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

Should you visit Montreal or Vernon?

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

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. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and live music. See Montreal travel costs.

Vernon

Vernon is a quiet, peaceful, and relaxing town. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking. See Vernon travel costs.

Montreal and Vernon: 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
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • 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
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Montreal or Vernon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Montreal. Although Montreal and Vernon are popular destinations, Montreal has more sights and attractions for tourists. Montreal is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Vernon attracts visitors for its hiking. Montreal is more touristy than Vernon and is popular for its music, fashion, and cultural activities. It is also well known for Notre-Dame Basilica. Vernon is famous for its surrounding valley with lakes and hiking trails.

How is Montreal different from Vernon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Montreal
Vernon

Montreal is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Montreal on the map. 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.

Vernon is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are local galleries and museums that offer information on the region's history and culture. You can visit the Canadian Wildlife Museum, the Caetani Center, the Museum and Archives of Vernon, the Paddlewheel Park Stationhouse Museum, and the Vernon Public Art Gallery.


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

Montreal
Vernon

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

Dining out in Montreal is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Vernon. The region is known for its vineyards and wineries and many of the local restaurants have been around for generations. The food is often locally produced and prepared with traditional recipes.

Is Montreal or Vernon Better for Nightlife?

Montreal
Vernon

Montreal is terrific for its evening party scene. However, Vernon is not a good town for nightlife.

Montreal is a must-see 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Vernon. The town gets very quiet in the evenings, so you won't find much of a nightlife scene.

Is Montreal or Vernon Better for Music?

Montreal
Vernon

Montreal is terrific for its music scene. However, Vernon is not a live music destination.

In Montreal you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. 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.

Vernon is not a live music destination.


Is Montreal or Vernon Better for its Old Town?

Montreal
Vernon

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

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.

Vernon does not have a historic old town.

Is Montreal or Vernon Better for Hiking?

Montreal
Vernon

Vernon is great for hiking. However, Montreal is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Vernon for the hiking trails. The surrounding valley has more than 300 kilometers of hiking trails. They run along pristine lakes, pass by granite rock formations, and take you to impressive viewpoints.

Montreal is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Montreal or Vernon?

Montreal
Vernon

Montreal is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Montreal is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Vernon. There are a number of boutique shops that are fun to explore in the downtown area.


Is Montreal or Vernon Better for Families?

Montreal
Vernon

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

Montreal is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Vernon is a family-friendly city. There are biking and hiking trails as well as other outdoor activities. You can also visit the Allan Brooks Nature Center or the Rock Garden Climbing Center.

Is Montreal or Vernon Better for Couples?

Montreal
Vernon

Montreal is a well-known place for couples. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

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.

Vernon is a nice destination for couples. It offers a peaceful getaway for couples. You can visit the Okanagan wineries or enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also nice restaurants to try.

Is Montreal or Vernon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Montreal
Vernon

Montreal is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Vernon is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Vernon is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, but this isn't a popular destination for backpackers.


Is Montreal or Vernon Better for Students?

Montreal
Vernon

Montreal is terrific for students. However, Vernon is not popular with students.

Montreal is a great destination 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.

Vernon is not popular with students.

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

Montreal
Vernon

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

The public transit in Montreal can get you to most places easily. There's an efficient and reliable metro and bus system.

Public transit is mostly limited in Vernon. There is a bus system, but it's better not to rely on it.

Is Montreal or Vernon a more walkable city?

Montreal
Vernon

Montreal is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Vernon is not a good town for its walkability.

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

Vernon is generally not a very walkable city. You'll really want to have a car to make the most of your time here.


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

Should I spend more time in Vernon or Montreal?

How long in Montreal or Vernon?

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

Families should spend more time in Montreal than Vernon. 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 Vernon. 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 Vernon 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 Vernon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Montreal 3-5 
    Vernon 1-3

One day in Montreal or Vernon?

Montreal is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The town of Vernon offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Vernon?

Montreal is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Vernon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Vernon, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Montreal or Vernon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Montreal. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Vernon 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 Vernon?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the colorful big city of Montreal. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Vernon 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 town 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, Vernon or Montreal?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Montreal is $236, while the average daily cost in Vernon is $49. 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 Vernon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Montreal $132
    Vernon $4.84
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Montreal $264
    Vernon $9.68
Compare Hotels in Montreal and Vernon

Looking for a hotel in Montreal or Vernon? 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 Vernon


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 Vernon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Montreal $20
    Vernon -

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
  • Transfer: Montreal City Center to Pierre E.T. Airport-YUL: $52
  • Private One Way Transfer from Montreal to Montreal Airport: $64
  • Montreal hotel or port to Montréal Airport (YUL) - Departure Private Transfer: $69
  • Private Transfer to Montreal Airport YUL: $72
  • Private Transfer from Montréal Airport (YUL) to Montreal Hotels: $74
  • Montreal Best Private Transfer services : $74
  • Arrival Transfer from International Airport: $79
  • Private Transfer from Montreal city to Montreal Cruise Port: $98
  • Private Transfer from Montreal Cruise Port to Montreal City: $98
  • Private Transfer from Montreal City to Montreal (YUL) Airport: $110

Is it cheaper to fly into Montreal or Vernon?

Prices for flights to both Vernon 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
    Vernon $43
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
  • Beyond the Market Non-Touristy Food Tour by Spade & Palacio: $81
  • Historical Food Tour with 6 Tastings: $82
  • Secret Food Tours: Montreal - Jean-Talon & Little Italy: $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: $116
  • Montréal: 3 or 5-Course Dinner Cruise with DJ & Dancing: $127
  • Cooking Class & Tasting with Michelin-Trained Chef: $130
  • Jewish Neighborhood Food Tour: $130

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Montreal $21
    Vernon -
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: $7.15
  • Montreal Prohibition Mystery: Self-Guided Walking Adventure: $7.39
  • APP Self-Guided Tours Montreal with Audioguide: $9.54
  • 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
  • 1hr Sunset Boat tour on the St Lawrence River Old Port Montreal: $23
  • La Grande Roue de Montréal Entry Ticket: $23
  • In the Shadow of the Mountain: Montreal Jewish History Walking Tour: $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Montreal $16
    Vernon $13
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: $93


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

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


Which is Bigger, Montreal or Vernon?

Montreal has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Vernon. When comparing the sizes of Montreal and Vernon, 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 Vernon?

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 Montreal or Vernon in the Summer?

Both Vernon and Montreal during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Montreal this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Vernon for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Montreal is cooler than Vernon in the summer. The daily temperature in Montreal averages around 21°C (69°F) in July, and Vernon fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Montreal usually gets more rain in July than Vernon. Montreal gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Vernon receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Montreal 21°C (69°F) 
    Vernon 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Montreal or Vernon in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Montreal and Vernon. Many travelers come to Montreal for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Vernon in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Montreal is cooler than Vernon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Montreal in October average around 8°C (47°F), and Vernon averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In October, Montreal usually receives more rain than Vernon. Montreal gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Vernon receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Montreal 8°C (47°F) 
    Vernon 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Montreal or Vernon in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Montreal as well as Vernon. Many visitors come to Montreal in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Vernon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Vernon can be very cold during winter. Montreal can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Montreal is generally much colder than Vernon. Daily temperatures in Montreal average around -10°C (14°F), and Vernon fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

Montreal usually gets more rain in January than Vernon. Montreal gets 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Vernon receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Montreal -10°C (14°F) 
    Vernon -3°C (27°F)

Should I visit Montreal or Vernon in the Spring?

Both Vernon and Montreal are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Montreal for the activities around the city during these months.

Montreal is much colder than Vernon in the spring. The daily temperature in Montreal averages around 6°C (43°F) in April, and Vernon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In April, Montreal usually receives more rain than Vernon. Montreal gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Vernon receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Montreal 6°C (43°F) 
    Vernon 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Vernon and Montreal

Montreal Vernon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -10°C (14°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Feb -9°C (16°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 2°C (35°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Mar -2°C (28°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Apr 6°C (43°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 75 mm (3 in) 16°C (61°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 21°C (69°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 21°C (69°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 19°C (67°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 23°C (73°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 8°C (47°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Nov 2°C (35°F) 101 mm (4 in) 4°C (39°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Dec -7°C (20°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) -1°C (30°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)