A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Boca Raton vs. Montreal for Attractions, Nightlife, Food, and Families

Should you visit Boca Raton or Montreal?

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 Boca Raton and Montreal. 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.

Boca Raton

Boca Raton is a relaxed, luxurious, and posh coastal city. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Boca Raton travel costs.

Montreal

Montreal is a colorful, cultural, and vibrant city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping. See Montreal travel costs.

Boca Raton and Montreal: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Boca Raton or Montreal?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Montreal than Boca Raton. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Montreal is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Boca Raton attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Montreal is more touristy than Boca Raton and is known for its music, fashion, and cultural activities. It is also well known for Notre-Dame Basilica. Boca Raton is famous for its golf courses, outdoor recreational activities, and safe atmosphere.

How is Boca Raton different from Montreal?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Boca Raton or Montreal?

Montreal is a world-class destination for its historical sights. Also, Boca Raton is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Montreal has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Boca Raton offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. While most visitors focus on the beaches and outdoor activities in the area, there are also a surprising number of museums that you can visit. On a rainy day head to the Boca Raton Museum of Art or the Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum. Sports enthusiasts will like the Sports Immortals Museum and kids will want to check out the Children's Science Explorium.

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

Foodies will find both Boca Raton and Montreal both to be high quality destinations.

Boca Raton has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find a mix of local and international flavors with both casual and upscale dining available. Reservations are recommended, particularly on weekend nights. For the health-conscious, there's also a nice selection of healthy eateries to choose from.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Montreal makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Boca Raton or Montreal Better for Nightlife?

Montreal is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Boca Raton is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for nightlife.

People head to Montreal just to party. 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.

Boca Raton has plenty to do after the sun goes down. You'll find plenty of upscale wine bars, cocktail bars, and live music venues that will keep you entertained late into the evening.

Is Boca Raton or Montreal Better for Music?

Montreal is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Boca Raton is not a live music destination.

Montreal has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. 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.

Boca Raton is not a live music destination.

Is Boca Raton or Montreal Better for Resorts?

Boca Raton is great for its luxury resorts. However, Montreal is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Boca Raton. You'll find many luxury beachside resorts that offer all of the amenities, from access to golf course to family-friendly kids clubs.

Montreal is not a resort destination.

Is Boca Raton or Montreal Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Boca Raton is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Montreal is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Boca Raton. Head to the "Aqua Zoo", which is just to the south of Boca Inlet to see stingrays, groupers, and moray eels. Red Reef Park offers excellent snorkeling as well.

Montreal is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Boca Raton or Montreal Better for Beaches?

Boca Raton is terrific for the beach. However, Montreal is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Boca Raton is a very popular vacation destination. There's a two mile stretch of beautiful sandy beaches that are all monitored by lifeguards. The beaches offer all of the facilities that you might need such as picnic areas, restrooms, and showers. Many beaches are part of park land and some offer nice snorkeling. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Spanish River Park, Bark Park Dog Beach, Red Reef Beach, and South Beach Park.

Montreal is not a beach destination.

Is Boca Raton or Montreal Better for its Old Town?

Montreal is great for its historic old town charm. However, Boca Raton does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Montreal. 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.

Boca Raton does not have a historic old town.

Is Boca Raton or Montreal Better for Hiking?

Boca Raton is very good for hiking. However, Montreal is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Boca Raton. There's a surprising number of nature parks in the area that have hiking trails, nature walks, and beach paths that are fun to explore.

Montreal is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Boca Raton or Montreal?

Montreal is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Boca Raton is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for shopping.

Many people travel to Montreal specifically to go shopping. 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.

Boca Raton is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's an upscale area, and you'll find no shortage of luxury shopping around town. Popular areas for shopping include Downtown Boca, Mizner Park, and the Town Center at Boca Raton.

Is Boca Raton or Montreal Better for Families?

Both Boca Raton and Montreal are high quality family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Boca Raton. It's an upscale area with a family-friendly atmosphere and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Many of the hotels have kids clubs that will keep the young ones entertained. The area also has nature centers, children's museums, and waterparks that will ensure everyone stays entertained.

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.

Is Boca Raton or Montreal Better for Couples?

Boca Raton and Montreal both high quality destinations for a couple.

Boca Raton is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. There's an upscale vibe with plenty of nature trails and nice beaches. Many of the hotels offer a touch of luxury that honeymooning couples will appreciate. You can also head to the downtown area for music, events, and museums.

Montreal is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Boca Raton or Montreal Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Montreal is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Boca Raton is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Boca Raton is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It's known for its upscale luxury, and you won't find much in the form of hostels or backpacker-friendly accommodation.

Is Boca Raton or Montreal Better for Students?

Montreal is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Boca Raton is not popular with students.

Montreal is a very popular place to visit 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.

Boca Raton is not popular with students.

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

Montreal is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Boca Raton is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Montreal. There's an efficient and reliable metro and bus system.

Boca Raton has a few public transit options. The Downtowner is a fleet of free, oversized golf cars that shuttle visitors around town, passing by many top sites such as Mizner Park, Red Reef Park, and the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center. There's also a public bus system, Palm Tran, that offers service around town.

Is Boca Raton or Montreal a more walkable city?

Montreal is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Boca Raton is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its walkability.

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

Boca Raton is somewhat walkable. There are some communities within the city that are more walkable than others, particularly East Boca Raton, Royal Palm Place, and Mizner Park. There are also many pedestrian and bike paths around town. Even so, you really must have a car to explore the area in depth.

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

Should I spend more time in Montreal or Boca Raton?

How long in Boca Raton or Montreal?

In either Boca Raton or Montreal, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Montreal has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Montreal than Boca Raton. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Couples should spend more time in Montreal than Boca Raton. 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 Boca Raton 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.

One day in Boca Raton or Montreal?

The coastal city of Boca Raton offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

When visiting Montreal, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 one day exploring.

A weekend in Boca Raton or Montreal?

Boca Raton is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

When visiting Montreal, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Boca Raton or Montreal?

Boca Raton is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Boca Raton, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Montreal, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Boca Raton or Montreal?

Boca Raton is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal city offers something for everyone.

Montreal is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Boca Raton or Montreal?

Montreal has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Boca Raton. When comparing the sizes of Boca Raton 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 Boca Raton or Montreal?

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 Boca Raton or Montreal in the Summer?

Both Montreal and Boca Raton are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Boca Raton for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Montreal in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Boca Raton is a little warmer than Montreal in the summer. The daily temperature in Boca Raton averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Montreal fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

It's quite sunny in Montreal. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Boca Raton. Boca Raton usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during summer. Boca Raton gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 276 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Boca Raton. In July, Boca Raton usually receives more rain than Montreal. Boca Raton gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Boca Raton or Montreal in the Autumn?

Both Montreal and Boca Raton during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Boca Raton in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Montreal for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In the autumn, Boca Raton is much warmer than Montreal. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Boca Raton in October average around 78°F (25°C), and Montreal averages at about 8°C (47°F).

It's quite sunny in Boca Raton. In the autumn, Boca Raton often gets more sunshine than Montreal. Boca Raton gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 141 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Boca Raton. Boca Raton usually gets more rain in October than Montreal. Boca Raton gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Boca Raton is June to November.

Should I visit Boca Raton or Montreal in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Boca Raton and Montreal. Most visitors come to Boca Raton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Montreal because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Montreal can be very cold. In January, Boca Raton is generally much warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Boca Raton average around 65°F (19°C), and Montreal fluctuates around -10°C (14°F).

In Boca Raton, it's very sunny this time of the year. Boca Raton usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during winter. Boca Raton gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 103 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Boca Raton usually receives less rain than Montreal. Boca Raton gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Boca Raton or Montreal in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Boca Raton as well as Montreal. The spring months attract visitors to Boca Raton because of the beaches. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Montreal this time of year.

Boca Raton is much warmer than Montreal in the spring. The daily temperature in Boca Raton averages around 74°F (23°C) in April, and Montreal fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Boca Raton this time of the year. In the spring, Boca Raton often gets more sunshine than Montreal. Boca Raton gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 183 hours of full sun.

Boca Raton usually gets more rain in April than Montreal. Boca Raton gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Boca Raton.

Typical Weather for Montreal and Boca Raton