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

Should you visit Alexandria or Montreal?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Alexandria and Montreal. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a charming, quaint, and historic city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, Alexandria attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Alexandria 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 live music, food, and shopping. See Montreal travel costs.

Alexandria and Montreal: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Alexandria or Montreal?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Montreal than Alexandria. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Montreal is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Alexandria attracts visitors for its historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Alexandria is famous for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. Montreal is famous for its music, fashion, and cultural activities. It is also well known for Notre-Dame Basilica.

How is Alexandria different from Montreal?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Montreal is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Alexandria offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. George Washington's Mount Vernon home is an iconic destination in Alexandria. There are also many other museums in town that focus on the region's history. The Alexandria History Museum at the Lyceum and the Gadsby's Tavern Museum are both interesting. There's Gunston Hall and the Carlyle House, as well as an archeology museum and many historic landmarks around town.

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

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

Alexandria has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The food, like the city itself, reflects the area's history. There are many southern classic dishes as well as a lot of seafood. You'll find lots of local restaurants that serve high quality dishes and a quaint atmosphere.

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 Alexandria or Montreal Better for Nightlife?

Montreal is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Alexandria. There's a great bar scene, as well as tons of restaurants that make for a relaxing night out.

Is Alexandria or Montreal Better for Music?

Montreal is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Alexandria 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.

Alexandria is not a live music destination.

Is Alexandria or Montreal Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria is terrific for its historic old town charm. Also, Montreal is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town.

Alexandria has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. At the heart of the city is the historic old town. Its lined with townhomes that date back to the 18th century. There are many historic sights that have stories from the early days of the country. There are also cobblestone streets and a great waterfront.

Many visitors go to Montreal to see the historical old town. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Alexandria or Montreal?

Montreal is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Alexandria is an extremely popular place for shoppers. King Street is the main shopping street in town and it offers the largest concentration of independently owned boutiques in the Washington D.C. area. It's the perfectly place to spend an afternoon shopping.

Is Alexandria or Montreal More Beautiful?

Alexandria is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Montreal is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Alexandria attracts visitors from all around. The historic architecture and beautiful waterfront make this an iconic destination.

Montreal is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Alexandria or Montreal Better for Families?

Montreal is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not a good destination 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.

Alexandria is not the most family-friendly destination. The waterfront area is nice to walk around. You can break up the history with an ice cream shop and kids will also enjoy taking a boat tour.

Is Alexandria or Montreal Better for Couples?

Alexandria and Montreal both high quality destinations for a couple.

Alexandria is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The charm of the old town makes this a quaint and romantic destination. There's a waterfront area and many historic buildings. There are also romantic restaurants and plenty of places to grab brunch.

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 Alexandria or Montreal Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Alexandria and Montreal are nice places to visit.

Plenty of backpackers visit Alexandria. There aren't any true hostels in town, but you will find some cheap motels.

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.

Is Alexandria or Montreal Better for Students?

Montreal is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not popular with students.

Montreal is a very popular place to visit 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.

Alexandria is not popular with students.

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

Alexandria 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 Alexandria can take you anywhere. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

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

Is Alexandria or Montreal a more walkable city?

Alexandria is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Montreal is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Alexandria is a very easy city to get around on foot. It's a very easy city to walk around, particularly in the historic heart where most tourists spend their time.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Montreal or Alexandria?

How long in Alexandria or Montreal?

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

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

The beautiful city of Alexandria offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Alexandria or Montreal?

Alexandria 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Alexandria, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

When visiting Montreal, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Alexandria or Montreal?

Alexandria 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, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Alexandria or Montreal?

Alexandria is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

Montreal is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Alexandria or Montreal?

Montreal has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Alexandria. When comparing the sizes of Alexandria 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 Alexandria 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 Alexandria or Montreal in the Summer?

Both Montreal and Alexandria are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Alexandria for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Montreal in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Alexandria is a little warmer than Montreal in the summer. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Montreal fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

It's quite sunny in Montreal. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Alexandria. Alexandria usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Montreal during summer. Alexandria gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 276 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Alexandria usually receives around the same amount of rain as Montreal. Alexandria gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Alexandria or Montreal in the Autumn?

Both Montreal and Alexandria during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Alexandria in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Montreal for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In the autumn, Alexandria is much warmer than Montreal. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Alexandria in October average around 60°F (15°C), and Montreal averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the autumn, Alexandria often gets more sunshine than Montreal. Alexandria gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 141 hours of full sun.

Alexandria usually gets less rain in October than Montreal. Alexandria gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Alexandria or Montreal in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Alexandria and Montreal. Most visitors come to Alexandria for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Montreal because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Montreal can be very cold. Alexandria can be very cold during winter. In January, Alexandria is generally much warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 35°F (1°C), and Montreal fluctuates around -10°C (14°F).

Alexandria usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during winter. Alexandria gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 103 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Alexandria usually receives less rain than Montreal. Alexandria gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Alexandria or Montreal in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Alexandria as well as Montreal. The spring months attract visitors to Alexandria because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Montreal this time of year.

Alexandria is much warmer than Montreal in the spring. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 56°F (14°C) in April, and Montreal fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Alexandria this time of the year. In the spring, Alexandria often gets more sunshine than Montreal. Alexandria gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 183 hours of full sun.

Alexandria usually gets less rain in April than Montreal. Alexandria gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Montreal and Alexandria