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

Should you visit Los Angeles or Montreal?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Los Angeles and Montreal. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a glamourous, diverse, and multicultural city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Los Angeles 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 live music, food, and shopping. See Montreal travel costs.

Los Angeles and Montreal: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Los Angeles or Montreal?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Los Angeles. Although Los Angeles and Montreal are about the same size, Los Angeles has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Los Angeles is very popular for its theatre productions, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Montreal attracts visitors for its historical sights. Los Angeles is more touristy than Montreal and is known for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. It is also well known for Hollywood. Montreal is famous for its music, fashion, and cultural activities.

How is Los Angeles different from Montreal?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Los Angeles or Montreal?

You'll find a number of first-rate museums and attractions in both Montreal and Los Angeles.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Los Angeles has many famous sights for visitors. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Montreal that are not to be missed. 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 Los Angeles or Montreal Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is great for its shows and theatre. However, Montreal is not a theatre destination.

Los Angeles has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Montreal is not a theatre destination.

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

Los Angeles is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Montreal is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Los Angeles has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Montreal makes for a great culinary experience. There are both local and international restaurants that serve up excellent dishes. Some of the local recipes that you should try include tourtiere (a meat pie), a smoked meat sandwich, and, of course, poutine.

Is Los Angeles or Montreal Better for Nightlife?

The first-rate nightlife scene is relatively similar in Los Angeles and Montreal.

Los Angeles is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

Montreal has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Is Los Angeles or Montreal Better for Music?

It can be fun to see live music in either Los Angeles and Montreal.

Los Angeles has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Montreal is a world class music destination. 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.

Is Los Angeles or Montreal Better for Resorts?

Los Angeles is great for its luxury resorts. However, Montreal is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Los Angeles. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Montreal is not a resort destination.

Is Los Angeles or Montreal Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Montreal is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Los Angeles or Montreal Better for Beaches?

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

With world-famous beaches, Los Angeles is a very popular vacation destination. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Montreal is not a beach destination.

Is Los Angeles or Montreal Better for its Old Town?

Montreal is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Los Angeles does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Los Angeles does not have a historic old town.

Is Los Angeles or Montreal Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles is terrific for hiking. However, Montreal is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Los Angeles specifically for its hiking. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

Montreal is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Los Angeles or Montreal?

Shoppers can find a variety of first-rate stores in both Los Angeles and Montreal.

Many people travel to Los Angeles specifically to go shopping. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

Montreal is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Is Los Angeles or Montreal Better for Families?

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

Los Angeles is one of the most popular family destinations. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

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 Los Angeles or Montreal Better for Couples?

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

For those traveling as a couple, Los Angeles has plenty to offer. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

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 Los Angeles or Montreal Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

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 Los Angeles or Montreal Better for Students?

Both Los Angeles and Montreal are first-rate destinations for students.

Los Angeles is a very popular place to visit for students. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

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.

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

Montreal is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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

You'll find some public transit in Los Angeles, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

Is Los Angeles or Montreal a more walkable city?

Montreal is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Los Angeles is somewhat walkable. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

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

Should I spend more time in Montreal or Los Angeles?

How long in Los Angeles or Montreal?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles.

One day in Los Angeles or Montreal?

Los Angeles 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the colorful city of Montreal. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Los Angeles or Montreal?

Los Angeles 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant big city of Montreal. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Los Angeles or Montreal?

Los Angeles is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Los Angeles, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the vibrant city of Montreal. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Los Angeles or Montreal?

Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting Montreal. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.

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

Which is Bigger, Los Angeles or Montreal?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 13% larger than the population of Montreal. When comparing the sizes of Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles or Montreal in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Los Angeles and Montreal. Many travelers come to Los Angeles for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Montreal in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Los Angeles is around the same temperature as Montreal in the summer. The daily temperature in Los Angeles averages around 72°F (22°C) in July, and Montreal fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

In July, Los Angeles usually receives less rain than Montreal. Los Angeles gets 0 inches (0 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Los Angeles or Montreal in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Los Angeles as well as Montreal. Many visitors come to Los Angeles in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, most visitors come to Montreal for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In the autumn, Los Angeles is much warmer than Montreal. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Los Angeles in October average around 64°F (18°C), and Montreal averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Los Angeles usually gets less rain in October than Montreal. Los Angeles gets 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Los Angeles or Montreal in the Winter?

Both Montreal and Los Angeles are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Los Angeles for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Montreal because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Montreal can be very cold. In January, Los Angeles is generally much warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Los Angeles average around 55°F (13°C), and Montreal fluctuates around -10°C (14°F).

In January, Los Angeles usually receives around the same amount of rain as Montreal. Los Angeles gets 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Los Angeles or Montreal in the Spring?

Both Montreal and Los Angeles during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Montreal this time of year.

Los Angeles is much warmer than Montreal in the spring. The daily temperature in Los Angeles averages around 61°F (16°C) in April, and Montreal fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Los Angeles usually gets less rain in April than Montreal. Los Angeles gets 1 inches (25 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Montreal and Los Angeles