Hotel des Arts

The location was nice, but the room was small and quiet, and the bathroom was extremely cramped. You have to request cleaning, the breakfast is very basic, and the furniture is too old. For a 2-star hotel that might be expected, but the price feels very high for what’s offered. I wouldn’t recommend it.

I came away with warm memories of Montpellier and of all the conversations we had. The staff usually spoke fluent English, and when I tried a few words in my halting, awkward French, they were patient and helpful. Everyone was accommodating, sometimes even giving me little personal lists of things they thought I’d enjoy based on questions I’d asked. This place feels like a rare, personal local experience in an increasingly samey, blasé world. My room was spacious, the bed and bedding were very comfortable, and I had a nice view of the Medieval tower across the street. The food was good too. I can’t imagine how there could be ANY bad reviews. It’s lovely in every way, and I hope I can return soon!

Aside from a payment mix-up with the company we booked through, which was resolved, our stay was pretty decent. We spent about an hour making calls because the payment hadn’t gone through. The man at reception said this happens all the time and guests often think they’ve paid when they haven’t. The next morning, a woman who spoke more English told us he was new, which seemed strange given what he’d said. The hotel itself wasn’t at fault. The rooms are massive, breakfast tastes great, and there’s parking.

We came back for a second stay as a family of three and would recommend it again. The location in Montpellier is ideal for transport and seeing the sights. Breakfast was good, and the staff were friendly and helpful while still giving us space.