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

Should you visit Montpellier or Positano?

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 Positano. 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 vibrant, bustling, and beautiful city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping.

Positano

Positano is a colorful, stunning, and luxurious Mediterranean village. 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 hiking, shopping, and food.

Montpellier and Positano: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Montpellier or Positano?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Positano. Although Montpellier and Positano are popular destinations, Positano has more sights and attractions for tourists. Positano 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, and beaches. Positano is more touristy than Montpellier and is popular for its beautiful cliffside setting, its colorful buildings, and its quintessential Amalfi atmosphere. It is also well known for The Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Montpellier is famous for its relaxed atmosphere, grand boulevards, and authentic personality.

How is Montpellier different from Positano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Montpellier is great for its historical sights. However, Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Positano 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 Positano, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Seafood is the obvious choice along the Amalfi Coast but Positano is also famous for its salami, chestnuts, cheese, and figs.

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 Positano Better for Nightlife?

Montpellier is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Positano is not a good destination for nightlife.

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.

Most people don't head to Positano specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town has a relaxing nightlife that is usually centered around the clubs found at nearby resorts.

Is Montpellier or Positano Better for Resorts?

Positano is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Montpellier is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Positano for its luxury resorts. The town has a number of luxury resorts including Le Sirenuse, Il San Pietro di Positano, and Hotel Le Agavi.

Montpellier is not a resort destination.

Is Montpellier or Positano Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Positano is a Mediterranean village with a few options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Montpellier is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Positano has a few snorkeling spots. There are snorkeling boat trips that you can book to enjoy exploring the undersea world.

Montpellier is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Montpellier or Positano Better for Beaches?

Montpellier is great for the beach. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village for its 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.

Positano is a good option for a beach vacation. Like the rest of the Amalfi Coast, beaches near Positano tend to be pebbly instead of sandy. They can also get a bit crowded during the summer months. Still, the picturesque setting makes these beaches truly amazing. The main beach at the edge of town is Spiaggia Grande, but there are several others nearby as well.

Is Montpellier or Positano Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the terrific old town areas in both Montpellier and Positano.

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 Positano can be explored in its historical center. Exploring the old town, soaking up the atmosphere, and simply enjoying the colorful buildings is what a trip to Positano is all about.

Is Montpellier or Positano Better for Hiking?

Positano 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 Positano. The best way to explore the area out of town is on foot. There are a number of foot paths and trails that will take you through the stunning landscapes.

Montpellier is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Montpellier or Positano?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Positano and Montpellier.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Montpellier. Head to Rue de la Loge for some of the city's best shopping.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Positano. The main street in town is lined with quaint shops that sell local lemon products, ceramics, clothing, and more.

Is Montpellier or Positano Better for Families?

Both Montpellier and Positano 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.

Positano offers lots of family activities. Fun activities include boat rides, eating gelato, and hanging out at the beach. Some of the best family-friendly beaches are Spiaggia Grande, Fornillo Beach, and Arienzo Beach.

Is Montpellier or Positano Better for Couples?

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

Positano is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It is a picturesque coast town that is both romantic and fun. Wandering through the streets and sampling Italian food make this the perfect honeymoon getaway.

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 Positano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Montpellier is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Positano. The town has a handful of great hostels that make the Amalfi Coast accessible to backpackers on a budget.

Is Montpellier or Positano Better for Students?

Montpellier is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Positano is not popular with students.

Montpellier is a very popular place to visit for students. Montpellier is a popular university town that is home to many trendy university students. It's also where you'll find the youngest population of any city in France.

Positano is not popular with students.

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

Montpellier is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village 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.

Positano has a few public transit options. You can walk everywhere once you arrive, and the SITA bus travels to and from the town.

Is Montpellier or Positano a more walkable city?

Positano 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 Positano on foot is easy. The town is best explored on foot. You can wander the quaint streets or take the foot path to the beach or nearby castles.

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 Positano Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Positano or Montpellier?

How long in Montpellier or Positano?

Both Montpellier and Positano have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Positano than in Montpellier. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Montpellier, and 2-7 days is enough time in Positano.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Montpellier than Positano 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 Positano?

The beautiful city of Montpellier offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Positano is a small town with plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the food. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Montpellier or Positano?

Montpellier is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Montpellier, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Positano 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 Mediterranean village 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 Positano?

Montpellier is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Even though Positano is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Positano?

Montpellier is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Positano is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the food. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this Mediterranean village.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, The Best 2-Week Tours in France, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Montpellier or Positano?

Montpellier has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Positano. When comparing the sizes of Montpellier and Positano, 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 Positano?

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 Positano in the Summer?

Both Positano and Montpellier during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Montpellier because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Positano this time of year.

Montpellier is around the same temperature as Positano in the summer. The daily temperature in Montpellier averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Positano fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

In Positano, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Montpellier. In the summer, Montpellier often gets more sunshine than Positano. Montpellier gets 351 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 313 hours of full sun.

Montpellier usually gets less rain in July than Positano. Montpellier gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Positano receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Montpellier or Positano in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Montpellier and Positano. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Montpellier this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Positano for 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 Positano. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Montpellier in October average around 15°C (60°F), and Positano averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Montpellier usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Positano during autumn. Montpellier gets 187 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Positano receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Montpellier gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Montpellier usually receives less rain than Positano. Montpellier gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Positano receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Montpellier or Positano in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Montpellier as well as Positano. Many travelers come to Montpellier for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Positano in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Montpellier is generally cooler than Positano. Daily temperatures in Montpellier average around 7°C (44°F), and Positano fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Montpellier often gets more sunshine than Positano. Montpellier gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 115 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Positano. Montpellier usually gets less rain in January than Positano. Montpellier gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Positano receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Montpellier or Positano in the Spring?

Both Positano and Montpellier are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Montpellier in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Positano for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

Montpellier is around the same temperature as Positano in the spring. The daily temperature in Montpellier averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Positano fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Montpellier. Montpellier usually receives more sunshine than Positano during spring. Montpellier gets 230 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Montpellier usually receives less rain than Positano. Montpellier gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Positano receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Positano and Montpellier