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

Should you visit Zurich or Montpellier?

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 Zurich and Montpellier. 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.

Zurich

Zurich is a historic, liberal, and beautiful city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include live music, food, and shopping.

Montpellier

Montpellier is a vibrant, bustling, and beautiful city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping.

Zurich and Montpellier: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Montpellier?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zurich than Montpellier, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Zurich is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, and shopping, while Montpellier is known for its beaches. Zurich is more touristy than Montpellier and is known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also home to The Grossmünster. Montpellier is popular for its relaxed atmosphere, grand boulevards, and authentic personality.

How is Zurich different from Montpellier?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Zurich and Montpellier.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Zurich. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

Montpellier offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. With such a long history, the city has many landmarks and monuments. Also make sure you visit Musée Fabre and Saint-Pierre Cathedral.

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

Zurich 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 Zurich is an experience not to be missed. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

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 Zurich or Montpellier Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Zurich know how to have a good time. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

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 Zurich or Montpellier Better for Music?

Zurich is a great destination for its music scene. However, Montpellier is not a live music destination.

Zurich has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Montpellier is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Montpellier Better for Beaches?

Montpellier is a well-known place for the beache. However, Zurich is not a beach destination.

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.

Zurich is not a beach destination.

Is Zurich or Montpellier Better for its Old Town?

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

The rich history of Zurich can be explored in its historical center. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Montpellier?

Zurich is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Zurich is a world class destination for shoppers. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

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

Is Zurich or Montpellier Better for Families?

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

Zurich is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

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 Zurich or Montpellier Better for Couples?

Zurich and Montpellier both excellent destinations for a couple.

Zurich is a very popular place to visit for couples. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

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 Zurich or Montpellier Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Zurich. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

Is Zurich or Montpellier Better for Students?

Zurich and Montpellier are both terrific destinations for students and younger travelers.

Zurich is a very popular place to visit for students. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

Many students frequent 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.

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

Both Zurich and Montpellier offer excellent public transit options.

Zurich has some very good public transit options. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

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.

Is Zurich or Montpellier a more walkable city?

Zurich and Montpellier both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Zurich is a very walkable city. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Montpellier or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Montpellier?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Zurich and Montpellier. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Zurich than in Montpellier. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zurich, and 1-3 days is enough time in Montpellier.

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

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

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

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful city of Zurich. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the shopping. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Montpellier. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Zurich or Montpellier?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the liberal destination of Zurich. 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.

Montpellier is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Zurich or Montpellier?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the liberal city of Zurich. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Montpellier. 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Zurich or Montpellier?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting Zurich. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people visit for the shopping. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the bustling destination of Montpellier. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland, 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 Zurich and Montpellier, we can see that Zurich 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 Zurich would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Zurich 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 Zurich Expensive? and Is Montpellier Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Montpellier?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 38% larger than the population of Montpellier. When comparing the sizes of Zurich 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 Zurich 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 Zurich or Montpellier in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Montpellier. The summer months attract visitors to Zurich because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Montpellier this time of year.

In the summer, Zurich is around the same temperature as Montpellier. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zurich in July average around 21°C (70°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. In Zurich, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Montpellier during summer. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Montpellier receives 351 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zurich usually receives more rain than Montpellier. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zurich or Montpellier in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Montpellier. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Zurich this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Montpellier for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Zurich is generally cooler than Montpellier. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 13°C (56°F), and Montpellier fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Montpellier. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montpellier receives 187 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Montpellier. Zurich usually gets less rain in October than Montpellier. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Montpellier in the Winter?

Both Montpellier and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Zurich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Montpellier in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Zurich. Zurich is much colder than Montpellier in the winter. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Montpellier fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Montpellier during winter. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Montpellier receives 147 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zurich usually receives around the same amount of rain as Montpellier. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zurich or Montpellier in the Spring?

Both Montpellier and Zurich during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Zurich in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Montpellier for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Zurich is around the same temperature as Montpellier. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zurich in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Montpellier averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In Montpellier, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Montpellier. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montpellier receives 230 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in April than Montpellier. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Montpellier receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Montpellier and Zurich