A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Montpellier vs. Cinque Terre for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Beaches

Should you visit Montpellier or Cinque Terre?

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 Cinque Terre. 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 friendly, historic, and vibrant city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a idyllic, quaint, and seaside coastal region. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and food.

Montpellier and Cinque Terre: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Montpellier or Cinque Terre?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cinque Terre. Although Montpellier and Cinque Terre are popular destinations, Cinque Terre has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cinque Terre is very popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Montpellier attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, beaches, and shopping. Cinque Terre is more touristy than Montpellier and is popular for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail. It is also well known for Vernazza Harbor. Montpellier is famous for its relaxed atmosphere, grand boulevards, and authentic personality.

Vernazza Harbor

How is Montpellier different from Cinque Terre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cinque Terre 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 Cinque Terre?

Montpellier is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Montpellier can be an interesting and educational experience. With such a long history, the city has many landmarks and monuments. Also make sure you visit Musée Fabre and Saint-Pierre Cathedral.

Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Cinque Terre is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Cinque Terre, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Like much of Italy, the area focuses on local flavors that include lots of seafood, as well as local fruits, vegetables, and herbs. The towns are known for their focaccia, which actually originated in nearby Genoa. Anchovies are a favorite here as well, and don't be turned off by your experience with anchovies outside of Italy. They don't compare. Also make sure you sample the pesto, mussels, and any fresh caught seafood.

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 Montpellier or Cinque Terre Better for Nightlife?

Montpellier is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Cinque Terre is lacking in good options for 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Cinque Terre. The whole point of a trip to the area is to soak up the quiet village atmosphere. There is basically no nightlife in most of the towns, but you will find a few bars in Monterosso.

Is Montpellier or Cinque Terre Better for Resorts?

Cinque Terre is not so good for its resorts. However, Montpellier is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Cinque Terre offers a few options. Most people stay in apartments or rooms in local hotels or family homes. There aren't many resorts in the traditional sense, but again, that's part of the charm of the area.

Montpellier is not a resort destination.

Is Montpellier or Cinque Terre Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cinque Terre 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 Cinque Terre. The surrounding waters are part of the of the Pelagos Sanctuary. The area has many rocky coves which are fun to explore with a mask and snorkel. There are also boat excursions available that may let you stop to snorkel, as well as a few dive spots in the area.

Montpellier is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Montpellier or Cinque Terre Better for Beaches?

Montpellier is a very popular place for the beach. Also, Cinque Terre is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Montpellier. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Cinque Terre. The area is more about the towns than the beaches. The most typical beach setting is in the newer part of Monterosso. There's a long sandy beach with chairs and umbrellas available. There's also a beach near the town's old town. Several of the other towns have swimming areas, including a small stretch of pebbly sand in Vernazza. It's fun to swim between the months of May and October, when the water temperatures are fairly warm.

Is Montpellier or Cinque Terre Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the world-class old town areas in both Montpellier and Cinque Terre.

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.

The rich history of Cinque Terre can be explored in its historical center. Each of the five towns have their own charming old town which have restaurants and local boutique shops.

Is Montpellier or Cinque Terre Better for Hiking?

Cinque Terre is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Montpellier is not a hiking destination.

Cinque Terre is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The five towns are part of Cinque Terre National Park and there are 120 kilometers of hiking trails in the park. Most people hike along the trails that follow the coastline and connect the towns. There are fees for the most popular stretch of trails which connect Monterosso to Vernazza and then go from Vernazza to Corniglia. All other hiking is free in the area.

Montpellier is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Montpellier or Cinque Terre?

Montpellier is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Cinque Terre is lacking in good options for shopping.

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

Cinque Terre is a good destination for shopping. The towns are more about the atmosphere than the shops, but the best shopping can be found in the largest town of Monterosso. You'll find jewelry, clothing, and local food items that are fun to take home as souvenirs.

Is Montpellier or Cinque Terre Better for Families?

Both Montpellier and Cinque Terre are nice 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.

Cinque Terre offers lots of family activities. The five towns are all about exploring on foot, so if that's your kid's thing, then they're in for a treat. The hilly terrain can be a bit tricky, particularly for the little ones, but for older kids this area offers the perfect amount of challenge. There are also a couple of beaches and swimming spots as well as a playground or two around. Food, like most of Italy, is very kid-friendly.

Is Montpellier or Cinque Terre Better for Couples?

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

Cinque Terre is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. These stunning five Italian villages are perched precariously on the water's edge. They're surrounded by beautiful vineyards and connected by impressive hiking trails. This area is truly a dream honeymoon destination and it is sure to make a memorable vacation for any couple who enjoys exploring charming village.

Montpellier is a great city 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 Montpellier or Cinque Terre Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Montpellier is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cinque Terre 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.

Cinque Terre is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of rooms available in the towns and there are even a couple of hostels including one in Riomaggiore and one in Corniglia. It's possible to find affordable food and accommodation, and your entertainment is simply wandering the area, which is perfect for budget travelers.

Is Montpellier or Cinque Terre Better for Students?

Montpellier is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Cinque Terre is not popular with students.

Montpellier is a great destination 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.

Cinque Terre is not popular with students.

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

Montpellier is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Cinque Terre is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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.

You'll find some public transit in Cinque Terre, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Most people arrive by train but there are also ferries available.

Is Montpellier or Cinque Terre a more walkable city?

Cinque Terre 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 Cinque Terre on foot is easy. Vehicle traffic in the towns are heavily restricted so it's very enjoyable to explore on foot. The terrain is hilly and uneven, but that's part of the charm. There are also hiking trails that connect each of the five towns.

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 Montpellier Worth Visiting? and Is Cinque Terre Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cinque Terre or Montpellier?

How long in Montpellier or Cinque Terre?

In either Montpellier or Cinque Terre, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cinque Terre than Montpellier because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Montpellier, and 2-5 days is enough time in Cinque Terre.

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

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

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

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.

Cinque Terre is a small town with plenty to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Cinque Terre?

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.

Cinque Terre 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 coastal region 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.

Five days in Montpellier or Cinque Terre?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the bustling 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.

Even though Cinque Terre is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Cinque Terre?

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.

Since Cinque Terre 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.

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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Montpellier or Cinque Terre?

Montpellier has a larger population, and is about 160 times larger than the population of Cinque Terre. When comparing the sizes of Montpellier and Cinque Terre, 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 Montpellier or Cinque Terre?

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 Cinque Terre in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Montpellier as well as Cinque Terre. Many visitors come to Montpellier in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Cinque Terre for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Montpellier is around the same temperature as Cinque Terre in the summer. The daily temperature in Montpellier averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cinque Terre. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Montpellier this time of the year. In the summer, Montpellier often gets more sunshine than Cinque Terre. Montpellier gets 351 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 316 hours of full sun.

Montpellier usually gets less rain in July than Cinque Terre. Montpellier gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Montpellier or Cinque Terre in the Autumn?

Both Cinque Terre and Montpellier are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Montpellier for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Cinque Terre because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Montpellier is around the same temperature as Cinque Terre. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Montpellier in October average around 15°C (60°F), and Cinque Terre averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Montpellier usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cinque Terre during autumn. Montpellier gets 187 hours of sunny skies, while Cinque Terre receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cinque Terre. It's quite rainy in Montpellier. In October, Montpellier usually receives less rain than Cinque Terre. Montpellier gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Montpellier or Cinque Terre in the Winter?

Both Cinque Terre and Montpellier during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Montpellier because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Cinque Terre this time of year.

In January, Montpellier is generally cooler than Cinque Terre. Daily temperatures in Montpellier average around 7°C (44°F), and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the winter, Montpellier often gets more sunshine than Cinque Terre. Montpellier gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 105 hours of full sun.

Cinque Terre gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Montpellier usually gets less rain in January than Cinque Terre. Montpellier gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Montpellier or Cinque Terre in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Montpellier and Cinque Terre. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Montpellier this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cinque Terre for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Montpellier is cooler than Cinque Terre in the spring. The daily temperature in Montpellier averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In Montpellier, it's very sunny this time of the year. Montpellier usually receives more sunshine than Cinque Terre during spring. Montpellier gets 230 hours of sunny skies, while Cinque Terre receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Montpellier usually receives less rain than Cinque Terre. Montpellier gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cinque Terre and Montpellier