues mean there's something to suit all tastes. Right by the Mediterranean and not too far from the Pyrenees, Montpellier boasts the perfect location, between the sea and the mountains. A visit to Montpellier is a breath of fresh air for body and soul. Here, Olivia takes us on a cultural tour of the city.
La Panacée and its cafe
I love La Panacée! There’s always an amazing exhibition on, often combining music and modern art. After checking it out, I settle down on the patio in the shade of the trees and sample its famous Sunday brunch, or sip on a homemade iced tea in the late afternoon.
14 Rue de l'École de Pharmacie
Musée Fabre and its cafe: Insensé
The fine art museum is a Montpellier institution. In 2017 it celebrated 10 years since the completion of its extension and the Soulages donation was installed in the new wing. The museum celebrates every era through its exhibitions combining classical and modern art. And the museum’s cafe/restaurant, the Insensé, serves up a great lunch. 39 boulevard Bonne Nouvelle Musée Fabre (in french)
Le Carré Saint Anne
Le Carré Saint Anne is an exhibition space found within a deconsecrated church of the same name. Entry is free and the large format drawing and photography exhibitions are a great pairing for the stone walls of this magnificent building. Street art is often on show here. (Currently closed for refurbishment).
2 Rue Philippy
La Nef
A few years ago, La Nef moved into the Chapelle de la Visitation, and is home to the Ateliers d’Arts de France art workshops. An art gallery and exhibition space for independent crafts, there’s plenty to see here!
41 Rue de l'Université
The Clémence Boisanté gallery
A modern art gallery that hosts exhibitions of fresh talent and established artists. The regular vernissages are always great to attend.
10 Boulevard Ledru Rollin
Pavillon Populaire
I love this space dedicated to photography, right in the city centre. Entry is free and the exhibitions are often exclusives featuring great photographers.
Esplanade Charles-de-Gaulle
The Agora
Montpellier is a dancing city. It even has its own international city of dance, housed within a listed historic building with an outdoor amphitheatre. It is a magical setting for open-air shows.
13 Rue du Général Claparède
Villeneuve les Maguelonne
One of my favourite places in Montpellier! Surrounded by vineyards, lakes, and fiercely protected nature, Villeneuve is a fantastic place for a stroll down by the sea. It’s nice and quiet. You can check out its wonderful cathedral and the magical landscape, and even do some birdwatching.
Le MOCO
When it opens in 2019 inside the resplendent Montcalm private mansion, the MOCO will be a stronghold of international modern art. I can’t wait to find out what the new space has in store for us!
Who is La Fille de l’encre?
Olivia is the blogger behind La Fille de l’Encre, the blog that’s never at a loss for words! Often with her family but sometimes flying solo, she takes her readers all over France and Europe on a quest for authentic landscapes and genuine encounters.
Olivia's Blog (in french)
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The magazine of the destination unravels an unexpected France that revisits tradition and cultivates creativity. A France far beyond what you can imagine…
