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

Should you visit Montpellier or Siena?

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

Siena

Siena is a history, beautiful, and romantic city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Montpellier and Siena: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Montpellier or Siena?

You'll generally find more things to do in Montpellier than Siena. Montpellier is bigger than Siena, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Montpellier is better known for its beaches and shopping, while Siena is more popular for its food and impressive beauty. Siena is more touristy than Montpellier and is known for its beautiful medieval architecture, its delicious local restaurants, and the twice yearly Palio horserace. Montpellier is well known for its relaxed atmosphere, grand boulevards, and authentic personality. Also, Montpellier is famous for The Place de la Comédie.

How is Montpellier different from Siena?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Siena offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. At the heart of the city is Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and Piazza del Campo. Other world famous sights include Palazzo Pubblico and Museo Civico, Torre del Mangia, and Pinacoteca Nazionale.

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

Siena 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 Siena is an experience not to be missed. The town is all about local flavors and many restaurants use local ingredients in their dishes. Pecorino of Pienza is the local cheese, and you'll also find many cured meats. Local pasta dishes include wild boar ragu and a local spaghetti. You'll also find local meats such as lamb, rabbit, chicken and pork.

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 Siena Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Montpellier or Siena 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 Siena has a few options to choose from. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. Most visitors enjoy socializing in the evening and meeting friends at Piazza del Campo. There are often live performances which you can enjoy as well as many cafes and wine bars around town.

Is Montpellier or Siena Better for Beaches?

Montpellier is notable for its beaches. However, Siena 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.

Siena is not a beach destination.

Is Montpellier or Siena Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the first-rate old town areas in both Montpellier and Siena.

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 Siena can be explored in its historical center. The beautiful old town is filled with medieval brick buildings. At the heart of the city is Piazza del Campo, which is a lively square with many neighborhoods spreading out from there.

Is the Shopping Better in Montpellier or Siena?

Montpellier is notable for shopping. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Siena. The main shopping street in town is Via Banchi di Sopra, which has many boutiques that sell clothing, bags, and other items. The town also has many leather goods, ceramics, and other local items available.

Is Montpellier or Siena Better for Families?

Montpellier is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Siena is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Montpellier is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Siena is not always a place people visit with their families. The beauty and history may be lost to the little ones but there is a great atmosphere that even the young ones will appreciate. Kids will enjoy climbing to the top of Torre del Mangia or visiting one of the many playgrounds around town.

Is Montpellier or Siena Better for Couples?

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

Siena is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With its impressive beauty and long running history, this is a truly romantic city. The atmosphere is relaxed and there are plazas and neighborhoods that are great for exploring. There are also many great restaurants, superb wine, and world class sights that are not to be missed.

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 Siena Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Montpellier is notable for backpackers. Also, Siena 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Siena. Many backpackers visit Siena as a daytrip from nearby Florence. While there are some affordable places to stay here, the atmosphere isn't as backpacker friendly as nearby Florence.

Is Montpellier or Siena Better for Students?

Montpellier is very popular for students. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Siena is a great city to visit as a student. It's home to one of the oldest universities in Italy, and it's a wonderful study abroad destination for any student who wants to spend some time in Italy.

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

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

Public transit in Montpellier is fairly effecient and thorough. There are a number of options for getting around town including the tramway, bus, and tourist train.

Siena has some public transit options. TIEMME is the bus service that runs in and around town. Many lines pass through the train station and provide service from there.

Is Montpellier or Siena a more walkable city?

Montpellier and Siena both are high quality 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.

Siena is very walkable. The compact town center is best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Siena or Montpellier?

How long in Montpellier or Siena?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Montpellier or Siena to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Montpellier than Siena because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Montpellier, and 1-2 days is enough time in Siena.

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

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

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

In Montpellier, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this beautiful destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful city of Siena. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Siena?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Montpellier. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the medieval destination of Siena. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Siena?

Montpellier is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Montpellier. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

The medieval city of Siena offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Siena?

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant destination of Montpellier. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Siena. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Italy, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Montpellier or Siena?

Montpellier has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Siena. When comparing the sizes of Montpellier and Siena, 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 Siena?

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 Siena in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Montpellier and Siena. Many travelers come to Montpellier for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Siena in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Montpellier is around the same temperature as Siena. Typically, the summer temperatures in Montpellier in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Siena averages at about 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Siena this time of the year. In Montpellier, it's very sunny this time of the year. Montpellier usually receives more sunshine than Siena during summer. Montpellier gets 351 hours of sunny skies, while Siena receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Montpellier usually receives less rain than Siena. Montpellier gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Siena receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Montpellier or Siena in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Montpellier as well as Siena. Many visitors come to Montpellier in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Siena for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Montpellier is generally around the same temperature as Siena. Daily temperatures in Montpellier average around 15°C (60°F), and Siena fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Montpellier often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Siena. Montpellier gets 187 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Siena receives 177 hours of full sun.

Montpellier receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Montpellier usually gets more rain in October than Siena. Montpellier gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Siena receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Montpellier or Siena in the Winter?

Both Siena and Montpellier are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Montpellier for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Siena because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Montpellier is around the same temperature as Siena in the winter. The daily temperature in Montpellier averages around 7°C (44°F) in January, and Siena fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Montpellier usually receives more sunshine than Siena during winter. Montpellier gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Siena receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Montpellier usually receives more rain than Siena. Montpellier gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Siena receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Montpellier or Siena in the Spring?

Both Siena and Montpellier during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Montpellier because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Siena this time of year.

In the spring, Montpellier is around the same temperature as Siena. Typically, the spring temperatures in Montpellier in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Siena averages at about 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Montpellier. In the spring, Montpellier often gets more sunshine than Siena. Montpellier gets 230 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Siena receives 192 hours of full sun.

Montpellier usually gets less rain in April than Siena. Montpellier gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Siena receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Siena and Montpellier