Which city is cheaper, Bordeaux or Montpellier?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
A Travel Price Comparison for France Montpellier vs. Bordeaux for Old Town, Couples, Backpackers, and Families
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Should you visit Montpellier or Bordeaux?
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 Montpellier and Bordeaux. 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.
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 and shopping.
Bordeaux
Bordeaux is a romantic, historical, and elegant city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.
How is Montpellier different from Bordeaux?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Is Montpellier or Bordeaux better for its Old Town?
Montpellier has a more popular old town than Bordeaux.
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.
Many people head to Bordeaux to see the old town. The old town is between Cours de l'Intendance and rue Peyronnet. The area has many distinct neighborhoods, monuments, and historical buildings.
Is Montpellier or Bordeaux better for Shopping?
Shopping in a popular activity in both Bordeaux and Montpellier.
Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Montpellier. Head to Rue de la Loge for some of the city's best shopping.
Bordeaux is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has a mix of luxury fashion brands, jewelry shops, perfume suppliers, and leather goods. There are department stores, local boutiques, and pedestrian shopping areas that you can explore.
Is Montpellier or Bordeaux better for Families?
Both Montpellier and Bordeaux are family-friendly destinations.
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.
You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bordeaux. The city has a number of parks and playgrounds as well as museums, including a kid's science museum. Kids also enjoy splashing around in the Miroir d’eau, which is the world's largest water mirror.
Is Montpellier or Bordeaux better for Couples?
Montpellier and Bordeaux both fun destinations for a couple.
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.
Couples visit Bordeaux frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Wine lovers will enjoy an amazing weekend in this beautiful city. Some of the most romantic activities include wine walks, river cruises, and exploring scenic gardens.
Is Montpellier or Bordeaux better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Montpellier and Bordeaux are comparable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.
Many backpackers visit Montpellier. With a young population and a number of hostels to choose from, Montpellier attracts its share of backpackers.
Bordeaux is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.
Is Montpellier or Bordeaux better for Students?
Montpellier and Bordeaux are comparable places to visit for 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.
Bordeaux is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a great student atmosphere and a unique culture with a diversity of activities. It's grown in popularity with students, and the prices have climbed a bit over the past few years.
Is Montpellier or Bordeaux better for Public Transit?
You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Montpellier and Bordeaux.
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.
Public transit in Bordeaux can get you to some places easily. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.
Is Montpellier or Bordeaux a more walkable city?
Montpellier and Bordeaux both are comparable when exploring on foot.
Montpellier is a very walkable destination. Many of the sights and attractions are easily accessible on foot and can be enjoyed as part of a self-guided walking tour.
Bordeaux is a very walkable city. The city has many pedestrian areas and large squares to explore.
Montpellier and Bordeaux: Pros and Cons
Montpellier
Pros- Scenic old town
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Impressive beauty
Bordeaux
Pros- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Impressive beauty
- Less popular old town
Should I spend more time in Bordeaux or Montpellier?
How long in Montpellier or Bordeaux?
In either Montpellier or Bordeaux, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bordeaux than Montpellier because of the overall number of sights and activities.
The ideal length of time for a trip to Montpellier is 1-3 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Bordeaux is 2-5 days.
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How many days in Montpellier or Bordeaux? Ideal Length of StayMontpellier 1-3Bordeaux 2-5
One day in Montpellier or Bordeaux?
The beautiful city of Montpellier offers 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.
Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the elegant city of Bordeaux. Most people visit for the food. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire area has lots to do.
A weekend in Montpellier or Bordeaux?
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 around the area.
Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historical destination of Bordeaux. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend here when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.
Five days in Montpellier or Bordeaux?
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 area has lots to do.
Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historical city of Bordeaux. 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.
A week in Montpellier or Bordeaux?
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.
Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bordeaux. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the food. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayMontpellier €84Bordeaux €95
The average daily cost (per person) in Montpellier is €84, while the average daily cost in Bordeaux is €95. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Montpellier and Bordeaux in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personMontpellier €45Bordeaux €51
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomMontpellier €90Bordeaux €102
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Montpellier €21Bordeaux €12
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Montpellier
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Montpellier:
- Departure Transfer Montpellier to Montpellier Airport MPL by Private Vehicle: $26
- Montpellier Private Transfer from Montpellier city centre to Montpellier Airport: $84
- Private Transfer: Montpellier Airport (MPL) to Montpellier: $62
- Private Transfer: Montpellier to Montpellier Airport (MPL): $62
- Transfer Montpelier Airport to Avignon: $411
- Transfer Montpelier Airport to Nimes City or Nimes Airport: $224
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bordeaux
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bordeaux:
- Arrival Private Transfer Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux City by Minivan: $115
- Arrival Private Transfer Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux City in Business Car: $74
- Bordeaux Airport Transfers: Bordeaux to Bordeaux Airport BOD in Business Car: $106
- Bordeaux Airport Transfers: Bordeaux to Bordeaux Airport BOD in Luxury Car: $131
- Bordeaux Airport Transfers: Bordeaux to Bordeaux Airport BOD in Luxury Van: $113
- Bordeaux Private Transfer from Bordeaux city centre to Bordeaux Airport: $124
- Private Airport Transfer to/from Bordeaux Airport: $70
- Private Transfer to/from Bordeaux Airport (BOD): $71
- Departure Private Transfer Bordeaux City to Bordeaux Airport BOD by Business Car: $74
- Departure Private Transfer Bordeaux City to Bordeaux Airport BOD by Minivan: $117
- Departure Private Transfers : Bordeaux to Bordeaux Airport BOD in Business Car: $106
- Departure Private Transfers : Bordeaux to Bordeaux Airport BOD in Luxury Van: $108
Is it cheaper to fly into Montpellier or Bordeaux?
Prices for flights to both Bordeaux and Montpellier 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
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Food Meals for one dayMontpellier €25Bordeaux €36
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Montpellier
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Montpellier.
- Montpellier countryside dinner with local food & wine: $81
- Vintage private wine and food tour from Montpellier: $180
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bordeaux
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bordeaux.
- Bordeaux Traditional Food Tour: $106
- Bordeaux and La Cité du Vin Day Tour with French Cuisine Cooking Class: $514
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Montpellier €9.71Bordeaux €6.31
Tours and Activities in Montpellier
Here are a few actual costs in Montpellier for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- Private Montpellier Ghost Tour: Haunted City Center Exploration Game: $4.96
- Noilly Prat Vermouth Cellar Tour and Tastings in Marseillan: $22
- Montpellier Self-Guided Walking Tour with Qula City Trails: $36
- Vermouth and Gastronomy Tasting Tour in Marseillan: $39
- Montpelier Discovery : Big Historic Tour - 1h30: $50
- Segway Tour of the Old and New Montpellier: $62
- the winetour from montpellier to pic saint loup: $68
- Small-Group Half-Day Languedoc Wine and Olive Tour from Montpellier: $73
- Taste of Montpellier Food and Sighseeing Tour: $81
- Small-Group Half-Day Languedoc Wine and Oyster Tour from Montpellier: $86
- Pic Saint Loup Winetour & food: $100
- Private day tour to Sète and Bouzigues : culture, food & wine: $111
Tours and Activities in Bordeaux
Here are a few actual costs in Bordeaux for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- Centre of Explore over 2,000 years of history on an audio tour: $5.00
- The Best of Find more than wine in the city centre on this audio tour: $5.00
- Bordeaux Private Tour: Old Town Exploration Game: $5.59
- Self-guided Discovery Walk in Bordeaux’s City Centre: a short local adventure: $10
- Bordeaux City Sights Walking Tour: $17
- Street Art Guided Tour: $17
- Musical Walking Tour of Bordeaux: $19
- Bordeaux La Cité du Vin Wine Culture Museum Skip-the-Line Entrance Ticket: $25
- Soussans: Guided Winery Tour and Barrel Tasting near Margaux: $28
- 1-Hour Electric Bike Tour of Bordeaux: $31
- Bordeaux Electric Bike Rental Self Guided City Tour: $31
- 1-Hour Bordeaux Electric Scooter Tour: $31
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayMontpellier €12Bordeaux €21
Sample the Local Flavors in Montpellier
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Montpellier:
- Hike to the top of "Pic Saint Loup" and a wine tasting: $68
- Small-Group Half-Day Languedoc Pic Saint-Loup Wine Tour from Montpellier: $81
- Small-Group Half-Day Châteaux of Montpellier Wine Tour: $81
- Private tour: Exclusive Wine Tour in Languedoc from Montpellier: $336
Sample the Local Flavors in Bordeaux
Also in Bordeaux, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
- Bordeaux Wine and Trade Museum Admission Ticket with Wine Tasting: $8.71
- Soussans: Guided Winery Tour with Wine Tasting near Margaux: $9.08
- Saint Emilion: Guided Winery Tour & Wine Tasting: $14
- La Cité du Vin Skip-the-Line Entrance Ticket & Wine Tasting: $24
- Discover Bordeaux vineyard : special wine tasting with two cellar men brothers: $37
- Bordeaux Cheese & Wine Tasting Walking Guided Tour: $49
- Chateau du Taillan and Park including Wine Tasting Tour: $50
- Bordeaux Morning Wine Tasting Class: $56
- Bordeaux Small-Group Wine Tasting & Workshop with a Professional Sommelier: $61
- Bordeaux Vineyards Wine Tasting Half-Day Trip: $61
- Morning & Breakfast Wine tour in Saint-Emilion: $74
- From St. Emilion Village Half-Day Wine Tour: $85
When comparing the travel costs between Montpellier and Bordeaux, we can see that Bordeaux 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.
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