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

Should you visit Bristol or Montpellier?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bristol and Montpellier can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Bristol

Bristol is a diverse, cultural, and friendly 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 historic, vibrant, and bustling city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Bristol and Montpellier: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Bristol or Montpellier?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bristol than Montpellier. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Bristol is very popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Montpellier attracts visitors for its beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Bristol is famous for its laid-back atmosphere and progressive environmental policies. It is also well known for The Bristol Harbour. Montpellier is famous for its relaxed atmosphere, grand boulevards, and authentic personality.

How is Bristol different from Montpellier?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bristol
Montpellier

You'll find a number of very good museums and attractions in both Montpellier and Bristol.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Bristol. The city has some great museums and landmarks such as the SS Great Britain, M Shed, the Clifton Suspension Bridge, and Cabot Tower.

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.


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

Bristol
Montpellier

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

Bristol is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find all of the classic British specialties such as bangers and mash or fish and chips. There are many restaurants, markets, and pubs where you can grab a relaxing meal and enjoy the British ambiance.

Montpellier offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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 Bristol or Montpellier Better for Nightlife?

Bristol
Montpellier

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

The people in Bristol know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene is diverse and inclusive. There are huge clubs that host well known DJs. There is also an underground music scene as well as local bars and even traditional speakeasies. Whether your interest is live jazz or upscale cocktail bars, there really is something for everyone.

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 Bristol or Montpellier Better for Beaches?

Bristol
Montpellier

Montpellier is great for the beach. However, Bristol is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Montpellier attract visitors from all over. 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.

Bristol is not a beach destination.


Is Bristol or Montpellier Better for its Old Town?

Bristol
Montpellier

Montpellier is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Bristol does not have a historic 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.

Bristol does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Bristol or Montpellier?

Bristol
Montpellier

If you're looking to go shopping, Bristol and Montpellier both offer plenty of very good spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bristol. Head to Clifton Village for the most upscale boutiques or the Bristol Shopping Quarter for a diversity of budgets and brands. Gloucester Street is famous for its independent shops or there are the student neighborhoods of Park Street and the Triangle which have a number of trendy shops.

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

Is Bristol or Montpellier Better for Families?

Bristol
Montpellier

Both Bristol and Montpellier are nice to visit with kids.

Bristol offers lots of family activities. The city has a number of kid-friendly museums, activities, and playgrounds. For museums, check out the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, the M Shed, or Aerospace Bristol. There are also boat rides and the Bristol Aquarium among other unique activities.

Montpellier is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Bristol or Montpellier Better for Couples?

Bristol
Montpellier

Montpellier is great for couples. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Bristol is a nice destination for couples. There are romantic restaurants, fun bars, and unique museums that make for a variety of different date options.

Is Bristol or Montpellier Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bristol
Montpellier

Montpellier is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Bristol is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Montpellier. With a young population and a number of hostels to choose from, Montpellier attracts its share of backpackers.

Bristol is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Bristol or Montpellier Better for Students?

Bristol
Montpellier

Montpellier is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Montpellier is a very popular city 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.

Bristol is a good city to visit for students. It's a small and friendly city with enough diversity that it stays interesting and dynamic.


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

Bristol
Montpellier

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

The public transit in Montpellier can get you to most places easily. There are a number of options for getting around town including the tramway, bus, and tourist train.

Bristol has a few public transit options. Metrobus serves the greater Bristol area.

Is Bristol or Montpellier a more walkable city?

Bristol
Montpellier

Bristol and Montpellier are very good when it comes to walkability.

Bristol is a very walkable destination. The city center is well designed for walking.

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 Bristol Worth Visiting? and Is Montpellier Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Montpellier or Bristol?

How long in Bristol or Montpellier?

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

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

One day in Bristol or Montpellier?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the authentic city of Bristol. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this 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 Bristol or Montpellier?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the authentic destination of Bristol. 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.

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 Bristol or Montpellier?

The historic city of Bristol offers shopping and museums. 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 Bristol or Montpellier?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bristol. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Montpellier or Bristol?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bristol is £91, while the average daily cost in Montpellier is £101. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Bristol and Montpellier in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bristol £49
    Montpellier £59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bristol £98
    Montpellier £118
Compare Hotels in Bristol and Montpellier

Looking for a hotel in Bristol 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 Bristol


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: Bristol Hotel Prices and Montpellier Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bristol £13
    Montpellier £22

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bristol

Also for Bristol, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Arrival Private Transfer Bristol Airport BRS to Bristol by Business Car: $78
  • Arrival Private Transfer Bristol Airport BRS to Bristol by Luxury Car: $85
  • Arrival Private Transfers: Bristol Airport BRS to Bristol City in Business Car: $90
  • Bristol Airport (BRS) to Southampton hotels - Arrival Transfer: $172
  • Bristol Airport (BRS): Private Transfer to Bristol City: $148
  • Bristol Airport (BRS): Private Transfer to London city: $680
  • Bristol Airport (BRS): Transfer to Southampton city hotels: $781
  • Bristol Airport Transfers: Bristol Airport BRS to Bristol City in Luxury Van: $99
  • Bristol Airport Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Business Car: $90
  • Bristol Airport Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Luxury Car: $108
  • Bristol Airport Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Luxury Van: $99
  • Bristol Airport to London City Hotels Arrival Private Transfer: $160

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Montpellier

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Montpellier:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Bristol or Montpellier?

Prices for flights to both Montpellier and Bristol 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
    Bristol £32
    Montpellier £26

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bristol

For Bristol, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • (Thur 7pm) Comedy Magic Show includes 1x Pizza & 2 glasses of Prosecco: $25

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.
    Bristol £13
    Montpellier £10

Tours and Activities in Bristol

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Bristol.

  • Self-Guided Sightseeing Audio Tour: $5.31
  • Self-Guided Craft Beer Tour with Optional Tasting: $5.31
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour of Bristol's Harbourside History: $5.99
  • The Harbourside's Hidden History Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Bristol's Brilliant Pubs: A Self-Guided GPS Audio Tour of the Old City: $6.99
  • Brunel’s A Self-Guided Tour from SS Great Britain to Clifton Bridge: $7.99
  • Brunel’s Iconic Engineering Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Bristol's Time-Honored Pubs: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Bristol Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Bristol Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Bristol Harbourside Self-Guided Walking Tour: $11
  • Clifton Suspension Bridge Vaults Experiences: $12

Tours and Activities in Montpellier

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

  • CityTour and Photo Portraits Souvenirs in Montpellier: $38
  • From Half-Day Vineyard & Pic Saint-Loup Tour: $80
  • From Wine and Olive Tour: $75
  • Highlights of Sète : history, food and wine experience: $174
  • Legendary Montpellier, flexible legends and storytelling tour: $16
  • Montpellier - Private Historic Walking tour: $428
  • Montpellier Private Guided Walking Tour: $307
  • Montpellier Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $270
  • Montpellier Wine and Oyster Tour: $86
  • Half-Day Hiking Tour of Pic Saint Loup & Picnic: $64
  • Personalized Day-Tour of the South of France: $1,059
  • Photoshoot Experience: $159

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bristol £11
    Montpellier £13

Sample the Local Flavors in Bristol

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

  • Bristol’s Best Brewery Taprooms: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99

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 Bristol 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 Bristol Expensive? and Is Montpellier Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Bristol or Montpellier?

Bristol has a larger population, and is about 73% larger than the population of Montpellier. When comparing the sizes of Bristol 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 Bristol or Montpellier?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Bristol or Montpellier in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bristol as well as Montpellier. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bristol this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Montpellier for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

Bristol is cooler than Montpellier in the summer. The daily temperature in Bristol averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Montpellier fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Bristol usually gets more rain in July than Montpellier. Bristol gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bristol 18°C (64°F) 
    Montpellier 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Bristol or Montpellier in the Autumn?

Both Montpellier and Bristol are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Bristol for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Montpellier in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Bristol is cooler than Montpellier. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bristol in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Montpellier averages at about 15°C (60°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Montpellier. In October, Bristol usually receives less rain than Montpellier. Bristol gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bristol 13°C (55°F) 
    Montpellier 15°C (60°F)

Should I visit Bristol or Montpellier in the Winter?

Both Montpellier and Bristol during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bristol in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Montpellier for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Bristol is generally around the same temperature as Montpellier. Daily temperatures in Bristol average around 6°C (43°F), and Montpellier fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Bristol usually gets more rain in January than Montpellier. Bristol gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bristol 6°C (43°F) 
    Montpellier 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Bristol or Montpellier in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bristol and Montpellier. Most visitors come to Bristol for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Montpellier because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Bristol is cooler than Montpellier in the spring. The daily temperature in Bristol averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Montpellier fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In April, Bristol usually receives less rain than Montpellier. Bristol gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bristol 10°C (50°F) 
    Montpellier 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Montpellier and Bristol

Bristol Montpellier
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (43°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 7°C (44°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 10°C (50°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 16°C (61°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 50 mm (2 in) 20°C (68°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 23°C (73°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 22°C (72°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (67°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 15°C (60°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 10°C (51°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)