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

Should you visit Wisconsin Dells or Montreal?

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

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells 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.

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a high energy, fun-filled, and lighthearted city. It's also popular because of the hiking, nightlife, and food. See Wisconsin Dells 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 food, shopping, and museums. See Montreal travel costs.

Wisconsin Dells and Montreal: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Wisconsin Dells or Montreal?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Montreal. Although Wisconsin Dells and Montreal are both popular with visitors, Montreal has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Montreal is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Wisconsin Dells is known for its resorts and hiking. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Montreal and is popular for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Montreal is popular for its music, fashion, and cultural activities. It is also home to Notre-Dame Basilica.

How is Wisconsin Dells different from Montreal?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Wisconsin Dells or Montreal?

Montreal is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Wisconsin Dells specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of art galleries in the area, but most visitors spend the majority of their time at the theme parks and waterparks.

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

Montreal is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Wisconsin Dells is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Pizza, pasta, burgers, and steak in a family-friendly atmosphere are the most common options in the area. There are also a few fine dining restaurants as well as pubs and brunch places to choose from.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Montreal Better for Nightlife?

Montreal is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

People head to Montreal just to party. 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.

The nightlife in Wisconsin Dells has something for everybody. In the evening the fun-filled atmosphere takes on a different vibe. There are bars, clubs, casinos, and shows that keep things lively throughout the evening.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Montreal Better for Music?

Montreal is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Montreal 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.

Wisconsin Dells is not a live music destination.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Montreal Better for Resorts?

Wisconsin Dells is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Montreal is not a resort destination.

Wisconsin Dells has a few great resort options. Many of the waterparks in the area have affiliated resorts that offer family-friendly entertainment.

Montreal is not a resort destination.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Montreal Better for its Old Town?

Montreal is a great destination for its old town. However, Wisconsin Dells 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.

Wisconsin Dells does not have a historic old town.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Montreal Better for Hiking?

Wisconsin Dells is very good for hiking. However, Montreal is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Wisconsin Dells. Visitors often forget that this was originally a destination for its natural beauty. There are still many hiking trails in the area with some of the favorites found at Mirror Lake State Park, Rocky Arbor State Park, and Chimney Rock Private Park.

Montreal is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Wisconsin Dells or Montreal?

Montreal is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Montreal make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Wisconsin Dells has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers, as well as gift shops in the area.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Montreal Better for Families?

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

Wisconsin Dells is one of the most popular family destinations. While it used to be known for its impressive sandstone formations along the Wisconsin River, today it has a more touristy atmosphere with theme parks and amusement parks. It's also become known as the "Water Park Capital of the World", and it won't disappoint. There are both indoor and outdoor waterparks as well as train rides, boat rides, and plenty of family-friendly restaurants.

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 Wisconsin Dells or Montreal Better for Couples?

Montreal is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Montreal frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Wisconsin Dells is a good city for couples to visit. There are a number of resorts with spas and romantic atmospheres. There are also wineries and plenty of entertainment options in the area.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Montreal Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Montreal is a popular place for backpackers. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city 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.

Wisconsin Dells is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You'll find campgrounds in the area, but most places are very built up and don't have the natural setting that backpackers appreciate.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Montreal Better for Students?

Montreal is a world-class destination for students. However, Wisconsin Dells 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.

Wisconsin Dells is not popular with students.

Is Wisconsin Dells 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, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Montreal can get you to some places easily. There's an efficient and reliable metro and bus system.

Public transit is quite limited in Wisconsin Dells. There's no real public transportation in the area.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Montreal a more walkable city?

Montreal is a great destination for its high level of walkability. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

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

Wisconsin Dells is generally not a very walkable city. While the downtown area is walkable, you really need a car to access everything that the area has to offer.

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

Should I spend more time in Montreal or Wisconsin Dells?

How long in Wisconsin Dells or Montreal?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Montreal than Wisconsin Dells. 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 Wisconsin Dells 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 Wisconsin Dells or Montreal?

The city of Wisconsin Dells offers food and nightlife. 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 big city with plenty to do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Wisconsin Dells or Montreal?

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

Montreal is a big city with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Wisconsin Dells or Montreal?

Wisconsin Dells 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. Visiting the old town is also a must. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Wisconsin Dells or Montreal?

Wisconsin Dells is a great place to explore. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Montreal. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to 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 Wisconsin Dells and Montreal, we can see that Montreal is more expensive. And not only is Wisconsin Dells much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Wisconsin Dells would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Wisconsin Dells 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 Wisconsin Dells.

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

Which is Bigger, Wisconsin Dells or Montreal?

Montreal has a larger population, and is about 1330 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Wisconsin Dells 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 Wisconsin Dells 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 Wisconsin Dells or Montreal in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Wisconsin Dells is a little warmer than Montreal. Typically, the summer temperatures in Wisconsin Dells in July average around 74°F (24°C), and Montreal averages at about 21°C (69°F).

In Montreal, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Wisconsin Dells. In the summer, Wisconsin Dells often gets more sunshine than Montreal. Wisconsin Dells gets 309 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 276 hours of full sun.

Wisconsin Dells usually gets less rain in July than Montreal. Wisconsin Dells gets 3 inches (76 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Montreal in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Wisconsin Dells and Montreal. Many travelers come to Wisconsin Dells for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Montreal in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Wisconsin Dells is generally a little warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Wisconsin Dells average around 52°F (11°C), and Montreal fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Wisconsin Dells usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during autumn. Wisconsin Dells gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 141 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Wisconsin Dells usually receives less rain than Montreal. Wisconsin Dells gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Montreal in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Wisconsin Dells as well as Montreal. Many visitors come to Wisconsin Dells 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. Wisconsin Dells can get quite cold in the winter. Wisconsin Dells is a little warmer than Montreal in the winter. The daily temperature in Wisconsin Dells averages around 19°F (-7°C) in January, and Montreal fluctuates around -10°C (14°F).

In the winter, Wisconsin Dells often gets more sunshine than Montreal. Wisconsin Dells gets 141 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 103 hours of full sun.

Wisconsin Dells usually gets less rain in January than Montreal. Wisconsin Dells gets 1 inches (25 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Montreal in the Spring?

Both Montreal and Wisconsin Dells are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Montreal because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Wisconsin Dells is much warmer than Montreal. Typically, the spring temperatures in Wisconsin Dells in April average around 49°F (10°C), and Montreal averages at about 6°C (43°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Wisconsin Dells. Wisconsin Dells usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during spring. Wisconsin Dells gets 208 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 183 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Wisconsin Dells usually receives less rain than Montreal. Wisconsin Dells gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Montreal and Wisconsin Dells