A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Raleigh vs. Montreal for Attractions, Nightlife, Food, and Families

Should you visit Raleigh or Montreal?

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

Should I visit Raleigh or Montreal? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Raleigh

Raleigh is a student-friendly, suburban-style, and friendly city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Raleigh travel costs.

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 food, shopping, and museums. See Montreal travel costs.

Raleigh and Montreal: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Raleigh or Montreal?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Montreal than Raleigh. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Montreal is more touristy than Raleigh and is popular for its music, fashion, and cultural activities. It is also well known for Notre-Dame Basilica. Raleigh is famous for its many museums and being the home to North Carolina State University.

How is Raleigh different from Montreal?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Montreal is very popular for its museums and landmarks. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Raleigh is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. As the state capital, there are a number of free museums in the area. There are also some kid-friendly options and other activities that are affiliated with the colleges and universities. Popular options include the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (free), the NC Museum of History (free), the NC Museum of Art (free), and Marbles Kids Museum.

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

Montreal is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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 Raleigh. In addition to the standard chain restaurants, you'll find a number of local eateries with great southern dishes. Try some southern classics like barbecue, pimento cheese, and fried chicken and waffles. There are also good international options including Nepalese, Laotian, and Ethiopian flavors.

Is Raleigh or Montreal Better for Nightlife?

Montreal is very popular for its evening party scene. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Montreal is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Raleigh has a few options to choose from. Head to downtown Raleigh or the areas around NC State University for some of the best nightlife. Trivia nights and happy hours are popular and you'll find breweries popping up in many places.

Is Raleigh or Montreal Better for Music?

Montreal is very popular for its music scene. However, Raleigh 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.

Raleigh is not a live music destination.

Is Raleigh or Montreal Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Raleigh does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Raleigh or Montreal?

Montreal is very popular for its shopping areas. However, Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Raleigh or Montreal Better for Families?

Montreal is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Raleigh offers lots of family activities. For such a small city, Raleigh has a number of unique kid-friendly activities like the popular Pullen Park and Marbles Kids' Museum. Pullen Park has small rides and a playground that are perfect for young kids. There's also the NC Museum of Natural History which is free and fun to explore with kids.

Is Raleigh or Montreal Better for Couples?

Montreal is well known for couples. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for romance.

Couples visit Montreal frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Raleigh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. While it's often overlooked by couples who want a weekend away, there are a number of museums and some nice restaurants to explore.

Is Raleigh or Montreal Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Montreal is a popular place for backpackers. However, Raleigh is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Raleigh is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Raleigh or Montreal Better for Students?

Montreal is very popular for students. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Raleigh is very popular with students. The city has a diverse student population with many nearby universities and colleges.

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

Montreal is well known for its public transit. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Montreal offers a very effecient public transportation network. There's an efficient and reliable metro and bus system.

Public transit is quite limited in Raleigh. The city's public transportation options are limited to a few bus lines that are mostly used by students.

Is Raleigh or Montreal a more walkable city?

Montreal is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for its walkability.

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

Raleigh is generally not a very walkable city. The city is somewhat walkable in the downtown area, but everywhere else you'll need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Montreal or Raleigh?

How long in Raleigh or Montreal?

In either Raleigh or Montreal, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Montreal than Raleigh because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Raleigh, and 3-5 days is enough time in Montreal.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Montreal than Raleigh 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 Raleigh or Montreal?

The city of Raleigh offers nightlife and food. 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.

Because Montreal is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Raleigh or Montreal?

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

Because Montreal is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Raleigh or Montreal?

Raleigh 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.

Montreal is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Montreal has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Raleigh or Montreal?

Raleigh 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Montreal. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Montreal. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.

When comparing the travel costs between Raleigh and Montreal, we can see that Montreal is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Raleigh or Montreal?

Montreal has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Raleigh. When comparing the sizes of Raleigh 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 Raleigh or Montreal?

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 Raleigh or Montreal in the Summer?

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

Raleigh is a little warmer than Montreal in the summer. The daily temperature in Raleigh averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Montreal fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

In Montreal, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Raleigh. In the summer, Raleigh often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Montreal. Raleigh gets 259 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 276 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Raleigh. Raleigh usually gets more rain in July than Montreal. Raleigh gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Raleigh or Montreal in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Raleigh is much warmer than Montreal. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Raleigh in October average around 61°F (16°C), and Montreal averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In Raleigh, it's very sunny this time of the year. Raleigh usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during autumn. Raleigh gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 141 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Raleigh usually receives less rain than Montreal. Raleigh gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Raleigh or Montreal in the Winter?

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

Montreal can be very cold during winter. Raleigh can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Raleigh is generally much warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Raleigh average around 40°F (5°C), and Montreal fluctuates around -10°C (14°F).

In the winter, Raleigh often gets more sunshine than Montreal. Raleigh gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 103 hours of full sun.

Raleigh usually gets more rain in January than Montreal. Raleigh gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Raleigh or Montreal in the Spring?

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

Raleigh is much warmer than Montreal in the spring. The daily temperature in Raleigh averages around 60°F (16°C) in April, and Montreal fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Raleigh. Raleigh usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during spring. Raleigh gets 251 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 183 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Raleigh usually receives around the same amount of rain as Montreal. Raleigh gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Montreal receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Montreal and Raleigh