The Montreal Grand Prix is a major spring event in Montreal. Three days, from May 22 to 24, when the city transforms. However, in a tense geopolitical context weighing on household finances, the Montreal Grand Prix budget required to attend this global F1 race climbs every year. Downtown hotels doubling or tripling their rates, restaurants under siege: the cost of a stay becomes a real topic of conversation.
Our team has calculated what the 2026 Grand Prix truly costs for three visitor profiles, and how much can be recovered by paying the right expenses with the right credit card. To compare all options, check out our page of the best credit cards.
Average 2026 Budget: $3,315 for Three Days
To better illustrate the reality of expenses, we modeled three typical spectator profiles: « budget, » « standard, » and « premium. » The scenarios are based on prices observed in spring 2026 and cover a three-day stay in Montreal.
The « standard » profile corresponds to an average visitor staying downtown and fully enjoying the weekend. Their budget reaches $3,315 CAD this year. Needless to say, the bill climbs quickly.
« Budget » Profile: $1,347
This scenario corresponds to a visitor who wants to attend the Grand Prix at the lowest possible cost, without giving up the weekend atmosphere. They prioritize general admission, shared accommodation, and limited spending on dining and outings.
Even with this economical approach, the budget far exceeds the symbolic $1,000 threshold. Note: accommodation alone accounts for nearly half the bill (44.5%), compared to over 30% for tickets.
Category
Amount (CAD)
% of total
Assumptions
Tickets (circuit)
$410
30,4 %
3-day general admission (official 2026 rate)
Accommodation
$600
44,5 %
Youth hostel dormitory on the outskirts · 3 nights × $200 (average rates including taxes)
Dining
$180
13,4 %
Prices checked at fast-food establishments near the circuit ($60/day)
Local transport
$22
1,6 %
STM 3-day pass (current fare)
Purchases / merchandising
$75
5,6 %
Official program + cap (prices checked on the official CGV store)
Outings / bars
$60
4,5 %
Crescent Street, satellite parties ($20/day)
TOTAL
$1,347
100 %
« Standard » Profile: $3,315
The « standard » profile represents the most typical scenario for a Canadian or North American visitor spending three days in Montreal. It includes access to the floating platform at Jean-Doré Beach, a three-star downtown hotel, intermediate consumption level for dining, outings and on-site purchases, as well as access to concerts (Bryan Adams, Alessia Cara, Simple Plan).
In this configuration, accommodation alone represents nearly 60% of the budget. This figure is partly explained by the absence of short-term rentals like Airbnb this year during the GP dates, compared to 21% for ticket prices (CGV Experience for the three race days). At over $1,000 CAD per day, this budget illustrates the financial effort fans must make.
$90/day (average rates observed in mid-range establishments)
Local transport
$80
2,4 %
STM pass + evening Uber · metro + yellow line to Île Notre-Dame
Purchases / merchandising
$225
6,8 %
Cap + team t-shirt (prices checked on the official CGV store)
Outings / bars / events
$90
2,7 %
Evenings on Crescent Street, bar cover charges, off-track parties ($30/day)
TOTAL
$3,315
100 %
« Premium » Profile: $7,525
This profile corresponds to clientele seeking a premium Grand Prix experience. It includes premium tickets with hospitality, a four-star downtown hotel, gourmet restaurants, and exclusive activities during the weekend.
The total budget exceeds $7,500 CAD for three days, confirming the increasingly premium positioning of the Montreal event. Accommodation (53.8%) and tickets (25.4%) remain the two main expense categories, but related experiences and the desired comfort level also weigh heavily.
$230/day (average rates observed in fine dining establishments)
Local transport
$250
3,3 %
Exclusive travel by Uber or taxi (estimates including 15% tip)
Purchases / merchandising
$320
4,3 %
Cap + team t-shirt + other souvenirs (prices checked on the official CGV store)
Outings / experiences
$300
4,0 %
Private parties, Strøm spa, various tourist activities ($100/day)
TOTAL
$7,525
100 %
Transport to Montreal: An Additional Cost
We chose not to include the cost of travel in our calculations, as it varies too much depending on each traveler’s origin. However, it adds to the financial effort fans must make. For reference, here is what the trip to Montreal might represent from different destinations.
Departure point
Estimated round-trip cost
Quebec City (car)
$100-150 gas
Toronto (train or car)
$200-300
Halifax (car, 12h)
$600-700
France (economy flight)
$1,200-1,800 CAD
All-inclusive prices checked on various representative online travel platforms (Expedia, Kayak, Skyscanner), for a Thursday arrival and Sunday departure on GP weekend dates, average gas prices recorded at gas stations in the province of origin as of May 18, 2026.
Nearly 25% of the Weekend Recoverable with the Right Cards
With the price explosion during the Canadian Grand Prix weekend (fully booked hotels, packed restaurants, premium tickets, and festive expenses), credit cards become a lever to reduce the bill. Based on a « standard » traveler profile, a person spending about $3,300 CAD during the Grand Prix could recover $800 CAD in real value through a strategic combination of cards: accumulated points, travel credits, free nights, access to exclusive presales. And that’s without counting the welcome bonus which can make a card profitable in its first year.
$150 to $300 in indirect value depending on the trip
CobaltMD Card from American Express: Restaurants, Bars, and F1 Parties
During the Grand Prix weekend, Montreal becomes a massive gastronomic and festive playground. Between the crowded terraces on Crescent Street, late dinners, and F1 parties, dining expenses explode quickly. The CobaltMD Card from American Express is appreciated in this context thanks to its 5x points multiplier on restaurants, bars, and food services. For a couple fully enjoying the weekend, these expenses can easily exceed $400 in a few days.
5x American Express Membership Rewards points: on restaurants and bars
Accelerated accumulation: on brunches, cocktails, and parties
Strong everyday profitability: recurring expenses become profitable
Transfers to travel programs: maximum flexibility to redeem points
With annual fees of $155.88, the CobaltMD Card remains relatively accessible compared to premium cards. Its value extends far beyond the Grand Prix weekend alone: it becomes particularly profitable for consumers who regularly spend on dining throughout the year.
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$255Total$255Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
$255
Welcome offerGet 1,250 points after $750 in purchases per month for 12 months
Apply with confidenceCheck whether your application will be approved before you submit it, with no impact on your credit score*When you apply for a personal American Express Credit Card, we will tell you whether you are eligible without affecting your credit score. So you can apply with confidence.*Instant decisions are only available for consumer Card applications (also called “personal Cards”).
The American Express Cobalt® Card is a versatile American Express card, whether you want points for travel or cash back.
American Express Cobalt® Card welcome offer
The welcome bonus is paid out monthly over your first 12 months. You earn 1,250 Membership Rewards points for each monthly billing period in which you charge $750 in net purchases to your card, in any category (1X, 2X, 3X or 5X). That adds up to 15,000 Membership Rewards points over the year, a welcome offer valued at $255.
Earning the full bonus means $9,000 in net purchases spread across 12 monthly billing periods. This offer rewards steady monthly spending rather than one large purchase.
You can use these points as statement credits on everyday or travel purchases, at the same rate either way: 1,000 points = $10.
You can also transfer them to Aeroplan, Avios (British Airways and Qatar Airways), Flying Blue, Marriott Bonvoy or Hilton Honors. With the full welcome bonus, that is a choice between:
15,000 Aeroplan points
15,000 Avios points
15,000 Flying Blue Miles
18,000 Marriott Bonvoy points
American Express Cobalt® Card benefits
Here is what the card gives you, starting with the benefits cardholders use most.
5X points on eligible eats and drinks in Canada: groceries, restaurants and bars, home food delivery and convenience stores. A spend cap applies.
3X points on eligible streaming subscriptions in Canada.
2X points on eligible gas, public transit and ride sharing purchases in Canada.
1 additional point on eligible hotel and car rental bookings made through American Express Travel Online.
1X point per dollar on everything else, with no category restrictions.
Points that hold the same value either way: 1,000 points = $10 as a statement credit, or a 1:1 transfer to several airline and hotel loyalty programs.
No minimum income requirement, as with every American Express Canada card.
Additional cards at no extra cost: the first and every other supplementary card is $0.
The Hotel Collection: a room upgrade when available, 12pm check-in and late check-out when available, and up to $100 USD in hotel credit on amenities charged to the room for a stay of two or more consecutive nights, booked through American Express Travel.
Front Of The Line® presale and reserved tickets for concerts and theatre performances, plus offers and events curated for cardmembers through Amex Experiences.
A soft credit check before you apply: you can see whether you will be approved with no impact to your credit score. This applies to American Express personal card applications.
The 5X categories and where they apply
The 5X rate is the reason most people carry this card. In Canada it covers four kinds of merchants:
Groceries: Metro, IGA, Sobeys, Super C, Safeway, Whole Foods.
Restaurants and bars: sit-down meals, takeout and drinks.
Home food delivery.
Convenience stores: Couche-Tard, 7-Eleven.
The 2X rate covers gas stations such as Esso, Shell and Petro-Canada, along with public transit and ride sharing.
With the American Express Cobalt® Card, you earn between 1 and 5 points per dollar:
Category
Points per dollar
Grocery (Metro, IGA, Sobeys, Super C, etc.)
5
Home food delivery
5
Restaurants and bars
5
Convenience stores
5
Streaming services
3
Service station
2
Transport
2
Travel
1
Other
1
That works out to a 1 to 5% return on those purchases. For example, if you spend $1,000 per month across groceries, restaurants and food delivery, you earn $50 back per month, or $600 per year from that category alone. Transfer the points to a program such as Aeroplan instead and the return can be higher.
You can also stack these categories with the hundreds of stores that offer 5x points.
American Express Cobalt® Card insurance coverage
The card comes with a broad insurance package. The amounts below are the coverage limits; conditions, age limits and exclusions are set out in the certificate of insurance linked in the Insurance section above.
Travel insurance
Emergency medical: up to $5,000,000 for the first 15 days of a trip.
Travel accident: accidental death and dismemberment of up to $250,000 for you, your spouse and dependent children under age 23 when travelling on a common carrier (plane, train, bus or ship) and the tickets are charged to your card. Supplementary cardholders and their families are covered too.
Flight delay: up to $500 for necessary hotel, meal and sundry expenses bought within 48 hours when you are delayed or denied boarding for four hours or more and no other transportation is available. This $500 is an aggregate limit per occurrence, shared with missed connection and delayed baggage coverage.
Delayed baggage: up to $500 for essential clothing and sundries bought within four days when your outbound luggage is delayed six hours or more. This $500 is an aggregate limit per occurrence, shared with missed connection and flight delay coverage.
Lost or stolen baggage: up to $500 per occurrence for all insured persons combined, for checked or carry-on baggage and personal effects in transit, when the airline tickets are charged to your card. Within that limit, jewellery is capped at $300 per occurrence and golf clubs, including golf bags, at $250 per occurrence.
Hotel and motel burglary: up to $500 against the loss of most personal items if your hotel or motel is burglarized, when the stay is charged to your card.
Rental car insurance
Theft and damage coverage is included for a rental car with an MSRP, for its model year, of up to $85,000 excluding all taxes, for rentals of up to 48 days. To use it, decline the Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) or any similar option from the rental company and charge the full rental to your card. There is no cost for this coverage, and it replaces the daily insurance the rental company charges, usually $16 to $23 per day.
Mobile device insurance
Your device is covered for up to $1,000 per occurrence when it is charged to the card, for up to two years from the date of purchase. The payout is based on the depreciated value of the device, which falls by 2% of the purchase price for every completed month, less a 10% deductible. Theft and accidental damage coverage starts on the 91st day after purchase, because the first 90 days are covered by purchase protection.
Purchase protection and extended warranty
Eligible items charged to your card are insured against accidental physical damage or theft for 90 days from the purchase date, up to $1,000 per occurrence for all items combined. The card also extends the original manufacturer’s warranty by up to one additional year on eligible items, with indemnification limited to $10,000 per insured item and $25,000 per Cardmember per policy year for all items combined.
American Express Cobalt® Card fees
Card fee: $15.99 per month, which equals $191.88 per year, for residents outside Quebec. Quebec residents are billed $191.88 per year.
Additional cards: $0.
Purchase interest rate: 21.99%.
Cash advance interest rate: 21.99%.
Foreign transaction fee: 2.5%.
Minimum income required: none.
Because the fee is billed monthly rather than in one annual charge, you can stop and restart the cost in step with how much you are actually using the card.
Legal
American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, we may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.
Annual fee
Primary card$191.88
Additional card$0
Annual income required
Individual$0
Household$0
Conversion fees
2.5%
Earning rate
5xRestaurants
5xGroceries
3xStreaming
2xTransit
2xGas & EV
1xAll spending
Value
1st Year Value$1,675
2nd Year Value$799
Transfer partners
AeroplanAirline
British Airways ClubAirline
Cathay Asia MilesAirline
Etihad GuestAirline
Flying BlueAirline
Hilton HonorsHotel
Marriott BonvoyHotel
Travel insurance
Travel medical (under 55)Up to $5,000,000 / 15 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $5,000,000 / 15 days
Delayed BaggageUp to $500
Lost BaggageUp to $500
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $500
Travel AccidentUp to $250,000
Purchase protection
Purchase ProtectionUp to $1,000 / 90 days
Extended Warranty+1 years
Mobile DeviceUp to $1,000 / 2 years
Auto Rental Collision (primary)Up to $85,000 / 48 days
Marriott BonvoyMD American ExpressMD Card: A Valuable Free Night
Accommodation is often the most expensive expense category during the Grand Prix. During race weekend, downtown hotels display rates that can double or triple. The Marriott BonvoyMD American ExpressMD Card stands out thanks to its annual free night certificate, which can represent particularly high value during this period of strong demand. In some downtown Marriott hotels, a single night can easily reach $500 to $600 CAD.
Annual free night certificate: up to 35,000 points
Bonvoy points accumulation: on all hotel expenses
Marriott Silver Elite status included: small benefits from the first stay
Major savings during GP: the certificate absorbs one night at full rate
With annual fees of $120, this card can become profitable very quickly if the certificate is used strategically during periods of high hotel inflation like the Grand Prix. For regular travelers, the potential value often far exceeds the annual cost of the card.
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$600Total$600Plus $100 of bonus paid after the first year, not counted in this total.Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
Apply with confidenceCheck whether your application will be approved before you submit it, with no impact on your credit score*When you apply for a personal American Express Credit Card, we will tell you whether you are eligible without affecting your credit score. So you can apply with confidence.*Instant decisions are only available for consumer Card applications (also called “personal Cards”).
The Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card is the best credit card in Canada for free hotel nights.
New Cardmembers can earn up to 70,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points with the current offer:
Earn up to 60,000 points after you spend $3,000 on your Card in your first 3 months of Cardmembership.
Plus, earn 10,000 points after you spend $500 on your Card in your 13th month of Cardmembership.
The annual fee is $120, and there is no annual fee on Additional Cards, so you can add a partner or a family member at no extra cost.
Every year after your first Card anniversary, you receive an Annual Free Night Award good for a redemption of up to 35,000 points at eligible hotels and resorts worldwide. At a valuation of 0.9 cents per Marriott Bonvoy point, that certificate is worth roughly $315, which on its own more than covers the $120 annual fee. That is the main reason to keep this Card year after year instead of cancelling it.
To get the most out of the certificate, aim it at a night that would otherwise price close to the 35,000 point ceiling.
The Card also gives you 15 Elite Night Credits each calendar year and automatic Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status. Those credits count toward the next Elite tier, so you begin every year 15 nights ahead of where you would otherwise start.
You move up to Gold Elite status automatically when you reach $30,000 in purchases on the Card in a year, or when you combine 10 qualifying paid nights within one calendar year with the 15 Elite Night Credits from your Card.
Marriott Bonvoy points are generally valued at 0.9 cents each. On that basis, the 70,000 point welcome offer is worth about $630, and an Annual Free Night Award used at its full 35,000 point ceiling is worth about $315.
Marriott Bonvoy points pull their weight on free nights rather than on gift cards or merchandise, which is why this Card should be judged on the hotel stays it produces.
You earn 5 points per dollar on eligible purchases at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels and 2 points per dollar on all other purchases. Points can be redeemed for free nights with no blackout dates at more than 7,000 hotels around the world.
The Card carries a solid package of coverages: $500,000 travel accident insurance, flight delay, baggage delay, lost or stolen baggage and hotel or motel burglary at $500 each, car rental theft and damage up to $85,000 for rentals of up to 48 days, Purchase Protection for 90 days and a one year Extended Warranty.
Two things to plan around: the 2.5% foreign transaction fee on purchases made in a foreign currency, and the 21.99% purchase interest rate, which makes this a Card to pay in full every month. Like all American Express Canada Cards, no minimum income is published for this Card, and you can see whether you would be approved before you apply, with no impact on your credit score.
Legal
American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, we may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.
Annual fee
Primary card$120
Additional card$0
Annual income required
Individual$0
Household$0
Conversion fees
2.5%
Earning rate
5xMarriott Bonvoy hotels
2xAll spending
Value
1st Year Value$1,210
2nd Year Value$312
Travel insurance
Delayed BaggageUp to $500
Lost BaggageUp to $500
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $500
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000
Purchase protection
Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental Collision (primary)Up to $85,000 / 48 days
PlatinumMD Card from American Express: Exclusive Access and Premium Experiences
The Grand Prix is not limited to the race: it’s also a VIP event where access makes all the difference. The PlatinumMD Card from American Express distinguishes itself through presales and exclusive access reserved for Amex cardholders, particularly for certain highly sought-after Grand Prix tickets. Added to this are travel credits, lounge access, and hotel statuses that significantly enhance the overall experience.
Front Of The Line by Amex presales: sought-after tickets before everyone else
Annual travel and dining credits: recurring value included
Unlimited airport lounge access: comfort before and after GP
Marriott Gold Elite status: upgrades and hotel benefits
Premium travel insurance: comprehensive protection on all trips
With high annual fees of $799, this card primarily targets frequent travelers and premium experience enthusiasts. Its profitability strongly depends on using the credits and privileges included throughout the year, not just during the Grand Prix.
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$1,190Total$1,190Plus $510 of bonus paid after the first year, not counted in this total.Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
Apply with confidenceCheck whether your application will be approved before you submit it, with no impact on your credit score*When you apply for a personal American Express Credit Card, we will tell you whether you are eligible without affecting your credit score. So you can apply with confidence.*Instant decisions are only available for consumer Card applications (also called “personal Cards”).
The Platinum Card® is the best premium card in Canada for travellers.
With this welcome offer, you can earn up to 100,000 Membership Rewards® points:
70,000 points after charging $10,000 to your Card in your first 3 months of Cardmembership
30,000 points when you make a purchase between the 15th and 17th month after your Cardmembership begins
With this Card, you get:
2 points per $1 on eligible dining and delivery purchases in Canada
2 points per dollar on eligible travel purchases charged to the Card
1 point per $1 on all other purchases charged to the Card
You can use your Membership Rewards® points in many ways:
Transfer points to airline partners: Aeroplan, Avios (British Airways / Qatar Airways), Flying Blue, Delta SkyMiles, etc.
Transfer points to hotel partners, including Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy
Redeem points for statement credits to offset any travel purchase charged to your Card (1,000 points = $10)
Redeem points for statement credits towards other purchases (1,000 points = $10)
And more!
For example, with this welcome offer, if you decide to transfer your Membership Rewards® points to a partner loyalty program, you could earn up to:
100,000 Aeroplan points
100,000 Avios
100,000 Flying Blue Miles
120,000 Marriott Bonvoy points
With this card, you also have advantages for your travels:
$200 Annual Travel Credit
An annual meal credit of $200
A $100 statement credit for NEXUS membership
Complimentary access for you and one additional guest to more than 1,550 airport lounges in over 140 countries
Hilton Honors Gold status
Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status
Access to the Fine Hotels + Resorts program
Last but not least, The Platinum Card® offers a wide range of insurance coverage: rental car theft and damage, $500,000 travel accident, emergency medical expenses (out-of-province or out-of-country), lost or stolen baggage, flight delays and misdirected baggage, hotel or motel burglary, Purchase Protection, Purchase Security.
Like all American Express Canada Cards, there is no minimum income requirement.
Legal
*Terms and conditions apply. American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of the information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, we may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.
Annual fee
Primary card$799
Additional card$250
Annual income required
Individual$0
Household$0
Conversion fees
2.5%
Earning rate
2xTravel
2xRestaurants
1xAll spending
Value
1st Year Value$1,482
2nd Year Value$470
Transfer partners
AeroplanAirline
British Airways ClubAirline
Cathay Asia MilesAirline
Etihad GuestAirline
Flying BlueAirline
Hilton HonorsHotel
Marriott BonvoyHotel
Card benefits
Concierge service24/7
Airport lounge access$400
Travel creditsIncluded
Travel insurance
Travel medical (under 55)Up to $5,000,000 / 15 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $5,000,000 / 15 days
Trip CancellationUp to $2,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $2,500
Delayed BaggageUp to $1,000
Lost BaggageUp to $1,000
Flight DelayUp to $1,000
Hotel BurglaryUp to $1,000
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000
Purchase protection
Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental Collision (primary)Up to $85,000 / 48 days
National Bank World Elite Mastercard: The Versatile Card
For many spectators, the Grand Prix begins even before arriving at the circuit: flight bookings, travel, potential delays, and travel logistics are part of the experience. The National Bank World Elite Mastercard positions itself as a particularly interesting card for visitors coming from outside Quebec thanks to its travel protections and 5 points per dollar at grocery stores. Practical for spectators who bring their lunch to the site on practice and qualifying days (allowed except glass containers). Note: this Mastercard is accepted everywhere, unlike American Express.
5 points per dollar at grocery stores: and restaurants
National Bank Lounge at YUL: unlimited free access (cardholder + 1 guest + up to 2 children under 12)
Comprehensive travel insurance: delay and interruption protection
With annual fees of approximately $150, this card positions itself as the most versatile for Canadian travelers. It offers a solid balance between comfort, insurance and travel expense optimization.
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueAnnual fee rebated$150Total$150Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
With Milesopedia, take advantage of an exclusive offer: your first-year annual fees are refunded with the National Bank World Elite Mastercard. This offer is exclusively available on the Milesopedia network, from June 30 to November 4, 2026.
Refund of the first-year annual fee (a $150 value) for the primary cardholder. This fee is charged to your new card account, then refunded as a credit on your statement within five months of opening your account, provided it remains open and in good standing.
The National Bank World Elite Mastercard is the best Mastercard credit card offered by NBC.
With this card, you earn up to 5 points per dollar on your purchases:
5 points per dollar for groceries and restaurants
2 points per dollar on gas and electric recharge purchases
2 points per dollar on recurring bills
2 points per dollar on À la carte Travel
1 point per dollar for all other purchases
And since it’s a Mastercard, you can use it at Costco.
With this card, you have access to a $150 annual travel credit that you can use in any of these categories:
Airport parking
Baggage fees
Seat selection
Access to airport lounges
Airline ticket upgrades
What’s more, you can enjoy access to DragonPass airport lounges and unlimited access to the National Bank Lounge at Montreal-Trudeau.
Finally, Milesopedia has named the National Bank World Elite Mastercard as the Best Travel Credit Card in 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026.
Legal
® Mastercard and World Elite are registered trademarks, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated. National Bank is an authorized user.
® The À LA CARTE REWARDS logo is a registered trademark of National Bank of Canada.
® NATIONAL BANK OF CANADA LOUNGE is a registered trademark of National Bank of Canada.
® À LA CARTE REWARDS PLAN is a registered trademark of National Bank of Canada.
® Apple Pay is a registered trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Apple Inc. is not a sponsor of or participant in National Bank Mobile Banking Solutions.
® Google Pay is a registered trademark of Google LLC. Use of this trademark is subject to Google Inc. Permissions.
TM À LA CARTE TRAVEL is a trademark of National Bank of Canada. The À la carte Travel agency is owned by Transat Distribution Canada Inc. and holds a Quebec permit (No. 753141).
TM À LA CARTE REWARDS is a trademark of National Bank of Canada.
® THE TOTAL, THE CONNECTED and NATIONAL BANK are registered trademarks of National Bank of Canada.
* Mastercard® World Elite®
The National Bank® World Elite® Mastercard® credit card was voted best Mastercard credit card by Milesopedia in 2026, 2025 and 2024.
The National Bank® World Elite® Mastercard® credit card was voted best travel credit card by Milesopedia in 2026, 2025 and 2024.
Every year, Milesopedia reviews credit card offers from major financial institutions and establishes its Ranking based on over 150 criteria such as fees, welcome offer, minimum income required, number of points per category, account credits, insurance, airport lounge access, etc.
Certain restrictions apply. For more information, see the Rewards Plan section or the Plan Rules applicable to point accumulation.
Grace period: No interest is charged on purchases made during the month if the cardholder pays the full balance of their account within twenty-one (21) days of the statement date. This grace period does not apply to cash advances and balance transfers. Minimum payment: if your account balance is less than $10, you must pay the balance in full. If you reside in the province of Quebec, your minimum payment is 5% of your account balance plus any overdue amount, or $10, whichever is greater. If you reside outside Quebec, your minimum payment is 2.5% of the credit card account balance plus any overdue amount, or $10, whichever is greater. Account statement: an account statement is sent monthly.
Table of examples of credit fees calculated over a 30-day period
Annual interest rate
$500
$3,000
22.49%
$9.24
$55.45
20.99%
$8.63
$51.76
13.2%
$5.53
$33.16
9.2%
$3.78
$22.68
*Variable interest rate in effect as of September 1, 2021.
Balance transfers and cash advances are subject to National Bank credit approval. Each amount transferred cannot be less than $250.
Exclusive to World Elite Mastercard cardholders. Presentation of the physical credit card and boarding pass is required to access the lounge. The National Bank® Lounge is accessible to customers traveling on international flights only (excluding flights to Canada and the United States). You benefit from free and unlimited access with one guest and two children aged 12 and under. Until October 4, 2026 (date subject to change), customers can enter the National Bank Lounge three hours before their flight departure time. From October 5, 2026 (date subject to change), access will be authorized for a maximum duration of 2 hours (3 hours for customers who hold a Private Banking 1859® World Elite® Mastercard® credit card). National Bank customers who are not World Elite ® Mastercard ® cardholders can also access the current lounge based on current rates and benefit from a 25 % discount on these rates : 63,24 $ taxes included for adults (excluding discount) $40.24 taxes included for children aged 2 to 12 (excluding discount) free for children under 2 (excluding discount) The entry fee is subject to change without notice and is the responsibility of the lounge operator.
Subject to providing the required supporting documents in the manner and within the prescribed timeframe. Certain conditions may apply. Only the primary cardholder of a National Bank World Elite Mastercard (Cardholder) whose account is in good standing can request a « Travel Fee Reimbursement ». « Account in good standing » means an account linked to the credit card that does not violate the Credit Card Agreement in any way and on which no restrictions apply. For example, and without limitation, the associated annual fees must have been paid in full. The maximum reimbursement of $150 can be requested from January 1 to December 31 of each year. Eligible expenses are: airport parking baggage fees seat selection airport lounge access worldwide airline ticket upgrades A reimbursement request must be made within 60 days of the purchase date. Travel expenses must be charged to the National Bank World Elite Mastercard credit card account. The maximum reimbursement of $150 is applicable per account. Please allow up to 7 business days for the reimbursement to be processed from the date your request is submitted. National Bank reserves the right to request additional supporting documents for validation purposes (e.g., invoices). You must keep all receipts and supporting documents for a period of 12 months from the date you made your reimbursement request. An unused reimbursement in one year cannot be carried over to the next year. You can make your request online at rewards.nbc.ca or by calling 1-800-341-8083 (toll-free) for an agent to assist you with your travel fee reimbursement request.
Point accumulation on grocery and restaurant spending depends on the total gross monthly amount charged to the credit card account, across all categories. Earn 5 points per dollar spent on eligible grocery and restaurant purchases. The 5 points per dollar accumulation is valid for the first $2,500 of gross monthly purchases charged to the account. Beyond this amount, eligible grocery and restaurant spending will earn 2 points per dollar. The calculation of the gross monthly purchase amount is based on monthly billing. A grocery purchase means a purchase made at a merchant whose primary business is selling food, such as a grocery store, delicatessen, supermarket, fruit store, or specialty food store. Meal kit subscriptions and meal delivery services are eligible. Therefore, this definition excludes, among others, retail stores and big-box stores whose primary business is selling non-food items. Some merchants may sell products or services identical or similar to those of eligible merchants, or are separate merchants located on the same premises as eligible merchants, but are classified by Mastercard in different categories. Purchases made from other merchants only earn base reward points. A restaurant purchase means a purchase made at a restaurant, including quick-service restaurants, bars, discotheques, nightclubs, and taverns. To view the full list of Mastercard codes associated with eligible merchants, download the À la carte Rewards Plan® terms and conditions document.
These protections apply if the purchases or rental are paid for in part with the card before departure, except, if applicable, for out-of-province medical-hospital insurance for which it is not necessary to charge the purchase of an à la carte trip and for baggage delay protection where the full cost of transport must have been charged to the card. All these protections apply to the primary cardholder, their spouse and/or their dependent children when they (spouse and dependent children) travel with the cardholder. Extended warranties apply to most new items purchased with the card, in Canada or abroad, provided the manufacturer’s warranty exists and is valid in Canada. Certain conditions, limitations and restrictions apply. For more information and details regarding your insurance coverage, please consult the insurance certificate linked to your card.
Subject to credit approval by National Bank.
Certain conditions apply. Visit mastercard.ca for more information. See all credit card terms and conditions.
To earn 2 points per dollar spent, you must pay for your gas or electric charging purchases at a gas station or certain big-box stores. Some merchants may sell products or services identical or similar to those of eligible merchants, or are separate merchants located on the same premises as eligible merchants, but are classified by Mastercard in different categories. Purchases made from other merchants only earn base reward points. To view the full list of Mastercard codes associated with eligible merchants, download the À la carte Rewards Plan® terms and conditions document.
Recurring bill payments are defined as payments made monthly or regularly that are automatically charged by the merchant to your National Bank World Elite Mastercard. Not all merchants offer recurring payments, and not all recurring payments are considered recurring bill payments. Therefore, some payments may not qualify for accelerated reward points.
To earn 2 points per dollar spent, you must pay for your eligible purchases through the À la carte TravelTM agency section of our À la carte RewardsTM site.
For example, if you spend $400 monthly on groceries, $200 on gas, $100 on recurring bills and $150 on other purchases, the $850 spent will generate 2,750 points, broken down as follows: 2,000 points for grocery spending (since the total gross monthly amount is $850, which is less than $2,500), 400 points for gas spending, 200 points for recurring bills and 150 points for other purchases.
Insurance up to $1,000 in case of breakage, loss or theft of mobile devices for a maximum period of 2 years following the date of purchase. Subject to purchasing the device with the National Bank World Elite Mastercard or a phone service subscription paid by recurring payments from your National Bank Platinum Mastercard starting September 1, 2022. For all conditions, please consult the insurance certificate linked to your card.
Annual fee
Primary card$150
Additional card$50
Annual income required
Individual$80,000
Household$150,000
Conversion fees
2.5%
Earning rate
5xRestaurants
5xGroceries
2xGas & EV
2xBills & recurring payments
2xTravel
1xAll spending
Value
1st Year Value$778
2nd Year Value$923
Card benefits
Airport lounge access$400
Travel creditsIncluded
Travel insurance
Travel medical (under 55)Up to $5,000,000 / 60 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $5,000,000 / 31 days
Travel medical (65+)Up to $5,000,000 / 15 days
Trip CancellationUp to $2,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $5,000
Delayed BaggageUp to $500
Lost BaggageUp to $1,000
Flight DelayUp to $500
Travel AccidentIncluded
Purchase protection
Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+2 years
Mobile DeviceUp to $1,000 / 2 years
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 48 days
Study Methodology
Purpose and Scope
The study aims to estimate the real cost of a stay at the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal, and to assess to what extent certain credit cards and rewards programs can help optimize these expenses. The goal is twofold: to document the evolution of the budget required to attend the event and to analyze the financial mechanisms likely to reduce the apparent cost for visitors.
The study is intended for media, tourism stakeholders, public relations professionals, and consumers wishing to better understand the economic dynamics surrounding the Montreal Grand Prix. The defined scope exclusively covers expenses incurred in Montreal or directly related to the on-site stay during the Grand Prix weekend. Transportation to reach Montreal is not integrated into the main budgets, due to its high variability depending on the visitors’ geographic origin.
Definition of Visitor Profiles
Three typical visitor profiles have been defined: « budget », « standard », and « premium ». This segmentation is based on several combined criteria: desired comfort level, type of accommodation, ticket category, consumption habits, and use of related experiences.
The « budget » profile corresponds mainly to a local or Quebec visitor favoring economical solutions. The « standard » profile represents a Canadian or North American visitor staying in an intermediate downtown hotel. The « premium » profile corresponds to a clientele seeking a high-end experience integrating hospitality, superior hotels, fine dining, and exclusive services.
Data Collection
Budget estimates are based on collection work conducted between April 1 and 30, 2026, from public and verified sources. Ticket rates were collected from official Canadian Grand Prix platforms. Accommodation data comes from observations on major online booking platforms (Booking, Expedia) for dates corresponding to the race weekend.
Dining expenses were estimated from menus and price lists of Montreal restaurants across different ranges. Local transport costs are based on STM pass fares and estimates of Uber and taxi trips observed on representative routes during the Grand Prix. Merchandising expenses come from prices displayed on the official CGV store, a partner of the Canadian Grand Prix.
Credit Card Analysis
The study does not seek to establish a comprehensive ranking of the best Canadian credit cards, but to identify the most relevant products in the specific context of a Grand Prix weekend in Montreal. Four strategic categories were selected: dining and outings, accommodation, premium tickets and experiences, as well as travel and transportation.
Simulations are primarily based on a « standard » traveler profile spending about $3,300 CAD during a three-day weekend in Montreal. Calculations include accumulated points, applicable annual credits, some indirect savings, and the potential value of hotel certificates or status-related benefits. The study deliberately distinguishes between direct savings (travel credits, free night, absence of certain fees) and the potential value of accumulated points.
Calculation Assumptions
All budget scenarios are based on a typical three-night stay, from Thursday to Sunday, including three days at the circuit. Calculations are for a single person, unless otherwise stated. Potential savings from sharing certain expenses (accommodation, transport, or dining) are not integrated.
Dining expenses include meals at the circuit, city restaurants, bars, and related weekend events (notably Crescent Street parties). For the « credit cards » section, point valuations are based on average estimates commonly used in the travel and loyalty program industry. Annual card fees are mentioned for informational purposes but are not systematically deducted from the potential gains presented.
Limitations and Interpretation Precautions
Prices observed during the Grand Prix are particularly volatile, especially for accommodation. Hotel rates can double or triple as the event approaches. The amounts presented reflect prices observed in spring 2026 and are subject to change.
Estimates related to credit cards correspond to a potential value and not an immediate bill reduction. A significant portion of the benefits depends on the effective use of points, the cardholder’s travel habits, and their ability to use the included credits and privileges. The study does not account for temporary promotions, time-limited welcome bonuses, or targeted offers that may temporarily alter the real profitability of the analyzed cards.
Currencies and Data Timeliness
All amounts presented are expressed in Canadian dollars (CAD). When references in US dollars are mentioned, they are converted based on an indicative rate of 1 USD = 1.37 CAD, corresponding to the average observed in April 2026. The data used reflects pricing conditions observed between April 1 and 30, 2026.
Conclusion: The Strategy That Changes Everything
The 2026 Montreal Grand Prix budget now exceeds $3,300 for a standard visitor, and climbs beyond $7,500 for a premium experience. However, the right credit cards allow you to recover up to $800 in value on a weekend. This shows the gap between those who optimize their expenses and those who pay everything on a single card.
The key: segment your expenses by category. Ideally, dining on the Cobalt, accommodation with the Marriott Bonvoy free night, premium access with the Platinum Card, and travel logistics with the National Bank World Elite. Don’t miss the opportunity to amortize your annual fees thanks to concentrated weekend spending. To subscribe to our newsletter and receive our best tips, click here.
Montreal Grand Prix Budget – Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average budget to attend the 2026 Montreal Grand Prix?
According to our study, the average budget for a standard three-day stay is $3,315 CAD. This amount includes CGV Experience tickets, a three-star downtown hotel, dining, local transport, and outings.
How much can you recover with the right credit cards?
With a strategic combination of cards (Cobalt, Marriott Bonvoy, Amex Platinum, National Bank World Elite), a visitor can recover up to $800 in real value on a weekend. This represents nearly 25% of the total cost of the stay.
What is the most profitable card for accommodation during GP?
The Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card stands out thanks to its annual free night certificate, which can represent up to $600 in value at a downtown hotel during GP weekend.
Why do accommodation prices explode during the Grand Prix?
Demand far exceeds available supply. Downtown hotels double or triple their rates during race weekend. Furthermore, the absence of Airbnb rentals this year during the GP dates increases price pressure: for a standard 3-star downtown hotel, expect $650 per night.
What is the cost of a ticket for the 2026 Montreal Grand Prix?
3-day general admission costs $410. The CGV Experience package for all three race days is $700. Premium tickets like the 1978 Terrace reach $1,915 for the full weekend.
Is transport to Montreal included in the budget?
No, transport to reach Montreal is not included in the main budgets due to its high variability depending on origin. For reference, expect $100-150 from Quebec City, $200-300 from Toronto, and $1,200-1,800 CAD from France by economy flight.
Which card to choose for restaurants and bars during GP?
The American Express Cobalt Card is ideal for dining and outings thanks to its 5x points multiplier on restaurants, bars and food services. For a couple, these expenses can exceed $400 in a few days.
Are there still tickets available 10 days before the 2026 GP?
Most grandstands are already sold out on the primary market. Remaining options: general admission at $410, CGV Experience at $700, or the secondary market.
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$469Annual fee rebated$120Total$589Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
The BMO eclipse Visa Infinite* Card is one of the best Visa Infinite rewards credit cards in Canada. Its welcome offer lets you earn up to 70,000 BMO Rewards points, for a total value of up to $1,150*.
It also includes a monthly statement credit for streaming services, an annual $50 lifestyle credit, and no annual fee for the first year (a $120 value)*.
With the BMO eclipse Visa Infinite* Card, you also get:
5x BMO Rewards points for every dollar spent on groceries, meal delivery or takeout, rideshare, public transit, and gas*
1 BMO Rewards point for every dollar spent on all other purchases*
10% more points when you add an authorized user to your account*
Mobile device insurance offering coverage up to $1,000*
The Pay with Points feature, which allows you to redeem your points on recent purchases starting at $1*
Six months of Instacart+ membership plus a monthly $10 Instacart credit with an eligible card*
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*Terms and conditions apply
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Annual fee
Primary card$120
Additional card$50
Annual income required
Individual$60,000
Household$100,000
Conversion fees
2.5%
Earning rate
5xTransit
5xGas & EV
5xRestaurants
5xGroceries
1xAll spending
Value
1st Year Value$1,128
2nd Year Value$365
Travel insurance
Travel medical (under 55)Up to $5,000,000 / 21 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $5,000,000 / 21 days
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000
Purchase protection
Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Mobile DeviceUp to $1,000 / 1 years
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 48 days
Our editorial integrity
Our reviews and rankings are based on an objective assessment. Advertisers do not influence our content. We may receive compensation through some links; our analysis and opinions remain independent.
