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

Should you visit Hilo or Montreal?

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

Should I visit Hilo 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.

Hilo

Hilo is a friendly, authentic, and laid back town. With stunning beauty, Hilo attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches. See Hilo 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 food, shopping, and museums. See Montreal travel costs.

Hilo and Montreal: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hilo or Montreal?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Montreal. Although Hilo 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 Hilo attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Hilo is famous for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens. Montreal is famous for its music, fashion, and cultural activities. It is also well known for Notre-Dame Basilica.

How is Hilo different from Montreal?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Montreal is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Hilo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Top museums in and around town include the Lyman Museum, the Pacific Tsunami Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, and Mokupapapa Discovery Center.

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

Both Hilo and Montreal offer great local cuisine and restaurants.

Hilo has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. This is the largest city on the island and you'll find a restaurant scene that caters to both locals and tourists. There are a number of local dishes that you can try such as Pla Rad Prik (a Thai fish dish), mushroom pot pie, and crab and avocado melt.

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 Hilo or Montreal Better for Nightlife?

Montreal is very popular for its evening party scene. However, Hilo is not known for nightlife.

Montreal is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Most people don't head to Hilo specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a town that goes to bed early, but there are some local bars that have a chill and relaxing atmosphere.

Is Hilo or Montreal Better for Music?

Montreal is very popular for its music scene. However, Hilo 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.

Hilo is not a live music destination.

Is Hilo or Montreal Better for Resorts?

Hilo is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Montreal is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Hilo as a resort destination, but it has a few places. You'll find more hotels than resorts in town.

Montreal is not a resort destination.

Is Hilo or Montreal Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hilo is adequate for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Montreal is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Hilo. Richardsons Ocean Park is the best snorkeling spot nearby but, in general, the water near town has poor visibility because of the frequent rain.

Montreal is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hilo or Montreal Better for Beaches?

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

Many people head to Hilo to enjoy the beach. The town isn't really known for its beaches but there are some decent options if you want to stay nearby and hit the coastline. Beaches in the area include Coconut Island, Reeds Bay Beach Park, and Onekahakaha Beach Park.

Montreal is not a beach destination.

Is Hilo or Montreal Better for its Old Town?

Montreal is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Hilo 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.

Hilo does not have a historic old town.

Is Hilo or Montreal Better for Hiking?

Hilo is terrific for hiking. However, Montreal is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Hilo specifically for its hiking. You'll find incredible hikes in the area to many impressive waterfalls. There are also coastal trails and hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

Montreal is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hilo or Montreal?

Montreal is very popular for its shopping areas. However, Hilo is not known 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.

Hilo is a good destination for shopping. You can pick up anything you need in town, just head to Hilo Shopping Center.

Is Hilo or Montreal More Beautiful?

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

With stunning beauty, Hilo attracts visitors from all around. This side of the island is filled with beautiful waterfalls, lush rainforests, and tropical gardens.

Montreal is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Hilo or Montreal Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Hilo or Montreal.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Hilo. The town has an authentic and unpretentious vibe that is fun for families. There are low key beaches, farmer's markets, local museums, and nearby hiking. If you want to stay away from the larger resorts and see a more local side to Hawaii, then this is a great option.

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 Hilo or Montreal Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Hilo and Montreal make for a great place to visit.

Hilo is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will enjoy visiting Liliuokalani Gardens, taking sunset cruises, and sampling the local cuisine. The town also makes a good base for hiking and exploring the beaches on the island.

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 Hilo or Montreal Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hilo 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 Hilo. The town has several local hostels that many backpackers prefer for their authentic and mellow atmospheres.

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 Hilo or Montreal Better for Students?

Montreal is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Hilo 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.

Hilo is not popular with students.

Is Hilo 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, Hilo is not known for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Hilo. The Hele-On is a bus service that connects Hilo to Kona with north and south routes.

Is Hilo or Montreal a more walkable city?

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

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

Hilo is somewhat walkable. The downtown is a nice place to take a stroll, but if you want to get out of town, and you really should, then you'll need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Montreal or Hilo?

How long in Hilo or Montreal?

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

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

The beautiful town of Hilo offers museums and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Hilo or Montreal?

Hilo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in 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 fun place to experience. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Hilo or Montreal?

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

Montreal is a vibrant big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Hilo or Montreal?

Hilo is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hilo has to offer. This town offers something for everyone.

The vibrant city of Montreal offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle 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 Hilo 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 Hilo Expensive? and Is Montreal Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hilo or Montreal?

Montreal has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Hilo. When comparing the sizes of Hilo 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 Hilo 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 Hilo or Montreal in the Summer?

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

Hilo is a little warmer than Montreal in the summer. The daily temperature in Hilo averages around 76°F (24°C) in July, and Montreal fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

It's quite sunny in Montreal. Hilo usually receives less sunshine than Montreal during summer. Hilo gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 276 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Hilo. In July, Hilo usually receives more rain than Montreal. Hilo gets 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Hilo or Montreal in the Autumn?

Both Montreal and Hilo during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Hilo for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, 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.

In the autumn, Hilo is much warmer than Montreal. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hilo in October average around 76°F (24°C), and Montreal averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the autumn, Hilo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Montreal. Hilo gets 138 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 Hilo. Hilo usually gets more rain in October than Montreal. Hilo gets 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hilo or Montreal in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hilo and Montreal. Many visitors come to Hilo in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. 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 January, Hilo is generally much warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Hilo average around 72°F (22°C), and Montreal fluctuates around -10°C (14°F).

Hilo usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during winter. Hilo gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 103 hours of full sun in the winter.

Hilo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Hilo usually receives more rain than Montreal. Hilo gets 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hilo or Montreal in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hilo as well as Montreal. Most visitors come to Hilo 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.

Hilo is much warmer than Montreal in the spring. The daily temperature in Hilo averages around 73°F (23°C) in April, and Montreal fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

In the spring, Hilo often gets less sunshine than Montreal. Hilo gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 183 hours of full sun.

Hilo receives a lot of rain in the spring. Hilo usually gets more rain in April than Montreal. Hilo gets 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Montreal and Hilo