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

Should you visit Arachova or Montpellier?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova 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.

Arachova

Arachova is a bustling, beautiful, and outdoorsy town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Montpellier

Montpellier is a friendly, historic, and vibrant city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Arachova and Montpellier: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
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 Arachova or Montpellier?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Arachova than Montpellier, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Arachova is better known for its skiing, food, nightlife, hiking, and small town charm, while Montpellier is more popular for its museums, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Arachova is more touristy than Montpellier and is known for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. Also, Arachova is famous for Mount Parnassus Ski Resort. Montpellier is well known for its relaxed atmosphere, grand boulevards, and authentic personality.

How is Arachova different from Montpellier?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Montpellier Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Montpellier

Arachova is a good destination for winter skiing. However, Montpellier is not a skiing destination.

Head to Arachova for some great skiing and other winter activities. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Montpellier is not a skiing destination.


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

Arachova
Montpellier

Montpellier is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Arachova offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

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

Arachova
Montpellier

Arachova is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Arachova is an experience not to be missed. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

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 Arachova or Montpellier Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Montpellier

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

The people in Arachova know how to have a good time. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

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 Arachova or Montpellier Better for Beaches?

Arachova
Montpellier

Montpellier is well known for its beaches. However, Arachova 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.

Arachova is not a beach destination.

Is Arachova or Montpellier Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Montpellier

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

Arachova is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

Is Arachova or Montpellier Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Montpellier

Arachova 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 Arachova. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

Montpellier is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Montpellier?

Arachova
Montpellier

Montpellier is well known for shopping. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Arachova. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

Is Arachova or Montpellier Better for Families?

Arachova
Montpellier

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

Arachova is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

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 Arachova or Montpellier Better for Couples?

Arachova
Montpellier

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

Couples visit Arachova frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

Montpellier is a great town 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 Arachova or Montpellier Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Montpellier

Montpellier is well known for backpackers. However, Arachova is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Arachova is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't think to visit this area on their trip to Greece. There are some guesthouses, but not a lot of hostels, so you might find a limited number of social activities.

Is Arachova or Montpellier Better for Students?

Arachova
Montpellier

Montpellier is an unbeatable place for students. However, Arachova 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.

Arachova is not popular with students.

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

Arachova
Montpellier

Montpellier is well known for its public transit. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

While Arachova offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are some public buses in the area.


Is Arachova or Montpellier a more walkable city?

Arachova
Montpellier

Montpellier is well known for its walkability. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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.

Arachova is a somewhat walkable place. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Montpellier or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Montpellier?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Montpellier than Arachova. 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 Arachova 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 Arachova or Montpellier? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arachova 2-3 
    Montpellier 1-3

One day in Arachova or Montpellier?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the outdoorsy town of Arachova. 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 Arachova or Montpellier?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the bustling destination of Arachova. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town 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 Arachova or Montpellier?

The outdoorsy town of Arachova offers museums and skiing. 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 Arachova or Montpellier?

Many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting Arachova. 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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Montpellier or Arachova?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Arachova is €112, 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 Arachova and Montpellier in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Montpellier 69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Montpellier 138
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Montpellier

Looking for a hotel in Arachova 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 Arachova


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.
    Arachova 51
    Montpellier 26

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 Arachova or Montpellier?

Prices for flights to both Montpellier and Arachova 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
    Arachova 29
    Montpellier 31

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.
    Arachova 28
    Montpellier 12

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
    Arachova 6.43
    Montpellier 15

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 Arachova and Montpellier, we can see that Montpellier 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 Arachova Expensive? and Is Montpellier Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Montpellier?

Montpellier has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova 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 Arachova 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 Arachova or Montpellier in the Summer?

Both Montpellier and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Arachova for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Montpellier in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Montpellier. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 27°C (81°F), 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 Arachova. Arachova usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Montpellier during summer. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Montpellier receives 351 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Arachova usually receives less rain than Montpellier. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Montpellier 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Montpellier in the Autumn?

Both Montpellier and Arachova during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Arachova in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere. Furthermore, most visitors come to Montpellier for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Arachova is a little warmer than Montpellier in the autumn. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Montpellier fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Arachova. In the autumn, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Montpellier. Arachova gets 206 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. Arachova usually gets less rain in October than Montpellier. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Montpellier 15°C (60°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Montpellier in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Montpellier. Most visitors come to Arachova for the skiing, 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.

In the winter, Arachova is much warmer than Montpellier. Typically, the winter temperatures in Arachova in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Montpellier averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Arachova usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Montpellier during winter. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Montpellier receives 147 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Arachova usually receives less rain than Montpellier. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Montpellier 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Montpellier in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Montpellier. The spring months attract visitors to Arachova because of the small town charm. Additionally, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Montpellier this time of year.

In April, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Montpellier. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 16°C (60°F), 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 Arachova this time of the year. In the spring, Arachova often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Montpellier. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montpellier receives 230 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in April than Montpellier. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Montpellier 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Montpellier and Arachova

Arachova Montpellier
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (50°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 13°C (55°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 16°C (61°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 22°C (72°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 19°C (67°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 15°C (60°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 10°C (51°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (45°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)