Visit the Montpellier-Centre, the anchor of the city, where the spacious Place de la Comédie merges with tree-lined esplanades and hilltop parks. Upscale stores and patisseries flank the channels leading from the square to an array of preserved historic vestiges. Sample a few of the regional wines or pastis liqueur at one of the bars with tables spilling onto plazas.

While in the Place de la Comédie, let your kids ride the elegant carousel and gather around the impressive fountain. Historic buildings with stylish balconies crowd around this egg-shaped plaza, which is known for the Opéra Comédie (Opera House). Stroll to the northern end of the square and meander between the trees and pond of the Esplanade Charles de Gaulle. Study the modern works on display at the Fabre Museum and attend an event at the Corum Convention Center.

On the western side of the plaza is a labyrinth of sloped alleys containing prestigious shops and boutiques. Reach Promenade du Peyrou park at the western end of these passages and gaze up at the iconic horseback statue of King Louis XIV. Admire the neoclassical water tower and enjoy the views of the Montpellier Aqueduct and its many arches.

On the eastern side of the Place de la Comédie are the modern Polygone Shopping Center and the FNAC Montpellier department store. Browse the books in the library and check out the latest in French fashion.

Montpellier-Centre is served by the Gare Saint Roch railway station. Travel by tram to the Place de la Comédie stop and get around this mostly pedestrianized area on foot. Continue exploring the city and visit neighboring districts such as Antigone, Port Marianne and Les Beaux-Arts.

With its mall, parks and historic attractions, the Montpellier-Centre district is the heart and soul of the municipality.