A Travel Price Comparison for Canada Montreal vs. Vancouver for Attractions, Nightlife, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Montreal or Vancouver?

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 Vancouver can help you decide which place is right for you.

Montreal

Montreal is a cultural, vibrant, and colorful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include live music, food, and shopping. See Montreal travel costs.

Vancouver

Vancouver is a diverse, friendly, and outdoorsy city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Vancouver attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Vancouver travel costs.

Montreal and Vancouver: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Montreal or Vancouver?

You'll generally find more things to do in Montreal than Vancouver. Montreal is bigger than Vancouver, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Montreal is better known for its nightlife, music, and historical sights, while Vancouver is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Montreal is well known for its music, fashion, and cultural activities. Also, Montreal is famous for Notre-Dame Basilica. Vancouver is well known for its beautiful setting, sweeping views, and welcoming atmosphere.

How is Montreal different from Vancouver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Vancouver 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 Vancouver?

You'll find a number of first-rate museums and attractions in both Vancouver and Montreal.

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 will find world class museums and historical sights in Vancouver that are not to be missed. There are tons of museums and sights around town such as the Vancouver Aquarium, the Museum of Anthropology, the Museum of Vancouver, and Science World. Also make sure you take a walk over the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Montreal and Vancouver.

Montreal has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Vancouver makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find diverse restaurants and fresh ingredients. Local seafood is a staple in many restaurants so make sure you try the prawns, salmon, and even sea urchin. Asian food is also excellent around town. Sushi, Japanese hot dogs, and dim sum are all worth sampling.

Is Montreal or Vancouver Better for Nightlife?

Montreal is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Vancouver is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Montreal is a world class party destination. 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.

Vancouver has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene. Most of the activity is centered around The Granville Entertainment District in the downtown area. It runs along Granville Street between Robson Street and Davie Street. In the area you'll find a high concentration of bars and nightclubs.

Is Montreal or Vancouver Better for Music?

Montreal is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Vancouver is not a live music destination.

Montreal is known as a music capital 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.

Vancouver is not a live music destination.

Is Montreal or Vancouver Better for its Old Town?

Montreal is great for its historic old town. However, Vancouver 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.

Vancouver does not have a historic old town.

Is Montreal or Vancouver Better for Hiking?

Vancouver is terrific for hiking. However, Montreal is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Vancouver specifically for its hiking. The city is surrounded by water and mountains, making it one of the best hiking cities in the world. You don't have to go far to enjoy spectacular vistas, serene rainforests, and rugged coastline. The trails range from casual strolls to more strenuous day long hikes.

Montreal is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Montreal or Vancouver?

If you're looking to go shopping, Montreal and Vancouver both offer plenty of first-rate spots.

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.

Vancouver is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. You can enjoy strolling through Chinatown, hitting up a public market, or wandering around a large shopping mall.

Is Montreal or Vancouver More Beautiful?

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

With stunning beauty, Vancouver attracts visitors from all around. It sits between the Pacific Ocean and high reaching mountains, so the city offers spectacular views.

Montreal is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Montreal or Vancouver Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Montreal or Vancouver.

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.

Vancouver is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are great kid-friendly museums like the Science Museum, as well as outdoor markets, public parks, and easy access to the nearby nature. A visit to Grouse Mountain is a must for many families. You can see the bears, take a gondola, and see the a lumberjack show.

Is Montreal or Vancouver Better for Couples?

Vancouver is terrific for couples. Also, Montreal is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Vancouver has plenty to offer. Most of the activities take advantage of the beautiful outdoor setting. You can take a carriage ride in Stanley Park or visit the Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden. Eat dim sum in Chinatown and then wander through the diverse neighborhood. End the day with a show at Orpheum Theater.

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 Montreal or Vancouver Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vancouver 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 Vancouver. It's a favorite city for backpackers who enjoy the many outdoor activities. There are also many hostels available around town.

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 Montreal or Vancouver Better for Students?

Montreal is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Vancouver is not as popular, but is still a nice city for 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.

Vancouver is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The cities friendly personality and fun energy make it a great place to study.

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

Vancouver 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 Vancouver can take you anywhere. Public transit is efficient and comfortable. The Translink system includes buses, the SeaBus ferry, and the SkyTrain light rail system.

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

Is Montreal or Vancouver a more walkable city?

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

Vancouver is a very easy city to get around on foot. The downtown area is very compact and fun to explore on foot.

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 Montreal Worth Visiting? and Is Vancouver Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vancouver or Montreal?

How long in Montreal or Vancouver?

In either Montreal or Vancouver, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Vancouver has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Vancouver than Montreal. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Vancouver 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 Vancouver.

One day in Montreal or Vancouver?

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 beautiful city of Vancouver offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Montreal or Vancouver?

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.

Vancouver is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Montreal or Vancouver?

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.

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

A week in Montreal or Vancouver?

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.

Vancouver is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Montreal or Vancouver?

Montreal has a larger population, and is about 78% larger than the population of Vancouver. When comparing the sizes of Montreal and Vancouver, 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 Montreal or Vancouver?

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 Montreal or Vancouver in the Summer?

Both Vancouver and Montreal are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Montreal in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Vancouver for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Montreal is a little warmer than Vancouver. Typically, the summer temperatures in Montreal in July average around 21°C (69°F), and Vancouver averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Vancouver. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Montreal. Montreal usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Vancouver during summer. Montreal gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Vancouver receives 296 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Montreal usually receives more rain than Vancouver. Montreal gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Vancouver receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Montreal or Vancouver in the Autumn?

Both Vancouver and Montreal during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Montreal for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Vancouver because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Montreal is generally cooler than Vancouver. Daily temperatures in Montreal average around 8°C (47°F), and Vancouver fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Montreal often gets more sunshine than Vancouver. Montreal gets 141 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vancouver receives 124 hours of full sun.

Vancouver gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Montreal usually gets less rain in October than Vancouver. Montreal gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Vancouver receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Montreal or Vancouver in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Montreal and Vancouver. The winter months attract visitors to Montreal because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Vancouver this time of year.

It's quite cold in Vancouver in the winter. The weather in Montreal can be very cold. Montreal is much colder than Vancouver in the winter. The daily temperature in Montreal averages around -10°C (14°F) in January, and Vancouver fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Montreal usually receives more sunshine than Vancouver during winter. Montreal gets 103 hours of sunny skies, while Vancouver receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

Vancouver receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Montreal usually receives less rain than Vancouver. Montreal gets 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Vancouver receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Montreal or Vancouver in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Montreal is much colder than Vancouver. Typically, the spring temperatures in Montreal in April average around 6°C (43°F), and Vancouver averages at about 9°C (49°F).

In the spring, Montreal often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Vancouver. Montreal gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vancouver receives 172 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Vancouver. Montreal usually gets less rain in April than Vancouver. Montreal gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Vancouver receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Vancouver and Montreal