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

Should you visit Monterey or Ottawa?

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 Ottawa. 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.

Ottawa

Ottawa is a welcoming, cultural, and friendly city. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping. See Ottawa travel costs.

Monterey and Ottawa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Monterey or Ottawa?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Monterey. Although Monterey and Ottawa are popular destinations, Monterey has more sights and attractions for tourists. Monterey is more touristy than Ottawa and is known for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. It is also well known for the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Ottawa is famous for its history, politics, and green space.

How is Monterey different from Ottawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Ottawa 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 Ottawa?

You'll find a number of superb museums and attractions in both Ottawa and Monterey.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Monterey. 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.

Ottawa offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. As the country's capital, there are a large number of museums to explore. There are summer national museums in town which include the National Gallery of Canada, the Museum of History, the Science and Technology Museum, the Aviation and Space Museum, the Agriculture and Food Museum, the Museum of Nature, and the War Museum.

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

Monterey is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Ottawa offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The culinary scene highlights many Canadian classics like poutine and maple donuts (and, of course, the classic Tim Horton's), but you'll also find plenty of international options like shawarma.

Is Monterey or Ottawa Better for Nightlife?

Monterey is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Ottawa is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Monterey has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Ottawa is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It's not the first place that comes to mind when you think about partying, but there are live music venues and a some great bars around town.

Is Monterey or Ottawa Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Ottawa is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Monterey has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Ottawa is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Monterey or Ottawa Better for Beaches?

Monterey is a popular place for the beach. However, Ottawa is not a beach destination.

Monterey is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Ottawa is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Monterey or Ottawa?

Monterey is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Monterey. 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.

Ottawa is a great destination for shopping. You'll find large malls, outlets, and shopping streets that are fun to browse. Some of the favorite shopping areas include ByWard Market, Sparks Street, and CF Rideau Centre.

Is Monterey or Ottawa Better for Families?

Monterey is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Monterey is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Ottawa. As the country's capital, you'll find a number of museums that will keep a kid's attention. In particular, check out the aviation, science, and nature museums. If you have a car, you can head out to Calypso Water Park, which is fun as well.

Is Monterey or Ottawa Better for Couples?

Monterey is a very popular place for couples. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Ottawa is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with parks and green spaces where you can enjoy flowers or peaceful walks. Commissioners Park is particularly nice and known for its tulips during the spring season. Dow's Lake is a nice place for ice skating in the winter or kayaking in the summer. The city also offers a number of romantic restaurants and charming hotels.

Is Monterey or Ottawa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Monterey and Ottawa 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 Ottawa. Although the city is often overlooked by tourists, there are a surprising number of hostels around town.

Is Monterey or Ottawa Better for Students?

Ottawa is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Monterey is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Ottawa. It appeals to international and Canadian students alike. It's known for its livability and diverse cultural scene.

Monterey is not popular with students.

Is Monterey or Ottawa Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ottawa is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Monterey is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Ottawa has some public transit options. There is both a public bus and light rail system.

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

Is Monterey or Ottawa a more walkable city?

Monterey is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

Ottawa is somewhat walkable. Many of the urban neighborhoods are very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Ottawa or Monterey?

How long in Monterey or Ottawa?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Monterey and Ottawa. In our opinion, Monterey has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Monterey than Ottawa. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Monterey, and 2-3 days is enough time in Ottawa.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Monterey than Ottawa 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 Monterey.

One day in Monterey or Ottawa?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Monterey. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

The city of Ottawa offers food and shopping. 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 Ottawa?

Monterey is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Ottawa 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 Ottawa, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Monterey or Ottawa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Monterey. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Ottawa 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.

A week in Monterey or Ottawa?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the laid back destination of Monterey. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Ottawa 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.

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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Canada, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Monterey and Ottawa, we can see that Monterey is more expensive. And not only is Ottawa much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ottawa would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ottawa 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 Monterey would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Monterey than you might in Ottawa.

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

Which is Bigger, Monterey or Ottawa?

Ottawa has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Monterey. When comparing the sizes of Monterey and Ottawa, 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 Ottawa?

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 Ottawa in the Summer?

Both Ottawa and Monterey are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Monterey this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ottawa for the family-friendly experiences.

Monterey is cooler than Ottawa in the summer. The daily temperature in Monterey averages around 63°F (17°C) in July, and Ottawa fluctuates around 21°C (71°F).

In July, Monterey usually receives less rain than Ottawa. Monterey gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Monterey or Ottawa in the Autumn?

Both Ottawa and Monterey during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Monterey for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Ottawa in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Monterey is much warmer than Ottawa. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Monterey in October average around 62°F (17°C), and Ottawa averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Monterey usually gets less rain in October than Ottawa. Monterey gets 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Monterey or Ottawa in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Monterey and Ottawa. Many visitors come to Monterey in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Ottawa for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Ottawa can be very cold during winter. In January, Monterey is generally much warmer than Ottawa. Daily temperatures in Monterey average around 51°F (11°C), and Ottawa fluctuates around -10°C (14°F).

In January, Monterey usually receives more rain than Ottawa. Monterey gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Monterey or Ottawa in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Monterey as well as Ottawa. Most visitors come to Monterey for the beaches during these months.

Monterey is much warmer than Ottawa in the spring. The daily temperature in Monterey averages around 56°F (13°C) in April, and Ottawa fluctuates around 6°C (44°F).

Monterey usually gets less rain in April than Ottawa. Monterey gets 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ottawa and Monterey