A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Montpellier vs. Hvar for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Montpellier or Hvar?

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 Hvar. 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 historic, vibrant, and bustling city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Hvar

Hvar is a energetic, party-oriented, and historic island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Montpellier and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Montpellier or Hvar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hvar. Although Montpellier and Hvar are both popular with visitors, Hvar has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hvar is more popular for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and hiking, while Montpellier is known for its museums, historical sights, and shopping. Hvar is more touristy than Montpellier and is known for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. It is also home to Hvar Fort. Montpellier is popular for its relaxed atmosphere, grand boulevards, and authentic personality.

How is Montpellier different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Montpellier is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Montpellier. With such a long history, the city has many landmarks and monuments. Also make sure you visit Musée Fabre and Saint-Pierre Cathedral.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Hvar. Wandering around the old town you'll see many historic buildings such as the Cathedral of St. Stephen. You can also visit the nearby Hvar Fort or explore the Franciscan Monastery.

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

Hvar 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 Hvar is an experience not to be missed. It's an island, so you'll find no shortage of seafood in the restaurants. There's fish, crab, lobster, squid, and octopus on the menus around town. Many dishes are prepared with risotto or pasta and you'll find a lot of olive oil and wine.

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 Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The nightlife in Hvar is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The island has a reputation as a party island, and it's well earned. Most of the activity is found in Hvar Town, particularly between the months of June and September. Young people flock to the island for the all night parties and wild beach bars and clubs.

If you're looking for night time activities Montpellier has a few options to choose from. 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.

Is Montpellier or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar 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 Hvar. The water is clear and there are snorkeling day trips that leave from town. This is a great way to get out on the water and glimpse the undersea world.

Montpellier is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Montpellier or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Montpellier and Hvar both offer very good beaches.

Many people visit Montpellier for it's beautiful 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.

Hvar is considered a top beach destination. The island has hilly bays and coves that are fun to explore. The best beaches are found to the south and southwest of the island and many are pebbly or gravelly.

Is Montpellier or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

Montpellier is renowned for its old town. However, Hvar 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.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Montpellier or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hvar is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Montpellier is not a hiking destination.

Hvar offers some nice hiking trails. There are a number of hikes on the island that cater to every skill level and take you through natural areas or past historic sights.

Montpellier is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Montpellier or Hvar?

Montpellier is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its shopping areas.

Montpellier is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Rue de la Loge for some of the city's best shopping.

Hvar has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. In the town you'll find galleries, boutiques, jewelry shops and other beach stores. It's fun to pop in and look at the different items.

Is Montpellier or Hvar Better for Families?

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

Hvar is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are adventure parks, water parks, and other fun activities for kids. There are also beaches where everyone can swim and sea kayaking trips. Hvar Observatory is also a unique and fun place to visit as a family.

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 Hvar Better for Couples?

Montpellier and Hvar both very good 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.

Hvar is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There are some romantic hotels and beautiful beaches that make this a wonderful destination for couples. Anyone who enjoys a coastal setting with clear waters and a variety of water sports will enjoy their time here.

Is Montpellier or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Hvar is a very popular island to visit for backpackers. The island has long been a popular stop with backpackers who enjoy the affordable prices, abundance of hostels, and active nightlife scene. You'll have no trouble meeting other travelers, particularly during the peak summer months.

Montpellier is very popular with the backpacker crowd. With a young population and a number of hostels to choose from, Montpellier attracts its share of backpackers.

Is Montpellier or Hvar Better for Students?

Montpellier is renowned for students. However, Hvar is not popular with students.

Montpellier is a very popular city 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.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

Montpellier is notable for its public transit. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Montpellier can get you to some places easily. There are a number of options for getting around town including the tramway, bus, and tourist train.

Hvar has some public transit options. Buses are operated by Cazmatrans Hva and they travel between the major municipalities.

Is Montpellier or Hvar a more walkable city?

Montpellier is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Hvar is a somewhat walkable city. Hvar Town can be explored on foot, but you'll need a vehicle to explore other parts of the island.

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

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Montpellier?

How long in Montpellier or Hvar?

It's fun to spend time in either Montpellier or Hvar. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Hvar due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Montpellier, and 2-4 days is enough time in Hvar.

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

Couples should spend more time in Montpellier than Hvar. 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 Hvar than Montpellier 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 Hvar.

One day in Montpellier or Hvar?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Montpellier. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful island of Hvar. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the nightlife. 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 Hvar?

Montpellier is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant destination of Hvar. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Five days in Montpellier or Hvar?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the bustling destination of Montpellier. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The beautiful island of Hvar offers museums and nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

A week in Montpellier or Hvar?

The friendly city of Montpellier offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Hvar. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people visit for the nightlife. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Croatia.

When comparing the travel costs between Montpellier and Hvar, we can see that Montpellier 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 Montpellier Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Montpellier or Hvar?

Montpellier has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Montpellier and Hvar, 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 Hvar?

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 Montpellier or Hvar in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Montpellier and Hvar. Most visitors come to Montpellier for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Hvar because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Montpellier is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Montpellier average around 23°C (73°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hvar this time of the year. In Montpellier, it's very sunny this time of the year. Montpellier usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar during summer. Montpellier gets 351 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Montpellier usually receives less rain than Hvar. Montpellier gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Montpellier or Hvar in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Montpellier as well as Hvar. The autumn months attract visitors to Montpellier because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Hvar this time of year.

Montpellier is cooler than Hvar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Montpellier averages around 15°C (60°F) in October, and Hvar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. In the autumn, Montpellier often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar. Montpellier gets 187 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Montpellier receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Montpellier usually gets more rain in October than Hvar. Montpellier gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Montpellier or Hvar in the Winter?

Both Hvar and Montpellier are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Montpellier this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hvar for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Montpellier is cooler than Hvar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Montpellier in January average around 7°C (44°F), and Hvar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Montpellier usually receives more sunshine than Hvar during winter. Montpellier gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Montpellier usually receives less rain than Hvar. Montpellier gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Montpellier or Hvar in the Spring?

Both Hvar and Montpellier during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Montpellier for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Hvar in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Montpellier is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Montpellier average around 13°C (55°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Montpellier. In the spring, Montpellier often gets more sunshine than Hvar. Montpellier gets 230 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Montpellier usually gets less rain in April than Hvar. Montpellier gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Montpellier