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

Should you visit Monterey 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 Monterey 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.

Monterey

Monterey is a nature-oriented, laid back, and relaxing city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Monterey 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.

Monterey and Montreal: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Monterey or Montreal?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Montreal. Although Monterey and Montreal are popular destinations, Montreal has more sights and attractions for tourists. Montreal is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Monterey attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling and beaches. Monterey is famous for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. Montreal is famous for its music, fashion, and cultural activities. It is also well known for Notre-Dame Basilica.

How is Monterey different from Montreal?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Montreal is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Monterey offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Monterey and Montreal can be difficult as they are each high quality in their own way.

Monterey has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

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 Monterey or Montreal Better for Nightlife?

Montreal is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

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.

Monterey is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

Is Monterey or Montreal Better for Music?

Montreal is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Monterey 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.

Monterey is not a live music destination.

Is Monterey or Montreal Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey 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 Monterey. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Montreal is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Monterey or Montreal Better for Beaches?

Monterey is very good for the beach. However, Montreal is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Monterey to enjoy the beach. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Montreal is not a beach destination.

Is Monterey or Montreal Better for its Old Town?

Montreal is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Monterey 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.

Monterey does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Monterey or Montreal?

Montreal is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Monterey is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

Is Monterey or Montreal Better for Families?

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

Monterey is one of the most popular family destinations. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

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 Monterey or Montreal Better for Couples?

Monterey and Montreal both high quality destinations for a couple.

Monterey makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

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 Monterey or Montreal Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Monterey and Montreal are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Monterey. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

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.

Is Monterey or Montreal Better for Students?

Montreal is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Monterey is not popular with students.

Montreal is a very popular place to visit 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.

Monterey is not popular with students.

Is Monterey 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. However, Monterey is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Montreal offers a very effecient public transportation network. There's an efficient and reliable metro and bus system.

Public transit is generally limited in Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

Is Monterey or Montreal a more walkable city?

Monterey and Montreal are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Monterey is a very walkable destination. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Montreal or Monterey?

How long in Monterey or Montreal?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Montreal than Monterey. 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 Monterey 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 Monterey or Montreal?

The city of Monterey offers museums and nightlife. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. 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 Monterey or Montreal?

Monterey 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 Monterey, a weekend is sufficent for most. 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 Monterey or Montreal?

Monterey 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 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 Monterey or Montreal?

Monterey 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 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 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.

When comparing the travel costs between Monterey 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 Monterey Expensive? and Is Montreal Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Monterey or Montreal?

Montreal has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Monterey. When comparing the sizes of Monterey 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 Monterey 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 Monterey or Montreal in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Monterey and Montreal. Many travelers come to Monterey for the beaches, snorkeling, 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.

Monterey is cooler than Montreal in the summer. The daily temperature in Monterey averages around 63°F (17°C) in July, and Montreal fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

In July, Monterey usually receives less rain than Montreal. Monterey gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Monterey or Montreal in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Monterey as well as Montreal. Many visitors come to Monterey in the autumn for the shopping 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, Monterey is much warmer than Montreal. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Monterey in October average around 62°F (17°C), and Montreal averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Monterey usually gets less rain in October than Montreal. Monterey gets 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Monterey or Montreal in the Winter?

Both Montreal and Monterey are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Monterey for the museums, the shopping scene, 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, Monterey is generally much warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Monterey average around 51°F (11°C), and Montreal fluctuates around -10°C (14°F).

In January, Monterey usually receives less rain than Montreal. Monterey gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Monterey or Montreal in the Spring?

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

Monterey is much warmer than Montreal in the spring. The daily temperature in Monterey averages around 56°F (13°C) in April, and Montreal fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Monterey usually gets less rain in April than Montreal. Monterey gets 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Montreal and Monterey