This young universtiy city combines historical buildings with modern architecture. In the center of Montpellier (252 000 inhabitants) is a big open area, the «Place de la Comédie». It is very popular and is surrounded by typical French cafes and bistros. It is a car free zone, just as you will find in many cities in the south of France, allowing you to wonder though the lanes in the inner city undisturbed. Montpellier offers a rich cultural program for visitors: many sport facilities such as swimming, diving, sailing, horse riding, tennis, even ice skating, and flying with a sail are possible. The ocean with its wide sandy beaches is only 10 km away and thanks to the excellent bus connections is quick to reach.