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

Should you visit Clearwater 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 Clearwater 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.

Clearwater

Clearwater is a adventure-filled, relaxing, and beautiful coastal city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Clearwater 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 live music, food, and shopping. See Montreal travel costs.

Clearwater and Montreal: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Clearwater or Montreal?

You'll generally find more things to do in Montreal than Clearwater. Montreal is bigger than Clearwater, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Montreal is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Clearwater is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Clearwater is well known for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. Montreal is well known for its music, fashion, and cultural activities. Also, Montreal is famous for Notre-Dame Basilica.

How is Clearwater different from Montreal?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Montreal is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city 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.

Clearwater offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Perhaps most well known is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, but there are also a surprising number of museums nearby such as the Dalí Museum, the impressive Chihuly Glass Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts.

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

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

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Clearwater makes for a great culinary experience. Head to the waterfront for some of the best seafood. Unfortunately this is also where you'll find the highest prices. Shrimp, crab, and a fresh catch of the day are common on many menus.

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 Clearwater or Montreal Better for Nightlife?

Montreal is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for nightlife and partying.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Clearwater. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night out.

Is Clearwater or Montreal Better for Music?

Montreal is a world-class destination for live music. However, Clearwater 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.

Clearwater is not a live music destination.

Is Clearwater or Montreal Better for Resorts?

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

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Clearwater. You'll find a number of nice resorts along the coastline. Some of the most popular are the Sandpearl Resort, the Opal Sands Resort, and the Clearwater Beach Marriott.

Montreal is not a resort destination.

Is Clearwater or Montreal Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater 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 Clearwater. There's both snorkeling and diving nearby. Some of the best dive spots are within and hour of the shore and you'll find diving shops that offer trips.

Montreal is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Montreal Better for Beaches?

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

With world-famous beaches, Clearwater is a very popular vacation destination. Clearwater Beach is on many lists as one of the best beaches in America. It's the most popular beach in the area and it spreads out over 2.5 miles. Sand Key Beach is another popular destination as is the pristine Caladesi Island State Park.

Montreal is not a beach destination.

Is Clearwater or Montreal Better for its Old Town?

Montreal is notable for its historic old town. However, Clearwater 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.

Clearwater does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Montreal?

Montreal is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city 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 Clearwater. You'll find all of the standard shopping options in the area such as malls, shopping centers, and outlets. Westfield Countryside Mall is a popular destination as is the Cleveland Street District.

Is Clearwater or Montreal Better for Families?

Both Clearwater and Montreal are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Clearwater is a very family-friendly place to visit. Check out the playground and activities around Pier 60. Less crowded and family-friendly Sand Key Park is another favorite spot and the playgrounds at New Coachman Park and Crest Lake Park are also fun. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is another popular attraction for visitors with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Montreal is very family-friendly. 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 Clearwater or Montreal Better for Couples?

Clearwater and Montreal both high quality destinations for a couple.

Clearwater is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are beautiful parks and beaches as well as romantic activities like sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. Couples will also enjoy dining on local seafood and shopping at the local venues.

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 Clearwater or Montreal Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Montreal is a good destination for backpackers. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Clearwater is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, and you'll find more affordable prices than in some nearby beach destinations.

Is Clearwater or Montreal Better for Students?

Montreal is a world-class destination for students. However, Clearwater 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.

Clearwater is not popular with students.

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

Montreal is notable for its public transit. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city 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 mostly limited in Clearwater. The Clearwater Jolley Trolley connects some of the area's highlights. There are also public buses that run several routes through town.

Is Clearwater or Montreal a more walkable city?

Montreal is notable for its walkability. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

Clearwater is a somewhat walkable place. The waterfront and downtown areas are surprisingly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Montreal or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Montreal?

In either Clearwater 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 Clearwater. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Couples should spend more time in Montreal than Clearwater. 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 Clearwater 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 Clearwater or Montreal?

The coastal city of Clearwater 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 Clearwater or Montreal?

Clearwater 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 Clearwater or Montreal?

Clearwater 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 Clearwater, 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 Clearwater or Montreal?

Clearwater 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 Clearwater and Montreal, we can see that Clearwater 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 Clearwater would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Clearwater 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 Clearwater Expensive? and Is Montreal Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Montreal?

Montreal has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Clearwater. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater 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 Clearwater 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 Clearwater or Montreal in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Montreal. Many travelers come to Clearwater for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Montreal in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Clearwater is generally a little warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Clearwater 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 Clearwater this time of the year. In the summer, Clearwater often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Montreal. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 276 hours of full sun.

Clearwater receives a lot of rain in the summer. Clearwater usually gets more rain in July than Montreal. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Clearwater or Montreal in the Autumn?

Both Montreal and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Clearwater in the autumn for 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.

Clearwater is much warmer than Montreal in the autumn. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 75°F (24°C) in October, and Montreal fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during autumn. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 141 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Montreal. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November.

Should I visit Clearwater or Montreal in the Winter?

Both Montreal and Clearwater during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Clearwater 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 the winter, Clearwater is much warmer than Montreal. Typically, the winter temperatures in Clearwater in January average around 60°F (15°C), and Montreal averages at about -10°C (14°F).

It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the winter, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Montreal. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 103 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets less rain in January than Montreal. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Clearwater or Montreal in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Montreal. The spring months attract visitors to Clearwater because of the beaches. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Montreal this time of year.

In April, Clearwater is generally much warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 71°F (22°C), and Montreal fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

In Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during spring. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 183 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Montreal. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Clearwater.

Typical Weather for Montreal and Clearwater