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

Should you visit Saint Simons or Montreal?

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

Should I visit Saint Simons 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.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a scenic, relaxing, and laid back island. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Saint Simons offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and beaches. See Saint Simons 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. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums. See Montreal travel costs.

Saint Simons and Montreal: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Montreal?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Montreal than Saint Simons, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Montreal is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Saint Simons is more popular for its resorts, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Saint Simons is well known for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. Montreal is well known for its music, fashion, and cultural activities. Also, Montreal is famous for Notre-Dame Basilica.

How is Saint Simons different from Montreal?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Simons or Montreal?

Montreal is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Saint Simons specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. St. Simons Lighthouse is a highlight for many visitors. There's a maritime museum attached to the lighthouse as well. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historic site that is worth a visit.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Saint Simons and Montreal can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Saint Simons makes for a great culinary experience. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.

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.

Is Saint Simons or Montreal Better for Nightlife?

Montreal is an unbeatable place for nightlife. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Montreal is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Saint Simons doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.

Is Saint Simons or Montreal Better for Music?

Montreal is an unbeatable place for live music. However, Saint Simons is not a live music destination.

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.

Saint Simons is not a live music destination.

Is Saint Simons or Montreal Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Montreal is not a resort destination.

Saint Simons has a few great resort options. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

Montreal is not a resort destination.

Is Saint Simons or Montreal Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons is great for the beach. However, Montreal is not a beach destination.

Saint Simons is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.

Montreal is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Simons or Montreal Better for its Old Town?

Montreal is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Saint Simons 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.

Saint Simons does not have a historic old town.

Is Saint Simons or Montreal Better for Hiking?

Saint Simons is very good for hiking. However, Montreal is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Saint Simons. There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy a walk in nature. Cannon's Point Preserve has a nice trail system. Other trails on the island include John Gilbert Nature Trail, Earth Day Nature Trail, and Wanderer Memorial Trail.

Montreal is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Simons or Montreal?

Montreal is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Saint Simons is well-known for its shopping. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of shops.

Is Saint Simons or Montreal More Beautiful?

Saint Simons is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Montreal is not a destination known for its beauty.

Saint Simons offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Beautiful beaches and live oaks with Spanish moss give the island a southern charm.

Montreal is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Saint Simons or Montreal Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Saint Simons or Montreal.

Saint Simons is a very family-friendly place to visit. The beaches are kid-friendly and there are many family-friendly restaurants in town. There's also the St. Simons Lighthouse, minigolf, and kayaking, as well as Neptune Park Fun Zone.

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.

Is Saint Simons or Montreal Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Saint Simons and Montreal make for a great place to visit.

Couples visit Saint Simons frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are romantic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nice hotels. Sunset walks on the beach or a round of golf all make this a favorite couple's destination.

Montreal is a great island 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.

Is Saint Simons or Montreal Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Montreal is a popular place for backpackers. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Saint Simons is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are campgrounds in the area that offer access to the island.

Is Saint Simons or Montreal Better for Students?

Montreal is an unbeatable place for students. However, Saint Simons is not popular with 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.

Saint Simons is not popular with students.

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

Montreal is a great destination for its public transit. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Montreal is fairly effecient and thorough. There's an efficient and reliable metro and bus system.

Public transit is quite limited in Saint Simons. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.

Is Saint Simons or Montreal a more walkable city?

Montreal is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Saint Simons is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Montreal or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Montreal?

In either Saint Simons or Montreal, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Montreal than Saint Simons because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Simons, and 3-5 days is enough time in Montreal.

Families should spend more time in Montreal than Saint Simons. 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 Saint Simons. 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 Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons or Montreal?

Saint Simons is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

Each neighborhood in Montreal has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Saint Simons or Montreal?

Saint Simons is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Saint Simons, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Montreal is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Saint Simons or Montreal?

Saint Simons 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.

Each neighborhood in Montreal has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Saint Simons or Montreal?

Saint Simons is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

Montreal is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical 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 Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons Expensive? and Is Montreal Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Saint Simons or Montreal?

Montreal has a larger population, and is about 240 times larger than the population of Saint Simons. When comparing the sizes of Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons or Montreal?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Montreal in the Summer?

Both Montreal and Saint Simons during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Saint Simons this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Montreal for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In Montreal, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint Simons. In the summer, Saint Simons often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Montreal. Saint Simons gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 276 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. Saint Simons usually gets more rain in July than Montreal. Saint Simons gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Montreal in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Simons and Montreal. Many travelers come to Saint Simons for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Montreal in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Saint Simons is much warmer than Montreal in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Montreal fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In Saint Simons, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Simons usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during autumn. Saint Simons gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 141 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saint Simons usually receives less rain than Montreal. Saint Simons gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Montreal in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Saint Simons as well as Montreal. Many visitors come to Saint Simons in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, 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, Saint Simons is much warmer than Montreal. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Simons in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Montreal averages at about -10°C (14°F).

In the winter, Saint Simons often gets more sunshine than Montreal. Saint Simons gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 103 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets more rain in January than Montreal. Saint Simons gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Montreal in the Spring?

Both Montreal and Saint Simons are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Saint Simons for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Montreal because of the activities around the city.

In April, Saint Simons is generally much warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 68°F (20°C), and Montreal fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. Saint Simons usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during spring. Saint Simons gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 183 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saint Simons usually receives less rain than Montreal. Saint Simons gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Montreal and Saint Simons