A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Montpellier vs. Oslo for Families, Attractions, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Montpellier or Oslo?

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 Oslo. 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Oslo

Oslo is a clean, progressive, and park-filled city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Montpellier and Oslo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Montpellier or Oslo?

You'll generally find more things to do in Oslo than Montpellier. Oslo is bigger than Montpellier, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Oslo is better known for its big city activities, while Montpellier is more popular for its beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Oslo is more touristy than Montpellier and is known for its Viking history, its locally caught seafood, its maritime museums, and its access to winter sports. Also, Oslo is famous for The Royal Palace. Montpellier is well known for its relaxed atmosphere, grand boulevards, and authentic personality.

How is Montpellier different from Oslo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Montpellier
Oslo

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Montpellier or Oslo.

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.

Oslo offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Famous sights around town include the Akershus Fortress, the Folk Museum of Norway, and the Munch Museum.


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

Montpellier
Oslo

Dining out at restaurants in both Montpellier and Oslo 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 Oslo. The city has a reputation of serving a lot of cured meats and potato dishes, but there is actually a good amount of variation available. Local favorites include smoked salmon, meatballs, and meat stews.

Is Montpellier or Oslo Better for Nightlife?

Montpellier
Oslo

It's hard to distinguish whether Montpellier or Oslo has a better nightlife scene.

Montpellier has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Oslo has a few options to choose from. The city's high alcohol prices mean that many locals enjoy their drinks at home during pre-parties before heading out on the town. The atmosphere is usually laid-back and chill, with a diversity of entertainment venues that you can choose between.

Is Montpellier or Oslo Better for Beaches?

Montpellier
Oslo

Montpellier is notable for its beaches. However, Oslo is not a beach destination.

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.

Oslo is not a beach destination.


Is Montpellier or Oslo Better for its Old Town?

Montpellier
Oslo

Montpellier is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town. However, Oslo does not have a historic old town.

Montpellier offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Oslo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Montpellier or Oslo?

Montpellier
Oslo

Montpellier is notable for shopping. However, Oslo is a mediocre city for its shopping opportunities.

Montpellier is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to Rue de la Loge for some of the city's best shopping.

If you're looking to go shopping, Oslo has some nice offerings. The shopping that is available includes shopping malls and local boutique shops.

Is Montpellier or Oslo Better for Families?

Montpellier
Oslo

Oslo is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Oslo is very family-friendly. The city goes out of its way to integrate kid-friendly activities into everyday life. From playgrounds and parks to interactive museums and nearby amusement parks, this city is among the most kid-friendly around.

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 Oslo Better for Couples?

Montpellier
Oslo

Montpellier is notable for romance. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Montpellier is a very popular place to visit for couples. Rich in history and beautiful architecture, this city offers a romantic setting for a great couple's getaway.

Oslo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You can explore castles, go on forest hikes, or enjoy a couple's massage.

Is Montpellier or Oslo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Montpellier
Oslo

Montpellier is notable for backpackers. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Montpellier. With a young population and a number of hostels to choose from, Montpellier attracts its share of backpackers.

Oslo is a good city to visit for backpackers. Notoriously expensive, this city does have some hostels, but it can be a bit challenging for those on a budget. Because many backpackers avoid the area due to the costs, it can be challenging to meet other backpackers.

Is Montpellier or Oslo Better for Students?

Montpellier
Oslo

Montpellier is an amazing city to visit for students. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Students come from all over to stay in Oslo. The University of Oslo has an excellent reputation and welcomes many foreign students every year. The school does a lot to make sure international students feel at home here.


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

Montpellier
Oslo

Oslo is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Oslo can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The system includes buses, trams, undergrounds, local trains, and ferries.

Visitors to Montpellier can move around easily with public transportation. There are a number of options for getting around town including the tramway, bus, and tourist train.

Is Montpellier or Oslo a more walkable city?

Montpellier
Oslo

Montpellier and Oslo both are great 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.

Oslo is very walkable. The city has a number of traffic-free areas so it's fun to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Oslo or Montpellier?

How long in Montpellier or Oslo?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Montpellier than Oslo. 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 Oslo 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 Oslo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Montpellier 1-3 
    Oslo 1-5

One day in Montpellier or Oslo?

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.

Oslo is a green city where you can fill many days. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Montpellier or Oslo?

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.

Oslo is a progressive big city where you can fill many days. This city 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 Oslo?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the friendly 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.

Oslo is a green city where you can fill many days. 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 Oslo?

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 Oslo. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Oslo 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 Oslo is €127. 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 Oslo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Montpellier 69
    Oslo 76
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Montpellier 138
    Oslo 152
Compare Hotels in Montpellier and Oslo

Looking for a hotel in Montpellier or Oslo? 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 Oslo


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 Oslo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Montpellier 26
    Oslo 22

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Montpellier

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Montpellier:

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

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Oslo

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Oslo are as follows:


  • Tram Ticket
    6.17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oslo

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Oslo:

  • Airport & City Transfers in Trondheim: $131
  • Arrival Private Transfer Oslo OSL Airport to Oslo by Business Car: $115
  • Departure Private Transfer from Oslo City to Oslo Airport OSL by Luxury Van: $155
  • Departure Private Transfer from Oslo to Oslo Airport OSL by Business Car: $114
  • Olso: Private Transfer from the City Center to Oslo Airport: $106
  • Oslo Airport (OSL): Private Transfer to Oslo Cruise Port: $486
  • Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo Airport OSL to Oslo City in Business Car: $148
  • Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo Airport OSL to Oslo City in Business Van: $229
  • Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo City to Oslo Airport OSL in Business Car: $147
  • Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo City to Oslo Airport OSL in Business Van: $238
  • Oslo Cruise Port to Oslo Airport (OSL) - Departure Private Transfer: $89
  • Oslo Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Oslo hotels: $129

Is it cheaper to fly into Montpellier or Oslo?

Prices for flights to both Oslo 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
    Oslo 28

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Oslo

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Oslo.

  • Oslofjord Cruise with Seafood Dinner: $58
  • Oslofjord Dinner Cruise on a sailing ship : $61
  • Oslo Alternative Culture and Street Food Tour: $74
  • Christmas Street Food Tour with Akevitt and Christmas beer : $112
  • 3-course Dinner Cruise in the Oslofjord: $117
  • Oslo Fjord 3 Course Dinner Sightseeing Cruise: $121

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Montpellier 12
    Oslo 18

Tours and Activities in Montpellier

Here are a few actual costs in Montpellier for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Legendary Montpellier, flexible legends and storytelling tour: $16
  • CityTour and Photo Portraits Souvenirs in Montpellier: $38
  • Half-Day Hiking Tour of Pic Saint Loup & Picnic: $64
  • From Wine and Olive Tour: $75
  • Small-Group Half-Day Languedoc Wine and Olive Tour from Montpellier: $80
  • From Half-Day Vineyard & Pic Saint-Loup Tour: $80
  • Montpellier Wine and Oyster Tour: $86
  • Small-Group Half-Day Languedoc Wine and Oyster Tour from Montpellier: $95
  • Winetour & food experience in Pic St Loup: $107
  • Saint-Guilhem village and cave day tour : $142
  • Photoshoot Experience: $159
  • Private 2-hour Walking Tour of the Historical Center of Montpellier: $161

Tours and Activities in Oslo

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Oslo are as follows:

  • Explore Oslo with Passionate Tour Guides: $3.21
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Walking Tour in Oslo in English: $4.41
  • Tour a Pie en Oslo en Español: $4.41
  • Digging up the Past in Røros: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $6.99
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Akershus to Kongen Marina Waterfront: $7.99
  • An Oslo Waterfront Stroll: Self-paced Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Downtown Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Oslo Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and City Tour: $8.02
  • Discover Oslo's Heart: Audio Tour Through Time and Beauty: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • The Fram Museum Admission Ticket: $13

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Montpellier 15
    Oslo 10

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 Montpellier and Oslo, we can see that Oslo 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 Oslo Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Montpellier or Oslo?

Oslo has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Montpellier. When comparing the sizes of Montpellier and Oslo, 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 Oslo?

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 Oslo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Montpellier and Oslo. Many visitors come to Montpellier in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Oslo for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Montpellier is a little warmer than Oslo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Montpellier in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Oslo averages at about 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Oslo this time of the year. In Montpellier, it's very sunny this time of the year. Montpellier usually receives more sunshine than Oslo during summer. Montpellier gets 351 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Montpellier usually receives less rain than Oslo. Montpellier gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Montpellier 23°C (73°F) 
    Oslo 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Montpellier or Oslo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Montpellier as well as Oslo. Most visitors come to Montpellier for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Oslo because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Montpellier is generally much warmer than Oslo. Daily temperatures in Montpellier average around 15°C (60°F), and Oslo fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the autumn, Montpellier often gets more sunshine than Oslo. Montpellier gets 187 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 86 hours of full sun.

Montpellier receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Montpellier usually gets more rain in October than Oslo. Montpellier gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Montpellier 15°C (60°F) 
    Oslo 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Montpellier or Oslo in the Winter?

Both Oslo and Montpellier are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Montpellier because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Oslo this time of year.

It's quite cold in Oslo in the winter. Montpellier is much warmer than Oslo in the winter. The daily temperature in Montpellier averages around 7°C (44°F) in January, and Oslo fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

Montpellier usually receives more sunshine than Oslo during winter. Montpellier gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Montpellier usually receives more rain than Oslo. Montpellier gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Montpellier 7°C (44°F) 
    Oslo -4°C (25°F)

Should I visit Montpellier or Oslo in the Spring?

Both Oslo and Montpellier during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Montpellier this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Oslo for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Montpellier is much warmer than Oslo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Montpellier in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Oslo averages at about 6°C (42°F).

It's quite sunny in Montpellier. In the spring, Montpellier often gets more sunshine than Oslo. Montpellier gets 230 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 178 hours of full sun.

Montpellier usually gets more rain in April than Oslo. Montpellier gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Montpellier 13°C (55°F) 
    Oslo 6°C (42°F)

Typical Weather for Oslo and Montpellier

Montpellier Oslo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) -4°C (25°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) -3°C (26°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 10°C (50°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 1°C (33°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
May 16°C (61°F) 52 mm (2 in) 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Jun 20°C (68°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 16°C (61°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 16°C (61°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (53°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Oct 15°C (60°F) 110 mm (4.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 10°C (51°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 1°C (35°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) -2°C (28°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)