A Travel Price Comparison for Canada Montreal vs. Saskatoon for Attractions, Nightlife, Food, and Families

Should you visit Montreal or Saskatoon?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Montreal and Saskatoon can help you decide which place is right for you.

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 live music, food, and shopping. See Montreal travel costs.

Saskatoon

Saskatoon is a authentic, cultural, and friendly city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Saskatoon travel costs.

Montreal and Saskatoon: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Montreal or Saskatoon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Montreal than Saskatoon, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Montreal is more touristy than Saskatoon and is popular for its music, fashion, and cultural activities. It is also home to Notre-Dame Basilica. Saskatoon is popular for its agriculture and outdoor spaces.

How is Montreal different from Saskatoon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Montreal
Saskatoon

Montreal is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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 Saskatoon. There are some museums and historical sites to check out such as Fort Battleford National Historic Site, Batoche National Historic Site, and the Saskatchewan Indigenous Cultural Centre.


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

Montreal
Saskatoon

Montreal is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Saskatoon is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There's a great food scene around town with diverse restaurants and cuisines to choose from. You can sample dim sum, Mexican, Middle Eastern, Indian, and many more.

Is Montreal or Saskatoon Better for Nightlife?

Montreal
Saskatoon

Montreal is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Saskatoon. There are enough clubs and bars around town to keep things entertaining. Most cater to a younger crowd, but the vibe is fun and full of energy.

Is Montreal or Saskatoon Better for Music?

Montreal
Saskatoon

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

Saskatoon is not a live music destination.


Is Montreal or Saskatoon Better for its Old Town?

Montreal
Saskatoon

Montreal is a well-known place for its old town. However, Saskatoon does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of 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.

Saskatoon does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Montreal or Saskatoon?

Montreal
Saskatoon

Montreal is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Saskatoon has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. A number of brands have opened stores in the downtown area in recent years, so the shopping scene continues to grow and diversify.

Is Montreal or Saskatoon Better for Families?

Montreal
Saskatoon

Montreal is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Saskatoon is a family-friendly city. It's filled with indoor and outdoor play areas. Make sure you check out the Nutrien Wonderhub as well as the countless playgrounds around town.


Is Montreal or Saskatoon Better for Couples?

Montreal
Saskatoon

Montreal is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

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.

Saskatoon is a good city for couples to visit. There are plenty of evening activities like dining out at a nice restaurant or taking in a show at the Persephone Theatre.

Is Montreal or Saskatoon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Montreal
Saskatoon

Montreal is a good destination for backpackers. However, Saskatoon is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Saskatoon is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers skip this town in favor of more popular destinations.

Is Montreal or Saskatoon Better for Students?

Montreal
Saskatoon

Montreal is an unbeatable place for students. However, Saskatoon 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.

Saskatoon is not popular with students.


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

Montreal
Saskatoon

Montreal is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Saskatoon is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Montreal has some very good public transit options. There's an efficient and reliable metro and bus system.

Public transit is mostly limited in Saskatoon. There is a bus system around town.

Is Montreal or Saskatoon a more walkable city?

Montreal
Saskatoon

Montreal is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Saskatoon is a somewhat walkable city. The downtown is walkable and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Saskatoon or Montreal?

How long in Montreal or Saskatoon?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Montreal and Saskatoon. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Montreal than in Saskatoon. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Montreal, and 1-3 days is enough time in Saskatoon.

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

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


  • How many days in Montreal or Saskatoon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Montreal 3-5 
    Saskatoon 1-3

One day in Montreal or Saskatoon?

People visit Montreal because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The city of Saskatoon offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Montreal or Saskatoon?

People visit Montreal because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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

Five days in Montreal or Saskatoon?

People visit Montreal because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Saskatoon 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.

A week in Montreal or Saskatoon?

Montreal is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Saskatoon 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in Canada, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada, The Best Camping Tours in Canada, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Saskatoon or Montreal?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Montreal Prices
    Canada Prices
    Saskatoon Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Montreal $236
    Saskatoon $150

The average daily cost (per person) in Montreal is $236, while the average daily cost in Saskatoon is $150. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Montreal and Saskatoon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Montreal $132
    Saskatoon $54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Montreal $264
    Saskatoon $108
Compare Hotels in Montreal and Saskatoon

Looking for a hotel in Montreal or Saskatoon? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Montreal


Hotels in Saskatoon


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Montreal Hotel Prices and Saskatoon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Montreal $20
    Saskatoon $32

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Montreal

Also for Montreal, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • YUL Airport Private Transfer to Downtown|Hotels: $29
  • Private Transfer from Montreal Airport YUL to Montreal / Bromont: $33
  • Private One Way Transfer from Montreal to Montreal Airport: $64
  • Private Transfer to Montreal Airport YUL: $72
  • Montreal Best Private Transfer services : $74
  • Private Transfer from Montréal Airport (YUL) to Montreal Hotels: $74
  • Arrival Transfer from International Airport: $79
  • Private Transfer from Montreal Cruise Port to Montreal City: $98
  • Private Transfer from Montreal city to Montreal Cruise Port: $98
  • Private Transfer from Montreal City to Montreal (YUL) Airport: $110
  • Departure Transfer Montreal to Montreal Airport by Limos or Bus: $151
  • Montreal Private Transfer to Montreal Airport YUL in Luxury Van: $186

Is it cheaper to fly into Montreal or Saskatoon?

Prices for flights to both Saskatoon and Montreal change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Montreal $63
    Saskatoon $55
Typical Food Prices in Montreal

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Montreal:


  • Tim Hortons breakfast and coffee
    $9.01

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Montreal

For Montreal, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Bateau-Mouche Cruise with A La Carte Dinner Option: $62
  • Jean-Talon Market Hidden Gems Guided Food Tour: $69
  • Jean-Talon Market & Little Italy Walking Secret Food tour: $78
  • Historical Food Tour with 6 Tastings: $82
  • Secret Food Tours: Montreal - Jean-Talon & Little Italy: $82
  • Beyond the Market Non-Touristy Food Tour by Spade & Palacio: $82
  • Montreal Cooking Class - Learn to make Dim Sums: $84
  • Montreal Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $85
  • Old Montreal Food & Drink Tour by Local Montreal Food Tours: $117
  • Montréal: 3 or 5-Course Dinner Cruise with DJ & Dancing: $127
  • Cooking Class & Tasting with Michelin-Trained Chef: $130
  • Jewish Neighborhood Food Tour: $131

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Montreal $21
    Saskatoon $17
Typical Entertainment Prices in Montreal

For Montreal, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Botanical Gardens (family of 4)
    $53

Tours and Activities in Montreal

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Montreal.

  • Montreal City Highlights 3 Hour Walking Tour | Gratuity-Based : $5.00
  • Montreal Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $7.21
  • APP Self-Guided Tours Montreal with Audioguide: $9.61
  • Art Center and Museum Audio Guided Tour: $10
  • McCord Stewart Museum Entry Ticket: $15
  • Montréal Scavenger Hunt and City Highlights Walking Tour: $15
  • Montreal Old Port: Urban Zipline Ticket: $18
  • The Irish Famine in Montreal Walking Tour: $20
  • Old Montreal in 90 Minutes Walking Tour: $23
  • 1hr Sunset Boat tour on the St Lawrence River Old Port Montreal: $23
  • 1H Scenic StLawrence River Boat Tour -Discover MTL from the water: $23
  • La Grande Roue de Montréal Entry Ticket: $23

Tours and Activities in Saskatoon

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Saskatoon are as follows:

  • Donna Birkmaier Park Birding and Walking Tour: $62

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Montreal $16
    Saskatoon $9.65
Typical Alcohol Prices in Montreal

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Montreal:


  • Vodka
    $18

Sample the Local Flavors in Montreal

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Montreal:

  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $24
  • Haunted Montreal Pub Crawl: $25
  • Guided Bar Crawl with Free Shots and Club Entry: $42
  • Guided Pub Crawl of the City's Skyline Bars: $87
  • Introduction to Wine Tasting, French Natural Wines: $94


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

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


Which is Bigger, Montreal or Saskatoon?

Montreal has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Saskatoon. When comparing the sizes of Montreal and Saskatoon, 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.