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

Should you visit Cardiff or Montpellier?

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

Should I visit Cardiff or Montpellier? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Cardiff

Cardiff is a up-and-coming, green, and industrial city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Montpellier

Montpellier is a bustling, beautiful, and friendly city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Cardiff and Montpellier: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cardiff or Montpellier?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Montpellier than Cardiff. While Cardiff is larger than Montpellier, Montpellier has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Montpellier is more popular for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Cardiff is known for its big city activities. Cardiff is popular for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe. Montpellier is popular for its relaxed atmosphere, grand boulevards, and authentic personality. It is also home to The Place de la Comédie.

How is Cardiff different from Montpellier?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Montpellier is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Montpellier offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. With such a long history, the city has many landmarks and monuments. Also make sure you visit Musée Fabre and Saint-Pierre Cathedral.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Cardiff. The most notable landmark of the city is the famous and well-preserved Cardiff Castle. Visitors also enjoy seeing the Victorian arcades, museums, and cathedrals around town.

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

Montpellier is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options 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.

Cardiff may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Welsh cuisine is known for its stews and hearty vegetable dishes. The national dish is cawl, which is a stew made with lamb and vegetables. Other local favorites include Welsh rarebit, which is a type of cheese toast, and Glamorgan Sausage, which is actually made with vegetables.

Is Cardiff or Montpellier Better for Nightlife?

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

Cardiff has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is all about fun and most of the activities are driven by the large and diverse student population.

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 Cardiff or Montpellier Better for Beaches?

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

Montpellier is considered a top beach destination. The coastline near Montpellier feels pristine and beautiful. You can also visit Villeneuve-lès-Maguelone to the southwest of town, which is a protected area.

Cardiff is not a beach destination.

Is Cardiff or Montpellier Better for its Old Town?

Montpellier is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Cardiff does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Montpellier can be explored in its historical center. Known as L'Écusson the town's old town dates back to the Middle Ages. It is a pedestrian area that is filled with boutiques, restaurants, and churches.

Cardiff does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cardiff or Montpellier?

Montpellier is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Montpellier is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Rue de la Loge for some of the city's best shopping.

Cardiff has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping options include shopping malls and boutique lined streets. There is a nice mix of independent shops and major chains to choose between.

Is Cardiff or Montpellier Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cardiff or Montpellier.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cardiff. The city has a number of climbing and play areas, museums, and playgrounds that can keep the little ones entertained. There are also plenty of outdoor parks and trails to wander around.

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 Cardiff or Montpellier Better for Couples?

Montpellier is a great destination for its romantic activities. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options 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.

Cardiff is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The most romantic experiences involve a night out dining at nice restaurants, enjoying a cocktail at a classy bar, and strolling through neighborhoods and soaking up the atmosphere.

Is Cardiff or Montpellier Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Montpellier is a great destination for backpackers. However, Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Cardiff or Montpellier Better for Students?

Montpellier is a must-visit destination for students. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent 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.

It's common for students to visit Cardiff. Most students come to study at Cardiff University, which is a leading university in Great Britain.

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

Montpellier is a great destination for its public transit. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Cardiff. There is a bus system that you can use to get around.

Is Cardiff or Montpellier a more walkable city?

Montpellier is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Cardiff is a somewhat walkable city. There are pedestrianized areas and the waterfront is nice to walk around but there is still room for improvement when it comes to walkability.

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

Should I spend more time in Montpellier or Cardiff?

How long in Cardiff or Montpellier?

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

Families should spend more time in Montpellier than Cardiff. 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 Cardiff. 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 Cardiff 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.

One day in Cardiff or Montpellier?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the industrial city of Cardiff. 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 Cardiff or Montpellier?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the green destination of Cardiff. 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 Cardiff or Montpellier?

The industrial city of Cardiff offers museums and nightlife. 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 Cardiff or Montpellier?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting Cardiff. 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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom, 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 Cardiff and Montpellier, we can see that Cardiff 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 Cardiff would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cardiff 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 Cardiff Expensive? and Is Montpellier Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cardiff or Montpellier?

Cardiff has a larger population, and is about 22% larger than the population of Montpellier. When comparing the sizes of Cardiff 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 Cardiff 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 Cardiff or Montpellier in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Cardiff is cooler than Montpellier. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cardiff 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 Cardiff. Cardiff usually receives less sunshine than Montpellier during summer. Cardiff gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Montpellier receives 351 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cardiff usually receives more rain than Montpellier. Cardiff gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cardiff or Montpellier in the Autumn?

Both Montpellier and Cardiff during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Cardiff because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Montpellier this time of year.

In October, Cardiff is generally cooler than Montpellier. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 11°C (52°F), and Montpellier fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Cardiff often gets less sunshine than Montpellier. Cardiff gets 95 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. It rains a lot this time of the year in Cardiff. Cardiff usually gets less rain in October than Montpellier. Cardiff gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cardiff or Montpellier in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cardiff and Montpellier. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cardiff this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Montpellier for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Cardiff in the winter. Cardiff is much colder than Montpellier in the winter. The daily temperature in Cardiff averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Montpellier fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Cardiff usually receives less sunshine than Montpellier during winter. Cardiff gets 57 hours of sunny skies, while Montpellier receives 147 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cardiff usually receives more rain than Montpellier. Cardiff gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cardiff or Montpellier in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cardiff as well as Montpellier. Many travelers come to Cardiff for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Montpellier in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cardiff is cooler than Montpellier. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cardiff in April average around 9°C (48°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, Cardiff often gets less sunshine than Montpellier. Cardiff gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montpellier receives 230 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets less rain in April than Montpellier. Cardiff gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Montpellier and Cardiff