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

Should you visit Hydra or Montpellier?

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

Should I visit Hydra 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.

Hydra

Hydra is a quaint, picturesque, and charming island. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Montpellier

Montpellier is a bustling, beautiful, and friendly city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and museums.

Hydra and Montpellier: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Montpellier?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hydra than Montpellier, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hydra is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and small town charm, while Montpellier is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, and historical sights. Hydra is more touristy than Montpellier and is known for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. Also, Hydra is famous for The Monastery of the Assumption of Virgin Mary. Montpellier is well known for its relaxed atmosphere, grand boulevards, and authentic personality.

How is Hydra different from Montpellier?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Hydra and Montpellier have superb landmarks and museums for visitors.

Hydra offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. For such a small island, there are many local museums and sights. Highlights include the Historical Archives Museum, the Ecclesiastical Museum, the Monastery of Agia Efpraxia, and the Monastery of Prophet Elias.

Many visitors head to Montpellier specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 Hydra or Montpellier? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Hydra and Montpellier both to be notable destinations.

Hydra offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. For such a small island, it really packs in some great restaurants. Head down the side streets to find the best souvlaki. There are also tavernas where you can sample local wine. Fresh caught seafood is a favorite on the island as well.

Montpellier has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Hydra or Montpellier Better for Nightlife?

Montpellier is a popular place for nightlife. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Montpellier has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Hydra doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a small island that is often visited as a day trip, so don't expect a huge party scene. There are about seven places in total that make up the island's nightlife scene. Each is centered around the harbor and many people start their evening at one bar and slowly hop around. They usually have DJs and full bars.

Is Hydra or Montpellier Better for Resorts?

Hydra is a good destination for its resorts. However, Montpellier is not a resort destination.

Hydra has a few great resort options. It's a popular day trip destination, but if you stay for a night or two, you'll find boutique hotels and charming pensions.

Montpellier is not a resort destination.

Is Hydra or Montpellier Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Montpellier is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Hydra. There are some snorkeling spots around the island - most notably Bisti Beach, which is pebbly and has some interesting sea life.

Montpellier is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Montpellier Better for Beaches?

Montpellier is a great destination for its beaches. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

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.

Many people head to Hydra to enjoy the beach. The beaches are usually pebbly with nice blue water. Many people visit the beaches as part of a boat tour, which leaves from the port and tours the island. Some of the most popular beaches are Vlichos, Kaminia, Bisti and Agios Nikolaos.

Is Hydra or Montpellier Better for its Old Town?

Montpellier is a world-class destination for its historic old town. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

The historic old town of Montpellier is revered around the world. 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.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Hydra. With no cars and plenty of charm, the island's old town feels as if you've stepped back in time. Donkey pulled carts and quaint streets give this town its atmosphere.

Is Hydra or Montpellier Better for Hiking?

Hydra 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 Hydra. The island is filled with walking paths and donkey trails that are fun to explore. Some walk along the sea and offer spectacular views while others take you inland through the hills.

Montpellier is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Montpellier?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Montpellier and Hydra.

Hydra is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Charming shops fill the town and sell local items such as handmade jewelry and traditional embroideries.

Montpellier is well-known for its shopping. Head to Rue de la Loge for some of the city's best shopping.

Is Hydra or Montpellier Better for Families?

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

Hydra is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The island feels like it's frozen in time. There are no cars allowed here, so kids can run freely without the worry of traffic. They'll be as fascinated as you are by the carts pulled by donkeys. Most things you'll visit are also close together, making accessibility easy. In addition to some interesting museums, there are beaches and kid-friendly food. The whole island really is a playground.

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 Hydra or Montpellier Better for Couples?

Hydra is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Hydra is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This beautiful island makes a great honeymoon or couple's destination. Most visitors come as a day trip, but spending a night or two on the island is a unique experience. It has a laid back vibe and is filled with romance. The food is amazing, and the traditional atmosphere will make you feel as if you've traveled back in time.

Montpellier is a great island 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 Hydra or Montpellier Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Montpellier is a great destination for backpackers. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options 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.

Hydra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most people visit the island as a day trip and it doesn't attract nearly as many backpackers as the larger Greek islands. If you visit during the lower season, you might find some affordable accommodation.

Is Hydra or Montpellier Better for Students?

Montpellier is a world-class destination for students. However, Hydra is not popular with students.

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.

Hydra is not popular with students.

Is Hydra 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, Hydra is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Montpellier. There are a number of options for getting around town including the tramway, bus, and tourist train.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hydra. There are sea taxis and beach boats on the island.

Is Hydra or Montpellier a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Hydra on foot is easy. The entire island is car-free and everything that you want to visit is close together and easy to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Montpellier or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Montpellier?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Montpellier than Hydra 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 Hydra or Montpellier?

Hydra is a small town with plenty to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Montpellier, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this friendly destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Hydra or Montpellier?

Hydra might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This island 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Montpellier. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Hydra or Montpellier?

Because Hydra is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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 fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Montpellier. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Hydra or Montpellier?

Since Hydra is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the bustling destination of Montpellier. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, 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 Hydra and Montpellier, we can see that Montpellier is more expensive. And not only is Hydra much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hydra would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hydra 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 Montpellier would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Montpellier than you might in Hydra.

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

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Montpellier?

Montpellier has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra 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 Hydra 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 Hydra or Montpellier in the Summer?

Both Montpellier and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Hydra for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, 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 July, Hydra is generally a little warmer than Montpellier. Daily temperatures in Hydra 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 Hydra. Hydra usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Montpellier during summer. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Montpellier receives 351 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Hydra or Montpellier in the Autumn?

Both Montpellier and Hydra during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Hydra because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, 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.

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

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

Should I visit Hydra or Montpellier in the Winter?

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

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

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

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

Should I visit Hydra or Montpellier in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Montpellier. Many travelers come to Hydra for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Montpellier in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Hydra is generally a little warmer than Montpellier. Daily temperatures in Hydra 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 Hydra this time of the year. In the spring, Hydra often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Montpellier. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montpellier receives 230 hours of full sun.

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

Typical Weather for Montpellier and Hydra