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

Should you visit Hood River or Montreal?

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

Should I visit Hood River 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.

Hood River

Hood River is a scenic, charming, and agricultural town. With stunning beauty, Hood River attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and skiing. See Hood River travel costs.

Montreal

Montreal is a vibrant, colorful, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Montreal travel costs.

Hood River and Montreal: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Hood River or Montreal?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Montreal. Although Hood River and Montreal are both popular with visitors, Montreal has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Montreal is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Hood River is known for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Hood River is popular for its waterfalls, wineries, and impressive mountains. Montreal is popular for its music, fashion, and cultural activities. It is also home to Notre-Dame Basilica.

How is Hood River different from Montreal?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Hood River or Montreal Better for Skiing?

Hood River
Montreal

Hood River is very good for skiing. However, Montreal is not a skiing destination.

Head to Hood River for some great skiing and other winter activities. During the winter months, Hood River makes a nice base for nearby skiing. Timberline and Cooper Spur and both less than an hour away and offer great skiing opportunities.

Montreal is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hood River or Montreal?

Hood River
Montreal

Montreal is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Montreal are world-renowned. 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.

Hood River offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of interesting museums in town such as the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automoblie Museum, the History Museum, and 301 Gallery.

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

Hood River
Montreal

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

Hood River has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Head to the downtown or waterfront areas for the best selection of restaurants. Most restaurants pride themselves on using local ingredients and supporting local farms. Dishes use fresh and healthy ingredients that make simple but high quality meals.

Dining out in Montreal is an experience not to be missed. 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 Hood River or Montreal Better for Nightlife?

Hood River
Montreal

Montreal is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Hood River is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

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.

Hood River has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are breweries, wineries, and local bars in the area that offer a laid back place where you can enjoy the local atmosphere.


Is Hood River or Montreal Better for Music?

Hood River
Montreal

Montreal is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Hood River is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Montreal. 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.

Hood River is not a live music destination.

Is Hood River or Montreal Better for its Old Town?

Hood River
Montreal

Montreal is a very popular place for its old town. However, Hood River 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.

Hood River does not have a historic old town.

Is Hood River or Montreal Better for Hiking?

Hood River
Montreal

Hood River is great for hiking. However, Montreal is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Hood River for the hiking trails. There's a diversity of landscapes in the area that include waterfalls, agriculture, vineyards, and high-reaching mountain peaks. The best way to experience these is through the many hiking trails. Drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway and stop off at the trails that lead to the waterfalls, or head south of town to explore the vineyards on foot, and to the north where you'll find mountain peaks.

Montreal is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Hood River or Montreal?

Hood River
Montreal

Montreal is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Hood River is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Montreal draws large crowds to its 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.

Many visitors go to Hood River to go shopping. Local shops sell local produce, artisan crafts, and wine. There are boutiques and independent vendors that are fun to visit and many visitors enjoy spending an afternoon shopping.

Is Hood River or Montreal More Beautiful?

Hood River
Montreal

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

With stunning beauty, Hood River attracts visitors from all around. There's a beautiful natural environment with wonderful hikes and local farms and wineries.

Montreal is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Hood River or Montreal Better for Families?

Hood River
Montreal

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Hood River or Montreal.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Hood River is very family-friendly. The area is filled with outdoor adventures that the whole family can enjoy. There's swimming, tubing, hiking, and even windsurfing. Make sure you check out the Waterfront Park and Powerdale Substation.

Montreal is known to be 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 Hood River or Montreal Better for Couples?

Hood River
Montreal

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

Hood River makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy the scenic natural setting and charming hotels and bed and breakfasts in the area. There are romantic hikes, local wineries, and many great restaurants that you can try.

Couples visit Montreal frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Hood River or Montreal Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hood River
Montreal

Hood River 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 Hood River. There are a couple of hostels and some nice campgrounds in the area as well as many great hikes and a laid back atmosphere that backpackers appreciate.

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 Hood River or Montreal Better for Students?

Hood River
Montreal

Montreal is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hood River 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.

Hood River is not popular with students.


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

Hood River
Montreal

Montreal is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Hood River. There are buses in the area but you really need your own transportation to see the region efficiently.

Is Hood River or Montreal a more walkable city?

Hood River
Montreal

Montreal is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

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

Hood River is generally not very walkable. While there are parts of the town that are walkable, if you don't have a car you'll miss out on the surrounding natural landscapes and most of the hiking opportunities.

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

Should I spend more time in Montreal or Hood River?

How long in Hood River or Montreal?

In either Hood River or Montreal, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Montreal than Hood River because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Hood River, and 3-5 days is enough time in Montreal.

Families should spend more time in Montreal than Hood River. 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 Hood River. 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 Hood River 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.


  • How many days in Hood River or Montreal? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hood River 2-3 
    Montreal 3-5

One day in Hood River or Montreal?

The beautiful town of Hood River offers nightlife 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.

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 Hood River or Montreal?

Hood River is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hood River, a weekend is sufficent for most. 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 Hood River or Montreal?

Hood River 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, 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 Hood River or Montreal?

Hood River 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 town 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Montreal or Hood River?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Hood River Prices
    USA Prices
    Montreal Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Hood River $174
    Montreal $235

The average daily cost (per person) in Hood River is $174, while the average daily cost in Montreal is $235. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Hood River and Montreal in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hood River $78
    Montreal $131
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hood River $156
    Montreal $262
Compare Hotels in Hood River and Montreal

Looking for a hotel in Hood River or Montreal? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Hood River


Hotels in Montreal


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Hood River Hotel Prices and Montreal Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hood River $46
    Montreal $20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Montreal

Also for Montreal, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Transfer Montreal International Airport to Quebec City: $995
  • Transfer Montreal International Airport to Downtown Montreal: $187
  • Private Transfer from Montreal Cruise Port to Montreal City: $99
  • Private Transfer from Montreal City to Montreal (YUL) Airport: $111
  • Private Transfer To Quebec From Montreal YUL Airport: $394
  • Private Transfer To Montreal YUL Airport From Mont-Tremblant: $232
  • Private Transfer To Mont-Tremblant From Montreal YUL Airport: $215
  • Private Transfer Montreal International Airport to Ottawa: $703
  • Private One Way Transfer from Montreal to Montreal Airport: $64
  • YUL Airport Private Transfer to Downtown|Hotels: $29
  • Private Transfer to Montreal Airport YUL: $71
  • Private Transfer from Montreal Airport to Ottawa: $212

Is it cheaper to fly into Hood River or Montreal?

Prices for flights to both Montreal and Hood River change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Hood River $70
    Montreal $62

Typical Food Prices in Montreal

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Montreal:


  • Tim Hortons breakfast and coffee
    $8.96

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Montreal

For Montreal, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Bateau-Mouche Cruise with A La Carte Dinner Option: $61
  • Jean-Talon & Little Italy Food Tour with 8 Tasting: $77
  • Jean-Talon Market Hidden Gems Guided Food Tour: $78
  • Beyond the Market Non-Touristy Food Tour by Spade & Palacio: $81
  • Mile End District Food Tour with 8+ Tastings: $81
  • Montreal Cooking Class - Learn to make Dim Sums: $84
  • Jean-Talon Market & Little Italy Food Tour with 8 Tastings: $89
  • Montreal Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $89
  • Old Montreal Food & Drink Tour by Local Montreal Food Tours: $115
  • Cooking Class & Lunch with Michelin-Trained Chef: $128
  • Jewish Neighborhood Food Tour: $129
  • Montreal Gourmet Dinner Cruise with DJ & Dancing: $129

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hood River $18
    Montreal $21

Tours and Activities in Hood River

For Hood River, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Columbia Gorge Kayak Tour: $100
  • Portland: Multnomah Falls Scenic Air Tour: $179

Typical Entertainment Prices in Montreal

For Montreal, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Botanical Gardens (family of 4)
    $53

Tours and Activities in Montreal

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Montreal.

  • Experience Montréal Axe Throwing Adventure: $29
  • The Ultimate Montreal Boat Tour – Fall Colors Apéro Edition : $23
  • 1 Hour Downtown Montreal Tour: $24
  • 1h-Relaxing day or sunset cruise in Montreal: $127
  • 1hr Sunset Boat tour on the St Lawrence River Old Port Montreal: $23
  • A Walking Tour of Old Montreal: $25
  • AURA experience at Notre-Dame Basilica and guided cruise: $76
  • All about Montreal's Murals - Saturday Walking Tour: $24
  • Awesome Curling Experience : $96
  • Bell Centre: Montreal Canadiens Ice Hockey Game Ticket: $103
  • Best of Montréal: Private Walking Tour with a Local: $107
  • Best of Montreal Small Group Tour with River Cruise + Notre Dame: $126

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hood River $19
    Montreal $16

Typical Alcohol Prices in Montreal

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Montreal:


  • Vodka
    $18

Sample the Local Flavors in Montreal

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Montreal:

  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $24
  • Haunted Montreal Pub Crawl: $24
  • Guided Bar Crawl with Free Shots and Club Entry: $41
  • Guided Pub Crawl of the City's Skyline Bars: $85


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

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


Which is Bigger, Hood River or Montreal?

Montreal has a larger population, and is about 520 times larger than the population of Hood River. When comparing the sizes of Hood River 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 Hood River 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 Hood River or Montreal in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hood River and Montreal. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hood River this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Montreal for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Hood River is around the same temperature as Montreal. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hood River in July average around 68°F (20°C), and Montreal averages at about 21°C (69°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Montreal this time of the year. In Hood River, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hood River usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during summer. Hood River gets 338 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 276 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hood River usually receives less rain than Montreal. Hood River gets 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hood River 68°F (20°C) 
    Montreal 21°C (69°F)

Should I visit Hood River or Montreal in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hood River as well as Montreal. Many travelers come to Hood River for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Montreal in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Hood River is generally much warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Hood River average around 55°F (13°C), and Montreal fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the autumn, Hood River often gets more sunshine than Montreal. Hood River gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 141 hours of full sun.

Hood River usually gets less rain in October than Montreal. Hood River gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hood River 55°F (13°C) 
    Montreal 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Hood River or Montreal in the Winter?

Both Montreal and Hood River are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Hood River in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Montreal for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Montreal can be very cold during winter. Hood River can get quite cold in the winter. Hood River is much warmer than Montreal in the winter. The daily temperature in Hood River averages around 40°F (4°C) in January, and Montreal fluctuates around -10°C (14°F).

Hood River usually receives less sunshine than Montreal during winter. Hood River gets 86 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 103 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Hood River. In January, Hood River usually receives more rain than Montreal. Hood River gets 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hood River 40°F (4°C) 
    Montreal -10°C (14°F)

Should I visit Hood River or Montreal in the Spring?

Both Montreal and Hood River during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Hood River for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Montreal because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Hood River is much warmer than Montreal. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hood River in April average around 51°F (11°C), and Montreal averages at about 6°C (43°F).

It's quite sunny in Hood River. In the spring, Hood River often gets more sunshine than Montreal. Hood River gets 231 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 183 hours of full sun.

Hood River usually gets less rain in April than Montreal. Hood River gets 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hood River 51°F (11°C) 
    Montreal 6°C (43°F)

Typical Weather for Montreal and Hood River

Hood River Montreal
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (4°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm) -10°C (14°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) -9°C (16°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Mar 47°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) -2°C (28°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Apr 51°F (11°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 6°C (43°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
May 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (51 mm) 13°C (55°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jun 64°F (18°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm) 18°C (64°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Jul 68°F (20°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm) 21°C (69°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Aug 69°F (20°C) 1 inches (25 mm) 19°C (67°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Sep 63°F (17°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm) 14°C (58°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Oct 55°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 8°C (47°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 5.4 inches (136 mm) 2°C (35°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Dec 40°F (5°C) 6.1 inches (156 mm) -7°C (20°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)