A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Montpellier vs. Cairngorms National Park for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Montpellier or Cairngorms National Park?

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 Cairngorms National Park. 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 beautiful, friendly, and historic city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a picturesque, tranquil, and remote national park. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food and hiking.

Montpellier and Cairngorms National Park: Pros and Cons

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
Pros
  • 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


Is there more to do in Montpellier or Cairngorms National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Montpellier. Although Montpellier and Cairngorms National Park are popular destinations, Montpellier has more sights and attractions for tourists. Montpellier is very popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Cairngorms National Park attracts visitors for its hiking. Cairngorms National Park is more touristy than Montpellier and is popular for its impressive hikes, scenic natural beauty, and nice mountains. Montpellier is famous for its relaxed atmosphere, grand boulevards, and authentic personality. It is also well known for The Place de la Comédie.

How is Montpellier different from Cairngorms National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Montpellier or Cairngorms National Park?

Montpellier
Cairngorms National Park

Montpellier is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Montpellier or Cairngorms National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Montpellier
Cairngorms National Park

Dining out at restaurants in both Montpellier and Cairngorms National Park can be an enjoyable experience.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Montpellier area. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Cairngorms National Park. There are a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the area that offer hearty dishes to fill a hungry hiker.

Is Montpellier or Cairngorms National Park Better for Nightlife?

Montpellier
Cairngorms National Park

Montpellier is very good for its evening party scene. However, Cairngorms National Park 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.

Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Montpellier or Cairngorms National Park Better for Beaches?

Montpellier
Cairngorms National Park

Montpellier is a very popular place for the beach. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a beach destination.

Montpellier is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. 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.

Cairngorms National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Montpellier or Cairngorms National Park Better for its Old Town?

Montpellier
Cairngorms National Park

Montpellier is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Cairngorms National Park does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Montpellier is one of the most recognized in 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.

Cairngorms National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Montpellier or Cairngorms National Park Better for Hiking?

Montpellier
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park. There are hikes for every skill level. You'll find waterfalls, open glens, mountains, and beautiful lakes. Some of the best hikes include the Falls of Bruar, Morrone, and the Seven Bridges Trail.

Montpellier is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Montpellier or Cairngorms National Park?

Montpellier
Cairngorms National Park

Montpellier is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Montpellier. Head to Rue de la Loge for some of the city's best shopping.

Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Montpellier or Cairngorms National Park Better for Families?

Montpellier
Cairngorms National Park

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

Cairngorms National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The outdoor wilderness, natural lakes, and fun activities make for a great family holiday. Head to the beach at Loch Morlich or go for a pony trek. You can also take a ride on the Strathspey Steam Railway or if the kids are craving a bit more excitement head to Landmark Forest Adventure Park.

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 Montpellier or Cairngorms National Park Better for Couples?

Montpellier
Cairngorms National Park

Montpellier and Cairngorms National Park both high quality 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.

Cairngorms National Park is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The hiking, natural beauty, and stunning setting make for a wonderful couples getaway. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the serene setting and it's not uncommon for some couples to get engaged in this beautiful park.

Is Montpellier or Cairngorms National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Montpellier
Cairngorms National Park

Montpellier is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cairngorms National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cairngorms National Park. Transportation without a car is basically impossible, but camping is a great way to experience the park to its fullest without breaking the bank.


Is Montpellier or Cairngorms National Park Better for Students?

Montpellier
Cairngorms National Park

Montpellier is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Cairngorms National Park is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit 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.

Cairngorms National Park is not popular with students.

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

Montpellier
Cairngorms National Park

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

Montpellier offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are a number of options for getting around town including the tramway, bus, and tourist train.

Public transit is generally limited in Cairngorms National Park. To fully explore the park, you really need to have your own vehicle, but there are local buses and trains that travel to the park.

Is Montpellier or Cairngorms National Park a more walkable city?

Montpellier
Cairngorms National Park

Montpellier is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

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.

Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.


For even more information, also check out Is Montpellier Worth Visiting? and Is Cairngorms National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cairngorms National Park or Montpellier?

How long in Montpellier or Cairngorms National Park?

In either Montpellier or Cairngorms National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cairngorms National Park than Montpellier because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Montpellier, and 3-5 days is enough time in Cairngorms National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Montpellier than Cairngorms National Park 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 Montpellier or Cairngorms National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Montpellier 1-3 
    Cairngorms National Park 3-5

One day in Montpellier or Cairngorms National Park?

With food and shopping around the beautiful city of Montpellier, there's plenty to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the tranquil national park of Cairngorms National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

A weekend in Montpellier or Cairngorms National Park?

With shopping and museums around the vibrant destination of Montpellier, there's plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the serene destination of Cairngorms National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Montpellier or Cairngorms National Park?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant city of Montpellier. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the tranquil national park of Cairngorms National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Cairngorms National Park?

Montpellier is a great place to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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 length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Many people enjoy the food when visiting Cairngorms National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, The Best 2-Week Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 2-Week Tours from London.


Which place is cheaper, Cairngorms National Park or Montpellier?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Montpellier is €118, while the average daily cost in Cairngorms National Park is €139. 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 Montpellier and Cairngorms National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Montpellier 69
    Cairngorms National Park 65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Montpellier 138
    Cairngorms National Park 130
Compare Hotels in Montpellier and Cairngorms National Park

Looking for a hotel in Montpellier or Cairngorms National Park? 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 Montpellier


Hotels in Cairngorms National Park


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 and Cairngorms National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Montpellier 26
    Cairngorms National Park 62

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 Montpellier or Cairngorms National Park?

Prices for flights to both Cairngorms National Park 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
  • Food Meals for one day
    Montpellier 31
    Cairngorms National Park 35

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.
    Montpellier 12
    Cairngorms National Park 31

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

Tours and Activities in Cairngorms National Park

For Cairngorms National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Private Walking Tour to Ben Macdui Scotland: $114
  • Cairn Gorm Mountain Adventure Private Hike: $168
  • Private Guided Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $177
  • Private Guided Ridge Scrambling Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Rock Climbing Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountaineering Experience in the Cairngorms: $222

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Montpellier 15
    Cairngorms National Park 9.83

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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Montpellier and Cairngorms National Park, we can see that Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cairngorms National Park 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 Montpellier Expensive? and Is Cairngorms National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Montpellier or Cairngorms National Park?

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 Montpellier or Cairngorms National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Montpellier as well as Cairngorms National Park. Many travelers come to Montpellier for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Cairngorms National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Montpellier is much warmer than Cairngorms National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Montpellier averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Montpellier this time of the year. In the summer, Montpellier often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Montpellier gets 351 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 147 hours of full sun.

Montpellier usually gets less rain in July than Cairngorms National Park. Montpellier gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Montpellier 23°C (73°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Montpellier or Cairngorms National Park in the Autumn?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Montpellier are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Montpellier in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Cairngorms National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Montpellier is much warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Montpellier in October average around 15°C (60°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 9°C (49°F).

Montpellier usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during autumn. Montpellier gets 187 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 84 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Montpellier. In October, Montpellier usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Montpellier gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Montpellier 15°C (60°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Montpellier or Cairngorms National Park in the Winter?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Montpellier during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Montpellier for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Cairngorms National Park because of the cuisine.

The weather in Cairngorms National Park can be very cold. In January, Montpellier is generally much warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Daily temperatures in Montpellier average around 7°C (44°F), and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Montpellier often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Montpellier gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 42 hours of full sun.

Montpellier usually gets more rain in January than Cairngorms National Park. Montpellier gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Montpellier 7°C (44°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Montpellier or Cairngorms National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Montpellier and Cairngorms National Park. The spring months attract visitors to Montpellier because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Cairngorms National Park this time of year.

Montpellier is much warmer than Cairngorms National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Montpellier averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In Montpellier, it's very sunny this time of the year. Montpellier usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during spring. Montpellier gets 230 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 136 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Montpellier usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Montpellier gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Montpellier 13°C (55°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Cairngorms National Park and Montpellier

Montpellier Cairngorms National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 10°C (50°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 16°C (61°F) 52 mm (2 in) 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jun 20°C (68°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 15°C (60°F) 110 mm (4.3 in) 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 10°C (51°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)