Follies and theaters adorn the district of Millénaire–Grammont, whose large park contains a range of sports arenas. Horse riding, tennis and skateboarding are among the activities in this green suburban hub. Take guided tours of the two castles to learn about Montpellier’s affluent history.

The Chateau de Flaugergues is a brilliantly shining folly with an opulent interior that recalls the excesses of French nobility in the 1700s. Stroll through the majestic halls and climb up the large staircase that occupies one quarter of the house. Encounter the olive trees, shrubs and Orangerie beside the French garden. Gaze up at the impressive Sainte Philothée Orthodox Church, which dates back to 1225. It was reconstructed in 1897 in a neo-Gothic style.

A little northwest stands the Chateau de Grammont. Admire the eight columns in the middle of its façade. Stroll through the large cedar forest and encounter the vestiges of a 12th-century monastery. While you examine the castle’s period décor and scenic grounds, your kids can enjoy the fun activities and outings in the Centre de Loisirs next door.

See one of the intriguing performances in the Humain Trop Humain theater, where you’ll find magic shows, poetry readings, plays and recitals. Attend a concert at the Zénith Sud performing arts theater, beside which the Bouglione Circus sets up its spectacle in winter.

Join your friends in the enormous open-air sports complex. It features several soccer fields belonging to the city’s main team, Montpellier HSC. Roll up and down the Skatepark de Montpellier Grammont and meet the horses and ponies at the Montpellier Grammont Horse Riding school.

Millénaire–Grammont is on the eastern side of Montpellier. Arrive by tram at the Place de France stop beside the Aquarium Mare Nostrum and walk north to reach the zone. Visit some of the neighboring districts, such as Domaine de Verchant, Les Garrigues and Boirargues.