Places for kids in France: Montpellier zoo

Montpellier Zoo - or Parc Zoologique Henri de Lunaret, to give it its full title - is a free day out in a lovely parkland setting in the North of Montpellier. Zoos are always a hit with our boys and we easily spent 4 hours walking round and we still didn't see all of the animals. There are bears, lions, cheetahs, leopards, rhinos, antelope - you name it. I suppose the only thing that used to let down the zoo, was that there was nowhere to go to get a drink or an ice cream. But a few years back, the zoo built a brand new tropical centre which now houses a cafe, a restaurant, as well as an extensive collection of tropical plants, birds and animals.

Montpellier zoo is always a good day out. My middle son is now at the University in Montpellier and he goes up there at the weekends to have a walk through the park. Montpellier is also a good alternative to Sigean African Safari. 

Places for kids in France: Montpellier zoo

Montpellier zoo recently completed the creation of its "Lungs of the Planet - Amazon Jungle". At a cost of nearly €6m, this new attraction aims to provide a real feel for life in the Amazon. The centre contains nearly 3,500 plant species and 500 animals. Features include a tree level walk-way, a mountain path complete with steamy drizzle and 7 different climatic zones. After your hour or so walk through the jungle, you can enjoy a drink and something to eat in the smart restaurant overlooking the jungle.. Entrance to the Amazon House is €5 for adults and €2.50 for children over 6. The Amazon House is open every day from 09.00 to 19.00. For more information about the Amazon House click here.

So if you are looking for places for the kids in France this summer, then Montpellier is well worth the drive. Montpellier Zoo is situated in the Northern suburbs of Montpellier. For more details and directions please visit : Montpellier Zoo 

Where to next . . . ?

If you are visiting the South of France this summer, then get the inside track on the best Places to see & visit in the South of France in 2026 (written by people who live in Southern France all year around). Read about the best restaurants to eat at, get local information on the best beaches to visit and discover the best tourist sites, markets and festivals to see during your stay.

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