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

Should you visit Beaufort or Montreal?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Beaufort or Montreal, 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.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a southern, charming, and historic town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Beaufort offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches. See Beaufort travel costs.

Montreal

Montreal is a cultural, vibrant, and colorful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and live music. See Montreal travel costs.

Beaufort and Montreal: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Beaufort or Montreal?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Montreal than Beaufort, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Montreal is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Beaufort is more popular for its beaches, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Montreal is more touristy than Beaufort and is popular for its music, fashion, and cultural activities. Also, Montreal is famous for Notre-Dame Basilica. Beaufort is well known for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes.

How is Beaufort different from Montreal?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Beaufort or Montreal?

Beaufort
Montreal

Montreal is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Montreal that are not to be missed. The city is filled with world-class museums and historic sites such as Notre-Dame Basilica, St. Joseph's Oratory, the Biosphere, and the Fine Arts Museum.

Beaufort offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The town's museums highlight the region's past. There are four popular museums that you can visit - the Beaufort History Museum, Parris Island Museum, Verdier House Museum, and York W. Bailey Museum.


Is the Food Better in Beaufort or Montreal? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beaufort
Montreal

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at excellent restaurants in both Beaufort and Montreal.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Beaufort makes for a great culinary experience. Soak up the charming atmosphere by dining at one of the local restaurants. Many serve Lowcountry cuisine which includes She-crab soup, fried green tomatoes, shrimp burgers, and barbecue.

Montreal has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are both local and international restaurants that serve up excellent dishes. Some of the local recipes that you should try include tourtiere (a meat pie), a smoked meat sandwich, and, of course, poutine.

Is Beaufort or Montreal Better for Nightlife?

Beaufort
Montreal

Montreal is renowned for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

Montreal is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city's nightlife scene is centered around its live music scene, which is excellent. There are also many bars and clubs, as well as a young population that keep evenings lively.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Beaufort. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.

Is Beaufort or Montreal Better for Music?

Beaufort
Montreal

Montreal is renowned for live music. However, Beaufort is not a live music destination.

Montreal is a world class music destination. The music scene is thriving and world class. One of the most unique aspects of the city's music scene is its impromptu nature. You'll find many talented street performers and you'll likely stumble into many high quality performers. There's also a great indie scene as well as hip hop, classical, jazz, and heavy metal at the many live music venues.

Beaufort is not a live music destination.


Is Beaufort or Montreal Better for Beaches?

Beaufort
Montreal

Beaufort is very good for the beach. However, Montreal is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Beaufort to enjoy the beach. The town has a nice waterfront, but you have to head about half an hour out of town for a real beach. One of the best options is Hunting Island State Park.

Montreal is not a beach destination.

Is Beaufort or Montreal Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort
Montreal

Beaufort and Montreal both have excellent historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Beaufort to see the historical old town. Historic homes, some that were built before the Civil War, offer a glimpse into the past. Beaufort is the second oldest town in South Carolina and it holds on to much of its charm and character.

Montreal is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Vieux-Montreal is the historic part of the city, and it's filled with cobblestone streets and historic buildings. This is also where you'll find the Old Port, which has a waterfront promenade.

Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Montreal?

Beaufort
Montreal

Montreal is renowned for shopping. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Montreal is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. It's known for its fashion scene and there are many independent and local vendors around town. Bonsecours Market is both historic and fascinating, but also make sure you check out Mont-Royal Avenue, which is the main shopping and dining street in town.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Beaufort. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.


Is Beaufort or Montreal More Beautiful?

Beaufort
Montreal

Beaufort is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Montreal is not a destination known for its beauty.

Beaufort offers plenty of beauty for visitors. There are many beautiful spots to take in nature or watch the sunset.

Montreal is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Beaufort or Montreal Better for Families?

Beaufort
Montreal

Montreal is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Montreal is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids and teens will love the many science museums, parks and gardens, and the nearby La Ronde Amusement Park. If your kids are music lovers, there are many talented street performers in the city that will entertain the young and old alike.

Beaufort is not always a place people visit with their families. There are parks and outdoor activities in the area, but one of the best options is to head out of town to the beach.

Is Beaufort or Montreal Better for Couples?

Beaufort
Montreal

Beaufort and Montreal are both excellent to visit as a couple.

Beaufort is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many charming and romantic spots around town as well as historic inns where you can stay. Couples will enjoy the waterfront area or exploring one of the nature parks that are nearby. There are also quaint local restaurants that make for a nice date night.

Montreal makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city is filled with romance, from the world class music scene to the romantic restaurants and sunset river cruises. If you're in town during the fall months, check out the Botanical Gardens, which come to life with the annual Gardens of Light.


Is Beaufort or Montreal Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beaufort
Montreal

Montreal is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Montreal. There's a decent number of hostels as well as a great nightlife scene and plenty of younger visitors looking to meet other travelers.

Beaufort is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There aren't any real places for backpackers to stay in the area.

Is Beaufort or Montreal Better for Students?

Beaufort
Montreal

Montreal is renowned for students. However, Beaufort is not popular with students.

Montreal is a great destination for students. It's regularly ranked as one of the top cities in North America for students. There are many students around town, a great nightlife scene, and plenty of opportunities to receive a world-class education.

Beaufort is not popular with students.

Is Beaufort or Montreal Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Beaufort
Montreal

Montreal is notable for its public transit. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Montreal. There's an efficient and reliable metro and bus system.

Public transit is quite limited in Beaufort. There is no reliable public transportation system in the area.


Is Beaufort or Montreal a more walkable city?

Beaufort
Montreal

Beaufort and Montreal both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Beaufort is very walkable. The quaint downtown is walkable and offers easy access to art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

Montreal is a very walkable town. The city is very walkable, particularly in the areas that are popular with tourists.

For even more information, also check out Is Beaufort Worth Visiting? and Is Montreal Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Montreal or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Montreal?

In either Beaufort or Montreal, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Montreal than Beaufort because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Beaufort, and 3-5 days is enough time in Montreal.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Montreal than Beaufort 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 Montreal.


  • How many days in Beaufort or Montreal? Ideal Length of Stay
    Beaufort 1-3 
    Montreal 3-5

One day in Beaufort or Montreal?

Beaufort is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Montreal is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Beaufort or Montreal?

Beaufort is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Beaufort, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Montreal is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Beaufort or Montreal?

Beaufort is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Montreal is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Montreal, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Beaufort or Montreal?

Beaufort is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Montreal is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Montreal or Beaufort?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Beaufort Prices
    USA Prices
    Montreal Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Beaufort $154
    Montreal $235

The average daily cost (per person) in Beaufort is $154, while the average daily cost in Montreal is $235. 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 Beaufort and Montreal in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beaufort $100
    Montreal $131
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beaufort $200
    Montreal $262
Compare Hotels in Beaufort and Montreal

Looking for a hotel in Beaufort or Montreal? 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 Beaufort


Hotels in Montreal


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: Beaufort Hotel Prices and Montreal Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Montreal $20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Montreal

Also for Montreal, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • YUL Airport Private Transfer to Downtown|Hotels: $29
  • Departure transfer Montreal to Montreal Airport YUL by Car or SUV: $60
  • Private One Way Transfer from Montreal to Montreal Airport: $64
  • Private Transfer to Montreal Airport YUL: $71
  • Montreal Best Private Transfer services : $73
  • Arrival Transfer from International Airport: $78
  • Private Transfer from Montreal Cruise Port to Montreal City: $99
  • Private Transfer from Montreal City to Montreal (YUL) Airport: $111
  • Montréal Airport (YUL) to Montreal hotel or port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $139
  • Montreal Private Transfer to Montreal Airport YUL in Luxury Van: $186
  • Transfer Montreal International Airport to Downtown Montreal: $187
  • Private Transfer from Montreal Airport to Ottawa: $212

Is it cheaper to fly into Beaufort or Montreal?

Prices for flights to both Montreal and Beaufort 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
    Beaufort $54
    Montreal $62

Typical Food Prices in Montreal

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Montreal:


  • Tim Hortons breakfast and coffee
    $8.96

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Montreal

For Montreal, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Bateau-Mouche Cruise with A La Carte Dinner Option: $61
  • Jean-Talon & Little Italy Food Tour with 8 Tasting: $77
  • Jean-Talon Market Hidden Gems Guided Food Tour: $78
  • Beyond the Market Non-Touristy Food Tour by Spade & Palacio: $81
  • Mile End District Food Tour with 8+ Tastings: $81
  • Montreal Cooking Class - Learn to make Dim Sums: $84
  • Jean-Talon Market & Little Italy Food Tour with 8 Tastings: $89
  • Montreal Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $89
  • Old Montreal Food & Drink Tour by Local Montreal Food Tours: $115
  • Cooking Class & Lunch with Michelin-Trained Chef: $128
  • Jewish Neighborhood Food Tour: $129
  • Montreal Gourmet Dinner Cruise with DJ & Dancing: $129

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Montreal $21

Tours and Activities in Beaufort

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

  • Beaufort Tipsy Tour: $59
  • Gullah Heritage Tour: $52
  • Historic City Tour by Bus: $37
  • Local History and Film Sites Tour by golf cart: $38
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $48

Typical Entertainment Prices in Montreal

For Montreal, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Botanical Gardens (family of 4)
    $53

Tours and Activities in Montreal

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Montreal.

  • Montreal City Highlights 3 Hour Walking Tour | Gratuity-Based : $5.00
  • Montreal Prohibition Mystery: Self-Guided Walking Adventure: $7.20
  • Montréal Scavenger Hunt and City Highlights Walking Tour: $7.74
  • Old Montreal Historical Downtown Self Guided Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Montreal's Golden Square Mile: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Old Self-Guided Tour from Place D‘Armes to Old Port: $12
  • Art Center and Museum Audio Guided Tour: $12
  • Irish Famine in Montreal Walking Tour: $20
  • Montreal Old Port: Urban Zipline Ticket: $21
  • Musée des Hospitalières Entry & Digital City Tour: $21
  • Old Montreal in 90 Minutes Walking Tour: $22
  • 1hr Sunset Boat tour on the St Lawrence River Old Port Montreal: $23

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Beaufort -
    Montreal $16

Typical Alcohol Prices in Montreal

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Montreal:


  • Vodka
    $18

Sample the Local Flavors in Montreal

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Montreal:

  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $24
  • Haunted Montreal Pub Crawl: $24
  • Guided Bar Crawl with Free Shots and Club Entry: $41
  • Guided Pub Crawl of the City's Skyline Bars: $85


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

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


Which is Bigger, Beaufort or Montreal?

Montreal has a larger population, and is about 270 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Beaufort and Montreal, 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 Beaufort or Montreal?

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 Beaufort or Montreal in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Beaufort as well as Montreal. Most visitors come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Montreal because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Beaufort is generally a little warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 82°F (28°C), and Montreal fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Montreal. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaufort this time of the year. In the summer, Beaufort often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Montreal. Beaufort gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 276 hours of full sun.

Beaufort receives a lot of rain in the summer. Beaufort usually gets more rain in July than Montreal. Beaufort gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C) 
    Montreal 21°C (69°F)

Should I visit Beaufort or Montreal in the Autumn?

Both Montreal and Beaufort are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Montreal this time of year.

Beaufort is much warmer than Montreal in the autumn. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Montreal fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. Beaufort usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during autumn. Beaufort gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 141 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Beaufort usually receives less rain than Montreal. Beaufort gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C) 
    Montreal 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Beaufort or Montreal in the Winter?

Both Montreal and Beaufort during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Montreal for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Montreal. In the winter, Beaufort is much warmer than Montreal. Typically, the winter temperatures in Beaufort in January average around 48°F (9°C), and Montreal averages at about -10°C (14°F).

In the winter, Beaufort often gets more sunshine than Montreal. Beaufort gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 103 hours of full sun.

Beaufort usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Montreal. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C) 
    Montreal -10°C (14°F)

Should I visit Beaufort or Montreal in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaufort and Montreal. Many travelers come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Montreal in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Beaufort is generally much warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 67°F (19°C), and Montreal fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beaufort usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during spring. Beaufort gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 183 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Beaufort usually receives around the same amount of rain as Montreal. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C) 
    Montreal 6°C (43°F)

Typical Weather for Montreal and Beaufort

Beaufort Montreal
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) -10°C (14°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) -9°C (16°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) -2°C (28°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 6°C (43°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 13°C (55°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 18°C (64°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 21°C (69°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 19°C (67°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 14°C (58°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 8°C (47°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 2°C (35°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) -7°C (20°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)