A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Almeria vs. Montpellier for Food, Beaches, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Almeria or Montpellier?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Almeria and Montpellier. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Almeria

Almeria is a cultural, historic, and natural region. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and nightlife.

Montpellier

Montpellier is a vibrant, bustling, and beautiful city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Almeria and Montpellier: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Almeria or Montpellier?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Montpellier than Almeria. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Montpellier is very popular for its museums, historical sights, and shopping, while Almeria attracts visitors for its food, resorts, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Almeria is more touristy than Montpellier and is known for its stunning beaches that feel pristine despite their popularity. Montpellier is famous for its relaxed atmosphere, grand boulevards, and authentic personality. It is also well known for The Place de la Comédie.

How is Almeria different from Montpellier?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Almeria
Montpellier

Montpellier is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Almeria does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Montpellier. With such a long history, the city has many landmarks and monuments. Also make sure you visit Musée Fabre and Saint-Pierre Cathedral.

Almeria does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Almeria
Montpellier

Almeria is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Almeria, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The food is focused on local, fresh ingredients with many traditional recipes that have been passed down for centuries. Popular dishes change with the seasons because they rely so heavily on local produce. Particularly during the winter months you'll find hearty stews like patatas en ajopollo and gurullos con conejo, which is prepared with rabbit. Sardines are also popular year round.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Montpellier. 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 Almeria or Montpellier Better for Nightlife?

Almeria
Montpellier

It's hard to distinguish whether Almeria or Montpellier has a better nightlife scene.

Almeria has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city's nightlife vibe is about enjoying a cold beer on a terrace with friends. The city has a laid back Mediterranean atmosphere and plenty of terraced bars along the main streets, particularly in old town. With mild temperatures year around, you'll find yourself spending time outside most evenings while you enjoy tapas and drinks with friends. Flamenco and bullfighting are also popular in the evenings.

If you're looking for night time activities Montpellier has a few options to choose from. 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 Almeria or Montpellier Better for Resorts?

Almeria
Montpellier

Almeria is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Montpellier is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Almeria for its luxury resorts. Stretched along the coastline you'll find many high end resorts with pools and nice atmospheres. There are all inclusive resorts as well as family-friendly and romantic options to choose from.

Montpellier is not a resort destination.


Is Almeria or Montpellier Better for Beaches?

Almeria
Montpellier

Almeria is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Almeria offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Outside of town you'll find kilometers of stunning coastline and beaches. There are pristine natural beaches that still feel undiscovered with beautiful long stretches of sand. One of the biggest resort areas is Roquetas de Mar.

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.

Is Almeria or Montpellier Better for its Old Town?

Almeria
Montpellier

Montpellier is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Almeria is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town.

The rich history of Montpellier can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Almeria. The old town is at the cultural heart of the city. It has the most energy during the evenings, as well as many museums and sights worth visiting.

Is Almeria or Montpellier Better for Hiking?

Almeria
Montpellier

Almeria is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Montpellier is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Almeria. The area has stunning hikes that run along the coastline or into the beautiful interior countryside. For some of the area's best hikes head into Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park.

Montpellier is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Almeria or Montpellier?

Almeria
Montpellier

Montpellier is a great destination for its shopping areas. However, Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Montpellier. Head to Rue de la Loge for some of the city's best shopping.

Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Almeria or Montpellier Better for Families?

Almeria
Montpellier

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

Almeria is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The area has many beautiful beaches as well as waterparks, amusement parks, and fun activities like sailing and water sports. There's also a very impressive fort that the kids will enjoy exploring.

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 Almeria or Montpellier Better for Couples?

Almeria
Montpellier

Almeria and Montpellier both excellent destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Almeria frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Nature lovers and beach enthusiasts will find this to be the perfect romantic getaway. There are many outdoor activities and places to immerse yourself in nature. A highlight of a trip is a visit to Crystal Cave.

Montpellier is a great region if you're traveling as a couple. Rich in history and beautiful architecture, this city offers a romantic setting for a great couple's getaway.


Is Almeria or Montpellier Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Almeria
Montpellier

Almeria and Montpellier are excellent places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Almeria is a very popular region for backpackers and budget travelers. There's plenty of affordable accommodation to choose from as well as all kinds of activities that backpackers will enjoy. If you like nature and enjoy spending time outside, then this is your place.

Montpellier is very popular with the backpacker crowd. With a young population and a number of hostels to choose from, Montpellier attracts its share of backpackers.

Is Almeria or Montpellier Better for Students?

Almeria
Montpellier

Montpellier is a must-visit destination for students. However, Almeria is not popular with students.

Montpellier is a very popular place to visit for students. 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.

Almeria is not popular with students.

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

Almeria
Montpellier

Montpellier is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Almeria is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Montpellier. There are a number of options for getting around town including the tramway, bus, and tourist train.

While Almeria offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are a number of bus lines that run through Almeria city and to Cabo de Gata.


Is Almeria or Montpellier a more walkable city?

Almeria
Montpellier

Montpellier is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Almeria is a region with minimal options for its walkability.

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

Almeria is generally not a very walkable region. While there are many beautiful walks in the area, if you want to truly explore, you'll likely want to have access to a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Montpellier or Almeria?

How long in Almeria or Montpellier?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Almeria and Montpellier. In our opinion, Montpellier has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Montpellier than Almeria. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Montpellier than Almeria. 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 Almeria 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 Almeria or Montpellier? Ideal Length of Stay
    Almeria 1-3 
    Montpellier 1-3

One day in Almeria or Montpellier?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the breathtaking region of Almeria. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this region has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Montpellier, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Almeria or Montpellier?

Visitors enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the cultural destination of Almeria. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This region 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.

In Montpellier, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Montpellier has to offer.


Five days in Almeria or Montpellier?

The historic region of Almeria offers nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Almeria or Montpellier?

Many people enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting Almeria. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Montpellier. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Montpellier. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Montpellier or Almeria?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Almeria is €99, while the average daily cost in Montpellier is €118. 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 Almeria and Montpellier in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Almeria 44
    Montpellier 69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Almeria 88
    Montpellier 138
Compare Hotels in Almeria and Montpellier

Looking for a hotel in Almeria 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 Almeria


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: Montpellier Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Almeria 20
    Montpellier 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Almeria

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Almeria:

  • Almería Private Transfer from Almería Airport to City centre or Cabo de Gata: $65
  • Almería Private Transfer from the city centre or Cabo de Gata to Almería Airport: $65
  • Private Transfer from Almeria Airport to / from Almeria Spain: $42
  • Tabernas: transfer + ticket Fort Bravo or Minihollywood: $62
  • Transfers desde Aeropuerto de Almería (LEI) a Vera Playa - 4 pasajeros: $124

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Montpellier

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Montpellier:

  • Montpellier Private Transfer from Montpellier city centre to Montpellier Airport: $74
  • Montpellier–Méditerranée Airport Transfer: $64
  • Private Transfer from Sète Cruise Port to Marseille city hotels: $130
  • Transfer from Sète Port to Marseille Provence Airport MRS: $130

Is it cheaper to fly into Almeria or Montpellier?

Prices for flights to both Montpellier and Almeria 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
    Almeria 40
    Montpellier 31

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Almeria

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

  • Spanish Paella Private Online Cooking Class: $40

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: $82
  • From Pic Saint-Loup Wine and Food Tour: $91
  • Montpellier Food Tour: $92
  • Cooking workshop: $105
  • Private cooking class with specialized chefs Montpellier: $108
  • Fusion Food Cooking Class: $426

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Almeria 16
    Montpellier 12

Tours and Activities in Almeria

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

  • Convent of the Puras Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket: $5.33
  • Almería: Cathedral Entry Ticket: $7.46
  • Almería: Cathedral and Convent of the Puras Entry Ticket: $9.59
  • Spanish Civil War Shelters Ticket and Official Tour: $11
  • Almería: Legends and Mysteries Evening Walking Tour: $11
  • Almería: Cathedral and Monastery of Las Puras Guided Tour: $12
  • Shelters of Spanish Civil War | Spanish Tour: $14
  • History and Hidden Corners Essential Walking Tour: $14
  • Andalusia: Almeria Cathedral Entry with Guided Tour: $16
  • Almería: Guided City Discovery Tour: $16
  • Alcazaba Guided Tour: $16
  • Fort Bravo Entrance Ticket: $21

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: $79
  • From Half-Day Vineyard & Pic Saint-Loup Tour: $80
  • Montpellier Wine and Oyster Tour: $85
  • Small-Group Half-Day Languedoc Wine and Oyster Tour from Montpellier: $94
  • Winetour & food experience in Pic St Loup: $106
  • Photoshoot Experience: $159
  • Private 2-hour Walking Tour of the Historical Center of Montpellier: $161
  • Highlights of Sète : history, food and wine experience: $174

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Almeria 4.29
    Montpellier 15

Sample the Local Flavors in Almeria

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

  • Almería Visit to Eco Winery Cortijo El Cura and wine tasting: $24
  • Almería Wine tour and tasting in English in Bio Winery: $24

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
  • Half-Day Wine Tour with Lunch: $155
  • Montpellier : half day wine tour in Camargue: $159
  • Private Half-Day Languedoc Wine Tour from Sète: $239
  • Sète: Private Half–Day Wine Tour: $352


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Almeria and Montpellier, we can see that Montpellier is more expensive. And not only is Almeria much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Almeria would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Almeria 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 Montpellier would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Montpellier than you might in Almeria.

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


Which is Bigger, Almeria or Montpellier?

Montpellier has a larger population, and is about 38% larger than the population of Almeria. When comparing the sizes of Almeria 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 Almeria 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 Almeria or Montpellier in the Summer?

Both Montpellier and Almeria are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Almeria because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Montpellier this time of year.

Almeria is a little warmer than Montpellier in the summer. The daily temperature in Almeria averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Montpellier fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Montpellier. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Almeria. Almeria usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Montpellier during summer. Almeria gets 343 hours of sunny skies, while Montpellier receives 351 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Almeria usually receives less rain than Montpellier. Almeria gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Almeria 26°C (78°F) 
    Montpellier 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Almeria or Montpellier in the Autumn?

Both Montpellier and Almeria during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Almeria this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Montpellier for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Almeria is a little warmer than Montpellier. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Almeria in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Montpellier averages at about 15°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Almeria. In the autumn, Almeria often gets more sunshine than Montpellier. Almeria gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montpellier receives 187 hours of full sun.

Montpellier gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Almeria usually gets less rain in October than Montpellier. Almeria gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Almeria 20°C (68°F) 
    Montpellier 15°C (60°F)

Should I visit Almeria or Montpellier in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Almeria and Montpellier. Many travelers come to Almeria for the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Montpellier in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

Almeria usually receives more sunshine than Montpellier during winter. Almeria gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Montpellier receives 147 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Almeria usually receives less rain than Montpellier. Almeria gets 27 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Almeria 13°C (55°F) 
    Montpellier 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Almeria or Montpellier in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Almeria as well as Montpellier. Many visitors come to Almeria in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Montpellier for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Almeria is a little warmer than Montpellier in the spring. The daily temperature in Almeria averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Montpellier fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Montpellier. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Almeria this time of the year. In the spring, Almeria often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Montpellier. Almeria gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montpellier receives 230 hours of full sun.

Almeria usually gets less rain in April than Montpellier. Almeria gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Almeria 16°C (61°F) 
    Montpellier 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Montpellier and Almeria

Almeria Montpellier
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 13°C (55°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 7°C (44°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 13°C (56°F) 18 mm (0.7 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 14°C (58°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 26 mm (1 in) 13°C (55°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 16°C (61°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 20°C (68°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 26°C (78°F) 1 mm (0 in) 23°C (73°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 1 mm (0 in) 22°C (72°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 19°C (67°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 20°C (68°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 15°C (60°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Nov 16°C (61°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 10°C (51°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 13°C (56°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)