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Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

Languedoc Roussillon, France

Accommodation Types

Full Spectrum of Lodging Options

  • Hostels

    Budget-friendly options, often with dormitories, some also private rooms. Ideal for solo travelers or those on a tight budget, they cultivate a social atmosphere. The People - Montpellier.

  • Budget Hotels

    Chain hotels (e.g., Ibis Budget, B&B Hotel) and independent hotels with basic amenities at lower prices. Often outside the immediate city center but offer good value.

  • Mid-range Hotels

    A wide selection of 3-star and some 4-star hotels with comfort and amenities. Some include breakfast, a small gym, or pool, often with prime locations.

  • Luxury Hotels

    4-star and 5-star establishments with premium services, elegant rooms, fine dining, spas, and prime locations. Often in historic buildings or with modern design.

Unique Local Accommodation Types

  • Chambres d'Hôtes (B&Bs)

    Found in private homes. They offer a personal local experience, sometimes simple, sometimes luxurious, with homemade breakfasts.

  • Gîtes

    Self-catering holiday cottages or apartments. Often in rural or semi-rural settings, these are ideal for longer stays or for families seeking more space and cooking facilities.

  • Vacation Rentals and Apartment Options

    Available through platforms like Booking.com, vacation rentals and apartments provide more space, flexibility, and cooking options. These suit families, groups, or independent travelers.

  • Camping and Outdoor Accommodation

    Campsites on the outskirts of Montpellier or near the coast. They offer pitches for tents and caravans, sometimes mobile homes or bungalows for rent. Good for budget travelers or those with a car, connecting to nature.

Neighborhood Guide

Montpellier's various neighborhoods possess distinct characteristics.

Ecusson Historic Center

Benefits
  • Central location
  • Walkable to most major attractions
  • Lively and charming atmosphere
  • Picturesque streets
Considerations
  • Can be noisy
  • Car access restricted
  • Some streets may feel intricate at night

Antigone / Port Marianne

Benefits
  • Modern amenities
  • Spacious apartments
  • Good tram access
  • Proximity to shopping and entertainment
Considerations
  • Less historic charm
  • Quieter evenings (Antigone)
  • Further from historic center (Port Marianne)

Around Gare Saint-Roch

Benefits
  • Excellent transport links
  • Convenient for arrivals and departures
  • Direct access to public transit
Considerations
  • Can feel busy
  • Less charming than other areas
  • Some parts less welcoming at night

Safety and Ambiance

Safety:

Ecusson is generally safe; be aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas. Exercise caution in quiet alleyways late at night. Port Marianne and Antigone are modern and safe, with well-lit streets.

Noise Levels:

Ecusson can be lively and noisy, especially around popular squares and bars in the evenings. Quieter residential side streets offer more peace. Antigone/Port Marianne are generally quieter and residential.

Booking Strategies

Smart booking helps travelers secure good accommodation at favorable prices.

Advance Booking Recommendations by Season

  • High Season (June - August): Book several months ahead, notably for popular hotels or festival dates. Prices will be highest.
  • Shoulder Season (April - May, September - October): Booking 1-2 months ahead is a good practice for selection and prices.
  • Low Season (November - March): Good deals appear a few weeks or days ahead. Booking remains wise for desired properties.
  • Negotiation Customs: Negotiating prices is not common in France for established hotels or B&Bs. Prices are fixed.

Trusted Platforms and Policies

  • Online Platforms: Utilize Booking.com (for hotels, apartments, hostels) or Airbnb. Also consider Hotels.com, Expedia.
  • Direct Booking: Hotel websites sometimes offer loyalty programs or special rates.
  • Deposit and Cancellation: Policies vary by property and platform. Always review specific terms before booking. Many bookings include free cancellation options.
  • Seasonal Price Fluctuations: Prices peak in summer and during major events. They drop in the low season, creating opportunities for budget-conscious travelers.

General Advice

For Chambres d'Hôtes:
  • Often found on specific French B&B sites or through direct search.
  • Contact property directly for unique arrangements.
  • Prepare to adapt if using smaller, traditional options.
  • Online forums or apps can locate suitable places.
For Groups/Families:
  • Apartments and vacation rentals offer kitchen facilities and more space.
  • Many hotels in Montpellier have pools that families find enjoyable.
  • Consider aparthotels for a blend of hotel services and apartment living.

Important Notice

Availability:

While many options exist, popular properties book quickly during peak times.

Flexibility:

Free cancellation policies grant flexibility if your travel plans change.

Research:

Always conduct research or contact properties directly for specific inquiries.

Accommodation Recommendations

Examples of accommodation types for different needs, focusing on variety.

Top Picks for Budget Levels

Budget Options

Consider hostels like The People Hostel - Montpellier, or budget chain hotels like Ibis Budget or Campanile for cost-effective stays.

  • Hostels: Social atmosphere, dorms or private rooms.
  • Budget Hotels: Basic amenities, good value.
Mid-range to Luxury

For more comfort, hotels like Kyriad Centre Antigone or Hotel des Arts work well. For premium experiences, Hôtel Richer de Belleval or Grand Hôtel du Midi. A serene escape nearby includes Baumanière Le Vieux Castillon.

  • Mid-range: Good comfort, various amenities.
  • Luxury: Premium services, elegant rooms.

Specific Traveler Needs

Family-Friendly Stays

Look for hotels with family rooms or connecting rooms. Apartments and vacation rentals (Airbnb) provide kitchen facilities and more space, ideal for families.

  • Hotels with family room options.
  • Apartments for space and cooking.
Solo and Long-Stay

Hostels offer a social atmosphere for solo travelers. Apartments and vacation rentals suit stays of a week or more, often with better weekly or monthly rates. Aparthotels combine hotel services with apartment living.

  • Hostels for meeting people.
  • Apartments for longer, independent stays.

Properties with Exceptional Significance

  • Historic Buildings

    Seek out hotels housed in historic buildings within the Ecusson. Hôtel Richer de Belleval, a former private mansion, is a prime example of such a property.

  • Architectural Beauty

    Consider locations that offer outstanding architectural styles, whether historic or modern, complementing your travel experience.

  • Cultural Ties

    Some properties may have links to Montpellier's academic or artistic past, adding an unique layer to your stay.

  • Unique Heritage

    Places with a distinct story or unique heritage value contribute to a memorable and immersive visit.

Additional Accommodation Resources

  • Global Platforms

    Utilize Booking.com for a wide range of hotels and apartments worldwide. Agoda specializes in accommodation, with a strong presence in Asia.

  • Hotel Chains

    Explore options through IHG Hotels for various brands.

  • Budget-Friendly Stays

    For hostels and budget accommodation, Hostelworld is a specialist platform.

  • Vacation Rentals & House Sitting

    Find vacation rentals on Vrbo. For house and pet sitting exchanges, visit TrustedHousesitters.

Considerations for Your Stay

Location & Ambiance

Choose a neighborhood that matches your travel style. The Ecusson offers historic charm and lively evenings. Antigone and Port Marianne provide modern comforts and a quieter atmosphere.

  • Ecusson: central, , historic.
  • Antigone: modern, spacious, good transport.
  • Port Marianne: trendy, shopping, leisure.
Booking Ahead

During high season (June-August) or major festivals, accommodation availability drops quickly. Secure your lodging several months in advance for the best selection and prices. Early booking is always a good practice.

  • Book early for high season.
  • Check cancellation policies.
  • Consider direct booking for special offers.

Diverse Experiences

For Immersion

Homestays or community-based tourism (often through cultural exchange programs or language schools) immerse you in local life. This interaction fosters cultural exchange.

For Nature Lovers

Campsites on the city's edge or near the coast offer pitches and rentals. They connect you to the outdoors and serve budget travelers or those with a vehicle.

For Value

Vacation rentals and apartments (through platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com) provide ample space, flexibility, and cooking options. These choices work well for families or groups.