Set around a pond in the heart of Montpellier, the Champ de Mars Garden comprises a large grassy area often visited by sunbathers and picnickers. Colorful floral displays and trees surround the park, which edges the Charles de Gaulle Esplanade. Amble along one of the lanes branching off from the garden to experience the sights and sounds of nature in this charming city center.
Bring your kids to the large, modern playground with a musical theme. Watch them slide down the drums and clamber over a musical note. Behind the playground is the large pond, where you can spot a range of birds and fish. Sit at one of the benches or find a patch of grass to read and watch people go by in the heart of Montpellier.
The well-kept lawn stretches back from the pond for a fair distance, allowing ample space for games and sports. Take shelter from the heat on a summer afternoon in the shade of one of the trees dotted around the park.
Meander between the trees that line the concrete alleys of the esplanade. Here, you’ll find two large water features with fountains at their cores. Attend events that take place in this area, including wine tastings and a delightful Christmas market.
At the southern end of the gardens stands the Pavillon Populaire, recognizable by its white colonnade. Browse its temporary photography exhibits by artists of international renown. Next door is the tourism office and a stand from which you can rent bikes.
Designed by landscape architect Édouard André, the garden first opened to the public in 1900. Note that you can access the site for free at all times.
The Champ de Mars Garden is next to the Place de la Comédie in the center of Montpellier. Walk along Charles de Gaulle Esplanade for a few minutes to get here from the plaza’s tram stop. Nearby, watch opera at Le Corum or admire the collection of European art and ceramics in the Musée Fabre.
