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

Should you visit Sonoma 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 Sonoma 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.

Sonoma

Sonoma is a scenic, serene, and relaxing county. Many visitors also come to Sonoma because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Sonoma 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.

Sonoma and Montreal: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sonoma or Montreal?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Montreal. Although Sonoma and Montreal are popular destinations, Montreal has more sights and attractions for tourists. Montreal is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Sonoma attracts visitors for its food, resorts, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Sonoma is more touristy than Montreal and is known for its world-class winemaking and sustainable agriculture. Montreal is famous for its music, fashion, and cultural activities. It is also well known for Notre-Dame Basilica.

How is Sonoma different from Montreal?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Montreal is terrific for its historical sights. However, Sonoma is not known 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.

Sonoma offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people don't think of museums when they think of Sonoma, there are actually some interesting local options. The California Indian Museum, the Cotati Museum, and the Depot Park Museum are also local are fascinating.

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

Sonoma 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.

Sonoma has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Although wine may be the first thing you think about, the region is also filled with farm-to-table restaurants and award-winning dining options. The food is almost always fresh and local. You can sample many local ingredients such as vegetables, cheeses, olive oils, and fish.

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 Sonoma or Montreal Better for Nightlife?

Montreal is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Sonoma is not as popular, but is still a nice county for nightlife.

Montreal is a must-see party destination. 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.

Sonoma offers plenty to do in the evening. Lounges, wine bars, and live music venues offer a variety of activities for visitors during the evening hours.

Is Sonoma or Montreal Better for Music?

Montreal is terrific for its music scene. However, Sonoma 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.

Sonoma is not a live music destination.

Is Sonoma or Montreal Better for Resorts?

Sonoma is great for its luxury resorts. However, Montreal is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Sonoma. Spa hotels, charming inns, and beautiful resorts all offer a variety of options for visitors.

Montreal is not a resort destination.

Is Sonoma or Montreal Better for Beaches?

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

Sonoma is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The county has a coastline that includes several great beaches as well as rocky shoreline. The beaches include secluded coves and picturesque cliffs as well as sand dunes and sandy beaches.

Montreal is not a beach destination.

Is Sonoma or Montreal Better for its Old Town?

Montreal is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Sonoma 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.

Sonoma does not have a historic old town.

Is Sonoma or Montreal Better for Hiking?

Sonoma is great for hiking. However, Montreal is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Sonoma for the hiking trails. In between wine tastings you can explore the area's stunning natural beauty. There are hikes through the vineyards, along the coast, or through forested parks. Some of the best hikes are found in Jack London State Historic Park, Sugarloaf State Park, and Armstrong Woods State Park.

Montreal is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sonoma or Montreal?

Montreal is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Sonoma is not as popular, but is still a nice county 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.

Sonoma is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find a range of local vendors in the area, selling everything from jewelry to art, home decor, and olive oil.

Is Sonoma or Montreal More Beautiful?

Sonoma is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Montreal is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Sonoma because of it's amazing beauty. The lined vineyards are strikingly beautiful and the setting offers stunning viewpoints and a serene beauty.

Montreal is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Sonoma or Montreal Better for Families?

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

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.

Sonoma is a family-friendly place to visit. While most people think immediately of wine tours, there's actually a lot more to Sonoma County. Kids will enjoy the many outdoor activities in the area, which include beaches, parks, wildlife viewing, and more. There's also horseback riding and even ziplining opportunities.

Is Sonoma or Montreal Better for Couples?

Sonoma is terrific for couples. Also, Montreal is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Sonoma has plenty to offer. It has long been a favorite honeymoon destination for couples who come for the vineyards and wine tours. There are also charming hotels, award winning restaurants, and beautiful beaches.

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 Sonoma or Montreal Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Montreal is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Sonoma is not known for backpackers.

Montreal is a good city to visit for backpackers. There's a decent number of hostels as well as a great nightlife scene and plenty of younger visitors looking to meet other travelers.

Sonoma is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a few budget hotel options in the area, but not much in the form of hostels.

Is Sonoma or Montreal Better for Students?

Montreal is terrific for its student-friendly activities. However, Sonoma 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.

Sonoma is not popular with students.

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

Montreal is a great city for times when you don't have a car. However, Sonoma is not known 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 Sonoma. While there are buses, they are almost never used by tourists. There is the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley which you should purchase tickets for in advance.

Is Sonoma or Montreal a more walkable city?

Montreal is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Sonoma is not known for its walkability.

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

Sonoma is not a walkable county. You really must have a car to get around the area and explore it efficiently.

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

Should I spend more time in Montreal or Sonoma?

How long in Sonoma or Montreal?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Montreal than Sonoma 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 Sonoma or Montreal?

The beautiful county of Sonoma offers nightlife and food. 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.

Montreal is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 one day exploring.

A weekend in Sonoma or Montreal?

Sonoma is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this county makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sonoma, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Montreal is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Sonoma or Montreal?

Sonoma is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Montreal. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Sonoma or Montreal?

Sonoma is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food 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 county offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the cultural big city of Montreal. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.

When comparing the travel costs between Sonoma and Montreal, we can see that Sonoma 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 Sonoma Expensive? and Is Montreal Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Sonoma or Montreal?

Montreal has a larger population, and is about 330 times larger than the population of Sonoma. When comparing the sizes of Sonoma 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 Sonoma 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 Sonoma or Montreal in the Summer?

Both Montreal and Sonoma are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Sonoma in the summer for the beaches, 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.

Sonoma is around the same temperature as Montreal in the summer. The daily temperature in Sonoma averages around 73°F (23°C) in July, and Montreal fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

In July, Sonoma usually receives less rain than Montreal. Sonoma gets 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Sonoma or Montreal in the Autumn?

Both Montreal and Sonoma during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Sonoma for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, 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, Sonoma is much warmer than Montreal. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Sonoma in October average around 62°F (17°C), and Montreal averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Sonoma usually gets less rain in October than Montreal. Sonoma gets 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sonoma or Montreal in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Sonoma and Montreal. The winter months attract visitors to Sonoma because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, 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. In January, Sonoma is generally much warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Sonoma average around 46°F (8°C), and Montreal fluctuates around -10°C (14°F).

In January, Sonoma usually receives more rain than Montreal. Sonoma gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Sonoma or Montreal in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Sonoma as well as Montreal. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Sonoma this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Montreal for the activities around the city.

Sonoma is much warmer than Montreal in the spring. The daily temperature in Sonoma averages around 56°F (13°C) in April, and Montreal fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Sonoma usually gets less rain in April than Montreal. Sonoma gets 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Montreal and Sonoma