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

Should you visit Antwerp or Montpellier?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Antwerp and Montpellier can help you decide which place is right for you.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a youthful, vibrant, and authentic port 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 beautiful, friendly, and historic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Antwerp and Montpellier: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Antwerp or Montpellier?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Antwerp than Montpellier, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Antwerp is more popular for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Montpellier is known for its beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Montpellier is more touristy than Antwerp and is known for its relaxed atmosphere, grand boulevards, and authentic personality. Antwerp is popular for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town. It is also home to Antwerpen-Centraal.

How is Antwerp different from Montpellier?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Antwerp
Montpellier

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Antwerp and Montpellier.

Many visitors head to Antwerp specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has a number of cathedrals, museums, and art galleries that are fun to explore. The history and culture of the town is best experienced by wandering the streets and soaking up the architecture.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Montpellier can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Antwerp or Montpellier? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Antwerp
Montpellier

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

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Antwerp. People with a sweet tooth will enjoy the chocolates and biscuits that make this city famous. You'll also find plenty of fries and casual dining options to choose from. Local favorites include mussels and fish and chips, and of course, you must try the beer!

Montpellier is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Antwerp or Montpellier Better for Nightlife?

Antwerp
Montpellier

Antwerp is a great destination for its evening party scene. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The people in Antwerp know how to have a good time. With its large student population and young vibe, you'll find an active nightlife scene around town. Many of the the clubs and bars are concentrated in the docklands, but you'll also find places to hang out everywhere around town.

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 Antwerp or Montpellier Better for Beaches?

Antwerp
Montpellier

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

Montpellier is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. 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.

Antwerp is not a beach destination.


Is Antwerp or Montpellier Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp
Montpellier

Montpellier is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Antwerp 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.

Many visitors go to Antwerp to see the historical old town. The old city has a long running history and many unique spots to explore. At the heart of the old town is Grote Markt, which is surrounded by beautiful buildings and cobblestone streets. There are a diversity of restaurants including local cuisines, Italian restaurants, and a number of different ethnic food. You'll also find local chocolate shops, waffle vendors, and ice cream.

Is the Shopping Better in Antwerp or Montpellier?

Antwerp
Montpellier

Antwerp is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Antwerp is a world class destination for shoppers. The city has become known for its fashion scene. The main shopping street is Meir, which is where you'll find a variety of European fashion chains. It's also fun to buy chocolates, art, or other souvenirs around town. You'll find both locals and tourists perusing the main shopping areas around town.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Montpellier. Head to Rue de la Loge for some of the city's best shopping.

Is Antwerp or Montpellier Better for Families?

Antwerp
Montpellier

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Antwerp or Montpellier.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Antwerp. Favorite kid-friendly activities around town include taking a ride on the Ferris Wheel, going to the local zoo, or exploring the indoor play area Plopsa Station. Kids will also enjoy exploring the underground canals or taking a boat ride. Chocolate lovers will have fun checking out the many chocolate shops around town.

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 Antwerp or Montpellier Better for Couples?

Antwerp
Montpellier

Montpellier is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Montpellier frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Rich in history and beautiful architecture, this city offers a romantic setting for a great couple's getaway.

Antwerp is a good port city for couples to visit. The city has a wonderful café culture with great restaurants and beautiful neighborhoods to explore. There are many great restaurants as well as plenty of shopping opportunities.

Is Antwerp or Montpellier Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antwerp
Montpellier

Montpellier is well known for backpackers. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Montpellier is a great city to visit for backpackers. With a young population and a number of hostels to choose from, Montpellier attracts its share of backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Antwerp. With a handful of hostels and a variety of free activities, this is an affordable place to visit. It's often overlooked by backpackers so those that visit will be rewarded. It has a vibe of authenticity which is great for backpacker's who are a bit jaded from the tourism scene.

Is Antwerp or Montpellier Better for Students?

Antwerp
Montpellier

Montpellier is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over the world to visit 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.

Antwerp is a great port city to visit as a student. There's a good student culture and a lot of activities that give the city a fun and youthful vibe. It's a relatively big city with a lot of transportation connections, so it makes a great base for exploring other areas.


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

Antwerp
Montpellier

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

Montpellier has some very good public transit options. There are a number of options for getting around town including the tramway, bus, and tourist train.

While Antwerp offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are both tram and bus lines around town. The city also has a large and impressive train station with many connections, making it a good base for exploring other areas.

Is Antwerp or Montpellier a more walkable city?

Antwerp
Montpellier

Antwerp and Montpellier both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Antwerp is a very walkable port city. The old town can be comfortably explored on foot, particularly the area around Grote Markt.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Montpellier or Antwerp?

How long in Antwerp or Montpellier?

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

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

One day in Antwerp or Montpellier?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the genuine port city of Antwerp. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the shopping. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this port city 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 Antwerp or Montpellier?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the vibrant destination of Antwerp. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This port 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.

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 Antwerp or Montpellier?

The authentic port city of Antwerp 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 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 Antwerp or Montpellier?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Antwerp. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people visit for the shopping. 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 Tours for Seniors to Belgium, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Montpellier or Antwerp?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Antwerp is €123, 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 Antwerp and Montpellier in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Antwerp 71
    Montpellier 69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Antwerp 142
    Montpellier 138
Compare Hotels in Antwerp and Montpellier

Looking for a hotel in Antwerp 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 Antwerp


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: Antwerp Hotel Prices and Montpellier Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Antwerp 12
    Montpellier 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Antwerp

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Antwerp:

  • Antwerp Shuttle Transfer <-> Schipol Airport Amsterdam (1 to 8 Places): $175
  • Arrival Private Transfer Antwerp Airport ANR to Antwerp by Sedan: $68
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $163
  • Private Departure Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $86
  • Private Transfer from Antwerp to Bruges or ZeeBrugge By Luxury car: $141
  • Round Trip Private Transfer Brussels Airport BRU to Antwerp City by Luxury Car: $274
  • Transfer from Antwerp Airport ANR to Antwerp by Luxury Car or Van: $73

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: $131
  • Transfer Montpellier Airport and Beziers Airport: $49
  • Transfer from Sète Port to Marseille Provence Airport MRS: $131

Is it cheaper to fly into Antwerp or Montpellier?

Prices for flights to both Montpellier and Antwerp 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
    Antwerp 39
    Montpellier 31

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Antwerp

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

  • 2-Hour Food Tour with 5 Tastings: $71

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.
    Antwerp 8.21
    Montpellier 12

Tours and Activities in Antwerp

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

  • Historical Walking Tour in the Old City: $3.20
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Evening Walking Tour: The Dark Side of Antwerp: $3.26
  • Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Antwerp: $3.27
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Antwerp Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.09
  • Antwerp In App Audio Tour : Belgian Port City (EN, DU): $7.59
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and City Tour: $8.02
  • Walking Tour with Audioguide App: $8.02
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Walking Tour: Highlights of Antwerp: $16
  • Walking Tour Big five Rubens' churches (audio): $16

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
    Antwerp 18
    Montpellier 15

Sample the Local Flavors in Antwerp

Also in Antwerp, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Antwerp Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
  • City Brewery De Koninck Interactive Tour: $17
  • Tour and Tasting if alcoholic Ginger-beer in a gluten-free nano-brewery: $62
  • Antwerp Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $65
  • Pub Crawl in the Historical City: $96

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 comparing the travel costs between Antwerp and Montpellier, we can see that Antwerp is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Antwerp or Montpellier?

Antwerp has a larger population, and is about 85% larger than the population of Montpellier. When comparing the sizes of Antwerp 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 Antwerp 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 Antwerp or Montpellier in the Summer?

Both Montpellier and Antwerp are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Antwerp in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Montpellier for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Antwerp is cooler than Montpellier. Typically, the summer temperatures in Antwerp in July average around 17°C (63°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 Antwerp. Antwerp usually receives less sunshine than Montpellier during summer. Antwerp gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Montpellier receives 351 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Antwerp usually receives more rain than Montpellier. Antwerp gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Antwerp 17°C (63°F) 
    Montpellier 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Antwerp or Montpellier in the Autumn?

Both Montpellier and Antwerp during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Antwerp for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Montpellier because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Antwerp is generally cooler than Montpellier. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 12°C (54°F), and Montpellier fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than Montpellier. Antwerp gets 105 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. Antwerp usually gets less rain in October than Montpellier. Antwerp gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Antwerp 12°C (54°F) 
    Montpellier 15°C (60°F)

Should I visit Antwerp or Montpellier in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Antwerp and Montpellier. The winter months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Montpellier this time of year.

The weather in Antwerp can be very cold. Antwerp is much colder than Montpellier in the winter. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Montpellier fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Antwerp usually receives less sunshine than Montpellier during winter. Antwerp gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Montpellier receives 147 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Antwerp usually receives less rain than Montpellier. Antwerp gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Antwerp or Montpellier in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Antwerp as well as Montpellier. The activities around the city are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Montpellier for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Antwerp is cooler than Montpellier. Typically, the spring temperatures in Antwerp in April average around 8°C (47°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, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than Montpellier. Antwerp gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montpellier receives 230 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets less rain in April than Montpellier. Antwerp gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Antwerp 8°C (47°F) 
    Montpellier 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Montpellier and Antwerp

Antwerp Montpellier
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 7°C (44°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 10°C (50°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 20°C (68°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 23°C (73°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 22°C (72°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (67°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 15°C (60°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 10°C (51°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)