Montreal vs Toronto: Which is the Best City to Visit?

Planning a trip to Canada? It’s hard to choose which city to visit, Montreal vs Toronto?

That’s the big question! And the answer is going to vary based on your interests.

I visited both Montréal and Toronto last summer (as well as Ottawa — we don’t want it to feel left out!) and had a great time exploring all three of these great Canadian cities.

I’m going to give you a rundown of each city’s top attractions, dining options, nightlife and more so that you can determine which city is best for you, Toronto or Montreal.

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Montreal vs Toronto: City Overview

Overview of Montreal

Montreal is a vibrant and exciting city located in the province of Quebec, Canada. With nearly 1.8 million residents, Montreal is the largest city in Quebec (based on population), and is the second largest city in Canada (after Toronto).

The city of Montreal is located on an island in the St. Lawrence River, and its most prominent feature is the hill of Mount Royal. (That’s where the city got its name.)

Of of my favorite things about Montreal is that it is a bilingual city. French is the official language in Quebec, with both French and English spoken widely throughout the region.

So don’t worry if you don’t speak French, as nearly everyone you meet on your trip will speak English.

France is my favorite travel destination, so it’s lovely to be able to visit a city in North America with such an amazing French flair!

And, best of all, French pastries — yum!

Overview of Toronto

Toronto is the largest city in Canada, located in the province of Ontario on the shores of Lake Ontario. With a population of over 2.7 million people, it has become a major destination for tourists from around the world.

Toronto offers visitors an array of attractions to explore, from its iconic skyline featuring incredible architecture such as the CN Tower and Rogers Centre to its diverse neighborhoods full of culture and cuisine.

Toronto is a very cosmopolitan city, and reminded me a lot of New York City with its vibrant entertainment and shopping scene.

(Bonus: Toronto only a 1.5-hour drive from the world-famous Niagara Falls, so you can take a day trip to Niagara Falls!)

Toronto vs Montreal: Top Things to Do

Best things to do in Montreal

You’ll find many amazing things to do in Montreal to keep you busy during your visit. You can explore Montreal’s top attractions on your own or get the inside scoop with this guided tour of Montreal’s highlights. For a bucket list experience, take a helicopter ride over Montreal!

1. Mont Royal Park: You’ll have to climb a lot of stairs to reach the top of Mont Royal, but once you get there, the panoramic views of the city and the St. Lawrence River from the Kondiaronk Belvedere are phenomenal!

Get some fresh air and take a leisurely stroll along the scenic trails criss-crossing Mount Royal Park.

2. Old Montreal: Explore the cobblestone streets and iconic architecture of historic Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal, in French). This a big part of why Montreal is one of the best Canadian cities!

Here you can find museums, galleries, boutiques and plenty of great restaurants. Take a guided tour of Old Montreal to make sure you don’t miss a thing!

3. Notre Dame Basilica: Visiting this stunning 19th-century church should definitely be at the top of your list during your trip to Montreal. This basilica was built 1824 and features incredible stained-glass windows.

4. Vieux Port: The Old Port of Montreal is a fun place to explore. This historic riverfront area boasts plenty of restaurants and unique attractions. Be sure to take a ride on La Grande Roue de Montréal, the tallest Ferris Wheel in Canada!

5. St. Joseph’s Oratory: This incredible basilica is the largest church in Canada, and boasts one of the largest church domes in the world! It’s also the highest building in Montreal, peeping up over the top of Mont Royal.

6. Montreal Botanical Garden: Enjoy the beauty of nature at the Montreal Botanical Garden! Stop and smell the roses and the other gorgeous flowers showcased in this massive 190-acre garden.

7. Biodome de Montreal: Experience four distinct ecosystems at this popular attraction; each one showcases flora and fauna native to North America’s different climates. Fun fact: The Biodome is located in the former velodrome from the 1976 Summer Olympics, which were held in Montreal.

8. Jean Talon Market & Atwater Market: Visit these bustling outdoor markets for the freshest produce in town, as well as cheeses, gourmet products, and more. I always love visiting markets to pick up ingredients for a picnic. And it’s hard to resist the beautiful flower bouquets!

Go behind the scenes on this food market tour of the Jean Talon Market and Little Italy!

9. Pointe-à-Callière: Montreal’s Pointe-à-Callière Museum of Archaeology and History is a family favorite. After all, who doesn’t like an interactive Viking exhibition?

10. Museum of Fine Arts: Montreal boasts some world-class museums and cultural attractions. Explore the varied pavilions of the Museum of Fine Arts to enjoy works ranging from contemporary to decorative arts to Canadian art.

Take a look at more great activities that you can enjoy in Montréal!

Best things to do in Toronto

You’ll find plenty of incredible things to to in Toronto during your visit. A great way to get oriented to the city and check many highlights off your list is to take a bike tour or a walking tour and scenic harbor cruise.

Here are some of Toronto’s top attractions you’ll want to check out!

1. CN Tower: Get a bird’s eye view of downtown Toronto from the observation deck of this iconic tower; one of Canada’s top attractions! At a height of 1815 feet, the CN tower is the tallest freestanding structure in the Northern Hemisphere!

2. Distillery District: Visit a former distillery turned entertainment district filled with unique galleries, shops and restaurants. In the winter, this area turns into a huge Christmas Market!

Save some wear and tear on your feet with this Distillery District Segway tour!

3. Nathan Phillips Square: This public square is right next door to Toronto’s City Hall and hosts festivals year-round. This is an iconic Toronto location and is home to the giant ‘Toronto’ sign, a favorite photo op. Plus, it turns into an ice skating rink in winter!

4. Yonge-Dundas Square: This outdoor public square and event venue hosts concerts and movies and is a focal point of downtown Toronto. With the bright lights, giant billboards, and shopping, you’ll feel like you’re in New York City.

5. Royal Ontario Museum: Explore art, culture and natural history at the renowned Royal Ontario Museum, exhibiting collections from around the world.

6. Ripley’s Aquarium: This is one of Toronto’s family favorites. See the 10-foot sharks and walk through two of the world’s longest underwater tunnels!

7. Kensington Market: This vibrant, multicultural neighborhood is full of eclectic shops and delicious food options. Take a stroll through the market to explore art galleries, vintage stores, and coffee shops, or take a Kensington Market International food tour to sample Toronto’s best cuisines!

8. St. Lawrence Market: Shop for local goods such as produce, cheese, fish, and more at Toronto’s oldest public market. Be sure to try the peameal sandwich at one of the restaurants in the St. Lawrence Market! (Tip: the St. Lawrence Market is closed on Mondays.)

9. Art Gallery of Ontario: Admire works of art spanning centuries and cultures at this world-renowned gallery. The Art Gallery of Ontario houses over 90,000 pieces!

10. Hockey Hall of Fame: We can’t talk about Canada with out talking about hockey. Visit the Hockey Hall of Fame to see its vast collection of hockey memorabilia, including the Stanley Cup!

Take a look at more great experiences that you can enjoy in Toronto!

Montréal vs Toronto: Food and Culinary Highlights

Best things to eat in Montreal

Montreal is a city with a rich food culture, offering an array of flavors and experiences for the adventurous eater.

From poutine to bagels, and from traditional French-Canadian dishes to adventurous fusion cuisine, Montreal’s culinary scene has something for everyone. Try a little bit of everything on this walking tasting tour of Montreal!

Here are some highlights of what you can expect when it comes to food and cuisine in Montreal:

1. Poutine: A classic Canadian dish made with French fries, cheese curds and gravy. It doesn’t sound like it would work, but somehow it does! It’s all about the ratios of the ingredients.

2. Montreal-style bagels: These sweet, chewy treats are a local favorite! They’re best when they’re still warm from the oven! St-Viateur Bagel is the best place to pick up some Montreal-style bagels for your daily nosh. (Tip: St-Viateur only accepts cash.)

You can even learn the secrets of how to make Montreal-style bagels in this fun bagel making workshop!

3. Smoked meat sandwich: This popular deli-style sandwich is made with cured and smoked brisket, served on rye bread and topped with mustard.

4. Flammekueche: Also known as tarte flambée, this is a favorite from the French region of Alsace. It’s like a very thin crust pizza, commonly topped with crème fraîche, bacon, and caramelized onions.

5. Portuguese chicken: This grilled dish is marinated in garlic, parsley and lemon juice for an unforgettable flavor experience. The Portuguese chicken at Ma Poule Mouillée is absolutely mouthwatering. This restaurant is definitely one of the best places to eat in Montreal.

6. Montreal-style smoked ribs: Smoked for hours over apple wood, this tender and flavorful dish is perfect for a summer BBQ!

7. French-Canadian dishes : Try out the renowned tourtière (meat pie), cretons (a pâté-like pork spread) or pâté chinois (literally, chinese pie — it’s Quebec’s version of a shepherd’s pie).

8. Maple desserts: Satisfy your sweet tooth with maple syrup-infused treats such as tarte au sucre (sugar pie) or pouding chômeur (poor man’s pudding).

9. International cuisine : Enjoy flavors from around the world at one of Montreal’s many restaurants featuring diverse cuisines, such as Ethiopian, Lebanese and Indian.

10. Craft beer : Sample some of the city’s craft beer offerings at one of Montreal’s many local breweries or bars. Get a behind-the-scenes look at Montreal’s microbreweries (and find a new favorite craft beer) on this Montreal brew tour!

No matter what you’re craving, Montreal offers something for everyone! With its wide range of culinary experiences, it’s no surprise that the city is known as a foodie paradise.

Hungry for more? Check out these delicious Montreal food tours!

Best things to eat in Toronto

Toronto is a city that loves to eat! With its diverse population and vibrant culinary scene, this city offers an array of flavors for every palate.

From classic Canadian dishes to innovative fusion cuisine, there are plenty of delicious options in this bustling metropolis. Sample Toronto’s top dishes in this walking tasting tour of Toronto!

Here are some highlights of what you can expect when it comes to food in Toronto!

1. Poutine : A classic Canadian dish made with French fries, cheese curds and gravy. (Even though poutine originated in Quebec, it is widely popular across Canada and you can find some great poutines in Toronto!)

2. Toronto-style pizza : Thin crust pizza topped with a secret blend of herbs and spices, covered in cheese, bacon and other toppings!

3. Peameal bacon sandwich : Treat your taste buds to signature Toronto dishes such as the peameal bacon sandwich. (Visit the Carousel Bakery at the St. Lawrence market to try one!)

4. Dim sum : Enjoy the delicate flavors of traditional Chinese dim sum!

5. International cuisine : Get a taste of flavors from around the world at one of Toronto’s many restaurants featuring diverse cuisines, such as Korean, Mexican and Italian.

6. Jerk chicken : Try this Caribbean-style grilled dish marinated in spices and peppers for a unique flavor experience.

7. Craft beer : Sample some of the city’s craft beer offerings at one of Toronto’s many local breweries or bars. Take a local beer tour to learn more about Canadian beer and visit historic Toronto pubs!

8. Comfort food : Indulge in classic comfort food dishes such as grilled cheese sandwiches and mac and cheese.

9. Bakeries : Satisfy your sweet tooth with baked goods from one of Toronto’s acclaimed pastry shops and bakeries.

10. Coffee & tea : Enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a traditional tea service at one of the city’s many cafes and tea shops. Canadians drink more coffee than Americans, so it’s no surprise that you’ll find plenty of caffeination options, from Tim Horton’s to buzzy espresso bars.

No matter what you’re in the mood for, you’re sure to find something delicious in Toronto! It’s no wonder why this Canadian city is a favored culinary destination.

Explore more delicious options in Toronto:

Toronto vs Montréal: Nightlife

Nightlife in Montreal

Montreal is a city that loves to party!

From trendy clubs to chic lounges, there are plenty of places to explore after dark in Montreal. Whether you’re looking for an intimate evening out or an all-night dance party, the city has it all.

Here are some highlights of what you can expect when it comes to nightlife in Montreal!

1. Clubs & Lounges : Enjoy dancing and drinks at one of the city’s chic clubs or lounges. You’ll find many great options along Boulevard St. Laurent and Rue Crescent.

2. Live music : Catch a show at one of Montreal’s many venues featuring popular musicians from all genres, including jazz, indie rock and hip-hop.

3. Comedy clubs : Laugh the night away at one of Montreal’s renowned comedy clubs, such as The Comedy Nest or Le Bordel Comédie Club (located in a former bordello!)

4. Pubs & bars : Sample some of Montreal’s local craft beers and spirits at a traditional pub or bar.

5. Outdoor activities : Experience the city after dark with a stroll along the waterfront or a bike ride through the Old Port. You can also take a ‘night flight’ guided scooter sightseeing tour of all the incredible illuminated monuments of Montreal!

6. Movie theaters : Catch an indie film or Hollywood blockbuster at one of Montreal’s many movie theaters, such as Cinéma du Parc.

7. Concerts & festivals : Get your tickets to some of the biggest music events in the city, including Osheaga and Piknic Électronik.

8. Cultural events : Enjoy performances from theater troupes, art exhibitions and other cultural activities throughout the year.

9. Food & drinks : Satisfy your cravings with a variety of delicious eats and tasty beverages available at Montreal’s restaurants, bars and pubs.

No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find it during the nightlife scene in Montreal! Enjoy a unique evening out exploring this vibrant city’s endless possibilities.

Nightlife in Toronto

Toronto is a bustling city that has something for everyone, especially when it comes to nightlife!

From craft beer bars and cozy lounges to outdoor activities and vibrant music festivals, Toronto offers an exciting variety of experiences after dark.

Here are some highlights of what you can expect when it comes to nightlife in Toronto!

1. Clubs & Lounges : Dance the night away at one of Toronto’s vibrant clubs or lounges, like The Drake Underground or Apt. 200.

2. Live music : Enjoy live performances from some of the biggest acts in the world at venues such as Danforth Music Hall and Massey Hall.

3. Comedy clubs : Tickle your funny bone with some of the city’s favorite stand-up comedians at Comedy Bar or Yuk Yuk’s.

4. Pubs & bars : Sample a variety of craft beers, ciders and spirits at one of Toronto’s many pubs and bars, such as Brazen Head Irish Pub or The Rhino Bar & Grill.

5. Outdoor activities : Experience the city after dark with a stroll along the waterfront or a bike ride through the streets of downtown Toronto.

6. Movie theaters : Catch an indie film or Hollywood blockbuster at one of Toronto’s many movie theaters, such as Cineplex Cinemas Yonge & Dundas.

7. Concerts & festivals : Get your tickets to some of the biggest music events in the city, including TURF (Toronto Urban Roots Festival) or Field Trip (Toronto’s downtown music and arts festival).

8. Cultural events : Enjoy performances from theater troupes, art exhibitions and other cultural activities throughout the year.

9. Food & drinks : Tempt your taste buds with a variety of delicious eats and refreshing beverages at Toronto’s restaurants, bars and pubs.

No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find it during the nightlife scene in Toronto! From live music to outdoor activities and delicious eats and drinks, the city offers endless possibilities.

Montreal vs Toronto: Festivals

Festivals in Montreal

Montreal is a city that loves to celebrate! This city hosts an array of festivals throughout the year. From outdoor music festivals to cultural celebrations, there’s something for everyone in Montreal.

Here are some of the can’t-miss annual events that take place in Montreal!

1. Just For Laughs Festival: Enjoy a week of comedy performances, seminars and workshops celebrating all things funny. Just for Laughs is the largest comedy festival in the world! (July)

2. Montreal International Jazz Festival: One of the biggest jazz festivals in the world, this event brings together some of music’s most renowned names in the world’s largest jazz festival. (Generally held in the end of June / beginning of July)

3. Fireworks Competition: Watch as teams from around the world compete against each other in a spectacular show of pyrotechnics. (Generally held in the end of June through beginning of August)

4. Osheaga Music and Arts Festival: Rock out to some of the biggest names in music at this three-day outdoor festival. (August)

5. Grand Prix du Canada: Cheer on your favorite Formula 1 drivers during this annual race held at Montreal’s Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. (June)

6. Festival International Nuits d’Afrique: Enjoy a range of music, dance and art performances from Africa and its diaspora at this ten-day festival. (July)

7. Montreal Fringe Festival: Catch performances from local and international theatre companies at this two-week event celebrating the arts (End of May/beginning of June)

Festivals in Toronto

Toronto is home to a wide variety of exciting festivals throughout the year, offering something for everyone to enjoy! From music and art events to cultural celebrations, there are plenty of unique experiences that can be found in this vibrant city.

When you’re visiting for an event, plan to spend two or three days in Toronto to be able to explore the city’s highlights!

Here are some of the must-see festivals that take place annually in Toronto:

1. Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF): Watch some of the world’s best films at this renowned international film festival. (September)

2. Luminato Festival: Experience art and culture in a unique way at this two-week long event featuring performances, exhibits, and more! (June)

3. Taste of the Danforth: Sample Greek cuisine and watch exciting performances at this annual outdoor food festival.

4. Toronto Caribbean Carnival: Celebrate Caribbean culture with a week of concerts, masquerades and more! (August)

5. Canada’s Walk of Fame Festival: Enjoy top-notch entertainment from some of the country’s best musicians and performers.

6. Toronto Jazz Festival: Listen to some of the world’s best jazz musicians at this two-week event held annually in the summer. (End of June/beginning of July)

7. NXNE (North by Northeast): Attend panels, concerts and more at this annual four-day music festival. (June)

No matter when you visit, Toronto always has something exciting on the calendar!

Toronto vs Montreal: Public Transportation

Public transit in Montreal

Getting around Montreal is a breeze with its efficient public transit system, including an extensive network of buses as well as metro lines.

So, if you’re just planning to explore the city, there is no need to rent a car (plus that way, you don’t have to deal with the hassle of parking).

For those who plan on using public transit frequently during their stay, there are various passes available for purchase that provide discounts and more convenience. From 24-hour tickets to weekly or monthly passes, commuters will find something that suits their needs.

Tip: If you’re arriving in Montreal by air, you’ll be arriving at the Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport. Take the 747 bus from the airport to downtown Montreal. The 747 bus runs 24×7 from the airport.

Plus, buying a ticket for the 747 bus is a 24-hour transit pass, so you can easily kick off your explorations of this great city.

Public transit in Toronto

Toronto is an exciting and vibrant city with plenty of things to do. Getting around Toronto is easy thanks to its extensive public transit system. With buses, streetcars, and subways available throughout the city, commuters can easily reach their destination in no time.

For those who plan on using public transit frequently during their stay, there are various passes available for purchase that provide discounts and more convenience. From 24-hour tickets to weekly or monthly passes, travelers will find something that suits their needs.

Tip: There is a public line that connects Toronto’s Union Station to the airport, the Union-Pearson Express (UP Express). Note that you do need a separate ticket for this, as it is not covered within the regular Toronto transit passes.

You can purchase your ticket when you get to Union Station – -you don’t need to worry about buying your ticket in advance.

Final Thoughts:

Ultimately, whether you choose to visit Montreal or Toronto is up to you. Both cities are unique, vibrant and jam-packed with amazing things to do.

Montreal has a certain old-world charm while Toronto is more of a modern metropolis. Weigh your options carefully and make sure to pick the city that will provide the most enjoyable vacation for you!

Still having a hard time deciding between Toronto and Montreal? Why not visit both and experience the best of both worlds? Or add in Ottawa for a great Canada summer trip!

Happy travels!

You might also enjoy these posts about my favorite places to travel in Canada:

• Best Cities to Visit in Canada
• 10-day Canada Trip Itinerary (Montreal, Toronto, and Ottawa)
• Best Montreal Food Tours in Montreal
• Montreal Botanical Garden Guide
• Best Things to Do in Ottawa
• Best Ottawa Tours
• Top Things to Do in Victoria, BC