Tour de la Babote
A 12th-century tower, once part of Montpellier's fortifications and later an observatory, now a historical landmark with a charming adjacent square.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed atmosphere.
Tour de la Babote
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 12th-century tower, once part of Montpellier's fortifications and later an observatory, now a historical landmark with a charming adjacent square.
"A very nice tower close to the center of MTP. The tower is very impressive and if you walk through its entrance there is a cozy square with cafes and restaurant."
Check Tour Schedules
Guided tours are infrequent. Verify timings beforehand to make the most of your visit. :calendar:
Enjoy the Square
The square offers a lovely spot for a break with cafes and restaurants. :coffee:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Impressive Tower
A striking 12th-century tower, a remnant of Montpellier's past fortifications. A must-see historical landmark.
Cozy Adjacent Square
A charming square with cafes and restaurants, perfect for a relaxing break after exploring the tower.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Accessibility & Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tour Schedules
Guided tours are infrequent. Verify timings beforehand to make the most of your visit. :calendar:
Enjoy the Square
The square offers a lovely spot for a break with cafes and restaurants. :coffee:
Accessible Exploration
Ramps are available, making the tower accessible for many visitors. :wheelchair:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tour Schedules
Guided tours are infrequent. Verify timings beforehand to make the most of your visit. :calendar:
Enjoy the Square
The square offers a lovely spot for a break with cafes and restaurants. :coffee:
Accessible Exploration
Ramps are available, making the tower accessible for many visitors. :wheelchair:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Tour de la Babote to be an impressive historical landmark and a lovely spot to visit during a promenade in Montpellier. The adjacent square with its cafes is noted as a cozy place to relax. While some mention infrequent guided tours and limited public seating in the square, the overall sentiment is positive, highlighting its beauty and historical significance.
"A very nice tower close to the center of MTP. The tower is very impressive and if you walk through its entrance there is a cozy square with cafes and restaurant. A lovely spot to visit during your promenade in MTP."
Giovanni Merici
"Infrequent guided tours of the tower (none that we were able to book during our visit), cute square to walk through, though why would you call it a public space when the only places to sit are at restaurant terraces? One plus - there are ramps throughout, so it is accessible."
jennifer arko
"Beautiful tower"
Fra Saert
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tour de la Babote is conveniently located near the center of Montpellier. It's easily accessible by foot from many central areas. Public transport options like buses and trams also serve the vicinity, making it a straightforward destination to reach within the city.
While specific parking directly at the tower might be limited, there are usually public parking areas or garages in the central Montpellier area. It's advisable to check local parking apps or signs upon arrival for the most convenient options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The tower itself and the adjacent square are generally accessible without tickets. However, if you wish to join an infrequent guided tour of the tower's interior, you may need to book in advance. It's best to check local tourist information for current tour availability and booking procedures.
The exterior of the tower and the surrounding square are typically accessible throughout the day. Specific opening hours would apply if there are any internal exhibitions or guided tours. It's recommended to consult the official Montpellier tourism website or local guides for the most up-to-date information on access.
Yes, infrequent guided tours of the tower are sometimes available. These tours offer a deeper insight into its history and architecture. However, they are not always running, so it's crucial to check the schedule and book in advance if you're interested.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can admire the impressive 12th-century architecture of the tower, a historical fortification. The adjacent square offers a pleasant atmosphere with cafes and restaurants for a relaxing break. It's a lovely spot for a stroll and to soak in some local history.
The tower and its square are generally pleasant for families to visit. While internal tours might be less engaging for very young children, the exterior and the square provide a nice environment for a short outing. The accessibility via ramps is also a plus.
Absolutely! The Tour de la Babote is a picturesque historical landmark, perfect for photography. Capture the tower's architecture and the charming atmosphere of the surrounding square.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the square adjacent to the Tour de la Babote features several cafes and restaurants. These offer a convenient spot to enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the surroundings.
The dining options in the square typically offer a range of French cuisine, from light snacks and coffee to more substantial meals. You can expect a pleasant dining experience in a charming setting.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic shots will be of the tower itself from various angles. The adjacent square also offers charming photo opportunities, especially with the cafes and the tower in the background. Consider morning or late afternoon light for softer shadows.
Yes, the tower is a visually striking landmark. Its central location and distinct architecture make it relatively easy to capture compelling photographs. The surrounding square provides context and atmosphere for your shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more engaging experience, try to time your visit with one of the infrequent guided tours if your children have an interest in history or old buildings. Otherwise, focus on the visual appeal of the tower and the lively atmosphere of the square. It’s a good spot for a short, educational outing that doesn't require extensive walking or complex logistics.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
If you're interested in delving deeper into the tower's past, keep an eye out for guided tours. These can offer fascinating insights and are a great way to connect with the local history. Even without a tour, the tower and square are wonderful for a peaceful stroll, photography, and simply soaking in the atmosphere of Montpellier.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Exploring the tower offers a tangible connection to these different historical periods. While direct access to the interior might be limited to guided tours, its imposing exterior is a constant reminder of its enduring presence. The adjacent square provides a modern context, blending the historical significance of the tower with the contemporary life of the city. It’s a place where you can imagine the past while enjoying the present.
For those interested in Montpellier's heritage, the Tour de la Babote is a key landmark. Its survival through centuries of change makes it a fascinating subject for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. The blend of its defensive origins and its later use as an observatory makes it a unique piece of architectural and scientific history.
Exploring the Surrounding Square
While the square offers a pleasant ambiance, it's worth noting that the primary seating is associated with the restaurant terraces. This means that finding public seating might be limited, encouraging visitors to patronize the local establishments. This setup contributes to the lively feel of the square, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists to relax and socialize.
Visiting the square provides a different perspective on the Tour de la Babote. It allows you to appreciate the tower not just as a historical relic, but as a backdrop to everyday life in Montpellier. The combination of historical significance and modern amenities makes this area a delightful place to spend some time.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit