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

Should you visit Palermo or Montpellier?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Palermo and Montpellier can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Palermo

Palermo is a dynamic, fun, and colorful city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Montpellier

Montpellier is a historic, vibrant, and bustling city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Palermo and Montpellier: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or Montpellier?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Palermo than Montpellier. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Palermo is very popular for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and big city activities, while Montpellier attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Palermo is famous for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. It is also well known for The Cathedral. Montpellier is famous for its relaxed atmosphere, grand boulevards, and authentic personality.

How is Palermo different from Montpellier?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Montpellier and Palermo. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Palermo or Montpellier?

Montpellier is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Palermo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of grand buildings and impressive architectural buildings that you should visit. The cathedral, the Norman Palace, and Cappella Palatina are among the best.

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

Palermo 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 Palermo is an experience not to be missed. The islands long history and occupation by a range of different groups means that the cuisine is heavily influenced by many different cultures. You'll see influences from Phonecians, Greeks, Arabs and Normans. Local dishes include Pasta alla Norma (pasta and vegetables), Arancine (rice balls), and Cannoli.

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 Palermo or Montpellier Better for Nightlife?

Palermo is a great destination for its evening party scene. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The people in Palermo know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene is surprisingly varied with everything from wine bars by the ocean to dance parties that flood into the street. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include the old town, Politeama, and Mondello.

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 Palermo or Montpellier Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo 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 Palermo. The dive season lasts most of the year and there are many beautiful dive spots that are accessible from the city. The water is clear and there is a variety of flora and fauna to see.

Montpellier is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palermo or Montpellier Better for Beaches?

Both Palermo and Montpellier are considered to be very good beach destinations.

The beaches at Palermo attract visitors from all over. The city has a number of beautiful beaches, some of which are accessible by public transit. Mondello is a popular option with beautiful views. Capo Gallo is a relaxing option on a nature reserve that is good for divers and nature lovers. Addaura is a lively beach with a number of clubs.

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.

Is Palermo or Montpellier Better for its Old Town?

Montpellier is very popular for its historic old town charm. However, Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Montpellier has a world-famous historical 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.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Montpellier?

Both Palermo and Montpellier are very good shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Palermo. The city offers a mix of high end shopping streets as well as colorful markets that have the feel of a traditional bazaar. Whether you're looking for European brands or local merchandise, this city has an eclectic mix with something for everyone.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Montpellier. Head to Rue de la Loge for some of the city's best shopping.

Is Palermo or Montpellier Better for Families?

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

Palermo is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has beaches where everyone can cool off and play in the relaxing waves. There's also a botanical garden and the fascinating Catacombs of the Capuchins. Kids will also enjoy exploring the many diverse markets throughout the city.

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 Palermo or Montpellier Better for Couples?

Montpellier is a well-known place for couples. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Palermo is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with fun adventures, unique markets, and relaxing beaches. It makes a great city escape for couples who enjoy spending time outdoors but also having access to an urban setting.

Is Palermo or Montpellier Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Montpellier is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Montpellier is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. With a young population and a number of hostels to choose from, Montpellier attracts its share of backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Palermo. There are a decent number of affordable hostels around town as well as plenty of backpackers that keep the scene fun and social.

Is Palermo or Montpellier Better for Students?

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

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.

Plenty of students visit Palermo. It's an affordable student destination with a relaxing and laid back vibe. There's enough activity to keep it interesting without a high pressure setting.

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

Montpellier is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Palermo is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Montpellier. There are a number of options for getting around town including the tramway, bus, and tourist train.

Public transit is mostly limited in Palermo. If you stick to the main city center then you can get around by city bus, but if you're headed anywhere else, you'll likely want to take a taxi or Uber.

Is Palermo or Montpellier a more walkable city?

Palermo and Montpellier both are very good when exploring on foot.

Palermo is a very walkable destination. The city is walkable with a number of streets closed to cars and pedestrian only.

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 Palermo Worth Visiting? and Is Montpellier Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Montpellier or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Montpellier?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Palermo and Montpellier. In our opinion, Montpellier has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Montpellier than Palermo. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the dynamic city of Palermo. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

In Montpellier, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Palermo or Montpellier?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the colorful destination of Palermo. 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.

In Montpellier, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Montpellier has to offer.

Five days in Palermo or Montpellier?

The diverse city of Palermo 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.

Montpellier is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Palermo or Montpellier?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Palermo. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Montpellier. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Montpellier. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Palermo and Montpellier, we can see that Montpellier is more expensive. And not only is Palermo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Palermo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Palermo 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 Montpellier would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Montpellier than you might in Palermo.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Palermo Expensive? and Is Montpellier Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Palermo or Montpellier?

Palermo has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Montpellier. When comparing the sizes of Palermo and Montpellier, 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 Palermo or Montpellier?

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 Palermo or Montpellier in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Palermo and Montpellier. The beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Palermo this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Montpellier for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

Palermo is around the same temperature as Montpellier in the summer. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Montpellier fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Montpellier this time of the year. In Palermo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Palermo usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Montpellier during summer. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies, while Montpellier receives 351 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Palermo usually receives less rain than Montpellier. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Palermo or Montpellier in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Palermo as well as Montpellier. Many travelers come to Palermo for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Montpellier in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Palermo is a little warmer than Montpellier. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Palermo in October average around 20°C (67°F), and Montpellier averages at about 15°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palermo this time of the year. In the autumn, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Montpellier. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montpellier receives 187 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Montpellier. Palermo usually gets less rain in October than Montpellier. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Montpellier in the Winter?

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

In January, Palermo is generally much warmer than Montpellier. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 12°C (53°F), and Montpellier fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Palermo usually receives less sunshine than Montpellier during winter. Palermo gets 133 hours of sunny skies, while Montpellier receives 147 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Palermo usually receives less rain than Montpellier. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Palermo or Montpellier in the Spring?

Both Montpellier and Palermo during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Palermo for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Montpellier because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Palermo is a little warmer than Montpellier in the spring. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Montpellier fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Montpellier, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Palermo. In the spring, Palermo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Montpellier. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montpellier receives 230 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in April than Montpellier. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Montpellier and Palermo