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

Should you visit Montreal or Whistler?

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 Whistler 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. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and live music. See Montreal travel costs.

Whistler

Whistler is a charming, adventurous, and outdoorsy village. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, Whistler attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and skiing. See Whistler travel costs.

Montreal and Whistler: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Montreal or Whistler?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Montreal than Whistler, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Montreal is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Whistler is more popular for its skiing, resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Whistler is more touristy than Montreal and is popular for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding. Montreal is well known for its music, fashion, and cultural activities. Also, Montreal is famous for Notre-Dame Basilica.

How is Montreal different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Montreal or Whistler Better for Skiing?

Whistler is terrific for skiing. However, Montreal is not a skiing destination.

Whistler is among the world's best ski destinations. Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America. It covers a vast area that includes two peaks - Whistler and Blackcomb. The slopes are connected by lifts and gondolas and there are options for every level, from beginner to expert.

Montreal is not a skiing destination.

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

Montreal is renowned for its sights and museums. However, Whistler is not a good village for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Montreal that are not to be missed. 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.

While most people don't head to Whistler specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There is a local museum where you can learn about the areas culture and heritage.

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

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

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, Whistler makes for a great culinary experience. There are many great restaurants and pubs that serve local dishes like Whistler herring, meatloaf, and Artic char fish. There are casual eateries as well as fine dining with upscale cuisine.

Is Montreal or Whistler Better for Nightlife?

Montreal is renowned for nightlife. Also, Whistler is not as famous, but is still a good village to visit for nightlife and partying.

Montreal is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Whistler has a large number of nightlife venues. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.

Is Montreal or Whistler Better for Music?

Montreal is renowned for live music. However, Whistler is not a live music destination.

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.

Whistler is not a live music destination.

Is Montreal or Whistler Better for Resorts?

Whistler is great for its luxury resorts. However, Montreal is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Whistler. There's a large selection of resorts that you can choose from. Many have pools and hot tubs and range from romantic to family-friendly.

Montreal is not a resort destination.

Is Montreal or Whistler Better for its Old Town?

Montreal is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Whistler 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.

Whistler does not have a historic old town.

Is Montreal or Whistler Better for Hiking?

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

Many people visit Whistler specifically for its hiking. During the warmer seasons there are miles of hiking trails that take you through both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Many trails are accessible by gondola and you'll find great views and stunning vistas. Trails range from short family-friendly options to strenuous and adventurous routes.

Montreal is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Montreal or Whistler?

Montreal is renowned for shopping. Also, Whistler is not as famous, but is still a good village to visit for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Whistler. The village offers great shopping where you can pick up local items or any ski gear you may have forgotten.

Is Montreal or Whistler More Beautiful?

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

With stunning beauty, Whistler attracts visitors from all around. The town sits in a valley that is surrounded by stunning mountains and impressive glaciers.

Montreal is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Montreal or Whistler Better for Families?

Whistler is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Montreal is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Whistler is one of the most popular family destinations. Kids will love the winter activities like skiing, dog sledding, and bobsledding. There's also an ice skating rink, climbing gym, and tons of kid-friendly restaurants.

Montreal is 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.

Is Montreal or Whistler Better for Couples?

Both Montreal and Whistler are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

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.

Whistler is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy an adventure will love the year-round outdoor sports. There are also romantic spas, fine dining, and scenic gondola rides.

Is Montreal or Whistler Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Whistler 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 Whistler. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect 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.

Is Montreal or Whistler Better for Students?

Montreal is renowned for students. However, Whistler 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.

Whistler is not popular with students.

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

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

Public transit in Montreal is fairly effecient and thorough. There's an efficient and reliable metro and bus system.

Public transit is mostly limited in Whistler. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.

Is Montreal or Whistler a more walkable city?

Montreal and Whistler are excellent when it comes to walkability.

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

Whistler is very walkable. It's a compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Whistler or Montreal?

How long in Montreal or Whistler?

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

Families should spend more time in Whistler than Montreal. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Whistler, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Montreal than Whistler. 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 Whistler 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 Montreal or Whistler?

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.

The beautiful village of Whistler offers nightlife and food. 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 Whistler?

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.

Whistler is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Whistler?

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.

Whistler is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Whistler, 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 Whistler?

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.

Whistler 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 village 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 Whistler, we can see that Montreal is more expensive. And not only is Whistler much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Whistler would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Whistler 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 Whistler.

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

Which is Bigger, Montreal or Whistler?

Montreal has a larger population, and is about 310 times larger than the population of Whistler. When comparing the sizes of Montreal and Whistler, 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 Whistler?

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 Whistler in the Summer?

Both Whistler 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 Whistler for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In Whistler, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Montreal. In the summer, Montreal often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Whistler. Montreal gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 296 hours of full sun.

Montreal usually gets more rain in July than Whistler. Montreal gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Whistler receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Montreal or Whistler in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Montreal and Whistler. Many travelers come to Montreal for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Whistler in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Montreal usually receives more sunshine than Whistler during autumn. Montreal gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 124 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Whistler receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Montreal usually receives less rain than Whistler. Montreal gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Whistler receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Montreal or Whistler in the Winter?

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

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

In the winter, Montreal often gets more sunshine than Whistler. Montreal gets 103 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 55 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Whistler. Montreal usually gets less rain in January than Whistler. Montreal gets 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Whistler receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Montreal or Whistler in the Spring?

Both Whistler 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. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Whistler because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

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

Montreal usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Whistler during spring. Montreal gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Whistler. In April, Montreal usually receives less rain than Whistler. Montreal gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Whistler receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Whistler and Montreal