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

Should you visit Milwaukee 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 Milwaukee 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.

Milwaukee

Milwaukee is a undiscovered, friendly, and welcoming city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping. See Milwaukee 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 nightlife, live music, and food. See Montreal travel costs.

Milwaukee and Montreal: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Milwaukee or Montreal?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Montreal than Milwaukee, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Montreal is more touristy than Milwaukee and is known for its music, fashion, and cultural activities. It is also home to Notre-Dame Basilica. Milwaukee is popular for its many breweries and its baseball culture.

How is Milwaukee different from Montreal?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Montreal is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Milwaukee is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Milwaukee. There are several unique museums like the Harley-Davidson Museum, the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum, and the Milwaukee Public Museum. There's also the Milwaukee Art Museum and the Grohmann Museum as well as outdoor sculpture parks and other cultural and historic museums.

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

Montreal is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Milwaukee is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Montreal has a huge number of terrific 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.

Milwaukee may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The Midwest is known for its artery clogging comfort foods, and Milwaukee is no exception. Cheese curds, fried fish, fruit dumplings, and frozen custard are all popular.

Is Milwaukee or Montreal Better for Nightlife?

Montreal is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Milwaukee is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Montreal is a must-see party destination. 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.

Milwaukee has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find a decent number of breweries around town. There are also wine bars, nightclubs, and live music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Milwaukee or Montreal Better for Music?

Montreal is terrific for its live music scene. However, Milwaukee 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.

Milwaukee is not a live music destination.

Is Milwaukee or Montreal Better for its Old Town?

Montreal is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Milwaukee 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.

Milwaukee does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Milwaukee or Montreal?

Montreal is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Milwaukee 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 Milwaukee to go shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers and shopping malls around town, but if you want some more local vendors, check out the areas around the Historic Third Ward and The Village in Wauwatosa.

Is Milwaukee or Montreal Better for Families?

Montreal is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Milwaukee is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Montreal is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Milwaukee. Kids will enjoy a visit to Discovery World, which is a science center with hands-on exhibits. There's also the Milwaukee County Zoo and the Milwaukee Public Museum. Younger kids will also enjoy a stop at Betty Brinn Children's Museum.

Is Milwaukee or Montreal Better for Couples?

Montreal is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. However, Milwaukee is lacking in options for couples.

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.

Milwaukee is not always the best place to visit for a couple. Take a walk or visit a local restaurant. There are also museums and performances that make for a nice outing.

Is Milwaukee or Montreal Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Montreal is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Milwaukee is lacking in options for backpackers.

Montreal is a good city to visit for backpackers. There's a decent number of hostels as well as a great nightlife scene and plenty of younger visitors looking to meet other travelers.

Milwaukee is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's not a lot to attract backpackers to the area.

Is Milwaukee or Montreal Better for Students?

Montreal is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Milwaukee is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for 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.

Milwaukee is popular with students. It's home to a number of colleges and universities, so there is a bit of a college town vibe.

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

Montreal is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Milwaukee is lacking in options for its public transit.

Montreal has some very good public transit options. There's an efficient and reliable metro and bus system.

Public transit is generally limited in Milwaukee. There are buses that travel around town.

Is Milwaukee or Montreal a more walkable city?

Montreal is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Milwaukee is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Milwaukee is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the city are relatively compact and walkable. The most walkable neighborhoods are East Side, Riverwest, Brewers Hill, Downtown, Avenues West/Marquette, Third Ward, Walker's Point, and Bay View.

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

Should I spend more time in Montreal or Milwaukee?

How long in Milwaukee or Montreal?

In either Milwaukee or Montreal, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Montreal than Milwaukee because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Milwaukee, and 3-5 days is enough time in Montreal.

Families should spend more time in Montreal than Milwaukee. 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 Milwaukee. 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 Milwaukee 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 Milwaukee or Montreal?

The city of Milwaukee offers nightlife and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

People visit Montreal because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Milwaukee or Montreal?

Milwaukee is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Milwaukee, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

People visit Montreal because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Milwaukee or Montreal?

Milwaukee 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.

People visit Montreal because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Milwaukee or Montreal?

Milwaukee is a great place to explore. 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.

Montreal is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.

When comparing the travel costs between Milwaukee and Montreal, we can see that Montreal is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Milwaukee or Montreal?

Montreal has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Milwaukee. When comparing the sizes of Milwaukee 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 Milwaukee 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 Milwaukee or Montreal in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Milwaukee and Montreal. Many visitors come to Milwaukee in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Montreal for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Milwaukee is a little warmer than Montreal. Typically, the summer temperatures in Milwaukee in July average around 74°F (23°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 Milwaukee, it's very sunny this time of the year. Milwaukee usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during summer. Milwaukee gets 321 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 276 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Milwaukee usually receives around the same amount of rain as Montreal. Milwaukee gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Milwaukee or Montreal in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Milwaukee as well as Montreal. Most visitors come to Milwaukee for the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Montreal because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Milwaukee is generally a little warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Milwaukee average around 53°F (12°C), and Montreal fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the autumn, Milwaukee often gets more sunshine than Montreal. Milwaukee gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 141 hours of full sun.

Milwaukee usually gets less rain in October than Montreal. Milwaukee gets 2 inches (50 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Milwaukee or Montreal in the Winter?

Both Montreal and Milwaukee are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Milwaukee because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Montreal this time of year.

It's quite cold in Montreal in the winter. The weather in Milwaukee can be very cold. Milwaukee is much warmer than Montreal in the winter. The daily temperature in Milwaukee averages around 21°F (-6°C) in January, and Montreal fluctuates around -10°C (14°F).

Milwaukee usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during winter. Milwaukee gets 138 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 103 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Milwaukee usually receives less rain than Montreal. Milwaukee gets 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Milwaukee or Montreal in the Spring?

Both Montreal and Milwaukee during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, many travelers come to Montreal for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Milwaukee is a little warmer than Montreal. Typically, the spring temperatures in Milwaukee in April average around 47°F (8°C), and Montreal averages at about 6°C (43°F).

It's quite sunny in Milwaukee. In the spring, Milwaukee often gets more sunshine than Montreal. Milwaukee gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 183 hours of full sun.

Milwaukee usually gets less rain in April than Montreal. Milwaukee gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Montreal and Milwaukee