A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Joshua Tree National Park vs. Montreal for Attractions, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Joshua Tree National Park 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 Joshua Tree National Park 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.

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a unique, fascinating, and adventurous national park. With stunning beauty, Joshua Tree National Park attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Joshua Tree National Park 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 nightlife, live music, and food. See Montreal travel costs.

Joshua Tree National Park and Montreal: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • 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 food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Joshua Tree National Park or Montreal?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Montreal. Although Joshua Tree National Park and Montreal are popular destinations, Montreal has more sights and attractions for tourists. Montreal is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Joshua Tree National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Joshua Tree National Park is famous for its unique vegetation and large boulders. Montreal is famous for its music, fashion, and cultural activities. It is also well known for Notre-Dame Basilica.

How is Joshua Tree National Park different from Montreal?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Joshua Tree National Park or Montreal?

Joshua Tree National Park
Montreal

Montreal is renowned for its museums and history. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Joshua Tree National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in the area that display local art or cultural and historical items.


Is the Food Better in Joshua Tree National Park or Montreal? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Joshua Tree National Park
Montreal

Montreal is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Montreal has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

While Joshua Tree National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There aren't any restaurants inside the park, so you'll want to pack your own food and eat at one of the picnic areas.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Montreal Better for Nightlife?

Joshua Tree National Park
Montreal

Montreal is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Montreal is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Joshua Tree National Park. Stargazing and gathering around campfires are the most popular activities during the evening.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Montreal Better for Music?

Joshua Tree National Park
Montreal

Montreal is renowned for its music scene. However, Joshua Tree National Park 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.

Joshua Tree National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Joshua Tree National Park or Montreal Better for its Old Town?

Joshua Tree National Park
Montreal

Montreal is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Joshua Tree National Park 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.

Joshua Tree National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Montreal Better for Hiking?

Joshua Tree National Park
Montreal

Joshua Tree National Park is terrific for hiking. However, Montreal is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Joshua Tree National Park specifically for its hiking. There are a wide range of hikes that include easy, moderate, and strenuous options. Some of the best hikes include Discovery Trail, Boy Scout Trail, and Black Rock Canyon Panorama Loop.

Montreal is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Joshua Tree National Park or Montreal?

Joshua Tree National Park
Montreal

Montreal is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options 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.

Joshua Tree National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There is a park store where you can pick up gifts or other items.


Is Joshua Tree National Park or Montreal More Beautiful?

Joshua Tree National Park
Montreal

Joshua Tree National Park is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Montreal is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Joshua Tree National Park attracts visitors from all around. There are unique Joshua Trees throughout the park as well as beautiful rock formations and striking views.

Montreal is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Montreal Better for Families?

Joshua Tree National Park
Montreal

Both Joshua Tree National Park and Montreal are superb to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Joshua Tree National Park. With its giant boulders that kids can scramble on and its Dr. Seuss-like Joshua Trees, this really is nature's best playground. There are also kid-friendly hikes and Junior Ranger Programs that will both educate and entertain the kids.

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 Joshua Tree National Park or Montreal Better for Couples?

Joshua Tree National Park
Montreal

Both Joshua Tree National Park and Montreal are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

Joshua Tree National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, adventure sports like rock climbing, and hiking through spectacular landscapes will find this to be the ultimate romantic destination.

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 Joshua Tree National Park or Montreal Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Joshua Tree National Park
Montreal

Joshua Tree National Park is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Montreal is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Joshua Tree National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that are popular with backpackers and nature enthusiasts.

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 Joshua Tree National Park or Montreal Better for Students?

Joshua Tree National Park
Montreal

Montreal is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Joshua Tree National Park 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.

Joshua Tree National Park is not popular with students.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Montreal Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Joshua Tree National Park
Montreal

Montreal is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options 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 limited or non-existant in Joshua Tree National Park. There's no reliable public transportation in the park.


Is Joshua Tree National Park or Montreal a more walkable city?

Joshua Tree National Park
Montreal

Montreal is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its walkability.

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

Joshua Tree National Park is not a walkable national park. You need a car to truly explore the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Joshua Tree National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Montreal Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Montreal or Joshua Tree National Park?

How long in Joshua Tree National Park or Montreal?

In either Joshua Tree National Park or Montreal, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Montreal than Joshua Tree National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Joshua Tree National Park, and 3-5 days is enough time in Montreal.

Families should spend more time in Montreal than Joshua Tree National Park. 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 Joshua Tree National Park. 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 Joshua Tree National Park 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 Joshua Tree National Park or Montreal? Ideal Length of Stay
    Joshua Tree National Park 2-4 
    Montreal 3-5

One day in Joshua Tree National Park or Montreal?

The beautiful national park of Joshua Tree National Park offers . 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 colorful city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A weekend in Joshua Tree National Park or Montreal?

Joshua Tree National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this national park 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 Joshua Tree National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Montreal is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


Five days in Joshua Tree National Park or Montreal?

Joshua Tree National Park is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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 that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Visiting the old town is also a must. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

A week in Joshua Tree National Park or Montreal?

Joshua Tree National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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 national park offers something for everyone.

Montreal is a popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week 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 Joshua Tree National Park?

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

  • Joshua Tree National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Montreal Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Joshua Tree National Park $177
    Montreal $235

The average daily cost (per person) in Joshua Tree National Park is $177, 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 Joshua Tree National Park and Montreal in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Joshua Tree National Park $87
    Montreal $131
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Joshua Tree National Park $174
    Montreal $262
Compare Hotels in Joshua Tree National Park and Montreal

Looking for a hotel in Joshua Tree National Park 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 Joshua Tree National Park


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: Montreal Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Joshua Tree National Park $47
    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 Joshua Tree National Park or Montreal?

Prices for flights to both Montreal and Joshua Tree National Park 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
    Joshua Tree National Park $60
    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.
    Joshua Tree National Park $27
    Montreal $21

Tours and Activities in Joshua Tree National Park

For Joshua Tree National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • From San Diego: Joshua Tree National Park Private Tour: $949
  • Rappelling Experience: $255

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
    Joshua Tree National Park $4.93
    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 Joshua Tree National Park and Montreal, we can see that Montreal is more expensive. And not only is Joshua Tree National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Joshua Tree National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Joshua Tree National Park 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 Joshua Tree National Park.

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