A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isle of Skye vs. Montpellier for Food, Beaches, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Isle of Skye or Montpellier?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Isle of Skye and Montpellier. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a diverse, dramatic, and scenic island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking, food, and beaches.

Montpellier

Montpellier is a vibrant, bustling, and beautiful city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping.

Isle of Skye and Montpellier: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Isle of Skye or Montpellier?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Montpellier than Isle of Skye, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Montpellier is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Isle of Skye is more popular for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Isle of Skye is more touristy than Montpellier and is popular for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. Montpellier is well known for its relaxed atmosphere, grand boulevards, and authentic personality. Also, Montpellier is famous for The Place de la Comédie.

How is Isle of Skye different from Montpellier?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isle of Skye or Montpellier?

Isle of Skye
Montpellier

Montpellier is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Isle of Skye or Montpellier? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Isle of Skye
Montpellier

Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye is an experience not to be missed. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal local ingredients that many restaurants use. Both the land and sea offer ingredients that inspire delicious dishes. You can choose from Michelin star restaurants, local cafes, and cozy inns. The food is fresh and well made.

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 Isle of Skye or Montpellier Better for Nightlife?

Isle of Skye
Montpellier

Montpellier is a good destination for nightlife. However, Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Montpellier. 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.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Montpellier Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye
Montpellier

Isle of Skye and Montpellier both offer excellent beaches.

Many people visit Isle of Skye for it's beautiful beaches. Some of the best beaches in Scotland are found on the Isle of Skye. The rugged coastline feels pristine and undiscovered. Some of the best beaches include Coral Beach, Talisker Bay Beach, Rubha Shlèite Beach, and Camasunary Bay.

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.


Is Isle of Skye or Montpellier Better for its Old Town?

Isle of Skye
Montpellier

Montpellier is terrific for its historic old town. However, Isle of Skye does not have a historic old town.

Montpellier has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Isle of Skye does not have a historic old town.

Is Isle of Skye or Montpellier Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye
Montpellier

Isle of Skye is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Montpellier is not a hiking destination.

Isle of Skye is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Hikes on the island range from family-friendly to some of the most challenging in Scotland. The setting is dramatic and beautiful and the hikes are a varied as the landscape. Some of the most popular hikes include the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr, Neist Point Lighthouse, and the Quiraing.

Montpellier is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isle of Skye or Montpellier?

Isle of Skye
Montpellier

Montpellier is a very popular place for shopping. However, Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Isle of Skye or Montpellier Better for Families?

Isle of Skye
Montpellier

Both Isle of Skye and Montpellier are notable family-friendly destinations.

Isle of Skye is a family-friendly island. Kids who love the outdoors will enjoy many of the kid-friendly hikes in the area. Favorites include the Old Man of Storr Hike and the Brother’s Point Hike. Other fun family-friendly places to visit include the Isle of Skye Fairy Glen, the Fairy Pools, and Slipway Beach.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Montpellier. 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 Isle of Skye or Montpellier Better for Couples?

Isle of Skye
Montpellier

Isle of Skye and Montpellier both excellent destinations for a couple.

Isle of Skye makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With beautiful hikes and impressive castles, this island makes a stunning romantic getaway. There are beautiful viewpoints and coastal backdrops that make for a perfect couples getaway.

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.

Is Isle of Skye or Montpellier Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isle of Skye
Montpellier

Isle of Skye and Montpellier are both excellent destinations for backpackers.

Isle of Skye is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.

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


Is Isle of Skye or Montpellier Better for Students?

Isle of Skye
Montpellier

Montpellier is terrific for its student-friendly activities. However, Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

Montpellier is a very popular place to visit 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.

Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

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

Isle of Skye
Montpellier

Montpellier is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Isle of Skye. There are local bus routes on the island that are operated by Stagecoach.

Is Isle of Skye or Montpellier a more walkable city?

Isle of Skye
Montpellier

Montpellier is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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.

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.


For even more information, also check out Is Isle of Skye Worth Visiting? and Is Montpellier Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Montpellier or Isle of Skye?

How long in Isle of Skye or Montpellier?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Isle of Skye and Montpellier. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Isle of Skye than in Montpellier. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Isle of Skye, and 1-3 days is enough time in Montpellier.

Families should spend more time in Montpellier than Isle of Skye. 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 Isle of Skye. 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 Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye or Montpellier? Ideal Length of Stay
    Isle of Skye 2-5 
    Montpellier 1-3

One day in Isle of Skye or Montpellier?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the scenic island of Isle of Skye. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the hiking. 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.

In Montpellier, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historic city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Isle of Skye or Montpellier?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the diverse destination of Isle of Skye. 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.

Montpellier is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isle of Skye or Montpellier?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the picturesque island of Isle of Skye. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Montpellier. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


A week in Isle of Skye or Montpellier?

Many people enjoy the food when visiting Isle of Skye. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people visit for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Montpellier is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Montpellier or Isle of Skye?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Isle of Skye is £114, 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 Isle of Skye and Montpellier in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Isle of Skye £51
    Montpellier £59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Isle of Skye £102
    Montpellier £118
Compare Hotels in Isle of Skye and Montpellier

Looking for a hotel in Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye


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.
    Isle of Skye £54
    Montpellier £22

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Isle of Skye

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

  • Isle of Skye to Inverness Direct transfer: $623

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Montpellier

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Montpellier:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Isle of Skye or Montpellier?

Prices for flights to both Montpellier and Isle of Skye 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
    Isle of Skye £31
    Montpellier £26

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.
    Isle of Skye £19
    Montpellier £10

Tours and Activities in Isle of Skye

For Isle of Skye, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Isle of Skye Private Tour from Portree: $228
  • Tour the highlights and hidden beauties.: $812

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
    Isle of Skye £7.71
    Montpellier £13

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 Isle of Skye and Montpellier, we can see that Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye Expensive? and Is Montpellier Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Montpellier?

Montpellier has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Isle of Skye. When comparing the sizes of Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye or Montpellier in the Summer?

Both Montpellier and Isle of Skye during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Isle of Skye because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Montpellier this time of year.

In July, Isle of Skye is generally much colder than Montpellier. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 13°C (55°F), and Montpellier fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Montpellier, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Montpellier. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montpellier receives 351 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in July than Montpellier. Isle of Skye gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Isle of Skye 13°C (55°F) 
    Montpellier 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Montpellier in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and Montpellier. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Isle of Skye this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Montpellier for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Isle of Skye is much colder than Montpellier in the autumn. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 9°C (49°F) in October, and Montpellier fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Montpellier during autumn. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies, while Montpellier receives 187 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Montpellier receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Isle of Skye gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Montpellier. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Isle of Skye 9°C (49°F) 
    Montpellier 15°C (60°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Montpellier in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Montpellier. Many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Montpellier in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Isle of Skye. In the winter, Isle of Skye is much colder than Montpellier. Typically, the winter temperatures in Isle of Skye in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Montpellier averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Montpellier. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montpellier receives 147 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye receives a lot of rain in the winter. Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in January than Montpellier. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Isle of Skye 4°C (40°F) 
    Montpellier 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Montpellier in the Spring?

Both Montpellier and Isle of Skye are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Isle of Skye in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Montpellier for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Isle of Skye is generally much colder than Montpellier. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 7°C (44°F), and Montpellier fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Montpellier. Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Montpellier during spring. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Montpellier receives 230 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Isle of Skye usually receives around the same amount of rain as Montpellier. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Isle of Skye 7°C (44°F) 
    Montpellier 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Montpellier and Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye Montpellier
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 127 mm (5 in) 7°C (44°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 13°C (55°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
May 9°C (48°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (61°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Jun 11°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 20°C (68°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 23°C (73°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 22°C (72°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 129 mm (5.1 in) 19°C (67°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 15°C (60°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 10°C (51°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 7°C (45°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)