A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aberdeen vs. Montpellier for Old Town, Attractions, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Aberdeen or Montpellier?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Aberdeen or Montpellier? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a architectural, authentic, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Montpellier

Montpellier is a bustling, beautiful, and friendly city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and museums.

Aberdeen and Montpellier: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Aberdeen or Montpellier?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Aberdeen than Montpellier. While Montpellier is larger than Aberdeen, Aberdeen has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Aberdeen is better known for its big city activities, while Montpellier is more popular for its beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Aberdeen is well known for its longstanding maritime history and its many cultural sights and activities. Also, Aberdeen is famous for St Machar's Cathedral Aberdeen. Montpellier is well known for its relaxed atmosphere, grand boulevards, and authentic personality.

How is Aberdeen different from Montpellier?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Montpellier and Aberdeen. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aberdeen or Montpellier?

Aberdeen
Montpellier

Both Aberdeen and Montpellier have superb landmarks and museums for visitors.

Aberdeen offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city's long running history means that there are plenty of sights and museums worth exploring. Highlights include St. Machar's Cathedral, the University and King's College of Aberdeen, Brig o'Balgownie, and the Tolbooth Museum.

Many visitors head to Montpellier specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. With such a long history, the city has many landmarks and monuments. Also make sure you visit Musée Fabre and Saint-Pierre Cathedral.


Is the Food Better in Aberdeen or Montpellier? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aberdeen
Montpellier

Dining out at restaurants in both Aberdeen and Montpellier can be an enjoyable experience.

Aberdeen offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Everything from brunch bistros to fine dining are available in this city. You can enjoy local specialties or international options at any of the unique restaurants around town.

Montpellier has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The dishes are made with fresh ingredients produced in the agricultural areas just outside of town. The area is known for its seafood and fish stews.

Is Aberdeen or Montpellier Better for Nightlife?

Aberdeen
Montpellier

Both Aberdeen and Montpellier are notable when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Aberdeen. The nightlife scene is diverse with whisky dens, local pubs, and even trendy nightclubs to choose from.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Montpellier. The weather is mild, making for a nice evening out. The population is also young, so you can expect a lot of activity during the evenings, particularly in the area around Place Jean Jaurés. Make sure you enjoy local wine and champagne while you're in town.

Is Aberdeen or Montpellier Better for Beaches?

Aberdeen
Montpellier

Montpellier is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Aberdeen is not a beach destination.

Montpellier is considered a top beach destination. The coastline near Montpellier feels pristine and beautiful. You can also visit Villeneuve-lès-Maguelone to the southwest of town, which is a protected area.

Aberdeen is not a beach destination.


Is Aberdeen or Montpellier Better for its Old Town?

Aberdeen
Montpellier

Montpellier is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Montpellier offers plenty to see. Known as L'Écusson the town's old town dates back to the Middle Ages. It is a pedestrian area that is filled with boutiques, restaurants, and churches.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Aberdeen. This city's old town is a hidden gem in Scotland. The cobblestone streets and long history make for a fascinating place to explore.

Is the Shopping Better in Aberdeen or Montpellier?

Aberdeen
Montpellier

Montpellier is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Montpellier is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to Rue de la Loge for some of the city's best shopping.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Aberdeen. A mix of modern shopping centers, antique vendors, and local boutiques make for an interesting shopping scene. For some of the city's best shopping head to Union Square Shopping Centre, the Trinity Centre, or Bon Accord Aberdeen.

Is Aberdeen or Montpellier Better for Families?

Aberdeen
Montpellier

Aberdeen is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Aberdeen is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Explore the city's history or wander through one of the many museums. Some of the best museums for kids include the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, Little Treasures Toy Museum, the Aberdeen Science Center, and the Gordon Highlanders Museum. Adrenaline seekers will enjoy rock climbing and ropes courses at Transition Extreme or ziplining at Go Ape Crathes Castle. Also nearby is horseback riding and Codona’s Amusement Park.

Montpellier offers lots of family activities. Popular activities for kids include taking a ride on the carousel in the Comedie, visiting the playground - Jardin Champs de Mars, and visiting the botanical garden - Jardin des Plantes.


Is Aberdeen or Montpellier Better for Couples?

Aberdeen
Montpellier

Montpellier is a well-known place for romance. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Montpellier is a very popular place to visit for couples. Rich in history and beautiful architecture, this city offers a romantic setting for a great couple's getaway.

Aberdeen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many of the standard activities for couples such as interesting restaurants, theaters, and fun concerts.

Is Aberdeen or Montpellier Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Aberdeen
Montpellier

Montpellier is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Montpellier. With a young population and a number of hostels to choose from, Montpellier attracts its share of backpackers.

Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Aberdeen or Montpellier Better for Students?

Aberdeen
Montpellier

Montpellier is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Montpellier. Montpellier is a popular university town that is home to many trendy university students. It's also where you'll find the youngest population of any city in France.

Plenty of students visit Aberdeen. The city is a nice affordable option for students who want to study at the University of Aberdeen.


Is Aberdeen or Montpellier Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Aberdeen
Montpellier

Montpellier is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Montpellier is fairly effecient and thorough. There are a number of options for getting around town including the tramway, bus, and tourist train.

Aberdeen has some public transit options. There are public buses through town and it's possible to pick up a Grasshopper ticket that lets you ride on most of the bus companies.

Is Aberdeen or Montpellier a more walkable city?

Aberdeen
Montpellier

Aberdeen and Montpellier both are superb when exploring on foot.

Aberdeen is very walkable. It's easy to walk to most of the city's attractions.

Montpellier is a very walkable city. Many of the sights and attractions are easily accessible on foot and can be enjoyed as part of a self-guided walking tour.

For even more information, also check out Is Aberdeen Worth Visiting? and Is Montpellier Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Montpellier or Aberdeen?

How long in Aberdeen or Montpellier?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Aberdeen and Montpellier. In our opinion, Montpellier has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Montpellier than Aberdeen. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Aberdeen, and 1-3 days is enough time in Montpellier.

Families should spend more time in Aberdeen than Montpellier. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Aberdeen, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Montpellier than Aberdeen. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Montpellier that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Montpellier than Aberdeen if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Montpellier.


  • How many days in Aberdeen or Montpellier? Ideal Length of Stay
    Aberdeen 2-3 
    Montpellier 1-3

One day in Aberdeen or Montpellier?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the authentic city of Aberdeen. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The beautiful city of Montpellier offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Aberdeen or Montpellier?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the architectural destination of Aberdeen. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Montpellier is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Montpellier, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Aberdeen or Montpellier?

The architectural city of Aberdeen offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Montpellier is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Aberdeen or Montpellier?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Aberdeen. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Montpellier is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Montpellier or Aberdeen?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Aberdeen is £121, while the average daily cost in Montpellier is £101. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Aberdeen and Montpellier in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aberdeen £65
    Montpellier £59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aberdeen £130
    Montpellier £118
Compare Hotels in Aberdeen and Montpellier

Looking for a hotel in Aberdeen or Montpellier? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Aberdeen


Hotels in Montpellier


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Aberdeen Hotel Prices and Montpellier Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aberdeen £34
    Montpellier £22

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aberdeen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aberdeen:

  • Aberdeen Airport to Aberdeen - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $131
  • Aberdeen City to Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) - Departure Private Transfer: $57
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) to Aberdeen - Arrival Private Transfer: $57
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ): Private Transfer to Aberdeen: $181
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport(ABZ) to Balmedie - Arrival Private Transfer: $44
  • Private Aberdeen Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $49
  • Private Aberdeen Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Montpellier

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Montpellier:

  • Transfer Montpellier Airport and Beziers Airport: $49
  • Montpellier–Méditerranée Airport Transfer: $64
  • Montpellier Private Transfer from Montpellier city centre to Montpellier Airport: $74
  • Private Transfer from Sète Cruise Port to Marseille city hotels: $131
  • Transfer from Sète Port to Marseille Provence Airport MRS: $131

Is it cheaper to fly into Aberdeen or Montpellier?

Prices for flights to both Montpellier and Aberdeen change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Aberdeen £35
    Montpellier £26

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Montpellier

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Montpellier.

  • Guided Food Tour With Local Snacks and Wine: $91
  • Montpellier Food Tour: $93
  • From Pic Saint-Loup Wine and Food Tour: $102
  • Cooking workshop: $106
  • Private cooking class with specialized chefs Montpellier: $108
  • Fusion Food Cooking Class: $428

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aberdeen £19
    Montpellier £10

Tours and Activities in Aberdeen

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Aberdeen are as follows:

  • Union Street App-Based Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.99
  • Aberdeen's Union Street: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.34
  • Dark history Self-Guided Smartphone Walking Tour: $6.99
  • 500 Years of Crime and Punishment: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Skip the Line: The Gordon Highlanders Museum Admission Ticket: $12
  • Daily City Centre Walking Tour (2pm): $17
  • Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour (2pm): $18
  • Aberdeen Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Aberdeen Historical Walking Tour: $60
  • Dunnottar Castle and Royal Deeside 1-Day Tour from Aberdeen: $64
  • From Adventure to St Andrews & Dundee: $65
  • St Andrews and Dundee Small-Group Tour from Aberdeen: $67

Tours and Activities in Montpellier

Here are a few actual costs in Montpellier for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Legendary Montpellier, flexible legends and storytelling tour: $16
  • CityTour and Photo Portraits Souvenirs in Montpellier: $38
  • Half-Day Hiking Tour of Pic Saint Loup & Picnic: $64
  • From Wine and Olive Tour: $75
  • Small-Group Half-Day Languedoc Wine and Olive Tour from Montpellier: $80
  • From Half-Day Vineyard & Pic Saint-Loup Tour: $80
  • Montpellier Wine and Oyster Tour: $86
  • Small-Group Half-Day Languedoc Wine and Oyster Tour from Montpellier: $95
  • Winetour & food experience in Pic St Loup: $107
  • Saint-Guilhem village and cave day tour : $142
  • Photoshoot Experience: $159
  • Private 2-hour Walking Tour of the Historical Center of Montpellier: $161

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aberdeen £3.57
    Montpellier £13

Sample the Local Flavors in Aberdeen

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Aberdeen:

  • Gin Distillery Discovery Tour with Welcome Drink: $34
  • Aberdeen’s Distillery Discovery Tour: $34
  • City of Aberdeen Distillery: Gin School Experience: $150
  • Aberdeen&Shire Castle & Distillery Private Group 1 Day Tour: $401

Sample the Local Flavors in Montpellier

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Montpellier:

  • The Châteaux of Grès de Montpellier & Wine Tasting: $80
  • Small-Group Half-Day Châteaux of Montpellier Wine Tour: $84
  • Small-Group Half-Day Languedoc Pic Saint-Loup Wine Tour from Montpellier: $84
  • Wine tour in Pic Saint-Loup area: $142
  • Half-Day Wine Tour with Lunch: $155
  • Montpellier : half day wine tour in Camargue: $159
  • Private Half-Day Languedoc Wine Tour from Sète: $240
  • Sète: Private Half–Day Wine Tour: $353


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Aberdeen and Montpellier, we can see that Aberdeen is more expensive. And not only is Montpellier much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Montpellier would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Montpellier and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Aberdeen would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Aberdeen than you might in Montpellier.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Aberdeen Expensive? and Is Montpellier Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Aberdeen or Montpellier?

Montpellier has a larger population, and is about 35% larger than the population of Aberdeen. When comparing the sizes of Aberdeen and Montpellier, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Aberdeen or Montpellier?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Montpellier in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Aberdeen and Montpellier. Most visitors come to Aberdeen for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Montpellier because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Aberdeen is generally much colder than Montpellier. Daily temperatures in Aberdeen average around 14°C (58°F), and Montpellier fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Montpellier this time of the year. Aberdeen usually receives less sunshine than Montpellier during summer. Aberdeen gets 157 hours of sunny skies, while Montpellier receives 351 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Aberdeen usually receives more rain than Montpellier. Aberdeen gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Aberdeen 14°C (58°F) 
    Montpellier 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Aberdeen or Montpellier in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Aberdeen as well as Montpellier. The autumn months attract visitors to Aberdeen because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Montpellier this time of year.

Aberdeen is much colder than Montpellier in the autumn. The daily temperature in Aberdeen averages around 9°C (49°F) in October, and Montpellier fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Aberdeen often gets less sunshine than Montpellier. Aberdeen gets 93 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montpellier receives 187 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Montpellier. Aberdeen usually gets less rain in October than Montpellier. Aberdeen gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Aberdeen 9°C (49°F) 
    Montpellier 15°C (60°F)

Should I visit Aberdeen or Montpellier in the Winter?

Both Montpellier and Aberdeen are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Aberdeen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Montpellier for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Aberdeen in the winter. In the winter, Aberdeen is much colder than Montpellier. Typically, the winter temperatures in Aberdeen in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Montpellier averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Aberdeen usually receives less sunshine than Montpellier during winter. Aberdeen gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Montpellier receives 147 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Aberdeen usually receives more rain than Montpellier. Aberdeen gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Aberdeen 3°C (38°F) 
    Montpellier 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Aberdeen or Montpellier in the Spring?

Both Montpellier and Aberdeen during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Aberdeen for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Montpellier in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Aberdeen is generally much colder than Montpellier. Daily temperatures in Aberdeen average around 7°C (44°F), and Montpellier fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Montpellier, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Aberdeen often gets less sunshine than Montpellier. Aberdeen gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montpellier receives 230 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Montpellier. Aberdeen gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Aberdeen 7°C (44°F) 
    Montpellier 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Montpellier and Aberdeen

Aberdeen Montpellier
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 51 mm (2 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 10°C (50°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
May 9°C (49°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (61°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 20°C (68°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 23°C (73°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Aug 14°C (57°F) 75 mm (3 in) 22°C (72°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 19°C (67°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in) 15°C (60°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in) 10°C (51°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)