758km south-west of Paris , Montpellier is the capital of Mediterranean (or Lower) Languedoc known as Hérault County. It is an ancient university city still renowned for its medical school, founded in the 13th century. It was here that Nostradamus qualified as a doctor and even Rabelais studied at the school. Petrarch came to Montpellier in 1317 and stayed for 7 years.

Montpellier began life as an important trading town, with merchants from Greece, Egypt, Spain , Italy and France converging here to do business. It was sold to France in 1349 and suffered much for being a Protestant stronghold during the 17th century but, in spite of these setbacks, Montpellier continues to be a dynamic and innovative city, attracting many visitors.

Today Montpellier is a bustling metropolis, one of southern France 's fastest-growing cities. It has a handsomely laid-out core, with tree-flanked promenades, broad avenues and historic monuments by the dozen. Students make up about a quarter of the population, giving the city a lively, animated aura.

It is a beautiful city with the Florentine peacefulness of the old Renaissance mansions, the warm colours of the roofs in the old town and the classical gardens of Peyrou .

In Montpellier, there are no well-organised Parisian arrondissements as in Paris. While municipal publications divide the city into "cantons", few of its inhabitants are aware of the boundaries of these administrative regions, preferring to orientate themselves by certain well-known quartiers or landmarks.

To get a better idea of the city generally, it is best to follow Montpellier's own growth and development over the centuries, from the medieval walled city out west to the outlying suburb of the Paillade and south-east to the modern projects that stretch towards the Mediterranean.

The vibrant historic centre of the city, referred to as the Ecusson, encapsulates the varied aspects of this diverse city. A pedestrian paradise, the labyrinth of lanes is a rich storehouse of historic architecture, churche and hidden courtyards as well as diverse shops, bars and restaurants .

However there is far more to discover in the area and the city is brilliantly located for visits to other sights nearby as well as lots to experience. You can see the wild horses of the Camargue, sip quantities of locally grown wine, shop till you drop or swim in the warm waters of the Mediteranean. You can meander the corridors of a Medieval castle, view wonderful artworks in galleries tucked away in tiny alleys, dine on exquisite French cuisine or dance the night away at a local club.

Whatever your fantasies about a holiday in this part of the world, Monpellier is bound to satisfy some, if not all. There really is so much to see and do in the area, that visitors return year after year. Come discover it, experience it and breathe it, via these guides before you travel…and get to know it, before you arrive.