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

Should you visit Honolulu or Montreal?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Honolulu and Montreal can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Honolulu

Honolulu is a multi-cultural, energetic, and vibrant city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, Honolulu attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Honolulu 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 nightlife, live music, and food. See Montreal travel costs.

Honolulu and Montreal: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Honolulu or Montreal?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Honolulu than Montreal. While Montreal is larger than Honolulu, Honolulu has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Honolulu is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Montreal is more popular for its nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities. Honolulu is more touristy than Montreal and is known for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. Also, Honolulu is famous for Pearl Harbor. Montreal is well known for its music, fashion, and cultural activities.

How is Honolulu different from Montreal?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Spend time exploring the amazing sights and museums in either Honolulu or Montreal.

Travelers visit Honolulu from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. For many visitors, a trip to Pearl Harbor is one of the most memorable experiences while they're in Hawaii. It's still an active naval base, but it's also a National Historic Landmark that memorializes that historic day in 1941. There are many sights that reflect on the past and you can also pick up tours to the USS Arizona at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Other cultural sights around Honolulu include the Polynesian Cultural Center, the Shangri-La Museum, and Iolani Palace.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Montreal are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

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

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

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Honolulu. The city offers a mix of internationally recognized chain restaurants as well as local mom and pop shops. You'll find a mix of cuisines that reflect the city's multicultural personality. There is plenty of Japanese food around town as well as local Hawaiian dishes. Spam is incorporated into many dishes, but you'll also find seafood and tropical fruits.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Is Honolulu or Montreal Better for Nightlife?

Montreal is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

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.

Honolulu has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has the most active nightlife scene on all of the Hawaiian islands. If you're looking for a party, then this is the place to stay. You'll find many bars, clubs, and entertainment options around town, as well as beach parties and festivals. For tourists, the highest concentration of nightlife venues is around Waikiki, which is also where you'll find the most hotels.

Is Honolulu or Montreal Better for Music?

Montreal is an unbeatable place for live music. However, Honolulu 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.

Honolulu is not a live music destination.

Is Honolulu or Montreal Better for Resorts?

Honolulu is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Montreal is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Honolulu is a perfect choice. The highest concentration of resorts are around Waikiki where you'll find all of the major names such as the Hilton, Marriott, and the Hyatt.

Montreal is not a resort destination.

Is Honolulu or Montreal Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Honolulu is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Montreal is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Honolulu. There are great beaches around the island and near the city where you can enjoy diving and snorkeling. You'll find coral and tropical fish that make for a wonderful experience.

Montreal is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Honolulu or Montreal Better for Beaches?

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

With world-famous beaches, Honolulu is a very popular vacation destination. Nearby there are countless beach destinations such as the famed Waikiki Beach. There are also more local and lesser known stretches of sand where you can escape the tourist crowds. Other great beaches in the area include Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Magic Island, and Lanikai Beach.

Montreal is not a beach destination.

Is Honolulu or Montreal Better for its Old Town?

Montreal is great for its historic old town. However, Honolulu does not have a historic old town.

Montreal is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Honolulu does not have a historic old town.

Is Honolulu or Montreal Better for Hiking?

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

Many people visit Honolulu specifically for its hiking. Both in the city and nearby you'll find world famous hiking trails that offer spectacular views and breathtaking landscapes. There are many natural landmarks and dramatic mountains. Moanalua Valley Trail, also known as the Stairway to Heaven, is one of the top hiking trails in the area. Other popular options include Kuliouou Ridge Trail and Diamond Head Crater Hike.

Montreal is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Honolulu or Montreal?

Montreal is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Honolulu is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has some of the best shopping opportunities in the Hawaiian islands. There are brand name fashion outlets, large shopping malls, and boutique local vendors. Many of the malls are open air and let you enjoy the Hawaiian climate while you browse. Downtown Honolulu and Waikiki both have many shopping opportunities.

Is Honolulu or Montreal More Beautiful?

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

With stunning beauty, Honolulu attracts visitors from all around. It's beautiful beaches and scenic viewpoints make this a beautiful city. It also has a mix of cultures and dynamic neighborhoods.

Montreal is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Honolulu or Montreal Better for Families?

Honolulu is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Montreal is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Honolulu is one of the most popular family destinations. There are many kid-friendly beaches, hiking trails, and activities that appeal to families. While Waikiki Beach can get crowded, it is also a great option for kids. Kids will also enjoy snorkeling with sea turtles, swimming with dolphins, or taking surfing lessons. For a cold treat, everyone can enjoy shave ice and the perfect way to wrap up a day is a fun luau.

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 Honolulu or Montreal Better for Couples?

Honolulu is terrific for couples. Also, Montreal is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Honolulu has plenty to offer. Romantic resorts, beautiful beaches, and stunning hikes make this a top honeymoon destination for couples. The city has an energy that is unlike anywhere else on the Hawaiian islands, but there are also nature trails and outdoor adventures nearby. There are a diversity of restaurants that highlight both local and international cuisines, and a nightlife scene that will keep you entertained.

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 Honolulu or Montreal Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Honolulu 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 Honolulu. This is one of the easier places to stay in Hawaii as a backpacker. There are a handful of hostels, and public transit is available so having a car isn't as crucial as it is everywhere else.

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 Honolulu or Montreal Better for Students?

Montreal is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Honolulu is not popular with students.

Montreal is a very popular city 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.

Honolulu is not popular with students.

Is Honolulu 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, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Honolulu has a few public transit options. TheBus is the public bus system through the city and elsewhere on Oahu.

Is Honolulu or Montreal a more walkable city?

Honolulu and Montreal are superb when it comes to walkability.

Honolulu is very walkable. The most walkable areas are around downtown Honolulu and in Waikiki.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Montreal or Honolulu?

How long in Honolulu or Montreal?

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

Families should spend more time in Honolulu than Montreal. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Honolulu, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Honolulu than Montreal. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Honolulu that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Honolulu than Montreal 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 Honolulu.

One day in Honolulu or Montreal?

Honolulu is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

The city of Montreal offers museums and nightlife. 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 Honolulu or Montreal?

Honolulu 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.

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 Honolulu or Montreal?

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

Honolulu is a great place to explore. 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 Honolulu has to offer. This city 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Honolulu and Montreal, we can see that Honolulu 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 Honolulu would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Honolulu 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 Honolulu Expensive? and Is Montreal Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Honolulu or Montreal?

Montreal has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Honolulu. When comparing the sizes of Honolulu 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 Honolulu 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 Honolulu or Montreal in the Summer?

Both Montreal and Honolulu are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Honolulu in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Montreal for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Honolulu is generally a little warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Honolulu average around 81°F (27°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 Honolulu. Honolulu usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during summer. Honolulu gets 303 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 276 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Honolulu usually receives less rain than Montreal. Honolulu gets 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Honolulu or Montreal in the Autumn?

Both Montreal and Honolulu during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Honolulu for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Montreal because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Honolulu is much warmer than Montreal in the autumn. The daily temperature in Honolulu averages around 80°F (26°C) in October, and Montreal fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

It's quite sunny in Honolulu. In the autumn, Honolulu often gets more sunshine than Montreal. Honolulu gets 246 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 141 hours of full sun.

Honolulu usually gets less rain in October than Montreal. Honolulu gets 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Honolulu or Montreal in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Honolulu and Montreal. The winter months attract visitors to Honolulu because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Montreal this time of year.

It's quite cold in Montreal in the winter. In the winter, Honolulu is much warmer than Montreal. Typically, the winter temperatures in Honolulu in January average around 73°F (23°C), and Montreal averages at about -10°C (14°F).

In Honolulu, it's very sunny this time of the year. Honolulu usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during winter. Honolulu gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 103 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Honolulu usually receives more rain than Montreal. Honolulu gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Honolulu or Montreal in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Honolulu as well as Montreal. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Honolulu this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Montreal for the activities around the city.

In April, Honolulu is generally much warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Honolulu average around 76°F (24°C), and Montreal fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Honolulu this time of the year. In the spring, Honolulu often gets more sunshine than Montreal. Honolulu gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 183 hours of full sun.

Honolulu usually gets less rain in April than Montreal. Honolulu gets 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Montreal and Honolulu