Montpellier, a charming city in southern France, is often overlooked in favor of Paris or Nice, but it’s a true hidden gem. With its Mediterranean climate, historical landmarks, and lively student atmosphere, Montpellier offers an incredible experience without breaking the bank. When I planned my trip to Montpellier, I wanted to ensure I got the best possible deal on flights and transportation. After extensive research and firsthand experience, I’m here to share everything you need to know about flying affordably to Montpellier, getting around the city efficiently, and making the most of your budget.
Finding the Best Flight Deals to Montpellier
Booking affordable flights to Montpellier takes some strategy. Since Montpellier has its own airport, Montpellier-Méditerranée Airport (MPL), it’s possible to fly directly there from some major cities. However, many travelers (including myself) find better deals flying into Paris first and then taking a domestic flight or train.
Choosing Between Direct and Indirect Flights
If you’re flying internationally, you may find that flights to Paris (CDG or ORY) are cheaper than flying directly to Montpellier. From there, you can take a short domestic flight, a high-speed train, or even a budget-friendly bus. Here’s how the options compare:
- Direct Flights to Montpellier – Limited international connections but convenient if you find a good deal.
- Flights via Paris – More options, often cheaper, and allows flexibility to explore Paris for a day or two.
- Flights via Marseille or Toulouse – Can sometimes be an affordable alternative with a short train ride to Montpellier.
How I Booked My Flight from Paris to Montpellier
After comparing multiple options, I booked a flight from Paris Orly (ORY) to Montpellier-Méditerranée (MPL) with Transavia France. Here’s a breakdown of my booking experience:
- Flight Name: Transavia France TO7014
- Class: Economy
- Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Ticket Price: €45 (one-way)
- Booking Platform: Skyscanner + Transavia’s official website
- Baggage Allowance: One free carry-on, checked baggage extra (€25 per bag)
I booked my ticket about six weeks in advance, which helped me get a great deal. If you book last-minute, prices can jump to €80-€120.
My Flight Experience
Boarding at Paris Orly Airport was straightforward. Since Transavia is a budget airline, I expected a no-frills experience, and that’s exactly what I got. The seats were comfortable for a short flight, but legroom was tight. There was no free food or drink service, but I had packed snacks, so it wasn’t an issue.
One thing I noticed was how smooth and quick the flight was. Before I even got settled into my book, the pilot announced our descent into Montpellier! Compared to a long train ride, this was by far the fastest way to get there.
Upon arrival at Montpellier-Méditerranée Airport, I was impressed by how small and efficient it was. Within 15 minutes of landing, I had collected my bag and was on my way to the city center.
Other Affordable Flight Options to Montpellier
If you’re looking for budget-friendly flights to Montpellier, here are four good options:
1. Air France (Paris CDG to Montpellier MPL)
- Duration: 1h 20m
- Price: €60-€120 (round trip)
- Why Choose It? A bit more expensive than Transavia but includes complimentary snacks and drinks.
2. Ryanair (London Stansted to Montpellier MPL)
- Duration: 1h 45m
- Price: €20-€70 (one-way)
- Why Choose It? Extremely cheap if booked early, but beware of extra fees for baggage.
3. EasyJet (Paris Orly to Montpellier MPL)
- Duration: 1h 15m
- Price: €35-€90 (one-way)
- Why Choose It? A good balance between budget and comfort.
4. Volotea (Nantes to Montpellier MPL)
- Duration: 1h 30m
- Price: €30-€80 (one-way)
- Why Choose It? A regional airline with occasional flash sales.
Getting from Montpellier Airport to the City Center
Once you land in Montpellier, getting to the city center is quick and budget-friendly. Here are the best options:
1. Tram + Airport Shuttle (Best Budget Option)
- Cost: €1.60 (tram) + €1.60 (shuttle)
- Time: 20-25 minutes
- Route: Take the Airport Shuttle Line 620 to Place de l’Europe, then transfer to Tram Line 1 or 2.
2. Taxi (Fastest, But Pricey)
- Cost: Around €25 during the day, €35 at night
- Time: 15 minutes
- Best For: Late-night arrivals or heavy luggage.
3. Car Rental (For Road Trips)
- Cost: Starting at €30 per day
- Best For: Exploring the countryside or nearby beaches.
Alternative Airports Near Montpellier
If you’re struggling to find cheap flights directly to Montpellier, consider these nearby airports:
1. Marseille Provence Airport (MRS)
- Distance: 150 km
- Train to Montpellier: 1.5 hours (€25-€40)
- Why Choose It? Larger airport with more budget airline options.
2. Toulouse-Blagnac Airport (TLS)
- Distance: 240 km
- Train to Montpellier: 2 hours (€30-€50)
- Why Choose It? Good if you want to explore Toulouse before heading to Montpellier.
3. Nîmes–Alès–Camargue–Cévennes Airport (FNI)
- Distance: 50 km
- Train to Montpellier: 40 minutes (€10-€15)
- Why Choose It? Occasionally has budget flights from European cities.
Final Tips for Budget-Friendly Travel to Montpellier
1. Book Flights in Advance
- The cheapest flights to Montpellier are usually available 6-8 weeks before departure.
2. Consider a Train Instead of Flying
- If you’re already in Paris, the TGV train to Montpellier takes just 3h 15m and costs around €40-€70.
3. Avoid Peak Summer Travel
- Flights in July and August can be twice as expensive. If possible, visit in May, June, or September for better deals.
4. Use Budget Airlines Wisely
- If flying Ryanair or EasyJet, be mindful of baggage fees. Sometimes, a slightly more expensive ticket on Air France can be a better value.
The Smart Traveler’s Guide to Budget-Friendly Travel in Montpellier
Traveling to Montpellier on a budget is not only possible but also incredibly rewarding if you plan strategically. My experience flying from Paris to Montpellier showed me that affordable flights, efficient transportation, and smart booking choices can make a big difference in how much you spend. By booking early, comparing multiple airlines, and being flexible with travel dates, you can secure excellent flight deals and save money for the real experiences—exploring the charming streets, relaxing at a sun-drenched café, or discovering the rich history of the city.
Why Montpellier Is Worth the Trip
Montpellier is an underrated gem in France, offering a perfect mix of history, culture, and modernity. Unlike more tourist-heavy destinations like Paris or Nice, it provides a more relaxed and authentic French experience at a fraction of the cost. Whether you’re a food lover, history buff, or beach enthusiast, there’s something in Montpellier for you.
During my visit, I was captivated by:
- The stunning architecture of the Place de la Comédie and the medieval streets.
- The Mediterranean climate, making it an ideal year-round destination.
- The laid-back student atmosphere, giving the city a youthful and vibrant energy.
- The proximity to the coast, allowing for easy day trips to beautiful beaches.
Final Money-Saving Tips for Your Trip to Montpellier
If you’re planning your own budget-friendly trip to Montpellier, keep these final tips in mind:
1. Be Flexible with Flights & Transportation
- If flights to Montpellier are expensive, look into nearby airports like Marseille or Toulouse and take a budget-friendly train.
- Compare single tickets vs. round-trip fares—sometimes two one-way flights are cheaper than a round-trip ticket.
- Use budget airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, or Transavia, but watch out for baggage fees.
2. Use Public Transport Over Taxis
- Montpellier has an excellent tram system—buy a day pass (€4.30) instead of single tickets (€1.60 each) to save money.
- Take the airport shuttle + tram instead of a taxi to the city center.
- If you’re traveling outside Montpellier, book SNCF train tickets in advance for the best prices.
3. Plan Your Itinerary Wisely
- Avoid peak summer months (July-August) when prices surge due to high demand.
- Consider staying in a budget-friendly neighborhood like Figuerolles instead of the city center.
- Take advantage of free attractions like the Jardin des Plantes (France’s oldest botanical garden) or explore the historic old town on foot.
4. Don’t Overpay for Dining & Attractions
- Skip overpriced tourist restaurants—opt for local markets like Les Halles Castellane to try authentic, affordable food.
- Take advantage of free museum days (some museums offer free entry on the first Sunday of each month).
- If you’re a student or under 26 years old, many attractions offer discounted or free entry—always ask before paying!
Montpellier is a dream destination for budget travelers, offering affordable flights, efficient transportation, and a wealth of experiences without the high price tags of other French cities. Whether you choose to fly directly or take a train from Paris, a little planning goes a long way in saving money while maximizing your travel experience.
If you’re like me and love discovering off-the-beaten-path destinations, Montpellier is the perfect mix of affordability, beauty, and adventure. With a bit of flexibility and the right strategies, you can experience all the charm of southern France without emptying your wallet.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Montpellier adventure today!
