A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cape Cod vs. Montreal for Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod 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.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a wealthy, maritime, and beautiful beach destination. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, Cape Cod attracts visitors from all around. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and beaches. See Cape Cod 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.

Cape Cod and Montreal: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cape Cod or Montreal?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Montreal. Although Cape Cod and Montreal are popular destinations, Montreal has more sights and attractions for tourists. Montreal is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Cape Cod attracts visitors for its resorts, beaches, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Cape Cod is famous for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales. Montreal is famous for its music, fashion, and cultural activities. It is also well known for Notre-Dame Basilica.

How is Cape Cod different from Montreal?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Cod or Montreal?

Montreal is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. However, Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Cape Cod and Montreal can be an enjoyable experience.

Cape Cod has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

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 Cape Cod or Montreal Better for Nightlife?

Montreal is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for nightlife.

The nightlife in Montreal is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Is Cape Cod or Montreal Better for Music?

Montreal is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Cape Cod 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.

Cape Cod is not a live music destination.

Is Cape Cod or Montreal Better for Resorts?

Cape Cod is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Montreal is not a resort destination.

Cape Cod has a few great resort options. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

Montreal is not a resort destination.

Is Cape Cod or Montreal Better for Beaches?

Cape Cod is great for the beach. However, Montreal is not a beach destination.

Cape Cod is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.

Montreal is not a beach destination.

Is Cape Cod or Montreal Better for its Old Town?

Montreal is great for its historic old town charm. However, Cape Cod 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.

Cape Cod does not have a historic old town.

Is Cape Cod or Montreal Better for Hiking?

Cape Cod is very good for hiking. However, Montreal is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Cape Cod. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Montreal is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Cod or Montreal?

Montreal is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination 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.

Cape Cod is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

Is Cape Cod or Montreal More Beautiful?

Cape Cod is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Montreal is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Cape Cod attracts visitors from all around. Beautiful beaches, quaint towns, and picturesque scenery make this area truly unique.

Montreal is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cape Cod or Montreal Better for Families?

Both Cape Cod and Montreal are high quality family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Cape Cod. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

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 Cape Cod or Montreal Better for Couples?

Cape Cod and Montreal both high quality destinations for a couple.

Cape Cod is a great beach destination if you're traveling as a couple. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.

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 Cape Cod or Montreal Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Montreal is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cape Cod 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.

Cape Cod is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. This area is more focused on luxury and family vacationers than it is on backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Cape Cod or Montreal Better for Students?

Montreal is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cape Cod 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.

Cape Cod is not popular with students.

Is Cape Cod 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. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for its public transit.

The public transit in Montreal can get you to most places easily. There's an efficient and reliable metro and bus system.

Public transit is generally limited in Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

Is Cape Cod or Montreal a more walkable city?

Montreal is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its walkability.

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

Cape Cod is somewhat walkable. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.

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

Should I spend more time in Montreal or Cape Cod?

How long in Cape Cod or Montreal?

In either Cape Cod or Montreal, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cape Cod than Montreal because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Cape Cod, and 3-5 days is enough time in Montreal.

Families should spend more time in Montreal than Cape Cod. 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 Cape Cod. 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 Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod or Montreal?

Cape Cod is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. 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.

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 Cape Cod or Montreal?

Cape Cod is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

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 Cape Cod or Montreal?

Cape Cod is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cape Cod, five days is sufficent for most. 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 Cape Cod or Montreal?

Cape Cod is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cape Cod has to offer. This beach destination 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 Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.

When comparing the travel costs between Cape Cod and Montreal, we can see that Montreal is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

When is the best time to visit Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod or Montreal in the Summer?

Both Montreal and Cape Cod are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, 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.

Cape Cod is around the same temperature as Montreal in the summer. The daily temperature in Cape Cod averages around 68°F (20°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 Cape Cod. Cape Cod usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during summer. Cape Cod gets 304 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 276 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cape Cod usually receives around the same amount of rain as Montreal. Cape Cod gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cape Cod or Montreal in the Autumn?

Both Montreal and Cape Cod during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cape Cod in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. 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, Cape Cod is a little warmer than Montreal. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cape Cod in October average around 53°F (12°C), and Montreal averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the autumn, Cape Cod often gets more sunshine than Montreal. Cape Cod gets 194 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 Cape Cod. Cape Cod usually gets more rain in October than Montreal. Cape Cod gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cape Cod or Montreal in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Cod and Montreal. Most visitors come to Cape Cod for 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. Cape Cod can be very cold during winter. In January, Cape Cod is generally much warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Cape Cod average around 31°F (-0°C), and Montreal fluctuates around -10°C (14°F).

Cape Cod usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during winter. Cape Cod gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 103 hours of full sun in the winter.

Cape Cod gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Cape Cod usually receives more rain than Montreal. Cape Cod gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cape Cod or Montreal in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cape Cod as well as Montreal. The spring months attract visitors to Cape Cod because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Montreal this time of year.

Cape Cod is a little warmer than Montreal in the spring. The daily temperature in Cape Cod averages around 45°F (7°C) in April, and Montreal fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cape Cod this time of the year. In the spring, Cape Cod often gets more sunshine than Montreal. Cape Cod gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 183 hours of full sun.

Cape Cod receives a lot of rain in the spring. Cape Cod usually gets more rain in April than Montreal. Cape Cod gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Montreal and Cape Cod