MontrealvsSan Francisco
Can't decide between Montreal and San Francisco? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.
Montreal
Montreal is a bilingual gem where French flair meets North American energy. This vibrant city offers incredible festivals, stunning street art, world-class bagels, and a joie de vivre that makes it feel like a slice of Europe in the Americas.
Known for
San Francisco
San Francisco is a city of iconic bridges, Victorian houses, and progressive culture perched on stunning hills overlooking the Bay. From tech innovation to historic cable cars and world-renowned cuisine, SF offers a unique American experience.
Known for
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Head-to-Head Comparison
See how these destinations stack up in key categories
Culture & History
Montreal offers Old Montreal, Mount Royal, Notre-Dame Basilica
San Francisco offers Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman's Wharf
Food & Dining
Montreal is famous for its local dining scene
San Francisco is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Montreal offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
San Francisco offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Best Time to Visit
May to October
September to November
Weather
Summer: 26°C, Winter: -8°C
Summer: 21°C, Winter: 12°C
Top Attractions in Montreal
- 1Old Montreal
- 2Mount Royal
- 3Notre-Dame Basilica
- 4Mile End
- 5Jean-Talon Market
- 6Underground City
Top Attractions in San Francisco
- 1Golden Gate Bridge
- 2Alcatraz Island
- 3Fisherman's Wharf
- 4Cable Cars
- 5Painted Ladies
- 6Chinatown
Montreal is Popular With
San Francisco is Popular With
Hidden Gems
Discover lesser-known attractions in each city
Hidden Gems in Montreal
- 1
The Farine Five Roses Sign
A iconic, retro neon sign overlooking the city skyline from the South Shore, originally advertising a flour company.
- 2
Biodôme de Montréal
Not a typical museum, but an immersive ecosystem zoo housed in the former velodrome from the 1976 Olympics.
Hidden Gems in San Francisco
- 1
The Wave Organ
An acoustic sculpture located on a jetty in the Marina District.
- 2
Seward Street Slides
Two long, concrete slides built into a hillside in the Castro District.
Neighborhoods to Explore
Discover the best areas to visit in each city
Top Areas in Montreal
Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal)
The historic heart of the city, with 17th-century architecture, cobblestone streets, and a romantic, old-world atmosphere.
Plateau Mont-Royal
A bohemian, vibrant district known for its colorful row houses with iconic spiral staircases, indie shops, bustling cafes, and some of the city's best street art.
Top Areas in San Francisco
The Mission
Once a working-class Latino neighborhood, the Mission is now a dynamic fusion of historic culture and trendy innovation.
North Beach
San Francisco's 'Little Italy' pulses with a warm, old-world energy.
Budget Comparison
Compare the cost of traveling in each city
Budget in Montreal
Budget in San Francisco
Book Activities
Find tours and experiences in both cities
Book Activities in Montreal
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Book Activities in San Francisco
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Getting There
Compare transport options to both destinations
Find cheap transport to Montreal
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Montreal
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Find cheap transport to San Francisco
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Our Verdict
Both Montreal and San Francisco are incredible destinations. Montreal excels in festivals and bagels, while San Francisco stands out for Golden Gate Bridge and tech.
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