Montpellier

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Public Transportation

Sections

1. Types of Public Transportation in Montpellier

Montpellier’s public transportation system is operated by TaM (Transports de l'Agglomération de Montpellier) and includes the following modes of transport:

a. Trams

  • Montpellier has a modern and colorful tram network with 4 tram lines (Lines 1, 2, 3, and 4) that connect key areas of the city and its suburbs.
  • The trams are the backbone of the city’s public transport system, running frequently and covering major attractions, neighborhoods, and transport hubs.

b. Buses

  • A network of 36 bus lines complements the tram system, providing access to areas not served by trams, including suburban and rural locations.
  • There are also night buses (called "Amigo" buses) that operate on weekends, catering to late-night travelers.

c. Bicycle Rentals (Vélomagg')

  • Montpellier is a bike-friendly city, and the Vélomagg’ bike-sharing system offers an eco-friendly way to get around. You can rent bikes from various stations across the city.

d. Park-and-Ride (P+Tram)

  • For those driving into Montpellier, the city offers park-and-ride facilities near tram stops. You can park your car and use public transport to reach the city center.

2. Ticketing Options

Tickets for trams and buses are integrated, meaning the same ticket can be used for both modes of transport. Here are the main ticketing options:

a. Types of Tickets

  • Single Ticket (Ticket Solo): €1.60 for one trip, valid for 1 hour across trams and buses.
  • Round-Trip Ticket (Ticket Aller-Retour): €3.20 for two trips, valid for 1 hour per trip.
  • 10-Trip Ticket (Ticket 10 Voyages): €14, offering a discount for frequent travelers.
  • 24-Hour Pass (Pass 24h): €4.60 for unlimited travel on trams and buses for 24 hours.
  • 7-Day Pass (Pass 7 Jours): €18 for unlimited travel for 7 consecutive days.
  • Monthly and Annual Passes: Available for residents or long-term visitors, offering significant savings.

b. Discounts

  • Children under 5 travel for free.
  • Reduced fares are available for students, seniors, and people with disabilities (documentation required).

c. How to Purchase Tickets

  • Ticket Machines: Available at all tram stops and major bus stops. Machines accept coins, credit/debit cards, and contactless payments.
  • Onboard Buses: Single tickets can be purchased directly from the driver (cash only, exact change preferred).
  • TaM Agency: Visit the TaM office in the city center for assistance with passes and subscriptions.
  • Mobile App: The "M'Ticket TaM" app allows you to purchase and validate tickets directly on your smartphone.

3. Costs

  • A single trip costs €1.60, but purchasing multi-trip tickets or passes can save you money if you plan to use public transport frequently.
  • Park-and-ride facilities cost €5.10 per day, which includes parking and round-trip tram tickets for all passengers in the car.

4. Schedules

  • Trams: Operate from around 5:00 AM to midnight, with trams running every 5-10 minutes during peak hours and every 15-20 minutes during off-peak hours.
  • Buses: Most buses operate from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with reduced service on Sundays and public holidays. Night buses run on weekends until around 2:00 AM.
  • Real-Time Updates: Use the TaM website, mobile app, or electronic boards at tram stops to check real-time schedules.

5. Accessibility

Montpellier’s public transportation system is designed to be accessible to people with disabilities:

  • Trams: All trams are wheelchair-accessible, with low floors and designated spaces for wheelchairs and strollers.
  • Buses: Most buses are equipped with ramps and priority seating for passengers with reduced mobility.
  • Stations: Tram stops and major bus stops have tactile paving for visually impaired passengers.
  • Assistance Services: TaM offers personalized assistance for passengers with disabilities. Contact their customer service for more information.

6. Local Tips and Considerations

  • Validate Your Ticket: Always validate your ticket at the machines on trams or buses. Failure to do so can result in a fine if checked by inspectors.
  • Avoid Rush Hours: Trams can get crowded during peak hours (7:30-9:00 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM), so plan your travel accordingly.
  • Explore by Tram: The tram lines are color-coded and artistically designed. For example, Line 1 is blue with white swallows, and Line 3 is orange with floral patterns. Riding the trams can be a fun way to explore the city.
  • Plan Ahead for Sundays: Public transport operates on a reduced schedule on Sundays and public holidays, so check the timetable in advance.
  • Bike-Friendly City: Montpellier is compact and bike-friendly, so consider using Vélomagg’ bikes for short trips or exploring the city’s scenic bike paths.

7. Key Resources

  • TaM Website: www.tam-voyages.com (available in English and French) for route maps, schedules, and ticketing information.
  • Mobile App: Download the "M'Ticket TaM" app for ticket purchases, route planning, and real-time updates.
  • Customer Service: Visit the TaM agency at 6 Rue Jules Ferry, or call +33 (0)4 67 22 87 87 for assistance.

Montpellier’s public transportation system is efficient, affordable, and easy to use, making it a great way to explore the city and its surroundings. With this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate Montpellier like a local!