Opera & Ecusson

On the third floor of a Haussmann-style building, this apartment sits two minutes on foot from Place de la Comédie, Montpellier's grand neoclassical centrepiece. High ceilings and period fireplaces give the rooms real architectural presence, while the Comédie tram stop is right at the door and Saint-Roch train station is a five-minute walk – making the whole city easy to navigate without a car. The Promenade du Peyrou is ten minutes on foot, and sandy beaches at Palavas-les-Flots are a twenty-five-minute drive when you want a change of pace.

Home truths:
* Montpellier's city centre is pedestrianised, so you won't be able to park directly outside. The Comédie public car park is right at the foot of the building and the Préfecture car park is also nearby – your best options if you're arriving by car.
* There is no lift in the building, so you'll be climbing to the third floor on foot every time you come and go. This is standard for the historic listed centre, but worth bearing in mind if you have heavy luggage or mobility considerations.
* Given the home's central spot, expect to hear some street noise throughout your stay.