A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cumberland Island National Seashore vs. Montreal for Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Montreal?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Montreal? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a untouched, pristine, and secluded island. With stunning beauty, Cumberland Island National Seashore attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking. See Cumberland Island National Seashore 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. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Montreal travel costs.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Montreal: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Montreal?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Montreal than Cumberland Island National Seashore, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Montreal is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Montreal is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is known for its music, fashion, and cultural activities. Also, Montreal is famous for Notre-Dame Basilica. Cumberland Island National Seashore is well known for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses.

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Montreal?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Montreal?

Montreal is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Montreal from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Cumberland Island National Seashore offers a few options for museum-goers. There aren't any museums on the island, but on the mainland there's a visitor center as well as the Cumberland Island National Seashore Museum.

Is the Food Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Montreal? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Montreal is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Montreal. 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.

Most people don't head to Cumberland Island National Seashore for a culinary experience, but it does have restaurants to choose from. There are no restaurants on the island, so you need to pack any food that you might need before you arrive.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Montreal Better for Nightlife?

Montreal is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

Montreal has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore for the nightlife. Stargazing is amazing on the island, but you're left to your own devices when it comes to evening entertainment options.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Montreal Better for Music?

Montreal is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a live music destination.

Montreal is known as a music capital 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.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a live music destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Montreal Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is terrific for the beach. However, Montreal is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Cumberland Island National Seashore is a very popular vacation destination. There are 17 miles of pristine beaches along the island. You'll also find wild horses and miles of hiking trails. Swimming is popular, but do take note that there are no lifeguards on the island.

Montreal is not a beach destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Montreal Better for its Old Town?

Montreal is a great city for its historic old town. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Cumberland Island National Seashore does not have a historic old town.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Montreal Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is terrific for hiking. However, Montreal is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Cumberland Island National Seashore specifically for its hiking. You'll find more than 50 miles of hiking trails on the island. They pass through a number of ecosystems such as wetlands, forests, and beaches. Most visitors come for the day and spend most of their time on the Southend of the island. This is where you'll find the highest concentration of hiking trails. Some of the most popular trails are Dungeness Roadways, River Trail, and Nightingale Trail.

Montreal is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Montreal?

Montreal is an amazing city to visit for shopping. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Montreal. 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.

Cumberland Island National Seashore has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There aren't any shops or stores on the island so plan accordingly.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Montreal More Beautiful?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Montreal is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Cumberland Island National Seashore attracts visitors from all around. The barrier island has 17 miles of pristine beaches. It offers a truly beautiful setting that feels undiscovered and untouched.

Montreal is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Montreal Better for Families?

Montreal is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Montreal is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a family-friendly place to visit. In addition to the hiking trails, coastline, and wildlife, the island also has junior ranger programs and educational experiences for kids.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Montreal Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Montreal make for a great place to visit.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will appreciate the pristine coastline, beautiful wildlife, and secluded hiking trails. Many people visit the island as a day trip, but it's also possible to stay at one of the island's campgrounds. For a truly romantic experience you could also stay at the Greyfield Inn.

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 Cumberland Island National Seashore or Montreal Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Montreal is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Cumberland Island National Seashore. Backpackers appreciate the secluded and pristine atmosphere. There are miles of hiking trails as well as campgrounds on the island for those who want to stay overnight.

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.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Montreal Better for Students?

Montreal is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Montreal. 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.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Montreal Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Montreal is a great city for times when you don't have a car. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its public transit.

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 generally limited in Cumberland Island National Seashore. The only way to the island is by ferry. It leaves from the town of St. Marys and advanced reservations are recommended.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Montreal a more walkable city?

Montreal is a great city for its walkability. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its high level of walkability.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a somewhat walkable place. There are many hikes on the island, but the whole island is 18 miles long, making it difficult to walk in one day. Many visitors spend their time near the campgrounds where there's the highest concentration of hiking trails. This area is known as Sea Camp.

For even more information, also check out Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Worth Visiting? and Is Montreal Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Montreal or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Montreal?

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

Families should spend more time in Montreal than Cumberland Island National Seashore. 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore. 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore or Montreal?

The beautiful island of Cumberland Island National Seashore offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Because Montreal is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A weekend in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Montreal?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cumberland Island National Seashore, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Many people visit Montreal for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Five days in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Montreal?

Cumberland Island National Seashore 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 place to visit. Because Montreal is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Visiting the old town is also a must. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Montreal?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Montreal. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cumberland Island National Seashore and Montreal, we can see that Montreal is more expensive. And not only is Cumberland Island National Seashore much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cumberland Island National Seashore would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cumberland Island National Seashore 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore.

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

When is the best time to visit Cumberland Island National Seashore 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore or Montreal in the Summer?

Both Montreal and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Montreal for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally a little warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 82°F (28°C), 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Montreal during summer. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 276 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Montreal. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Montreal in the Autumn?

Both Montreal and Cumberland Island National Seashore during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Montreal in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Montreal in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Montreal fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

It's quite sunny in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In the autumn, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets more sunshine than Montreal. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 141 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets less rain in October than Montreal. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Montreal in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Montreal. Furthermore, most visitors come to Montreal for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Montreal can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Montreal. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Montreal averages at about -10°C (14°F).

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during winter. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 103 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Montreal. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Montreal in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Montreal. Most visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Montreal because of the activities around the city.

In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally much warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 68°F (20°C), and Montreal fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of the year. In the spring, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets more sunshine than Montreal. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 183 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets less rain in April than Montreal. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Montreal and Cumberland Island National Seashore