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

Should you visit Seoul or Montreal?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Seoul and Montreal can help you decide which place is right for you.

Seoul

Seoul is a cultural, bustling, and modern 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Seoul 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. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Montreal travel costs.

Seoul and Montreal: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Montreal?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Montreal than Seoul. While Seoul is larger than Montreal, Montreal has more sights and attractions for tourists. Montreal is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and historical sights, while Seoul is known for its food. Montreal is more touristy than Seoul and is popular for its music, fashion, and cultural activities. It is also home to Notre-Dame Basilica. Seoul is popular for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy.

How is Seoul different from Montreal?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Montreal is very popular for its sights and museums. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Montreal are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Seoul can be an interesting and educational experience. The museums and landmarks are diverse, with notable sights including N Seoul Tower, the Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village, and the National Museum of Korea.

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

Seoul is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Montreal is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Seoul has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Food is a cultural obsession here, and you'll find everything from world class street food to award winning restaurants. The dishes are so much more diverse than Korean barbecue and kimchi. Many dishes are very spicy, with popular local foods including gamjatang (pork and potato soup) and jeon (savory pancakes).

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 Seoul or Montreal Better for Nightlife?

Montreal is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Montreal is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Seoul has a large number of nightlife venues. This is definitely a work hard/play hard city, with locals working long hours during the day and then partying hard late into the night. The nightlife scene is strong both during the week and on weekends. There are bars, clubs, and lounges that are frequented by locals and tourists alike.

Is Seoul or Montreal Better for Music?

Both Seoul and Montreal offer fantastic live music venues.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Seoul K-pop has put the city on the map for music, but you'll actually find a wide range of genres here including rock music and electronic dance music.

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.

Is Seoul or Montreal Better for its Old Town?

Montreal is a well-known place for its old town. However, Seoul does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights 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.

Seoul does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Montreal?

Both Seoul and Montreal are fantastic shopping destinations.

The abundance of shops in Seoul make it a world-class shopping destination. This bustling city offers traditional local items as well as Korean cosmetics and trendy fashion. Although shopping malls are spread throughout the city, some of the most popular shopping areas are found around Myeong-dong and Dongdaemun.

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.

Is Seoul or Montreal Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Seoul or Montreal.

Seoul is a very kid-friendly city. The city has a wide range of kid-friendly activities, ranging from the easy choices like amusement parks and children's museums, to the less obvious like kid-friendly cafes and markets. There are many entertainment options packed into a small space, so kids and adults alike will stay entertained.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Montreal. 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 Seoul or Montreal Better for Couples?

Both Seoul and Montreal are very good destinations to visit as a couple.

Seoul is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples enjoy the beautiful viewpoints, outdoor parks, and diverse restaurants. There are also many beautiful luxury hotels where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway.

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.

Is Seoul or Montreal Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Seoul and Montreal are good destinations for backpackers.

Seoul is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The city isn't the most popular among backpackers, but those who visit will enjoy exploring a fascinating culture and delicious cuisine. Because it's a large city, you'll find a diversity of accommodation options including some budget-friendly hostels and hotels.

It's common for backpackers to 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 Seoul or Montreal Better for Students?

Montreal is very popular for students. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over the world to visit 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.

Seoul is a great city to visit as a student. Many international students head to Seoul National University, which has an excellent academic reputation. The city is also fun and energetic, so everyone will be entertained.

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

Seoul is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Montreal is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Seoul can take you anywhere. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

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

Is Seoul or Montreal a more walkable city?

Seoul and Montreal both are very good when exploring on foot.

Seoul is a very walkable city. Many neighborhoods are fun to explore on foot but do take note that parts of the city are very hilly and the weather can be bitter cold during the winter months.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Montreal or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Montreal?

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

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

Seoul is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

In Montreal, many people enjoy the live music and food that this cultural big city offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Seoul or Montreal?

Seoul is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Montreal. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Seoul or Montreal?

Seoul is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Seoul, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Montreal is a fun place to experience. In Montreal, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this big city destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Seoul or Montreal?

Seoul is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Seoul has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the colorful big city of Montreal. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to South Korea, The Best Adventure Tours to South Korea, The Best Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Seoul and Montreal, we can see that Montreal is more expensive. And not only is Seoul much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Seoul is in Asia and Montreal is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Seoul would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Seoul 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 Montreal would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Montreal than you might in Seoul.

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

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Montreal?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Montreal. When comparing the sizes of Seoul 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 Seoul 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 Seoul or Montreal in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Montreal. The summer months attract visitors to Seoul because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Montreal this time of year.

In the summer, Seoul is a little warmer than Montreal. Typically, the summer temperatures in Seoul in July average around 26°C (78°F), and Montreal averages at about 21°C (69°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Montreal. In the summer, Seoul often gets less sunshine than Montreal. Seoul gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 276 hours of full sun.

Seoul receives a lot of rain in the summer. Seoul usually gets more rain in July than Montreal. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Montreal receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Montreal in the Autumn?

Both Montreal and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Seoul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Montreal for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Seoul is generally much warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around 15°C (59°F), and Montreal fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seoul. Seoul usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during autumn. Seoul gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 141 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Seoul usually receives less rain than Montreal. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Montreal receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Seoul or Montreal in the Winter?

Both Montreal and Seoul during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Seoul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Montreal in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Montreal can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Seoul. Seoul is much warmer than Montreal in the winter. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around -3°C (27°F) in January, and Montreal fluctuates around -10°C (14°F).

In the winter, Seoul often gets more sunshine than Montreal. Seoul gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 103 hours of full sun.

Seoul usually gets less rain in January than Montreal. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Montreal receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Montreal in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Montreal. Many visitors come to Seoul in the spring for the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Montreal for the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Seoul is much warmer than Montreal. Typically, the spring temperatures in Seoul in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Montreal averages at about 6°C (43°F).

In Seoul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Seoul usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during spring. Seoul gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 183 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Seoul usually receives more rain than Montreal. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Montreal receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Montreal and Seoul