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

Should you visit Shenandoah National Park or Montreal?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Shenandoah National Park and Montreal can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a scenic, breathtaking, and serene national park. With stunning beauty, Shenandoah National Park attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the skiing and hiking. See Shenandoah National Park 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 nightlife, live music, and food. See Montreal travel costs.

Shenandoah National Park and Montreal: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shenandoah National Park or Montreal?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Montreal. Although Shenandoah National Park and Montreal are popular destinations, Montreal has more sights and attractions for tourists. Montreal is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Shenandoah National Park attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Shenandoah National Park is famous for its local wildlife, dramatic viewpoints, and world class hiking trails. Montreal is famous for its music, fashion, and cultural activities. It is also well known for Notre-Dame Basilica.

How is Shenandoah National Park different from Montreal?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Shenandoah National Park or Montreal Better for Skiing?

Shenandoah National Park is very good for skiing. However, Montreal is not a skiing destination.

Head to Shenandoah National Park for some great skiing and other winter activities. You'll find skiing and snowboarding at nearby Massanutten Resort, which is near Harrisonburg, Virginia. It's a family-friendly setting with slopes that are classified as "easiest", "more difficult", and "most difficult".

Montreal is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Shenandoah National Park or Montreal?

Montreal is renowned for its historical sights. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

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.

Shenandoah National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people spend their time outdoors enjoying the setting, there are museums in the area, as well as visitor centers that have exhibits and informative displays.

Is the Food Better in Shenandoah National Park or Montreal? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Montreal is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Montreal has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Shenandoah National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are several restaurants along skyline drive where you can pick up a casual meal like fried chicken, burgers, or pasta.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Montreal Better for Nightlife?

Montreal is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for nightlife.

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.

Most people don't head to Shenandoah National Park specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There are a number of breweries in the area, but most people enjoy stargazing and sitting by the campfire at night.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Montreal Better for Music?

Montreal is renowned for its music scene. However, Shenandoah National Park 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.

Shenandoah National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Montreal Better for its Old Town?

Montreal is great for its historic old town charm. However, Shenandoah National Park does not have a historic old town.

Montreal is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Shenandoah National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Montreal Better for Hiking?

Shenandoah National Park is terrific for hiking. However, Montreal is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Shenandoah National Park specifically for its hiking. There are more than 500 miles of trails in the park that pass through varied landscapes and take you to beautiful viewpoints. Visitors range from weekend visitors to long term hikers who come to experience the breathtaking beauty and serene setting.

Montreal is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Shenandoah National Park or Montreal?

Montreal is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination 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.

Shenandoah National Park is a good destination for shopping. There are a handful of gift shops along Skyline Drive were you can pick up souvenirs or t-shirts.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Montreal More Beautiful?

Shenandoah National Park is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Montreal is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Shenandoah National Park attracts visitors from all around. Skyline drive passes by breathtaking views and wonderful lookout points. There are also miles of trails that let you explore the natural beauty of the area.

Montreal is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Montreal Better for Families?

Both Shenandoah National Park and Montreal are superb to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Shenandoah National Park. There are tons of kid-friendly hikes to overlooks or waterfalls. Kids will love scrambling over the rocks or running through the forest. There are also plenty of campgrounds where families can hang out, toast marshmallows and enjoy some quality time together.

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 Shenandoah National Park or Montreal Better for Couples?

Both Shenandoah National Park and Montreal are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

Shenandoah National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy nature will love a visit to the park. There are beautiful views and scenic spots that will make for a wonderful and romantic trip. Hiking, biking, and exploring will fill your time with adventure and fun.

Montreal is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Shenandoah National Park or Montreal Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shenandoah National Park is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Montreal is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Shenandoah National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Backpackers love the hiking trails and backcountry camping. Many people head to the park to escape into nature and enjoy some low key time in a serene setting.

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 Shenandoah National Park or Montreal Better for Students?

Montreal is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Shenandoah National Park is not popular with students.

Montreal is a very popular city 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.

Shenandoah National Park is not popular with students.

Is Shenandoah National Park 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, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination 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 limited or non-existant in Shenandoah National Park. There's no real public transit in the park.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Montreal a more walkable city?

Montreal is great for its ease of walking around. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its walkability.

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

Shenandoah National Park is not a walkable national park. While there are plenty of hiking trails, a car is a must to reach most trailheads.

For even more information, also check out Is Shenandoah National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Montreal Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Montreal or Shenandoah National Park?

How long in Shenandoah National Park or Montreal?

In either Shenandoah National Park or Montreal, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Montreal has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Montreal than Shenandoah National Park. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Montreal than Shenandoah National Park. 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 Shenandoah National Park. 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 Shenandoah National Park 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 Shenandoah National Park or Montreal?

The beautiful national park of Shenandoah National Park offers skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

When visiting Montreal, people usually allow for lots of time. Visiting the old town is also a must. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A weekend in Shenandoah National Park or Montreal?

Shenandoah National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

When visiting Montreal, people usually allow for lots of time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Five days in Shenandoah National Park or Montreal?

Shenandoah National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Shenandoah National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

When visiting Montreal, people usually allow for lots of time. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days here is typical. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Shenandoah National Park or Montreal?

Shenandoah National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This national park offers something for everyone.

Montreal is a great place to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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 length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week 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 Shenandoah National Park and Montreal, we can see that Montreal is more expensive. And not only is Shenandoah National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Shenandoah National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Shenandoah National Park 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 Shenandoah National Park.

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

When is the best time to visit Shenandoah National Park 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 Shenandoah National Park or Montreal in the Summer?

Both Montreal and Shenandoah National Park are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Shenandoah National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Montreal for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Shenandoah National Park is a little warmer than Montreal in the summer. The daily temperature in Shenandoah National Park averages around 77°F (25°C) in July, and Montreal fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

In July, Shenandoah National Park usually receives around the same amount of rain as Montreal. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or Montreal in the Autumn?

Both Montreal and Shenandoah National Park during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Shenandoah National Park for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Montreal because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In the autumn, Shenandoah National Park is much warmer than Montreal. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Shenandoah National Park in October average around 56°F (13°C), and Montreal averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Shenandoah National Park usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Montreal. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or Montreal in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Shenandoah National Park and Montreal. The winter months attract visitors to Shenandoah National Park because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Montreal this time of year.

It's quite cold in Montreal in the winter. The weather in Shenandoah National Park can be very cold. In January, Shenandoah National Park is generally much warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Shenandoah National Park average around 32°F (-0°C), and Montreal fluctuates around -10°C (14°F).

In January, Shenandoah National Park usually receives around the same amount of rain as Montreal. Shenandoah National Park gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or Montreal in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Shenandoah National Park as well as Montreal. The natural beauty are the main draw to Shenandoah National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Montreal for the activities around the city.

Shenandoah National Park is much warmer than Montreal in the spring. The daily temperature in Shenandoah National Park averages around 54°F (12°C) in April, and Montreal fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Shenandoah National Park usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Montreal. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Montreal and Shenandoah National Park