For travelers with a layover in Montpellier, the proximity of MPL to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 70 minutes via Airport Shuttle (Line 606) + Tram, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
Pre-Departure Checklist
A few things to sort out before you leave MPL:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for France. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Montpellier takes about 70 minutes by Airport Shuttle (Line 606) + Tram. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from MPL to Montpellier
From MPL, the Airport Shuttle (Line 606) + Tram gets you to Montpellier in around 70 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 90 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Airport Shuttle (Line 606) + Tram offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
If you head into Montpellier, here are two things worth checking out:
Place de la Comédie is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Montpellier.
L’Ãcusson (Montpellier Old Town) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside MPL, you can spend time at Aelia Duty Free or try Relay Store. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food Worth Trying
- In the city: L’Entrecôte and Le Petit Jardin are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Montpellier.
- At the airport: Le Café Comptoir and La Croissanterie will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Money & Budget Tips
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Montpellier, budget roughly $43 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $22 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $11 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Montpellier.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at MPL aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Montpellier itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at MPL, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Montpellier itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for France that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at MPL include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in France also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Montpellier doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 70 minutes from MPL, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.