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

Should you visit Bordeaux or Montreal?

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

Should I visit Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a historical, elegant, and charming city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, Bordeaux attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux and Montreal: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bordeaux or Montreal?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Montreal than Bordeaux, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Montreal is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Bordeaux is known for its food and impressive beauty. Bordeaux is more touristy than Montreal and is popular for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. Montreal is popular for its music, fashion, and cultural activities. It is also home to Notre-Dame Basilica.

How is Bordeaux different from Montreal?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Montreal is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bordeaux. The city has many historical landmarks and museums to explore. Cathédrale Saint-André, Tour Le Grand-Théâtre, and Basilique Saint-Seurin are all notable monuments that are worth visiting.

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

Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Both food and wine are a major draw to this culinary city, which is known for its pastries and rich flavors. Popular local dishes include grilled duck, duck foie gras, and canelés.

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 Bordeaux or Montreal Better for Nightlife?

Montreal is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Bordeaux 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Bordeaux has a few options to choose from. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

Is Bordeaux or Montreal Better for Music?

Montreal is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux is not a live music destination.

Is Bordeaux or Montreal Better for its Old Town?

Montreal is a great destination for its old town. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

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.

Bordeaux has an old town worth visiting. The old town is between Cours de l'Intendance and rue Peyronnet. The area has many distinct neighborhoods, monuments, and historical buildings.

Is the Shopping Better in Bordeaux or Montreal?

Montreal is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bordeaux. The city has a mix of luxury fashion brands, jewelry shops, perfume suppliers, and leather goods. There are department stores, local boutiques, and pedestrian shopping areas that you can explore.

Is Bordeaux or Montreal More Beautiful?

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

With stunning beauty, Bordeaux attracts visitors from all around. The city is filled with beautiful architecture, parks, and gardens.

Montreal is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Bordeaux or Montreal Better for Families?

Montreal is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Montreal is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Bordeaux offers lots of family activities. The city has a number of parks and playgrounds as well as museums, including a kid's science museum. Kids also enjoy splashing around in the Miroir d’eau, which is the world's largest water mirror.

Is Bordeaux or Montreal Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Bordeaux and Montreal make for a great place to visit.

Couples visit Bordeaux frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Wine lovers will enjoy an amazing weekend in this beautiful city. Some of the most romantic activities include wine walks, river cruises, and exploring scenic gardens.

Montreal is a great city if you're traveling as 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 Bordeaux or Montreal Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bordeaux and Montreal are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bordeaux. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Montreal is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Bordeaux or Montreal Better for Students?

Montreal is a world-class destination for students. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Bordeaux is very popular with students. The city has a great student atmosphere and a unique culture with a diversity of activities. It's grown in popularity with students, and the prices have climbed a bit over the past few years.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Bordeaux and Montreal.

Public transit in Bordeaux can get you to some places easily. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Montreal. There's an efficient and reliable metro and bus system.

Is Bordeaux or Montreal a more walkable city?

Bordeaux and Montreal both are great when exploring on foot.

Bordeaux is a very walkable city. The city has many pedestrian areas and large squares to explore.

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 Bordeaux Worth Visiting? and Is Montreal Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Montreal or Bordeaux?

How long in Bordeaux or Montreal?

In either Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Bordeaux, and 3-5 days is enough time in Montreal.

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

The beautiful city of Bordeaux offers food and shopping. 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. 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.

A weekend in Bordeaux or Montreal?

Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Montreal is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Bordeaux or Montreal?

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

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

A week in Bordeaux or Montreal?

Bordeaux is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, The Best Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bordeaux and Montreal, we can see that Montreal is more expensive. And not only is Bordeaux much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Bordeaux is in Europe 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 Bordeaux would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux.

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

Which is Bigger, Bordeaux or Montreal?

Montreal has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Bordeaux. When comparing the sizes of Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux or Montreal in the Summer?

Both Montreal and Bordeaux during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bordeaux 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, Bordeaux is around the same temperature as Montreal. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bordeaux in July average around 21°C (69°F), 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 Bordeaux. In the summer, Bordeaux often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Montreal. Bordeaux gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 276 hours of full sun.

Bordeaux usually gets less rain in July than Montreal. Bordeaux gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Montreal receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Montreal in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bordeaux and Montreal. Many travelers come to Bordeaux for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. 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, Bordeaux is generally much warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Bordeaux average around 14°C (58°F), and Montreal fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Bordeaux usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during autumn. Bordeaux gets 165 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 141 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bordeaux usually receives more rain than Montreal. Bordeaux gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Montreal receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Montreal in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bordeaux as well as Montreal. Many visitors come to Bordeaux 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. Bordeaux is much warmer than Montreal in the winter. The daily temperature in Bordeaux averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Montreal fluctuates around -10°C (14°F).

In the winter, Bordeaux often gets less sunshine than Montreal. Bordeaux gets 86 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 103 hours of full sun.

Bordeaux receives a lot of rain in the winter. Bordeaux usually gets more rain in January than Montreal. Bordeaux gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Montreal receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Montreal in the Spring?

Both Montreal and Bordeaux are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Bordeaux for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Montreal because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Bordeaux is much warmer than Montreal. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bordeaux in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Montreal averages at about 6°C (43°F).

Bordeaux usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Montreal during spring. Bordeaux gets 190 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 183 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bordeaux usually receives less rain than Montreal. Bordeaux gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Montreal receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Montreal and Bordeaux