Connacht's Away Day Guide to Montpellier

08 January 2020

Connacht's Away Day Guide to Montpellier
Situated in the enviable region of the South of France, Montpellier is a charming city steeped in history.
 
Impressive buildings and sun-drenched squares are the main attraction, while the white sandy beaches and lustrous mountains are not far away.
 
How to get there?

There are no direct flights to Montpellier Airport in the winter time, but there is a way to get there thanks to Ireland West Airport in Knock.

It is possible to fly from Ireland West to Toulouse via a stopover in Gatwick Airport, and once you land in Toulouse you can take a train to Montpellier.

Where to stay?

Montpellier is renowned for 17th and 18th century style mansions that can be enjoyed as accommodation. Due to the proximity of the city to the stadium, most people can enjoy a stay in the Place de al Comedie, the main square in Montpellier. There is accommodation for all budgets, from beautiful French mansions to self-catering apartments.

For those who wish to be within in walking distance to the stadium, the closest hotel is the Apart City Confort Ovalie and Clos de l'Herminier,which are both an 8 minute walk to the stadium.

City to Stadium

The city to the stadium is a 15-minute drive. Take Line 2 on the tram in the direction of Sabine Saint Jean de Vedas. There is a free matchday shuttle that brings you from the Sabines tram stop to the GGL stadium. Alternatively, you can walk from the Sabines stop to the stadium.

Tickets

Tickets can be purchased on the Montpellier website HERE.

Tickets in the ground are mostly seated, with some options of standing tickets. The cheapest tickets are behind the goals, while the most expensive are the Eden and Ellis park stands.

Stadium

Eating and drinking in the stadium is done using a pre-loaded card system. You can purchase this prior to the game. There is a wide selection of the bars and restaurants around the stadium.

Bars in the city

There are numerous fantastic authentic bars and restaurants around Montpellier. Be sure to try some of the local wine, Montpellier is the world’s largest wine region.

Los Parigos : a homely tapas bar that serves great wine, tapas and a homely atmosphere.

La Chistera : one of the most bustling bars in Montpellier and happens to be owned by none other than François Trinh-Duc.

O’Carolans and Fitzpatricks Pub: for a creamy Guinness before the game and some post-match Irish craic,

Food in the city

La Petit Jardin: Amazing food with a magical setting and views of the city’s cathedral.

L’Idee Savours: Family run restaurant with a warm comfortable atmosphere.

Burger et Blanquette: Casual and laidback burger restaurant.

Sightseeing

Montpellier is a great little compact city that is very easy to walk around. The tram service is an easy way to roam around the sights. The main points of interest in the city are:
Ag
Place de la Comedie: The tourist heart of Montpellier

Port du Peyrou: Famous Landmark Arch

Promenade of Peyrou: Louis XIV statue with amazing city views

Montpellier Cathedral: Dates back to 1536

Hiking and Wine tasting

Pic Saint-Loup is 30 minutes north of Montpellier, with incredible views of the vineyards, once you descend you can stop for a taste of the local wine, For those who want to experience wine tasting only, you can enjoy a wine tour of this area.

Beach

If you feel like some sea air and a Mediterranean dip, the beautiful beaches are 20 minutes away. The closest beaches are Carnon and Palavas-les-Flots. You can catch a taxi or combine getting the tram with the local bus to the different beaches.