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

Should you visit Saint Andrews or Montpellier?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saint Andrews or Montpellier, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews is a peaceful, historic, and charming university town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Montpellier

Montpellier is a friendly, historic, and vibrant city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Saint Andrews and Montpellier: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Saint Andrews or Montpellier?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Montpellier. Although Saint Andrews and Montpellier are both popular with visitors, Montpellier has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Montpellier is more popular for its museums, beaches, and historical sights, while Saint Andrews is known for its food, hiking, and small town charm. Saint Andrews is popular for its reputation as the birthplace of golf. Montpellier is popular for its relaxed atmosphere, grand boulevards, and authentic personality. It is also home to The Place de la Comédie.

How is Saint Andrews different from Montpellier?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Andrews or Montpellier?

Saint Andrews
Montpellier

Montpellier is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Montpellier can be an interesting and educational experience. With such a long history, the city has many landmarks and monuments. Also make sure you visit Musée Fabre and Saint-Pierre Cathedral.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Saint Andrews. For many, a highlight of their trip is to play a round of golf at St. Andrews Links Golf Courses. Golf enthusiasts will also appreciate a visit to the British Golf Museum. Other interesting sights in the area include a visit to the ruins of the Cathedral of St. Andrew, visiting the St. Andrews University Museums, or stopping by St. Andrews Castle.


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

Saint Andrews
Montpellier

Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews is an experience not to be missed. The town holds on to its history and heritage, and that stands out with the restaurant selection. There are a range of of independent cafes and pubs and surprisingly few major chain restaurants and fast food joints.

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 Saint Andrews or Montpellier Better for Nightlife?

Saint Andrews
Montpellier

Both Saint Andrews and Montpellier are good when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Saint Andrews. There are a large number of pubs and bars throughout the town, and you'll find students hanging out and keeping things lively.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Montpellier. 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 Saint Andrews or Montpellier Better for Beaches?

Saint Andrews
Montpellier

Montpellier is a well-known place for the beache. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for the beach.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Saint Andrews. Adding to the natural beauty is the beautiful coastline around St. Andrews. Some of the best beaches include West Sands Beach, Kingsbarns Beach, Castle Sands, and Saint Andrews Beach.


Is Saint Andrews or Montpellier Better for its Old Town?

Saint Andrews
Montpellier

Montpellier is terrific for its old town. However, Saint Andrews does not have a historic old town.

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.

Saint Andrews does not have a historic old town.

Is Saint Andrews or Montpellier Better for Hiking?

Saint Andrews
Montpellier

Saint Andrews is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Montpellier is not a hiking destination.

Saint Andrews offers some nice hiking trails. There are some beautiful hikes just outside of town. Check out the views from Chamcook Mountain or wander down the Van Horne Trail.

Montpellier is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Andrews or Montpellier?

Saint Andrews
Montpellier

Both Saint Andrews and Montpellier are great shopping destinations.

Saint Andrews is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The town is filled with boutique shops and local markets where you can buy unique items like artisan food, handmade crafts, or local art.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Montpellier. Head to Rue de la Loge for some of the city's best shopping.


Is Saint Andrews or Montpellier Better for Families?

Saint Andrews
Montpellier

Saint Andrews and Montpellier are both good destinations for the whole family.

Saint Andrews is a family-friendly place to visit. There are some great playgrounds, parks, and gardens that kids will enjoy. Check out Kingbrae Gardens, Ministers Island, and Katy’s Cove. For museums, head to Ross Memorial Museum and Huntsman Fundy Discovery Aquarium.

Montpellier is a family-friendly university town. 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 Saint Andrews or Montpellier Better for Couples?

Saint Andrews
Montpellier

Saint Andrews and Montpellier are both great to visit as a couple.

Saint Andrews is a very popular place to visit for couples. The scenic landscapes, stunning views, and quaint charm make this a perfect place for couples to escape to. You can enjoy boat rides, seafood restaurants, golfing, and spas all while you soak up the natural beauty.

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

Is Saint Andrews or Montpellier Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint Andrews
Montpellier

Montpellier is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Saint Andrews is not a good university town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Montpellier is a great city to visit for backpackers. With a young population and a number of hostels to choose from, Montpellier attracts its share of backpackers.

Saint Andrews is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really a backpacker's destination, but there are some guesthouses and apartments that are more affordable.


Is Saint Andrews or Montpellier Better for Students?

Saint Andrews
Montpellier

Saint Andrews and Montpellier are both world-class destinations for students and younger travelers.

Saint Andrews is a great destination for students. At its heart, this is a university town with a long standing history in teaching. You'll find the town's population doubles when students are in town.

Montpellier is a very popular university town 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.

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

Saint Andrews
Montpellier

Montpellier is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Montpellier can get you around easily. There are a number of options for getting around town including the tramway, bus, and tourist train.

Saint Andrews has some public transit options. There are buses through St. Andrews.

Is Saint Andrews or Montpellier a more walkable city?

Saint Andrews
Montpellier

Montpellier is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its ease of walking around.

Montpellier is a very walkable city. Many of the sights and attractions are easily accessible on foot and can be enjoyed as part of a self-guided walking tour.

Saint Andrews is a somewhat walkable university town. Parts of the town are compact enough to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Montpellier or Saint Andrews?

How long in Saint Andrews or Montpellier?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saint Andrews and Montpellier. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Montpellier than in Saint Andrews. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Saint Andrews, and 1-3 days is enough time in Montpellier.

Families should spend more time in Montpellier than Saint Andrews. 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 Montpellier than Saint Andrews. 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 Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews or Montpellier? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Andrews 1-2 
    Montpellier 1-3

One day in Saint Andrews or Montpellier?

Saint Andrews is a small town with plenty to do. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this university town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Montpellier. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Saint Andrews or Montpellier?

Saint Andrews might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. This university town 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Montpellier. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Saint Andrews or Montpellier?

Because Saint Andrews is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant destination of Montpellier. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.


A week in Saint Andrews or Montpellier?

Since Saint Andrews is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful city of Montpellier. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Montpellier or Saint Andrews?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Andrews is £215, while the average daily cost in Montpellier is £101. 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 Saint Andrews and Montpellier in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Andrews £116
    Montpellier £59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Andrews £232
    Montpellier £118
Compare Hotels in Saint Andrews and Montpellier

Looking for a hotel in Saint Andrews or Montpellier? 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 Saint Andrews


Hotels in Montpellier


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Andrews £53
    Montpellier £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

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Andrews or Montpellier?

Prices for flights to both Montpellier and Saint Andrews 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
    Saint Andrews £62
    Montpellier £26

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Andrews £45
    Montpellier £10

Tours and Activities in Saint Andrews

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

  • Rebels, Romance & Raisins St. Andrew's Walking Audio Tour: $6.99
  • St Andrews Must-Sees Daily Walking Tour (11am & 2pm): $18
  • St Andrews Golf Oriented Heritage Tours - Town and Old Course: $19
  • St Andrews History Tours: $19
  • St Andrews Old Course History Tour, for the Golfer: $19
  • St Andrews Walking Tours: $19
  • St Andrews Ghost Tours: $20
  • The Original St Andrews Photo Shoot Tour: $82
  • Private St Andrews Dark Side Tour: $145
  • Private St. Andrews: Home of Golf Old Course Walking Tour: $146
  • Private St. Andrews Tour with Dedicated Local Guide: $146
  • Private St Andrews Town Tour for Future Students: $146

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Andrews £26
    Montpellier £13

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


Which is Bigger, Saint Andrews or Montpellier?

Montpellier has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Saint Andrews. When comparing the sizes of Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews or Montpellier in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Andrews and Montpellier. Many travelers come to Saint Andrews for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Montpellier in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Saint Andrews is much colder than Montpellier. Typically, the summer temperatures in Saint Andrews in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Montpellier averages at about 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Montpellier this time of the year. Saint Andrews usually receives less sunshine than Montpellier during summer. Saint Andrews gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Montpellier receives 351 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Saint Andrews usually receives more rain than Montpellier. Saint Andrews gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Andrews 14°C (58°F) 
    Montpellier 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Montpellier in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Saint Andrews as well as Montpellier. Many visitors come to Saint Andrews in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Montpellier for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Saint Andrews is generally much colder than Montpellier. Daily temperatures in Saint Andrews average around 10°C (49°F), and Montpellier fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Saint Andrews often gets less sunshine than Montpellier. Saint Andrews gets 100 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montpellier receives 187 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Montpellier. Saint Andrews usually gets less rain in October than Montpellier. Saint Andrews gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Andrews 10°C (49°F) 
    Montpellier 15°C (60°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Montpellier in the Winter?

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

Saint Andrews can be very cold during winter. Saint Andrews is much colder than Montpellier in the winter. The daily temperature in Saint Andrews averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Montpellier fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Saint Andrews usually receives less sunshine than Montpellier during winter. Saint Andrews gets 58 hours of sunny skies, while Montpellier receives 147 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Saint Andrews usually receives less rain than Montpellier. Saint Andrews gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Andrews 3°C (38°F) 
    Montpellier 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Montpellier in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Saint Andrews is much colder than Montpellier. Typically, the spring temperatures in Saint Andrews in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Montpellier averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In Montpellier, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Saint Andrews often gets less sunshine than Montpellier. Saint Andrews gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montpellier receives 230 hours of full sun.

Saint Andrews usually gets less rain in April than Montpellier. Saint Andrews gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Andrews 7°C (45°F) 
    Montpellier 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Montpellier and Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews Montpellier
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (44°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
May 10°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 50 mm (2 in) 20°C (68°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 52 mm (2 in) 23°C (73°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Aug 14°C (58°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (67°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (60°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 10°C (51°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)