A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Key West vs. Montreal for Nightlife, Food, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Key West or Montreal?

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

Should I visit Key West 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.

Key West

Key West is a laid-back, quirky, and eclectic town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, Key West attracts visitors from all around. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the beaches, nightlife, and food. See Key West 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. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums. See Montreal travel costs.

Key West and Montreal: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Montreal?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Montreal. Although Key West 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, shopping, and big city activities, while Key West is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Key West is more touristy than Montreal and is popular for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. Montreal is popular for its music, fashion, and cultural activities. It is also home to Notre-Dame Basilica.

How is Key West different from Montreal?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Key West or Montreal?

Montreal is renowned for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Key West and Montreal.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Key West. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, but the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

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.

Is Key West or Montreal Better for Nightlife?

Montreal is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its evening party scene.

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.

Key West has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

Is Key West or Montreal Better for Music?

Montreal is renowned for its live music scene. However, Key West is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone 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.

Key West is not a live music destination.

Is Key West or Montreal Better for Resorts?

Key West is great for its luxury resorts. However, Montreal is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Key West. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Montreal is not a resort destination.

Is Key West or Montreal Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Montreal is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Key West. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Montreal is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Montreal Better for Beaches?

Key West is great for the beach. However, Montreal is not a beach destination.

Key West is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Montreal is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Montreal Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the great old towns in both Key West and Montreal.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Key West. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Montreal?

Montreal is renowned for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Montreal make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Key West has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Key West or Montreal More Beautiful?

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

With stunning beauty, Key West attracts visitors from all around. There are blue waters as far as the eye can see. It doesn't get much more beautiful than this.

Montreal is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Key West or Montreal Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Key West or Montreal.

Key West is a very kid-friendly town. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Montreal. 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 Key West or Montreal Better for Couples?

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

Key West is a very popular place to visit for couples. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

Montreal makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Key West or Montreal Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Montreal is a popular place for backpackers. However, Key West is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Key West is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Key West is a pretty expensive destination, but there are Airbnbs and even a hostel or two that cater to budget backpackers.

Is Key West or Montreal Better for Students?

Montreal is renowned for students. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Key West is very popular with students. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

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

Montreal is notable for its public transit. However, Key West is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Montreal can get you to some places easily. There's an efficient and reliable metro and bus system.

Public transit is quite limited in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Is Key West or Montreal a more walkable city?

Montreal is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Key West is a somewhat walkable town. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Montreal or Key West?

How long in Key West or Montreal?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Montreal than Key West. 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 Key West 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 Key West or Montreal?

The beautiful town of Key West offers nightlife and food. 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.

Montreal is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Key West or Montreal?

Key West 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 Key West or Montreal?

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

Key West is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Key West has to offer. This town 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 Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.

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

Which is Bigger, Key West or Montreal?

Montreal has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Key West. When comparing the sizes of Key West 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 Key West or Montreal?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Key West or Montreal in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Key West as well as Montreal. The beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Key West this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Montreal for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Key West is a little warmer than Montreal. Typically, the summer temperatures in Key West in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Montreal averages at about 21°C (69°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Montreal. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key West this time of the year. In the summer, Key West often gets more sunshine than Montreal. Key West gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 276 hours of full sun.

Key West usually gets less rain in July than Montreal. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Montreal in the Autumn?

Both Montreal and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Key West for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, 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, Key West is generally much warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 80°F (27°C), and Montreal fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during autumn. Key West gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 141 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Key West. In October, Key West usually receives more rain than Montreal. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

Should I visit Key West or Montreal in the Winter?

Both Montreal and Key West during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Key West in the winter for 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. Key West is much warmer than Montreal in the winter. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Montreal fluctuates around -10°C (14°F).

It's quite sunny in Key West. In the winter, Key West often gets more sunshine than Montreal. Key West gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 103 hours of full sun.

Key West usually gets less rain in January than Montreal. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Montreal in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Montreal. Most visitors come to Key West for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Montreal because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Key West is much warmer than Montreal. Typically, the spring temperatures in Key West in April average around 77°F (25°C), and Montreal averages at about 6°C (43°F).

In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during spring. Key West gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 183 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Key West usually receives less rain than Montreal. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Montreal and Key West