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

Should you visit Milan 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 Milan 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.

Milan

Milan is a chic, cultural, and trendy city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Many visitors also come to Milan because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Milan 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.

Milan and Montreal: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Milan or Montreal?

Both Montreal and Milan have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Milan is very popular for its food, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Montreal attracts visitors for its museums and attractions. Montreal is more touristy than Milan and is known for its music, fashion, and cultural activities. Milan is famous for its grand squares, dramatic architecture, and its leadership in the fashion world.

How is Milan different from Montreal?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Montreal is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Milan 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Milan. The Milan Cathedral is the most famous landmark in the city, but other sights include Castello Sforzesco, Pinacoteca di Brera, and Sant'Ambrogio.

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

Milan 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.

Milan has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city has a mix of traditional dishes combined with modernized, trendy restaurants. You can try a new dish by a groundbreaking chef, or sample a long running favorite like risotto alla Milanese.

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 Milan or Montreal Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is amazing in both Milan and Montreal.

Milan has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city has a huge number of students and young professionals, which make it a fun place with an active nightlife. There are cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and relaxed pubs that you can chose from.

Montreal is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Is Milan or Montreal Better for Music?

Milan and Montreal are both destinations where visitors can find amazing live music.

Milan has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The diversity of music ranges from classical concerts to techno raves. Popular venues include Blue Note Milan, Santeria Social Club, and Spirit de Milan.

Montreal is a world class music destination. 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.

Is Milan or Montreal Better for its Old Town?

Milan 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.

Milan has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Known as the Centro Storic, this area is the most popular with tourists. It's where you'll find the most historic buildings and beautiful sights in the city.

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 Milan or Montreal?

If you're looking to go shopping, Milan and Montreal both offer plenty of amazing spots.

Many people travel to Milan specifically to go shopping. Famous as the fashion capital of Italy, shopping is the thing to do here. There are many streets that are lined with the biggest designers in fashion. Make sure you check out Via Monte Napoleone, Via Della Spiga, and Corso Buenos Aires.

Montreal is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Is Milan or Montreal More Beautiful?

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

Many visitors also come to Milan because of it's amazing beauty. There is stunning architecture and beautiful neighborhoods that you can explore.

Montreal is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Milan or Montreal Better for Families?

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

Milan is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a science museum and a children's museum, MuBa, that is great for the kids. There are also a number of parks to explore as well as playgrounds where the kids and get out their energy.

Is Milan or Montreal Better for Couples?

Both Milan and Montreal are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

Milan is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There are many beautiful buildings, excellent shopping, and romantic restaurants that make for a wonderful couple's getaway.

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 Milan or Montreal Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Milan is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Montreal is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Milan. While not as popular with backpackers as some Italian city's, there are a number of hostels and great activities that are fun for visitors.

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 Milan or Montreal Better for Students?

For students, both Milan and Montreal are amazing places to visit.

Milan is a very popular city for students. It is one of the more popular city's for international students in Italy. It is very livable with a lot of culture and a fun nightlife, so you're sure to have the experience of a lifetime.

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.

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

Milan 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 Milan can take you anywhere. Options include metro, bus, tram, and train lines.

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

Is Milan or Montreal a more walkable city?

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

Milan is a very easy city to get around on foot. In particular, the city center is walkable.

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 Milan Worth Visiting? and Is Montreal Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Montreal or Milan?

How long in Milan or Montreal?

In either Milan or Montreal, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Milan has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Milan than Montreal. In general, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Milan, and 3-5 days is enough time in Montreal.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Milan than Montreal 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 Milan.

One day in Milan or Montreal?

Milan is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Montreal, many people enjoy the live music and food that this cultural big city offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Milan or Montreal?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Montreal. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Milan or Montreal?

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

Montreal is a fun place to experience. In Montreal, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this big city destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Milan or Montreal?

Milan 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the colorful big city of Montreal. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, The Best Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.

When comparing the travel costs between Milan and Montreal, we can see that Montreal 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. Even though Milan is in Europe and Montreal is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Milan or Montreal?

Montreal has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Milan. When comparing the sizes of Milan 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 Milan 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 Milan or Montreal in the Summer?

Both Montreal and Milan are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Milan in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, 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.

Milan is a little warmer than Montreal in the summer. The daily temperature in Milan averages around 23°C (73°F) 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 Milan. Milan usually receives less sunshine than Montreal during summer. Milan gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 276 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Milan usually receives less rain than Montreal. Milan gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Montreal receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Milan or Montreal in the Autumn?

Both Montreal and Milan during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Milan for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music 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, Milan is much warmer than Montreal. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Milan in October average around 15°C (58°F), and Montreal averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the autumn, Milan often gets more sunshine than Montreal. Milan gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 141 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Milan. Milan usually gets more rain in October than Montreal. Milan gets 103 mm (4 in) of rain, while Montreal receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Milan or Montreal in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Milan and Montreal. The winter months attract visitors to Milan because of 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 Milan can be very cold. In January, Milan is generally much warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Milan average around 5°C (41°F), and Montreal fluctuates around -10°C (14°F).

Milan usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during winter. Milan gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 103 hours of full sun in the winter.

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

Should I visit Milan or Montreal in the Spring?

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

Milan is much warmer than Montreal in the spring. The daily temperature in Milan averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Montreal fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

In the spring, Milan often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Montreal. Milan gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 183 hours of full sun.

Milan usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Montreal. Milan gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Montreal receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Montreal and Milan