Discover Montpellier, Nimes, Perpignan, Toulouse, Carcassonne, Narbonne, Avignon and Beziers

Languedoc resident, James Proctor, takes a break from writing 'Rough Guides' to share his thoughts on Languedoc's cities - in the City Guides below:

In this section of the site, we explore Montpellier, Nimes, Perpignan, Toulouse, Avignon, Narbonne, Carcassonne and Beziers - the main cities of Languedoc Roussillon, South France. As France's fastest-growing region, Languedoc hosts the country's top 'up and coming' cities. Montpellier, especially, is booming, with 1,500 people flooding in to live in the city every month (it is currently the fastest-growing city in Europe). In fact, Montpellier was recently voted France's most popular city to live in - thanks to its beautiful and relaxed 'Centre Historique' centre, chic shops and close proximity to the beach.

Good weather and the relaxed southern approach to life have ensured that Languedoc's major cities benefit from plenty of outdoor cafes and restaurants.

Their relatively late development (compared to richer regions of France) has also shielded them quite well from the worst excesses of ugly 60's and 70's commercial developments - helping them retain their old-world charm.

Each has something special to offer. Nîmes its roman monuments and striking modern architecture. Toulouse its fabulous shopping and superb food. Montpellier its beautiful buildings and relaxed atmosphere. Carcassonne it castle. Narbonne its indoor market. Béziers its winding centre. Perpignan its Catalan atmosphere and artists galleries. So click on any of the City Guides below to explore for yourself...