Montpellier is one of the fastest growing citys in the south. It is lively and upbeat with students constituting almost a quarter of the population. Everything revolves around the central hub 'Place de la Comedie' with its open-air cafés and entertaining street performers. The buildings that surround it are stately with the elegant 19th century Opera an exact replica of the Paris opera house.
The old town is a labyrinth of 17th century private mansions or 'hotels particuliers', narrow streets, interior courtyards and designer boutiques. For a complete change wander down to Le Polygone, a modern shopping centre and the Antigone, a neoclassical housing project that leads to riverside bars and restaurants.
The Chateau d'Eau and the aqueduct that used to serve the city are worth visiting as is the Promenade de Peyrou, an 18th century square where in summer pétanque competitions are held.
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