Toronto and Montreal are two of Canada’s most celebrated cities, each with a unique mix of culture, charm, and attractions. Just 335 miles apart — a 5.5-hour drive or an 80-minute flight — it’s possible to visit both. But if time is limited and you can only visit one, how do you choose? Whether it’s the skyscrapers of Toronto or the cobblestone streets of Montreal, both cities have endless adventures to offer. From must-see sights to culinary scenes and vibrant nightlife, here are the key contrasts between Toronto and Montreal to help you decide. As always, check for travel guidelines and closures before planning your trip.
The Basics
Toronto
Located on the shores of Lake Ontario, Toronto is Canada’s largest city and a global financial and cultural hub. Its sheer scale, with towering skyscrapers and sprawling neighborhoods, gives it an impressive metropolitan feel. Known for its diversity, Toronto celebrates a blend of cultures, languages, and cuisines from around the world. Winter brings chilly temperatures, perfect for cozy city explorations, while summer is bustling with festivals and waterfront outings. Spring and early fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making them ideal times to visit. Toronto is perfect for urban explorers, families, and culture enthusiasts, with iconic sights like the CN Tower, Royal Ontario Museum, Art Gallery of Ontario, and Toronto Islands.
Montreal
Situated on an island in the St. Lawrence River in Quebec, Montreal is known for its old-world charm and blend of European and North American influences. The city has a more intimate, walkable layout compared to Toronto, with cobblestone streets, storied architecture, and a distinct artistic spirit. Winters are snowy and magical, ideal for festive events like the Igloofest music festival. Summertime brings outdoor dining and major festivals, such as the Montreal International Jazz Festival, showcasing the city’s passion for music and arts. Montreal’s romantic vibe appeals to couples and foodies, while families enjoy the Montreal Science Centre and Biodome, with interactive and immersive exhibits for all ages.
Activities
Toronto
There’s no shortage of compelling things to do in Toronto. Art aficionados can spend hours at the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), where extensive collections of Canadian, Indigenous, and international art are displayed. Nearby, the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) showcases everything from dinosaur skeletons to ancient cultural artifacts, making it a favorite for families and culture lovers. For a thrill, head to the CN Tower, one of Toronto’s most iconic structures, where adventure-seekers can stroll along the EdgeWalk, a nerve-wracking walk around the tower’s outside ledge, suspended 1,168 feet above the ground. Wander the cobblestone streets and beautifully preserved 19th-century industrial buildings of the Distillery District to enjoy boutiques, art galleries, and cafés. The Toronto Islands, a short ferry ride away, provide a peaceful escape with beaches, picnic spots, and bike trails. For day trips, Niagara Falls is a 90-minute drive, while the Bruce Peninsula, home to Bruce Peninsula National Park and Fathom Five National Marine Park, offers breathtaking turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and hiking trails about 3.5 hours away.
Montreal
Montreal exudes European ambience with notable sites like the Notre-Dame Basilica, known for its stunning Gothic Revival architecture, and the Old Port, where scenic river cruises await. For panoramic views, head to Mount Royal Park, a lush oasis offering incredible city skyline vistas. Montreal is bursting with artistic energy, from museum collections to live performances and festivals. The Montreal Cirque Festival (Montréal Complètement Cirque) transforms parks, streets, and theaters into a playground of acrobatic acts and street performances each summer, showcasing classic Cirque du Soleil spectacles and experimental shows. The Just for Laughs Festival, the world’s largest international comedy festival, fills the streets with laughter through stand-up, improv, and global comedy acts. For visual arts, the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts offers classical and contemporary works, while colorful street murals in the Plateau-Mont-Royal neighborhood add vibrancy. Montreal’s mix of historical charm and thriving arts promises inspiration at every corner.
Food
Toronto
Toronto’s culinary scene thrives on its multicultural population. The St. Lawrence Market is a haven for food lovers, featuring local and international flavors, while Kensington Market offers global dishes reflecting the city’s vibrant immigrant communities. For an upscale meal, Canoe delivers Canadian-inspired cuisine with stunning city views. Ramen Isshin in Toronto’s East Chinatown offers a masterful take on ramen with rich, perfectly balanced broth and housemade noodles. Staying near the waterfront at the Westin Harbour Castle provides easy access to eclectic dining options, making it an ideal base for culinary enthusiasts.
Montreal
Montreal’s culinary scene draws from its French-Canadian roots, famous for poutine, bagels, and smoked meat. Schwartz’s Deli is a local institution for its smoked-meat sandwiches, while St-Viateur Bagel is a must-visit for Montreal-style bagels, which are smaller, denser, and sweeter, often made with honey in the dough. Toqué! serves epicurean treats in a romantic, moody atmosphere, and Le Robin Square is popular for creative brunch options. Staying at the Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth puts you near some of the city’s best dining spots, perfect for savoring Montreal’s flavors.
Nightlife
Toronto
Toronto’s nightlife offers huge variety, from trendy rooftop lounges to live music and comedy clubs. Lavelle is known as an upscale venue with an energetic dance floor. For unique cocktails and tapas, BarChef delivers an unforgettable experience, while The Second City is a local favorite for stand-up comedy. The W Toronto provides comfortable accommodations near the Entertainment District, keeping you close to the city’s nightlife offerings.
Montreal
Montreal’s nightlife is as varied and colorful as its culture, with intimate jazz clubs, lively burlesque shows, and creative cocktail lounges. The Coldroom is famous for its inventive drinks, while Le Belmont is a hot spot for live music performances. Arcade MTL offers a nostalgic twist with vintage arcade games and drinks for night owls. The Renaissance Montreal Downtown Hotel places guests near some of the city’s best nightlife venues and boasts its own chic bar scene, including the East End Bar and Terrasse Place d’Armes. It’s a prime choice for diving into Montreal’s exciting after-hours culture.
Getting Around
Toronto
Toronto has an extensive public transportation system, including subways, streetcars, and buses operated by the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), as well as bike-sharing programs. Driving isn’t recommended due to traffic and limited parking, but public transit provides an efficient way to see the main sights. Downtown Toronto is walkable, though the city’s size can be overwhelming for families with young children, who should plan extra time and choose a central hotel like the Delta Hotels by Marriott Toronto. In winter, the city’s 20 miles of underground pathways, known as the PATH, offer a warm escape to explore restaurants, cafés, and shops.
Montreal
Montreal’s efficient Société de transport de Montréal (STM) operates subways and buses, making getting around easy. Extensive bike paths suit solo travelers or couples, and the city’s manageable size is perfect for exploring by foot or bike. In winter, the Underground City (RÉSO), a network of tunnels, connects restaurants, shops, and attractions, keeping you warm while exploring.
Conclusion
Toronto’s urban pulse and endless options make it ideal for travelers seeking a dynamic city break, while Montreal’s historic charm and cultural vibrancy offer a more intimate escape with European-inspired flair. Whether you choose Toronto’s skyscrapers and diverse neighborhoods or Montreal’s cobblestone streets and artistic energy, you’re bound to create incredible memories in one of Canada’s iconic cities.
