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

Should you visit Amsterdam or Montpellier?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Montpellier, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a laid-back, scenic, and historic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Montpellier

Montpellier is a friendly, historic, and vibrant city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Amsterdam and Montpellier: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Montpellier?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Amsterdam than Montpellier, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Amsterdam is more popular for its nightlife, music, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Montpellier is known for its food, beaches, and historical sights. Amsterdam is more touristy than Montpellier and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also home to The Rijksmuseum. Montpellier is popular for its relaxed atmosphere, grand boulevards, and authentic personality.

How is Amsterdam different from Montpellier?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the great sights and museums in both Amsterdam and Montpellier.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Amsterdam can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a number of sights and museums including the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Royal Palace. The world renowned Rijksmuseum is a must see for any art enthusiast. There are also many smaller, lesser known museums that are well worth a visit.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Montpellier. 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 Amsterdam or Montpellier? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Montpellier is a nice place to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in 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.

Amsterdam may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Food is expensive in this city, particularly in the touristy areas. There are some markets that sell great local items and the dessert cafes are awesome!

Is Amsterdam or Montpellier Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The nightlife in Amsterdam is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The city has some of the best nightlife in Europe. There are plenty of bars, dance clubs, and other activities that you can enjoy throughout the night.

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 Amsterdam or Montpellier Better for Music?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Montpellier is not a live music destination.

In Amsterdam you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Montpellier is not a live music destination.

Is Amsterdam or Montpellier Better for Beaches?

Montpellier is well known for the beache. However, Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Montpellier. 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.

Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

Is Amsterdam or Montpellier Better for its Old Town?

Montpellier is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Amsterdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

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.

Amsterdam is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old city center is one of the best preserved in Europe. It's enclosed by canals and has many historic churches, plazas, and buildings.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Montpellier?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Montpellier and Amsterdam.

Amsterdam is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. For the best shopping in town, head to the Nine Streets area in the historic district and the two main shopping streets of The Kalverstraat and Leidsestraat.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Montpellier. Head to Rue de la Loge for some of the city's best shopping.

Is Amsterdam or Montpellier Better for Families?

Montpellier is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Montpellier. 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.

For families, Amsterdam is not always the best place to visit. The city does it's share of partying, and there are some areas, like the red light district, that aren't exactly kid-friendly, but there are some nice parks, playgrounds, and the impressive NEMO Science Museum that you can explore.

Is Amsterdam or Montpellier Better for Couples?

Amsterdam and Montpellier are both great to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Amsterdam frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For many, a visit to this city is all about the party, but for couples who enjoy history, architecture, or boat rides along the scenic canals, the city also makes a great getaway. It's also fun to stay in a houseboat and have a unique experience.

Montpellier is a great city 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 Amsterdam or Montpellier Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Amsterdam is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. With it's party-hard personality and countless low price hostels, this city attracts its share of backpackers. Do note that many of the hostels aren't focused on quality, so make sure you understand what you're paying for. It may be worth booking a slightly more expensive room in a hotel.

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 Amsterdam or Montpellier Better for Students?

Montpellier is an unbeatable place for students. However, Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Montpellier is a great destination 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.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Amsterdam can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The city has metros, trams, buses, and ferries that help you get around. Since this is the Netherlands, getting around by bike is very popular.

Visitors to Montpellier can move around easily with public transportation. There are a number of options for getting around town including the tramway, bus, and tourist train.

Is Amsterdam or Montpellier a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Amsterdam on foot is easy. The historic parts of the city are very walkable and much of the city is best explored on foot.

Montpellier is very walkable. 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 Amsterdam Worth Visiting? and Is Montpellier Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Montpellier or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Montpellier?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Amsterdam and Montpellier. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Amsterdam than in Montpellier. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Amsterdam, and 1-3 days is enough time in Montpellier.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Amsterdam than Montpellier 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 Amsterdam.

One day in Amsterdam or Montpellier?

Amsterdam is a party-oriented city where you can fill many days. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Montpellier. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Montpellier has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Amsterdam or Montpellier?

Amsterdam is a scenic big city where you can fill many days. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the bustling destination of Montpellier. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Amsterdam or Montpellier?

Amsterdam is a scenic city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant city of Montpellier. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Amsterdam or Montpellier?

Amsterdam is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Montpellier is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Amsterdam and Montpellier, we can see that Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam Expensive? and Is Montpellier Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Montpellier?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Montpellier. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam or Montpellier in the Summer?

Both Montpellier and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Amsterdam for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Montpellier in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Amsterdam is cooler than Montpellier. Typically, the summer temperatures in Amsterdam in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Montpellier averages at about 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Montpellier. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Amsterdam. Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Montpellier during summer. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Montpellier receives 351 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Montpellier. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Montpellier in the Autumn?

Both Montpellier and Amsterdam during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Amsterdam in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Montpellier for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Amsterdam is generally cooler than Montpellier. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 11°C (51°F), and Montpellier fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Montpellier. Amsterdam gets 99 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. Amsterdam usually gets less rain in October than Montpellier. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Montpellier in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Montpellier. Most visitors come to Amsterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Montpellier because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Amsterdam can be very cold during winter. Amsterdam is much colder than Montpellier in the winter. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Montpellier fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Montpellier during winter. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies, while Montpellier receives 147 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Amsterdam usually receives less rain than Montpellier. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Montpellier in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Montpellier. The spring months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Montpellier this time of year.

In the spring, Amsterdam is much colder than Montpellier. Typically, the spring temperatures in Amsterdam in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Montpellier averages at about 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Montpellier. In the spring, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Montpellier. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montpellier receives 230 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Montpellier. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Montpellier and Amsterdam