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

Should you visit New York City or Montreal?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for New York City and Montreal. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

New York City

New York City is a energetic, cosmopolitan, and one-of-a-kind city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. New York City offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music. See New York City travel costs.

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.

New York City and Montreal: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in New York City or Montreal?

You'll generally find more things to do in New York City than Montreal. New York City is bigger than Montreal, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. New York City is better known for its theatre productions, food, christmas markets, and impressive beauty, while Montreal is more popular for its historical sights. New York City is more touristy than Montreal and is known for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. Also, New York City is famous for The Statue of Liberty. Montreal is well known for its music, fashion, and cultural activities.

How is New York City different from Montreal?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in New York City or Montreal?

Spend time exploring the first-rate sights and museums in either New York City or Montreal.

Travelers visit New York City from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The sights and museums around the city are too numerous to list, but some of the most famous include the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. This is a city that is filled with iconic landmarks and you could spend weeks here and still not see it all.

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.

Is New York City or Montreal Better for Theater?

New York City is terrific for its shows and theatre. However, Montreal is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in New York City is world-class. Visiting Broadway is a quintessential NYC experience. Whether you enjoy the theater or simply want to experience something new, seeing a Broadway show is a true bucket list activity.

Montreal is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in New York City or Montreal? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

New York City 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.

New York City has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city has a diverse variety of restaurants, with everything from local dives to Michelin star options. There are many neighborhoods that are notable for their ethnic cuisine, particularly Little Italy and Chinatown. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.

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 New York City or Montreal Better for Nightlife?

Both New York City and Montreal have first-rate vibes after the sun sets.

New York City is a world class party destination. Known as the city that never sleeps, you can be assured that NYC has some of the best nightlife in the world. There are world class bars and clubs, but also local venues that have a more relaxed atmosphere. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.

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.

Is New York City or Montreal Better for Music?

It can be fun to see live music in either New York City and Montreal.

New York City is known as a music capital around the world. Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

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.

Is New York City or Montreal Better for its Old Town?

Montreal is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. However, New York City 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.

New York City does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in New York City or Montreal?

Shoppers can find a variety of first-rate stores in both New York City and Montreal.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in New York City. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Head for Fifth Avenue for high end shopping or check out any of the many street markets for local items. New York is known for its many flea markets where you can find vintage items at a good price. And if you're looking to pick up a souvenir shirt or knick knack, there are plenty of souvenir shops around town as well.

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.

Is New York City or Montreal More Beautiful?

New York City is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Montreal is not a destination known for its beauty.

New York City offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The beauty of the skyline at night or the views from the top of the Empire State Building will take your breath away.

Montreal is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is New York City or Montreal Better for Families?

Both New York City and Montreal are high quality family-friendly destinations.

New York City is a very family-friendly destination. The city has many activities for kids of all ages including world class museums, beautifully designed playgrounds, and theater shows designed just for young ones. There are many kid-friendly restaurants as well and older kids will enjoy visiting the iconic landmarks in this world-class city.

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.

Is New York City or Montreal Better for Couples?

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

For those traveling as a couple, New York City has plenty to offer. From a beautiful carriage ride through Central Park, to a romantic river cruise at night, there is an endless list of unique activities that couples can enjoy in the city. Whether you're interested in theater, the arts, music, or nightlife, this city has it all.

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 New York City or Montreal Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

New York City 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 New York City. It isn't a particularly budget-friendly destination, but it does get its share of backpackers, so you'll find a nice list of hostels and affordable hangouts that are perfect for the backpacker crowd. This is probably one of the most popular cities for backpackers in the entire United States.

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 New York City or Montreal Better for Students?

Both New York City and Montreal are first-rate destinations for students.

New York City is a very popular place to visit for students. The city has a diverse population, and international students will feel right at home here exploring the city. There are also plenty of major universities including NYU, Columbia University, and Cornell University.

Many students frequent Montreal. 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 New York City or Montreal Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

New York City 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 New York City can take you anywhere. The city has one of the largest subway systems in the world. There's also an elaborate bus system, ferry system, and yellow taxis all around town.

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

Is New York City or Montreal a more walkable city?

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

New York City is a very easy city to get around on foot. The majority of the neighborhoods in Manhattan are very walkable and easy to explore on foot. Most people prefer not to drive here as it can be overwhelming and chaotic.

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 New York City Worth Visiting? and Is Montreal Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Montreal or New York City?

How long in New York City or Montreal?

In either New York City or Montreal, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in New York City than Montreal because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for New York City, and 3-5 days is enough time in Montreal.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New York City 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 New York City.

One day in New York City or Montreal?

New York City is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the vibrant big city of Montreal. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in New York City or Montreal?

New York City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Montreal. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in New York City or Montreal?

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

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the vibrant big city of Montreal. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in New York City or Montreal?

New York City is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that New York City has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Montreal. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between New York City and Montreal, we can see that New York City is more expensive. And not only is Montreal much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Montreal would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Montreal 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 New York City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in New York City than you might in Montreal.

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

Which is Bigger, New York City or Montreal?

New York City has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Montreal. When comparing the sizes of New York City 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 New York City 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 New York City or Montreal in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both New York City and Montreal. Many travelers come to New York City for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Montreal in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, New York City is generally a little warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in New York City average around 77°F (25°C), and Montreal fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

New York City gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, New York City usually receives more rain than Montreal. New York City gets 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit New York City or Montreal in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to New York City as well as Montreal. Many visitors come to New York City in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Montreal for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

New York City is much warmer than Montreal in the autumn. The daily temperature in New York City averages around 57°F (14°C) in October, and Montreal fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

New York City usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Montreal. New York City gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit New York City or Montreal in the Winter?

Both Montreal and New York City are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to New York City for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Montreal because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Montreal can be very cold. New York City can be very cold during winter. In the winter, New York City is much warmer than Montreal. Typically, the winter temperatures in New York City in January average around 31°F (-1°C), and Montreal averages at about -10°C (14°F).

In January, New York City usually receives more rain than Montreal. New York City gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit New York City or Montreal in the Spring?

Both Montreal and New York City during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to New York City because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Montreal this time of year.

In April, New York City is generally much warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in New York City average around 52°F (11°C), and Montreal fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

New York City usually gets more rain in April than Montreal. New York City gets 3.8 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Montreal and New York City