A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Montpellier vs. Split for Nightlife, Old Town, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Montpellier or Split?

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 Split. 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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

Split

Split is a active, touristy, and fun-filled city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Montpellier and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Montpellier or Split?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Split than Montpellier. While Montpellier is larger than Split, Split has more sights and attractions for tourists. Split is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and big city activities, while Montpellier is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Split is more touristy than Montpellier and is popular for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also home to Diocletian's Palace. Montpellier is popular for its relaxed atmosphere, grand boulevards, and authentic personality.

How is Montpellier different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Split offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with historical sights, some of which were used in the shooting of the famed television series, Game of Thrones. Highlights include Diocletian's Palace, the Cathedral of St. Domnius, and the Ivan Mestrovic Gallery.

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

Split 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 Split is an experience not to be missed. It's the second largest city in Croatia and the food scene reflects this. You'll find a mix of Dalmatian restaurants and international options. There's also everything from fine dining to local taverns, so whatever your budget or food preference, you won't be disappointed.

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 Split Better for Nightlife?

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

The nightlife in Split is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. It has some of the best nightlife on mainland Croatia. Backpackers and students flock to this city for its parties and nightclubs. There's a great live music scene as well as DJs who keep the party going well into the early morning.

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 Split Better for Resorts?

Split is a great destination for its resorts. However, Montpellier is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Split to choose from. You'll find a mix of popular resort chains, local boutique hotels, vacation rentals, and hostels. Whatever your budget or travel style there are options available.

Montpellier is not a resort destination.

Is Montpellier or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is a great destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Montpellier is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Split. Some of the best snorkeling is found around the Kornati Islands. There are many boat trips that take visitors to some of the best snorkeling spots near Split.

Montpellier is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Montpellier or Split Better for Beaches?

Montpellier and Split both offer excellent 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.

Split is considered a top beach destination. There are many beaches in the area that are a mix of pebbly or sandy. Many have restaurants or bars nearby and the vibe is social and laid back. Some of the best beaches near town are Bacvice Beach, Žnjan Beach, and Kasjuni Beach.

Is Montpellier or Split Better for its Old Town?

Montpellier is terrific for its old town. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

Montpellier has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Split offers a nice historic old town area. The old town spreads out from Diocletian's Palace and People's Square. It's filled with cobblestone streets and restaurants that spill into the outdoors.

Is the Shopping Better in Montpellier or Split?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Split 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 Split. Shopping and sightseeing are intermixed in town. Make sure you don't miss the Old Market, which is the city's main outdoor market. There are many shops all through the old town as well.

Is Montpellier or Split Better for Families?

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

Split is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. With its parks, beaches, and outdoor activities, kids will love this spot. Zvonac Park is one of the best in town for kids. Young kids will appreciate the Dinasour Playground. Also make sure you allow time to explore Diocletian's Palace and Klis Fortress. There are also beaches and other water activities that are fun for the whole 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 Split Better for Couples?

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

Split is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's not uncommon for couples to choose Split as their honeymoon destination. The old town is filled with character and charm. There are also parks where you can enjoy a picnic and beaches where you can soak up the fun of the Adriatic Sea. Cafes serving local cuisine spill into the streets and the old world charm offers a romantic ambiance that can only be found in Croatia.

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 Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Split is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. There's no shortage of hostels in town. This is a not-to-be-missed backpacker destination in Croatia and the social scene, beaches, water activities, and history all make Split a highlight for many backpackers.

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 Split Better for Students?

Montpellier is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for 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.

Split is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's easy to visit on a student's budget. There are plenty of hostels and a huge party scene that bring backpackers and students together.

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

Montpellier is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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.

You'll find some public transit in Split, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are bus services that will help you get around town.

Is Montpellier or Split a more walkable city?

Montpellier and Split both are excellent 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.

Split is very walkable. The city is laid out in a pedestrian-friendly way so it's easy to explore on foot, particularly in the old town. It's also easy to get lost, but that's all part of the fun.

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

Should I spend more time in Split or Montpellier?

How long in Montpellier or Split?

It's fun to spend time in either Montpellier or Split. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Split 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 Split.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Split 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 Split.

One day in Montpellier or Split?

In Montpellier, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this bustling 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 scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the budget-friendly city of Split. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Split?

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 shopping and museums when visiting the touristy destination of Split. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Split?

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 active city of Split offers museums and nightlife. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Split?

You'll find food and shopping around the bustling 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 nightlife and food when visiting Split. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

When comparing the travel costs between Montpellier and Split, 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 Split Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Montpellier or Split?

Montpellier has a larger population, and is about 41% larger than the population of Split. When comparing the sizes of Montpellier and Split, 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 Split?

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 Split in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Montpellier as well as Split. The summer months attract visitors to Montpellier because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Split this time of year.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Montpellier this time of the year. In the summer, Montpellier often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Split. Montpellier gets 351 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun.

Montpellier usually gets less rain in July than Split. Montpellier gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Montpellier or Split in the Autumn?

Both Split and Montpellier are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Montpellier this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Split for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

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

It's quite sunny in Split. Montpellier usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Split during autumn. Montpellier gets 187 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Montpellier. In October, Montpellier usually receives more rain than Split. Montpellier gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Montpellier or Split in the Winter?

Both Split and Montpellier during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Montpellier for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Split in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

In the winter, Montpellier often gets more sunshine than Split. Montpellier gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun.

Montpellier usually gets less rain in January than Split. Montpellier gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Montpellier or Split in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Montpellier and Split. Many visitors come to Montpellier in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Split for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Split this time of the year. In Montpellier, it's very sunny this time of the year. Montpellier usually receives more sunshine than Split during spring. Montpellier gets 230 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Montpellier usually receives less rain than Split. Montpellier gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Split and Montpellier