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

Should you visit Orlando or Montreal?

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

Should I visit Orlando 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.

Orlando

Orlando is a active, family-friendly, and entertaining city. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and food. See Orlando travel costs.

Montreal

Montreal is a cultural, vibrant, and colorful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Montreal travel costs.

Orlando and Montreal: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orlando or Montreal?

You'll generally find more things to do in Montreal than Orlando. Montreal is bigger than Orlando, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Montreal is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Orlando is more popular for its theatre productions and resorts. Orlando is more touristy than Montreal and is known for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. Montreal is well known for its music, fashion, and cultural activities. Also, Montreal is famous for Notre-Dame Basilica.

How is Orlando different from Montreal?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Montreal is renowned for its historical sights. However, Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Montreal from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Orlando or Montreal Better for Theater?

Orlando is very good for its shows and theatre. However, Montreal is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in Orlando, take in a show. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Montreal is not a theatre destination.

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

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

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Orlando. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Montreal. 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 Orlando or Montreal Better for Nightlife?

Montreal is renowned for nightlife. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Orlando. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

Is Orlando or Montreal Better for Music?

Montreal is renowned for live music. However, Orlando is not a live music destination.

Montreal is known as a music capital 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.

Orlando is not a live music destination.

Is Orlando or Montreal Better for Resorts?

Orlando is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Montreal is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Orlando is a perfect choice. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

Montreal is not a resort destination.

Is Orlando or Montreal Better for its Old Town?

Montreal is great for its historic old town. However, Orlando does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Orlando does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Montreal?

Montreal is renowned for shopping. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Montreal. 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.

Orlando is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

Is Orlando or Montreal Better for Families?

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

Orlando is one of the most popular family destinations. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

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 Orlando or Montreal Better for Couples?

Montreal is great for romance. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Montreal is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Orlando makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

Is Orlando or Montreal Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Montreal is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination for 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.

Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.

Is Orlando or Montreal Better for Students?

Montreal is renowned for its student-friendly activities. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

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.

Orlando is a good city to visit for students. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

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

Montreal is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its public transit.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Montreal. There's an efficient and reliable metro and bus system.

Public transit is generally limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

Is Orlando or Montreal a more walkable city?

Montreal is great for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

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

Orlando is not a walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Montreal or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Montreal?

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

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

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

The city of Orlando offers food and shopping. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

Because Montreal is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Orlando or Montreal?

Orlando 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.

Because Montreal is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Orlando or Montreal?

Orlando 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Montreal has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Orlando or Montreal?

Orlando is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Montreal. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Montreal. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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 Orlando and Montreal, we can see that Orlando 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 Orlando would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Orlando 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 Orlando Expensive? and Is Montreal Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Orlando or Montreal?

Montreal has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Orlando. When comparing the sizes of Orlando 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 Orlando 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 Orlando or Montreal in the Summer?

Both Montreal and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Orlando this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Montreal for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Orlando is generally a little warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 82°F (28°C), and Montreal fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

It's quite rainy in Orlando. In July, Orlando usually receives more rain than Montreal. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Orlando or Montreal in the Autumn?

Both Montreal and Orlando during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Orlando for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Montreal in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Orlando is much warmer than Montreal in the autumn. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 75°F (24°C) in October, and Montreal fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Orlando. Orlando usually gets more rain in October than Montreal. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Montreal in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Montreal. Many visitors come to Orlando in the winter for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, 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. In the winter, Orlando is much warmer than Montreal. Typically, the winter temperatures in Orlando in January average around 59°F (15°C), and Montreal averages at about -10°C (14°F).

In January, Orlando usually receives less rain than Montreal. Orlando 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 Orlando or Montreal in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Montreal. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Montreal because of the activities around the city.

In April, Orlando is generally much warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 72°F (22°C), and Montreal fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Orlando usually gets less rain in April than Montreal. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Montreal and Orlando