The Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Montréal-Trudeau International Airport Guide

Where to Stay in Montreal

Public Transit Guide

48-Hour Itinerary

Day Trips From Montreal

Top Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Shopping in Montreal

Skiing in Montreal

Best Montreal Beaches

Guide to Mount Royal Park

Top Museums to Visit

Live Music in Montreal

Montreal's Iconic Food

Best Bars in Montreal

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Best Restaurants

Your Trip to Montreal: The Complete Guide

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

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Montreal is one of those multifaceted cities that offers something for everyone. From an incredible food scene and buzzing nightlife, to myriad museums and art galleries to vibrant greenspaces and unique architecture, there’s always something interesting to see and do in the city. Whether you want to shop, bar-hop, or simply explore Montreal’s diverse neighborhoods, it won’t be hard to figure out how to spend your visit. For anyone thinking of planning a trip, read on for tips and information on the best attractions and activities, how to get around, where to stay, and what to eat and drink.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit : The best time to visit Montreal is typically in the spring (mid-April and May) or during the fall (September to early November). At these times, you'll likely find fewer crowds, cheaper accommodations, and the best weather for sightseeing as it is neither too hot nor too cold. Do keep in mind that winters in Montreal can be very cold.

Language : Montreal has one of the largest French-speaking populations in the world. Nevertheless, visitors to Montreal can get by easily only speaking English. Although it is handy to have a few words in French such as greetings.

Currency: The currency used in Montreal is the Canadian dollar (CAD).

Getting Around : Montreal’s metro (subway) system makes for an efficient means of getting around. There are four lines connecting the downtown centre to major tourist sites, bus stops and train stations. The public transit network consists of 68 metro stops and 220 bus lines  . The city is also very walkable (weather permitting), which makes getting around on foot another good option.

Travel Tip : Passport MTL comes in two-day and three-day versions and gives you access to close to 30 Montréal attractions and unlimited public transportation; it makes for a good way to save money on entrance fees.

Things to Do

Montreal’s world-renowned food scene will be a big draw for those looking to sample some of the city’s best dishes, whether from a tiny bistro tucked down a charming side street, a food truck, gastropub, or fine dining establishment. Anyone interested in spending time outdoors will enjoy the many parks and green spaces that abound in the city as well as the Montreal Botanical Garden. Or head below the streets into the “Underground City” to explore the vast network of pedestrian walkways beneath the city where you’ll find shops, eateries and access to transit.

Go back in time in Old Montreal : A visit to Old Montreal is a must for anyone visiting the city. Even if you don’t have an agenda, just meandering the scenic cobblestone streets is a worthwhile endeavor on its own. You’ll see centuries-old buildings blending seamlessly with trendy bistros and cute cafes and you can easily spend half a day exploring.

Do some shopping along Sainte-Catherine Street : From major department stores to funky boutiques, there is a lot to shop for on Sainte-Catherine Street. From west to east, it stretches 9 miles across the city. Spend an afternoon strolling, visiting shops, people-watching, and making stops at ay of the many cafes and restaurants in the area.

Explore the Old Port : Montreal’s Old Port features a range of things to see and do, making it a great area to spend an afternoon or even a whole day. During the warmer months, relax under a parasol at Clock Tower Beach, rent a paddleboat, or take a boat cruise along the St. Lawrence. You’ll also find plenty of options for food and drink at the various cafes, bars, and food trucks. Old Port is also where you’ll find the Montreal Science Centre and its IMAX theatre, and in the winter, take advantage of the outdoor skating rink.

Hang out in Parc du Mont-Royal : No matter what time of year you visit Montreal, you’ll find something to do at Parc du Mont-Royal. The park is popular among walkers, joggers, and bikers as well as picnickers in the spring and summer. While in the winter, you can enjoy the skating rink and sledding slope or do some snowshoeing. Also known as “the mountain” to locals, you can hike or bike to the summit for lovely views.

Check out our full length articles on the best things to do in downtown Montreal , the best attractions in Old Montreal , and where to go shopping in Montreal .

Where to Eat and Drink

Montreal’s culinary influences are wide ranging and go well beyond classic French fare. You can find almost anything you might be craving here, such as Middle Eastern, Thai, elevated Quebecois dishes, and nearly everything in between. Despite the exciting diversity, there are a few things to seek out in terms of food while you’re in the city. First up, poutine: that gooey, delicious mess of French fries, gravy and squeaky cheese curds. You can find poutine all over Canada, but you really don’t want to miss out in Montreal. Even if you’re vegan or vegetarian, you should be able to find an option to try. Next up is bagels. But not just any bagels—these are Montreal style. These are boiled in water sweetened with honey, and then cooked in a wood-fired oven for a satisfying chew and golden brown exterior. If you are a meat eater, you will also want to seek out a Montreal smoked meat sandwich, popular throughout the city.

Beer drinkers will also be happy to know that there are close to 30 microbreweries in the city, so finding a local brew won’t be difficult. In addition, make sure to stop by the iconic Jean-Talon Market in the heart of Montreal’s Little Italy neighborhoods, one of North America’s largest open-air public markets. Here you’ll find everything from fresh produce and flowers, to cheese, meats, specialty food items, and much more.

Learn more about the food scene in Montreal with our articles on the best brunch spots in Montreal , Montreal’s best late night food , vegetarian restaurants in Montreal , and Montreal’s best terraces and rooftop patios .

Where to Stay

In Montreal you have your pick of stylish boutique hotels, luxury properties, business-oriented hotels, family-friendly hotels, and more. There are more than 25,000 rooms in the city (with 16,000 located downtown) . Downtown is a good option in terms of where to stay since many of the city’s hotels can be found here, as well as a wide variety of the city’s attractions, museums, restaurants, cafes, and bars. Another good option is Old Montreal, which has its own fair share of hotels. This gives you easy access to the area’s historic architecture, cobblestone streets, boutiques, and bistros. You’ll also be very close to the Old Port, with its own set of fun attractions and activities.

For more about where to stay in Montreal, take a look at our full length stories on the best boutique hotels in Montreal and the best hotels in Old Montreal .

Getting There

You can get to Montreal in several ways. If you plan on flying, Montreal's Trudeau International Airport is about 20 minutes by car from downtown Montreal. The convenient 747 Express bus operates 24/7 year-round and will get you to one of nine downtown stops in 40 to 60 minutes  .

In terms of driving, Montreal is about a three-hour drive west from the provincial capital, Quebec City, about a six-hour drive east from Toronto, and six hours north of New York City.

If you prefer to arrive by train, VIA Rail makes for a scenic and relaxing ride. Their rail network connects many major cities to Montréal, you can choose from 17 daily departures from Gare Centrale  .

As for the bus, Greyhound Lines serves Montreal from numerous cities in the US and Canada. Buses arrive at Montreal Bus Central Station, which is connected to the Berri-UQAM metro station.

Money Saving Tips

  • Spend some time browsing both the Jean-Talon Market and Atwater Market for a free and fun way to get a sense of all the great food available in the city. While you may be tempted to buy, browsing doesn’t cost anything.
  • You can visit a few of the city’s museums for free on certain days of the month, including the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts where the permanent collection is free on the first Sunday of the month; or the Centre Canadien d'Architecture which is free on Thursdays after 5:30 p.m. and on the first Sunday of each month.
  • There is plenty to see and do in Jean-Drapeau park, which offers everything from a beach, gardens and picnic areas, to an aquatic centre, hiking trails, bike paths, and canoe and kayak rentals. You’ll also find public art here, as well as a rock climbing wall.

Find out more with our full length article on the 25 best free and cheap things to do in Montreal.

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Montreal   Travel Guide

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Why Go To Montreal

There is only one word that really captures the essence of Montréal: multifaceted. This city represents the melding of the Old and New Worlds, with 18th-century structures blending into a 21st-century skyline. Old-fashioned houses are now home to funky fusion restaurants, and the familiar sound of English is juxtaposed against the rolled "r"s of French. Rainbow flags fly alongside cloth emblems from India, Portugal and France, and traditional French pastries are sold alongside the distinctly sweet sesame seed, Montreal-style bagel. Just when you thought you'd seen it all, a short elevator ride exposes you to another city located several stories below ground level.

This versatile city's top attractions include world-class museums and bustling marketplaces. Start your tour along the ancient cobblestone streets of  Vieux-Montréal . Here, you can explore historic cathedrals or grab a cappuccino at one of the traditional French cafes along Boulevard Saint-Laurent. If history doesn't excite you, head to the bustling downtown area for an afternoon of shopping or to  Parc du Mont-Royal  for a hike. Just make sure to save some energy for when the sun sets; Montréal – especially Rue St-Denis – is known for a nightlife scene that continues until the wee hours of the morning.

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  • # 1 in Best Weekend Getaways
  • # 7 in Best Places to Visit in Spring
  • # 10 in Best Places to Visit in Canada for 2023

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Best of Montreal

Best hotels in montreal.

  • # 1 in Four Seasons Montreal
  • # 2 in The Ritz-Carlton, Montreal
  • # 3 in Le Mount Stephen

Four Seasons Montreal

Best Things to Do in Montreal

  • # 1 in Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal)
  • # 2 in Montreal Botanical Garden (Jardin Botanique Montreal)
  • # 3 in Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux-Arts)

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Montreal Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to visit Montréal are from March to May and from September to November, when the weather is milder and hotel vacancies run amok. But aside from fluctuating rates, you'll discover that there really isn't a bad time to vacation here. Warm summer temperatures make exploring on foot much more enjoyable, while the heated Underground City passages provide refuge during the winter. If you are drawn to the temperate summer, make sure to book in advance: Montréal hosts numerous popular festivals during this season.

Weather in Montreal

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Montreal is bilingual Most of the population speaks French, so you may want to bring a phrasebook on your trip. However, most residents also speak English.

Prepare for cold weather This city is no stranger to winter weather. High temperatures this time of year average in the upper 20s; pack plenty of warm clothes.

Leave the car behind Although parking is cheap, gas prices are not. The expansive public transportation system will get you where you need to go.

How to Save Money in Montreal

Travel during the shoulder seasons  Early spring and late fall are quieter times for Montréal, meaning hotels drop their rates.

Rely on your own two feet  This is a very walkable city, especially if you explore it by neighborhood. If you're growing weary, the public transportation is both convenient and cheap.

Go sightseeing  Many of the most beloved attractions – including  Vieux-Montréal ,  St. Joseph's Oratory  and  Parc du Mont-Royal  – do not charge admission.

Culture & Customs

Montréal is located in the French-speaking province of Quebec. Although you won't have any trouble finding English speakers here, you may want to come prepared with a few French phrases such as " bonjour " ("hello"), " s'il vous plaît " ("please") and " merci " ("thank you").

The official currency in Canada is the Canadian Dollar, which is roughly equivalent to the U.S. dollar. When it comes to most other cultural factors, including dress, restaurant and tipping etiquette, Montréal does not differ too greatly from major American cities.

What to Eat

Like the French, Montréalers pride themselves on top-notch cuisine. Although traditional French cuisine still reigns supreme, Montréal's palate has broadened over the past few years to include Portuguese, Thai, Moroccan, Indian, Mexican and numerous other international cuisines. Whether you're looking for some steak frites or sushi, a little taste of Paris or a little taste of  je ne sais quoi , Montréal has it all. If you're looking for a few Canadian staples, you'll readily find those available as well, including poutine (french fries topped with cheese curds and gravy). Montréal-specific specialties include smoked meat (try Schwartz's ) and bagels (which some say even rival that of New York City ). Fairmont Bagel and St-Viateur Bagel Shop often duke it out for the title of the city's best bagels.

If it's a bit of Old French cuisine that you're craving, head to  Vieux-Montréal , where many of the historic buildings now house traditional French bistros and restaurants ( restos ), including Toque , LOV and the breathtaking Crew Collective & Cafe . If you're looking for a more contemporary take on traditional favorites, try eating along one of the main drags – boulevard St-Laurent, rue St-Denis or rue Crescent – which have become major foodie hubs over the past several years. For a more diverse array of restaurants, take a stroll through the Mile End neighborhood just north of  Parc du Mont-Royal , which is home to numerous immigrant populations and boasts a wide array of international menus, including Portuguese and Hassidic.

Montréal is safer than most U.S. and European cities of similar size. But it's still necessary to exercise common sense, especially after sundown. Avoid walking alone at night, and keep an eye on your valuables. Nightlife hot spots such as rue St-Denis and rue Ste-Catherine can sometimes draw rowdier crowds. Montréalers are generally very tolerating of all lifestyles and forms of discrimination are rare. However, Montréal is a politically liberal city, and its residents generally do not agree with U.S. policies. Political demonstrations do take place, but they are rare. More common than political demonstrations are days when temperatures drop below freezing. Montréal's chilly winters can sometimes catch visitors off guard. Winter travelers should make sure to pack plenty of warm layers as well as mittens, scarves and hats.

Getting Around Montreal

The best ways to get around Montréal are on foot or by public transportation. Montréal is a very walkable city, but if your feet do grow weary, the Montréal Metro and bus are both cost-efficient and easy to use. There is also a public shuttle bus ( No. 747 ) that runs between downtown and the Montréal–Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) 24/7. There are two routes – one drops visitors off downtown, making 11 stops along the way. The other is a straight shot to the Lionel-Groulx station, where you can hop on a metro train to your desired destination. Rides cost CA$10 (roughly $7.50) per person. You can also take a cab from the airport to downtown, which will cost CA$41 (around $31). 

Entry & Exit Requirements

A passport is required for citizens of the United States to travel to Montréal, and to re-enter the country. If you are planning to drive, you must produce a passport, passport card or NEXUS card that allows expedited border crossings for both private and commercial travelers through Canadian and U.S. border controls. For more information, visit the U.S. State Department website .

Vieux-Montreal brims with lively cafes, restaurants and bars.

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Montreal Botanical Garden (Jardin Botanique Montreal)

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20 Best Things to Do in Montreal

By Todd Plummer

20 Best Things to Do in Montreal From Poutine Spots to Cabaret Bars

Montreal is one of Canada's most exciting cities, but it's also an incredibly historic place. When French explorer Jacques Cartier visited what is now known as Montreal in 1535, he found a thriving community of St. Lawrence Iroquois, whom are now believed to have inhabited the area for at least 3,000 years. Flash forward to today, and there are centuries of history weaving their way through each and every neighborhood, and a plethora of museums, tours, and architecture that all speak to that. But Montreal hums a modern tune as well, with music and nightlife, and world-class design and technology community, and some of the best food in the world . From Plateau to Verdun, our editor's picks of what to do in Montreal will have you leaving the city enlightened, full, and probably a little bit tired—all marks of a trip well spent.

Read our full Montreal travel guide here .

Montreal Quebec Canada Things to Do Mount Royal

Mount Royal Arrow

Mount Royal Park, Montreal's unofficial playground north of downtown, was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted (of Central Park fame) and inaugurated in 1876. The park sprawls more than 692 acres and is a favorite destination of Montrealers, who make use of the park year-round, from jogging and enjoying family picnics in summertime, to skiing and tobogganing in winter. Attractions include the Mount Royal Cross (first erected in 1643), Mount Royal Chalet, Beaver Lake, and Sir George Etienne Cartier Monument.

spinning Ferris wheel at night. pink lights

La Grande Roue de Montréal Arrow

Situated on the banks of the St. Lawrence River just steps from Old Montreal, the largest observation wheel in Canada, brings guests nearly 200 feet into the sky, offering panoramic views over the city, tee river, and Mount Royal. It’s touristy, but it’s worth it for those of us who love seeing cities from above. Bringing you high above Old Montréal, each ride is long enough for you to appreciate the sights and start to understand the city’s topography, but not so long that you’re wishing it would be over. For added thrills, upgrade to the “VIP Package” aboard gondola number 42: It’s the only one on the wheel that has a glass floor and Italian leather seats.

Montreal Quebec Canada Museum Montreal Museum of Fine Arts

Montreal Museum of Fine Arts Arrow

The MMFA was founded in 1860 and has since grown into one of the most visited museums in North America; visitors flock from all corners of the globe to view the outstanding permanent collection: some 43,000 works from antiquity to today, much of it on display throughout five pavilions. The enormous institution also hosts seasonal blockbuster exhibitions. Be sure to visit the breathtaking Napoleon collection.

McGill university Arts Building in Montreal

McGill University Arrow

Canada's leading research university occupies a prime piece of picture perfect real estate in central Montreal, nestled between Mount Royal and the skyscrapers of downtown. Whether you're dropping in for a lecture or just passing through on your points elsewhere, spend a little time getting lost amid the buildings here and you'll be rewarded with some serious Hogwarts vibes. Walking up the main entrance from the front gates, you'll be greeted by the inspiring, iconic tableau of the Arts Building cupola framed by Mount Royal; museums and libraries are to your left, and imposing gothic revival classroom buildings to your right. Guided tours are available and depart from the Welcome Center on rue McTavish, just make sure to sign up online as group sizes are limited.

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people walking through indoor food market. Marché JeanTalon sign above

Marché Jean-Talon Arrow

In the heart of Little Italy, Jean Talon Market, one of the largest open-air markets in North America, is an unmissable Montreal experience for food lovers. The space, which is full of small shopkeepers, bustles with activity year-round; you'll find local fruit and vegetable growers, butchers, bakers, fishmongers, grocers, and restaurateurs. It's hugely popular with locals and tourists, and if you're looking for old-world charm, there's nothing better.

dark room with projected lights

OASIS Immersion Arrow

There's a deep history of and passion for design and technology in Montreal, and this immersive exhibit held at the Palais des Congres is the largest of its kind in Canada. The show itself is a stunning display of natural landscapes, videos of artists performing and creating, poetry that floats across the screen, and psychedelic designs that transport the audience; the substance of the show itself appeals to adults and children alike. Because you need to book tickets in advance the exhibit never gets too crowded, so you'll be able to keep your distance from others and experience the magic without feeling cramped. Expect to hear lots of "oohs" and "ahs."

Montreal Quebec Canada Museum Space for Life

Space for Life Arrow

The Montréal Space for Life, home to the Biodôme, Insectarium, Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium, and Botanical Garden, is the largest natural sciences museum complex in Canada. This is a great place to explore and embrace the natural world; don't miss the “Gardens of Light” lantern festival and the dazzling “Butterflies Go Free” event, both held annually at the Botanical Garden.

Montreal Quebec Canada Restaurant Coffee Café Olimpico

Cafe Olimpico Arrow

Founded in 1970, Café Olimpico is a European-style café that serves a wonderful selection of coffee, espresso drinks, and Italian pastries. The Mile End landmark is a favorite among hipsters and artists, including Montreal-raised singer-songwriter Rufus Wainwright.

woman sitting in round window looking out on to water.

Bota Bota, spa-sur-l’eau Arrow

There are two volumes of conversation allowed at Bota Bota, a floating spa docked in Montreal's Old Port: “quiet” and "silence." Since opening in 2010, it has become an attraction for locals and tourists drawn to its spa treatments and hydrotherapy circuit. You can soak in a mineral-rich hot tub—and perhaps conquer that jet lag—while gazing upon the Downtown core, Mount Royal, and the historic Old Port, all from the river. While admission is typically limited to guests over the age of 18, the spa recently brought back its popular “Pirates Layover,” where children between 12 and 17 can visit on select dates to learn about and experience the benefits of hydrotherapy.

A large group of people visiting Muralfest 2019 during the sunset on StLaurent street

MURAL Festival Arrow

From Mile-End to Griffintown, Montreal is covered with murals. Public art is a huge part of the city’s cultural landscape, and each summer for about ten days, the annual MURAL Festival offers live painting sessions, workshops, and music performances in celebration of the street artists who keep this city (which can be oppressively grey and cold for much of the year) so colorful. Luckily for those of us who can’t make the trip up north during the festival itself, many of the murals are left up year-round. Boulevard Saint-Laurent is now the largest street art corridor in Canada, with works ranging from figurative representations of historic Montrealers to more abstract designs: The MURAL Festival website has a wonderful dynamic map to help you navigate them all.

Montreal Quebec Things to Do Canada Upstairs Jazz Bar  Grill

Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill Arrow

Upstairs, located downtown, is home to many Montreal-based acts, such as renowned drummer Jim Doxas, blues queen Dawn Tyler Watson, and jazz legend Ranee Lee. But international musicians often headline at the club too, which was also the first off-site jazz club to be a part of the Montreal International Jazz Festival; it has also been selected by Downbeat Magazine as one of the world’s 150 most important jazz clubs, so you know there'll always be something good on.

Montreal Quebec Canada Museum PointeàCallière  Museum of Archaeology and History

Pointe-à-Callière - Museum of Archaeology and History Arrow

Pointe-à-Callière, the largest archaeology museum in Canada, is built atop the historic Old Montreal sites where the city was founded in 1642. There is lots of drama here, from the excavated remains of the original settlement to interactive video installations. Pointe-à-Callière also presents three to four temporary exhibitions every year.

Montreal Quebec Canada Things to Do St. Joseph's Oratory

Saint Joseph's Oratory Arrow

The majestic Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal, one of the world’s great Catholic basilicas, was founded by Saint Brother André, who is credited with thousands of miraculous healings. More than 2 million people visit the pilgrimage site each year (both religious and non-religious), and its dome is the third-largest of its kind in the world after the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace of Yamoussoukro in Côte d'Ivoire and Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome . It's without question one of Montreal's most impressive architectural jewels.

Beyond the Bagel Tour  Museum of Jewish Montreal

Beyond the Bagel Tour – Museum of Jewish Montreal Arrow

Jewish food historian Kat Romanow knows her bagels, bialys, and rugelachs. Her Beyond the Bagel walking food tour, offered through the Museum of Jewish Montreal, is a highly informative, well-organized romp. The Plateau and Mile End might be known today for their posh hipsters and nightlife hotspots, but this tour pulls back the curtain on the layers of history found in this part of the city. It's a much more fulfilling dive into Montreal cuisine than just grabbing a bagel or smoked meat sandwich on your own. As much of the excursion is outdoors, just note that this one is not generally offered between November and March.

Lachine Canal Montreal

Lachine Canal Arrow

The Lachine Canal flows from the historic buildings of Old Montreal, past the gentrified glass condo buildings of Griffintown, and through the hipster neighborhood of St. Henri before flowing into the industrial areas of Angrignon and Lasalle. Because it cuts through so many residential neighborhoods, you'll get a real glimpse of how Montrealers spend their downtime. On warm summer days, there isn't a better place to go for a jog or walk in the city.

Montreal Quebec Canada Things to Do Guidatour  Old Montréal Walking Tour

Guidatour's Old Montréal Walking Tour Arrow

Guidatour's professional guides have earned their excellent reputations, and the company's Old Montréal East and Old Montréal West itineraries both stop off at the must-see Notre-Dame Basilica , including an interior visit at no additional charge. Both tours last 90 minutes, and they're best for those looking for a crash course in the history of Montreal. You'll be amazed at how many hidden treasures you stumble upon in such a short time span. As much of Guidatour’s offerings are held outdoors, scheduled tours are generally on hold for the colder months. If you can brave the cold, however, feel free to reach out directly through their website to inquire about setting up a private tour.

Les TamTams du Mont Royal Montreal

Les Tam-Tams du Mont Royal Arrow

Since the mid 1960s, the informal, yet institutionalized, phenomenon known as Tam Tams has been one of the city's quirkiest and most beloved traditions, coming to Mont Royal Park every Sunday during the warmer months. At the base of the George-Étienne Cartier Monument obelisk, groups of friends, strangers, and percussionists from all walks of life gather to form communal drum circles, artisans and craftspeople sell their wares and LARPers (that's, Live Action Role Players) have lightsaber fights and medieval jousting matches.

Montreal Quebec Canada Things to Do Cité Mémoire

Cité Mémoire Arrow

Cité Mémoire, the largest outdoor video-projection installation in the world, features 25 tableaux composed of images projected on alley walls, trees and the ground throughout Old Montréal accompanied by narration, and music. The work as a whole tells stories of famous and not-so-famous Montrealers; and they put forward themes and values central to the city's identity. You'll learn about Marguerite Bourgeoys, the French founder of the Congregation of Notre Dame of Montreal, as well as sports icons Jackie Robinson (whose season with the Montreal Royals was important in his breaking of baseball's color barrier) and Maurice Richard. There are also tableaux about The Jewish Children’s Transport train (the orphans who survived Nazi concentration camps and were adopted by Montrealers); the burning of the Parliament in Montreal in 1849; Montreal’s fabled Sin City era (set to the rhythm of Montrealer and jazz icon Oscar Peterson’s piano).

Montreal Quebec Canada Restaurant Poutine La Banquise

La Banquise Arrow

If you go to just one poutine joint in Montréal, make it la Banquise in the Plateau district a 1968 institution that's known far and wide for its classic and comprehensive poutine menu. You'll find something for everybody here, from meat gravy to vegan sauce. Late night, be prepared for long queues of hungry club-goers.

Cabaret Mado Montreal

Cabaret Mado Arrow

Like much of Montreal's Gay Village, Cabaret Mado, a cabaret drag bar, is a little gritty, a little sparkly, and utterly fabulous. Mado, an icon in Quebec's vibrant gay scene who has performed for more than 30 years, often oversees the nightly festivities herself by hosting live drag shows most nights of the week. It's a pretty intimate space, so there isn't a bad seat in the house. Just be warned: Those seated in the front row are most vulnerable to be corralled into the show (willingly or unwillingly).

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11 of the best things to do in Montréal

Joel  Balsam

Sep 19, 2023 • 8 min read

travel in montreal canada

Here are Montréal's unmissable experiences © Awana JF / Shutterstock

A slice European, a pinch cosmopolitan New York and fully its own quirky, unique self, Montréal is Canada ’s artsiest, coolest city, worth spending days and days exploring.

From lining up to eat Montréal-style bagels and smoked meat to climbing “the mountain” to checking out world-class museums, there is so much to do in this captivating city. Just make sure to leave time to wander and soak in the vibe.

Here are 11 things to do to get you started. Note that  Passeport Montréal  let's you choose from a list of five attractions and tours with one pass, while  Musée Montréal’s Carte Excursion  has entry to all the museums can mange in three days.

1. Explore Montreal’s cool neighborhoods

One thing Montréalers love to disagree about is which neighborhood is the best or “coolest.” Decide for yourself by strolling around its many charming areas .

Le Plateau is where you’ll find Montréal’s quintessential residential duplex and triplex architecture with outdoor staircases, as well as atmospheric parks like Carré St-Louis and Parc La Fontaine. Up along the Main (aka Blvd St Laurent) is the Mile End’s mix of trendy restaurants and Jewish institutions and Petite Italie, home to the fabulous food stalls of Marché Jean-Talon and cannoli galore.

Vieux-Port (Old Port) is Montréal’s 400-year-old neighborhood, while Quartier des Spectacles hosts festivals and culture. Downtown along Rue Ste-Catherine is where the big-store shopping happens. East in Montréal lingo – though really northeast on a map – you’ll find Montréal’s Gay Village (also called Le Village) party zone and rough-and-tumble hipster ‘hood Hochelaga. West along Rue Notre-Dame are Griffintown and St-Henri, where there are trendy restaurants and quirky shops such as  Marché Underground , plus paddle boats along the Canal de Lachine . Venture to Verdun to explore an up-and-coming neighbourhood with its own beach . 

Local tip: The areas of Downtown and the Old Port are packed with hotels but head out a bit further to neighborhoods like Le Plateau or St-Henri if you want a more local experience.

People gather outside a Gothic cathedral in the evening, which is lit up with pale blue lights

2. Wander the Old Port

Yes, Montréal’s Vieux-Port is its most touristy area, with souvenir shops, caricaturists and cheesy attractions aplenty, but it's still a must-visit. Dating back to 1611, the neighborhood has a mix of British and French architectural styles, along with a wide boardwalk and historic shipping structures. Some of the prettiest buildings include the Basilique Notre-Dame (Basilica), Hôtel-de-Ville (City Hall) and the former bank that’s now used for the stunning Crew Collective & Café .

Local tip: Time your visit to Notre-Dame to hear live organ music on Wednesday, Thursday or Friday from 1:30 to 4:20pm, or catch Aura , an immersive light and sound show, on most nights.

3. Join locals at a festival and see a show

Rarely a week goes by in Montréal without a festival taking over city streets and parks. When they do, there’s nothing like seeing everyone’s faces light up in sync with scintillating light shows. Spring and summer festivals include Festival International de Jazz for live jazz and other concerts, many of which are free; Mural for graffiti, live hip-hop and shopping along The Main; Montréal Complètement Cirque for live circus performances in the streets; Just for Laughs , one of the world’s premiere comedy festivals; Formula 1 Grand Prix racing and parties on Crescent St; and heart-pumping music festivals Osheaga in summer and Igloofest in sub-zero temperatures. If you aren’t in Montréal in time for a festival, you can always see a show at a performance venue like L’Opéra de Montréal , Chez Mado and MTelus .

Detour: Visit Québec City for the world’s largest winter carnival, Carnaval de Québec and Baie-St-Paul for Le Festif! a summer music festival with live concerts across town including in the river. 

A diverse crowd of people gathered and cheering around a tall monument in a park. Some people are beating drums

4. Climb Mont-Royal

Montréal’s so-called “mountain,” and the city’s namesake, is the core of Montréal, and thanks to smart city planners that made sure the park was protected from development in 1876, an urban oasis. Mont-Royal has a wide pedestrian path that zig-zags gently to the top where you’ll find Lac-aux-Castors (Beaver Lake) and Belvédère Kondiaronk, a charming visitor chalet which hosts the city’s best views.

On Sundays at the bottom of the mountain by the Monument to Sir George-Étienne-Cartier (one of the fathers of Canadian Confederation) join dozens of people shaking and swaying to bongo drums and other instruments at Tam Tams, an unofficial weekly party that carries Le Plateau’s hippie days into today.

5. Eat bagels, smoked meat, Portuguese chicken and poutine

This city is justifiably famous for its Montréal-style bagels (fluffy, water-baked bagels covered in sesame seeds), which are lighter and, let’s face it, better than New York’s (don’t @ me), and smoked meat (brisket) sandwiches. Both were brought to Montréal from Eastern Europe by Jewish immigrants. Try bagels at Fairmount Bagel and St-Viateur Bagel and line up for smoked meat at Schwartz’s Deli .

Stay hungry though as there’s more eating to be done. Portuguese immigrants gave Montréal another iconic dish in the 1960s and ‘70s: piri-piri chicken. Try some spicy bird at Ma Poulle Mouillée , Romados and the restaurant whose founder is attributed with introducing Portuguese-style chicken to Montréal: Coco Rico.

While not necessarily a Montréal dish (the origin are casse-croûte chip wagons in central Québec) if this city is your only stop in Québec you’ll want to try ooey-gooey poutine (well-ccoked French fries with squeaky cheese curds bathed in thick gravy). La Banquise , Patati Patata and Chez Claudette are the best. 

Local tip: Take a Beyond the Bagel walking tour from the Musée Juif de Montréal to taste the city’s best Jewish noshes and learn about the community’s history.

A Japanese-style pagoda surrounded by blossom trees with pink blooms

6. Feel natural diversity

In the city’s east end, Espace Pour la Vie is a group of four (five if you include the Biosphère in Parc Jean-Drapeau) of the city’s best attractions that focus on the natural universe and our place in it. The Biodôme (which is different from the Biosphère) recreates five natural habitats that allow you to see what it’s like in the sub-Antarctic islands (penguins!) and feel the humidity of a tropical rainforest complete with views of parrots. The Insectarium allows you to enter the world of creepy crawlies and butterflies. There’s also the huge and impressive Jardins Botanique (Botanical Gardens), which hosts occasional light shows, and the intriguing Planétarium. 

Detour: For a bigger dose of nature, head north of the city to the Laurentian Mountains, dotted with dozens of lakes and sliced by rivers along with Mont-Tremblant, Eastern Canada’s most popular ski resort.

7. Pick up tasty produce at the market for a park picnic

Québec blossoms with fresh produce every year, from crunchy apples to wild blueberries exploding with flavor and ground cherries (tiny orange fruit), all attractively on display in overflowing baskets at the city’s two main farmer’s markers Marché Atwater and Marché Jean-Talon . Pick out your favorites for a picnic at one of the city’s many wonderful parks to get a taste of local life as a Montrealer. Some of the finest parks are Parc La Fontaine , Carré St-Louis, Laurier, Jarry, Jeanne-Mance, and Maisonneuve.

Local tip: You’re allowed to drink alcohol in Montréal’s public parks, but only if you have ample food (ie a baguette and cheese not just a bag of chips). You also must be seated at a picnic table. If not, you could be fined.

8. Be wowed at a museum or immersive show

Montréal is Canada’s art capital and has some of the country’s best museums. Visit Musée des Beaux-Arts for a multi-floor collection of spectacular art from around the world. The Museé McCord Stewart is a smaller museum focusing on Indigenous art, maps and fashion centered around the city’s many cultures. Go to Pointe-à-Callière to learn about Montréal’s history and venture underground to an archaeology site. Another favorite is Centre PHI , an immersive art extravaganza with virtual reality and other shows that are out of this world ( literally ). For a nouveau twist, check out the Cité Mémoire app, which casts augmented reality visualizations of the city’s history on buildings and foliage.

The eye-catching concrete forms of Habitat 67, Montreal, with separate buildings seemingly stacked on top of each other in a non-uniform way

9. Relive Expo 67

Across the St Lawrence River from the Old Port is a partially artificial set of islands created for the Expo 67 (1967) World’s Fair. Many of the amazing structures that welcomed 50 million visitors (Canada’s population at the time was around 20 million) to Parc Jean-Drapeau over the six months it was on are gone, but you can still see Moshe Safdie’s brutalist architectural feat Habitat 67 and the Biosphère dome. Most weekends in the summer, Parc Jean-Drapeau hosts a mini-electronic music festival Piknic Élektronic and there’s an amusement park, La Ronde , as well as a beach.

Local tip: Ride over one of the bridges to Parc Jean-Drapeau with a Bixi bikeshare. It’s a fun adventure and provides terrific views over downtown and the St Lawrence River.

10. Go out on the town

While Montréal has, for the most part, shaken off its reputation as a Sin City – earned during its rowdy neon-lit days during and following US Prohibition – it’s still a great place to have a good time when the sun goes down. Kick off your evening with a 5 à 7 (happy hour) at one of Montréal’s many rooftop bars and terrasses before tasting natural wine or craft cocktails at a hip bar. Continue your night (Montréal bars don’t have to close until 3am) at the many clubs downtown and in Le Village. Some of the best include Bar George , Else’s , BarBara and Messorem as well as Stereo nightclub.

11. Cheer on the Habs at Centre Bell

There are few sports franchises with as storied a history as hockey’s the Montréal Canadiens – stretching to when the team was an “Original Six” National Hockey League franchise all the way to the team’s improbable appearance in the 2021 Stanley Cup Final. Catch a Habs game at Centre Bell and feel the raucous atmosphere of the hometown team. Just don’t you dare cheer for arch-rivals Boston Bruins or Toronto Maple Leafs.

This article was first published October 2021 and updated September 2023

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Montreal Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 30, 2023

a view of Montreal from Mont Royal during the fall with red leaves changing in the foreground

Montreal is Canada’s “European” city. It’s one of the five largest French-speaking cities in the world, and at one point it was even the capital of the country. The second-largest city in the country, it’s charming, historic, and unlike Canada’s other large cities.

Personally, I think it’s one of the best cities in Canada. The city’s Old Town looks like something straight out of medieval France and the French-inspired cuisine and eclectic nightlife (especially the jazz clubs) leave little to dislike. For outdoor explorers, there are a lot of incredible bike paths and nearby mountains to hike to.

I first came here when I was 18 because it was the closest place to where I lived that allowed me to drink (the legal drinking age is 18). Subsequent visits as an adult have only made me appreciate the city on a deeper level and it remains one of my favorites in North America.

It’s also noticeably cheaper than Canada’s other large cities (I’m looking at you Toronto and Vancouver ), so there’s good reason to stay awhile and soak up the unique culture.

This travel guide to Montreal can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most out of your time in this incredible city.

Table of Contents

  • Things to See and Do
  • Typical Costs
  • Suggested Budget
  • Money-Saving Tips
  • Where to Stay
  • How to Get Around
  • How to Stay Safe
  • Best Places to Book Your Trip
  • Related Blogs on Montreal

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Montreal

A view of Montreal from Mont Royal during the summer with lush green leaves in the foreground

1. Walk around Old Montreal

Old Montreal is easily the most attractive part of the city. Its cobblestone streets and historic greystone buildings date back to the 1700s. When people think of Montreal, this is the part of the city they picture. Some of the city’s finest museums and art galleries are here too, including the Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History (admission is 25 CAD). You can also take a Ghost Tour with Get Your Guide for 21.50 CAD.

2. Visit the Place des Armes

This is one of three main squares in Old Montreal dating back to the end of the 17th century. Originally used for military events and markets, today it’s a beautiful piece of preserved history. Nearby is the Vieux Séminaire de St-Sulpice, Montreal’s oldest seminary and building (built between 1684-1687) for the Catholic Order of Sulpicians. You’ll also find the majestic Notre-Dame Basilica cathedral here, lauded for being one of the most beautiful churches in North America. Lastly, there is the Bank of Montreal’s founding building, and also the New York Life Insurance skyscraper, constructed in 1888. The plaza is a wonderful place to people-watch and take in the local pace of life.

3. Relax on Mont Royal

This beautiful park is one of the highlights of the city and a symbol of the city’s heritage (Montreal comes from ‘Mont Royal’). With 200 acres of lush vegetation, it’s a great place to stroll around or walk up the “mountain” (it’s just a large hill) for fantastic views over the city skyline. On Sundays in the summer, the park comes alive with picnickers and the “Tam-Tams” — an eclectic drum circle that draws huge numbers. The park is open all year round and attracts a broad range of sporting enthusiasts for jogging, skiing, skating, boating, biking, sledding, and more. With so many activities, it’s a great place to spend a sunny day.

4. See the Biodome

The biodome features four distinct ecosystems. You can visit the Tropical Forest, see otters and lynx in the Laurentian Maple Forest, visit the puffins on the Labrador Coast, and explore the volcanic landscape of the Sub-Antarctic Islands. There are over 200 species of animals here and some 750 different species of plants. Admission is 21.50 CAD. It’s especially fun and educational for kids.

5. Tour the Museum of Fine Arts

This enormous museum has over 43,000 works of art, with many temporary exhibits on rotation as well. There are five intersecting pavilions but the Claire and Marc Bourgie Pavilion is especially worth seeing for its collection of Quebec and Canadian art, including Inuit art. The museum is famous for its community and education collaboration to create unique art experiences as part of its art therapy initiatives. Admission is 24 CAD.

Other Things to See and Do in Montreal

1. take a free walking tour.

Whenever I visit a new destination, one of the first things I do is take a free walking tour. It’s the best way to see the main sights and connect with a local guide who can answer all your questions. Free Montreal Tours has a comprehensive two-hour tour that covers all the main highlights. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!

2. See the Jardin Botanique

Montreal is home to the second-largest botanical garden in the world. Spanning 185 acres and opened in 1931, it showcases ten indoor greenhouses including a Chinese garden, a Japanese garden, a lily garden, and a rose garden. There’s also a tranquil First Nations Garden designed to represent the natural environment of Quebec’s First Nations, including plants from the Nordic Zone. Admission is 22 CAD. Combined tickets offering discounted rates are available if you also want to visit the Biodome or one of the other museums in the Espace Pour La Vie (Space for Life) natural museum complex. On Thursdays, Planetarium tickets are only 8 CAD after 5pm.

3. Wander the Jean-Talon Market

The city’s largest market hosts hundreds of stalls in the middle of Little Italy. Shops and small specialized grocers surround the square, so be on the lookout for Quebecois delicacies like pure maple syrup or ice wine. One of the oldest markets in the city, it’s a great place to have lunch or grab fresh food for later. There are often events like workshops and culinary demonstrations here too, so you never know what you might stumble upon.

4. Take a half-day bike tour

On a three-hour guided bike tour with Fitz & Follwell, you’ll visit some of Montreal’s key sites including Old Montreal, Mile-End, Mont Royal, and the Plateau. They also offer themed tours to certain neighborhoods, like the North End, where you’ll explore open-air markets and street art. Bikes and helmets are provided, and the 16-kilometer (10-mile) route has an easy-going pace, making this tour accessible for anyone who can ride a bike. Three-hour tours start at 70 CAD. Ça Roule Montreal on Wheels has four-hour tours for 32 CAD or a full-day rental for 40 CAD (helmet and lock included).

5. Relax in Parc La Fontaine

Whether you want to play beach volleyball, tennis, or just have a picnic, Parc La Fontaine is a relaxing spot to kick back and enjoy. This former farm became a public park in the 19th century and has been a beloved community greenspace ever since. In the summer, there are free performances at the outdoor Théâtre de Verdure, while in the winter you can skate on the pond or go cross-country skiing.

6. Walk around Le Plateau

This popular neighborhood combines shady residential streets, colorful old Victorian homes, boutique shopping, and trendy restaurants. Walk around and admire the architecture, pop into some antique shops, and keep an eye out for colorful street murals. In the summer, the Ave. du Mont-Royal even transforms into a huge street fair!

7. Take a boat ride

Montreal is on an island and there are 234 islands in its vicinity. To explore, you can take different boat tours of the harbor from the Old Town, as well as longer tours of the Lachine Canal and the nearby Boucherville Islands. Along the way, your guide can tell you all about the area’s maritime history. Some tours are limited to 30 passengers, which means you’re never competing for the best view. La Petit Navire offers tours starting at 23.50 CAD for the Old Town tour and 34 CAD for Lachine Canal.

8. See the St. Joseph Oratory

Standing nearly as tall as St. Peter’s in Rome (97 meters/318 feet), this basilica towers over the city skyline. It is one of the most visited shrines in the world, also housing a chapel and a crypt. Canada’s largest church, it’s the final resting spot for Brother André, a simple porter turned miracle worker from the early 1900s who supposedly had healing powers. The architecture is interesting as well, with a Renaissance Revival facade and Art Deco interior. Entry is free and guided tours cost 5 CAD (tours are currently suspended due to COVID-19). The Oratory Museum displaying art and heritage is 3 CAD open daily 10am-4:30pm. You can even stay at the Oratory overnight (55 CAD for a twin room, with breakfast included).

9. Visit the Notre Dame Basilica

This 17th-century Gothic Revival basilica started as a tiny stone church. Now, it’s a testament to the importance of religion and art in the city’s history (Catholicism is the dominant religion in Quebec). Its dual towers are reminiscent of the cathedral in Paris, and its interior is a stunning display of religious paintings, colorful stained-glass windows, and gold-leaf decorations. There’s also a 7,000-pipe organ inside. You can visit and do a 60-minute self-guided tour for 14 CAD. The award-winning Aura multi-media luminous experience (a light and projection show inside the church) is 34 CAD and has attracted over half a million people from all over the world.

10. See the Cabaret Mado

This entertaining drag cabaret is hosted by Mado Lamotte, an iconic diva from the city’s Gay Village. It’s been going on for 30 years and makes for a wild night of music, comedy, costume, and dancing, with guest performers each night. Don’t sit too close to the stage or else you’ll get roasted! Tickets start at 30 CAD.

11. Explore Parc Jean-Drapeau

Made up of two islands, Parc Jean-Drapeau covers 662 acres of green space and contains a racetrack, museums, and even the La Ronde amusement park. The park was the site of the 1967 World’s Fair and today it remains an important event space. Most of the city’s major festivals are held here, including Osheaga, the Canadian Grand Prix, and the Fête des Neiges (a free winter carnival). If you visit during the summer, check out Piknic Électronik, a weekly electronic music festival held each Sunday typically from May to the end of October. Everyone brings a picnic and a bottle of wine! Tickets are 20 CAD.

12. Take a food tour

Montreal is Canada’s food capital. Local Montréal Food Tours has several different food tours around town on which you’ll sample Montreal classics like Montreal bagels as well as poutine, a purely Canadian dish of fries, a gravy-like sauce, and cheese curds. They also have a brewpub tour if you find yourself extra thirsty as you explore. Prices start from 52 CAD for a two-hour tour.

  For more information on other cities in Canada, check out these guides:

  • Calgary Travel Guide
  • Nova Scotia Travel Guide
  • Ottawa Travel Guide
  • Quebec City Travel Guide
  • Toronto Travel Guide
  • Vancouver Travel Guide
  • Vancouver Island Travel Guide

Montreal Travel Costs

The iconic Cartier bridge in Montreal, Canada lit up at night

Hostel prices – A bed in a 4-8-bed dorm costs 35-45 CAD per night while a dorm with 10 beds or more costs 30-35 CAD. A standard private room starts at 75 CAD per night for two people but averages closer to 150 CAD. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels have self-catering facilities. A couple of hostels also include free breakfast.

For those traveling with a tent, camping is available outside the city for around 25 CAD per night. This gets you a basic plot without electricity for two people.

Budget hotel prices – Budget hotels start at 110-125 CAD in the center of town. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, TV, AC, and a coffee/tea maker.

Airbnb is available everywhere in Montreal, with private rooms starting around 45 CAD per night. An entire home/apartment starts at around 90 CAD per night. Expect prices to double if you don’t book early.

Food – The food in Montreal is a collage of dishes from other cultures, owing to the country’s diverse history of immigration. In Montreal, you’ll want to make sure you try poutine (it has the best poutine in the country), smoked meat, and Montreal bagels, as well as more general Canadian staples like beaver tails (fried dough with maple syrup), Canadian bacon, and the oddly tasty ketchup chips.

For budget travelers, Montreal has an endless selection of fast-food joints and takeaway spots. You can find poutine for under 10 CAD, or burgers and small pizzas for around 10-12 CAD each. A smoked meat sandwich can cost around 20 CAD with fries and coleslaw, while a hearty bagel sandwich costs about 10-12 CAD. Fast food (think McDonald’s) is around 13 CAD for a combo meal.

A meal at a casual restaurant is around 20 CAD. A beer to go with it is about 6-8 CAD. If you want to splash out, a meal at a high-end restaurant costs about 45 CAD for an entree without a drink.

If you cook for yourself, expect to spend around 50-60 CAD per week on groceries. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, produce, and some meat.

Some of my favorite restaurants in Montreal include Fairmount Bagels, Damas, Wilensky’s, Le Serpent (for something upscale), La Chilenita, Olive et Gourmando, Main Deli, Sushi Momo, and Drogheria.

Backpacking Montreal Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Montreal, expect to spend at least 60 CAD per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel, cooking all your meals, limiting your drinking, walking everywhere or taking public transportation, and doing mostly free activities like hanging out on Mont-Royal and doing free walking tours. If you plan on drinking, add 10-20 CAD to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 150 CAD per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, eat out for a few meals, take the occasional taxi, enjoy a couple of drinks, and visit some museums or do a food tour.

On a “luxury” budget of 265 CAD or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, take more taxis or rent a car, and do whatever tours or activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in CAD.

Montreal Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Montreal isn’t one of the cheapest destinations on the world but there are a lot of ways to cut your spending when you vist, especially if you stick to the free activities. Here are some ways to save money when you visit Montreal:

  • Stay with a local – If you plan ahead, you can usually find a Couchsurfing host in Montreal. This way, you not only have a free place to stay but you can connect with a local who can share their insider tips.
  • Take a free walking tour – Walking tours are a great way to get familiar with a city and its culture. Free Montreal Tours offers one that covers all the main highlights. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!
  • Get the museum pass – A Montréal Museum Pass provides access to over 40 different museums around Montreal. A three-day pass is 75 CAD, while a three-day pass with unlimited transportation is 80 CAD.
  • Apportez-votre vin – Many restaurants in Montreal have a sign displayed out front that says “Apportez-votre vin” (bring your own wine). You can pick up a cheap bottle of wine at the supermarket and bring it to dinner with you!
  • Look for free events – Montreal has tons of free events year-round, but especially during the summer. Many of the major music festivals (like the Montreal International Jazz Festival, the largest jazz festival in the world) have free concerts or shows in the streets. There are also free art shows, theatrical performances, and even stand-up comedy (the annual Just For Laughs comedy festival is the largest comedy festival in the world). Mtl.org lists all events!
  • Check out Montreal Sweet Deals – Mtl.org also has a selection of “Sweet Deals,” where if you book a room with one of the partner hotels directly, you’ll get special perks like late departure, breakfast included, or a discounted room rate (sometimes up to 30% off).
  • Eat at Montreal’s Food Markets – Head to Jean-Talon market in Little Italy, the largest open-air market in North America for a unique experience and stock up on fresh food items. There are also many eateries and places to get a snack or a full meal whether you’re in the mood for tacos, mozzarella sticks, crepes, ice cream, or oysters.
  • Pick up a Passeport MTL – Much like the museum pass above, the official city pass, Passeport MTL, lets you choose admission to five attractions from a list of over 28 attractions when you buy a card. The card also includes discounted offers to other attractions too. It’s 95 CAD.
  • Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money. LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter to ensure your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Montreal

Montreal has lots of hostels that are fun, social, and affordable. Here are some of my suggested places to stay:

  • HI Montreal Hostel
  • Alexandrie-Montréal
  • Samesun Montreal Central

How to Get Around Montreal

Colorful leaves on a quiet street in Montreal, Canada

Public transportation – Montreal’s bus service covers the entire city center and the outskirts of town, including the airport. It’s 3.50 CAD for one ride or 6.50 CAD for a return trip. An unlimited day pass is 11 CAD, which is your best option. You can use your tickets on the subway as well, which is the best way to get around the city.

If you’d like to be able to top up your transit card, purchase an OPUS card for 6 CAD.

You can take bus 747 to and from the airport for 11 CAD each way.

Taxi – Taxis are not cheap here. Their base rate is 4.05 CAD and it’s an additional 1.75 CAD per kilometer afterward. Skip the taxis if you can as prices add up fast!

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Montreal and is a bit cheaper than taxis, however, it’s still much more expensive than public transportation and likely not much faster if you’re downtown. Bicycle – Montreal is very bike-city friendly and there are plenty of bicycle rental businesses around town. The public bike rental system is Bixi Bike. It costs 50 cents to unlock a bike, and then 10 cents/per minute for a regular bike or 12 cents/per minute for an e-bike. With over 8,000 bikes available at 700 stations across the city, you can easily hop around the city by bike. If you purchase an OPUS transit pass, you can link it to Bixi Bike to easily tap and rent a bike, as well as receive 10% off fares.

When to Go to Montreal

Montreal is at its busiest in the summer, especially when all the outdoor patios are open and there’s a festival practically every week. July and August are the hottest months, with temperatures hovering around 25°C (78°F). Just note that accommodation prices increase and tourist attractions can get crowded during this time so you may want to book early.

Both early fall and late spring are excellent times to visit as the weather is warm, you can do all the outdoor exploration you want, and there aren’t many tourists around. It’s stunning from late September to the end of October when the leaves start turning color.

Winters in Montreal are bitterly cold, with temperatures averaging around -7°C (19°F) in January though it can get much colder. Expect lots of snow too. In short, I wouldn’t suggest visiting in the winter unless you’re heading further afield to ski and enjoy the snow.

How to Stay Safe in Montreal

Montreal is very safe and you’re unlikely to experience any violent crime here. Your greatest risk is petty crime, like pickpocketing, but even that is rare. Pickpocketing is most likely to occur in busy restaurants and cafes or on public transportation, so keep an eye on your valuables when you’re out and about just to be safe.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe in the country, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For more information, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs on the city.

Avoid neighborhoods like Notre Dame Ouest and Wellington Street after dark as sometimes gangs frequent the area.

If visiting in the winter, dress warmly. The temperature can get extremely cold (to the point where people have died).

Scams here are in the city. If you’re worried about them though, you can read about the common travel scams to avoid here.

The number for emergency services is 911.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Montreal Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

  • Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
  • Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
  • Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
  • Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
  • SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
  • LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
  • Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
  • Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Montreal Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Canada and continue planning your trip:

Where to Stay in Quebec City: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Quebec City: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Vancouver: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Vancouver: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Toronto: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Toronto: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Canada Road Trip: A One Month Suggested Itinerary

Canada Road Trip: A One Month Suggested Itinerary

How to Road Trip the Yukon on a Budget

How to Road Trip the Yukon on a Budget

How to See Alberta: A 10-Day Suggested Driving Itinerary

How to See Alberta: A 10-Day Suggested Driving Itinerary

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  • Where To Stay
  • Transportation
  • Booking Resources
  • Related Blogs

MTL Travel Blog

Perfect 7 Days In Montreal And Quebec City Itinerary

by Melissa Giroux

montreal 7 days

Planning a trip to Montreal, Canada? If you’re thinking of staying in Montreal for one week , you’re going to love our recommended 7 days itinerary. Let’s see how you can visit Montreal in 7 days and more importantly, make the most of it.

Day 1 – Old Montreal

To start off your trip to Montreal, it’s off to Old Montreal, the city’s historic district. One of the best ways to explore the district and learn all about the city’s beginnings is to take a walking tour of the Old Town. Various walking tours are offered , all with the benefit of a knowledgeable guide to give you the most educational and unique experience of the area. 

After a walk around the Old Town, it’s time for lunch nearby at Taverne Gaspar . Located on rue de la Commune inside a 19th Century warehouse, Taverne Gaspar offers French-inspired pub food with options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets. If you’re desperate to try out the famous Quebecois dish, poutine, during your stay in Montreal, you’ll want to head over to Montreal Poutine on rue Saint-Paul.

Also located in Old Montreal, Montreal Poutine specializes in the famous dish, complete with cheese curds and gravy, as well as providing many variations to suit everyone. Alongside poutine, this restaurant also offers a range of classic burgers and hot dogs.

For your afternoon activity, it’s time to head to the Pointe-à-Callière Museum of Archaeology and History to learn even more about Montreal’s origins and foundations. Not only a fantastic resource for learning about Montreal’s history but the museum is also built on the very spot where the city was founded, making it a very significant historical site.

Alternatively, if the morning tour of Old Montreal was enough for you, the Bota Bota spa is located nearby at the Old Port, offering a variety of packages alongside the gorgeous views of the district. Perfect for solo travelers, couples, and small groups, the spa boasts a range of facilities, including saunas, steam rooms, hot and cold pools, relaxation rooms, and a variety of soothing treatments. 

For dinner in Old Montreal, head over to Saint-Paul Street, where you’ll find Modavie . Modavie is a jazz bar and bistro specializing in French and European cuisine and, while you’re there, you’re likely to experience the sounds of a local Montreal band. The restaurant’s specialty is lamb, though imaginative vegetarian options are available.

For an evening out in Old Montreal, head to the Coldroom on rue Saint Vincent to experience a prohibition-style speakeasy, perfectly fit for this historic district. Hidden behind a black door, the Coldroom can be easily missed by those not looking for it (follow the duck!).

As a reward for your detective skills, the Coldroom offers excellent gourmet cocktails and an atmosphere to make your legal drinks feel that little bit prohibited. 

Day 2 – City Centre and Plateau Mont-Royal

To start off your second day in Montreal, we’re heading off to Mount Royal , the famous mountain overlooking Downtown Montreal. If traveling to Montreal during the winter, ice skating on Beaver Lake should be an activity at the top of your list. Located at the top of the mountain, Beaver Lake is Mount Royal’s outdoor refrigerated skating rink, with free access and skate rental available from $10 per 2 hours.

If visiting Mount Royal with children, activities such as snow tubing down the hill overlooking Beaver Lake, and is suitable for children aged 4 and up. Daily passes and equipment for this activity are available at the equipment rental counter.

If your trip to Mount Royal is during the summer, Beaver Lake is still a top attraction. Not only is the surrounding park the perfect spot for a picnic or morning read, but rowboats can also be rented for use on the lake at $12 per half hour. For anyone who would rather not get in the water, remote-controlled sailboats are also available for use on Beaver Lake for $10 per half hour, perfect for kids and adults alike. 

For lunch on the mountain, you have the option of several restaurants and cafes offering soups, sandwiches, and snacks: Mont-Royal Chalet, the Pavillion du Lac-aux-Castors (adjacent to Beaver Lake), and Maison Smith. Alternatively, head into Plateau Mont-Royal for lunch or brunch at Restaurant L’Avenue .

Offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options over a creatively-designed backdrop, Restaurant L’Avenue is the perfect example of dining in the artsy Plateau neighborhood. If poutine is still on your mind, however, take a seat nearby at La Banquise or PoutineVille , both of which are among the best restaurants to try the classic dish.

After lunch, head downtown to Sherbrooke Street to visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts , the largest art museum in Canada by exhibition space. Alongside collections featuring Picasso, Rembrandt, and Goyam the museum often showcases special exhibitions.

For dinner in Downtown Montreal, head over to Robert-Bourassa Boulevard and take a seat at Restaurant Zibo . Offering Californian-inspired Canadian cuisine, Zibo caters to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets with its extensive menu. Zibo also boasts an impressive beer, wine, and cocktail menu to complement your meal.

To round off your second day in Montreal, take a walk down to 3 Brasseurs microbrewery on Saint-Catherine Street. Alongside beer brewed in-house, 3 Brasseurs offers wine and cocktails, as well as a food menu that pairs beers with certain dishes and their flavors. If visiting in the summer, this location in Downtown Montreal also boasts outdoor seating so that you can enjoy a finely-crafted beer in the summer air.

Day 3 – Mont Tremblant

For the third day of your trip to Montreal, take a trip to Mont Tremblant, one of Canada’s most famous ski resorts located in the Laurentian Mountains. There are various options for getting to Tremblant from Montreal , with the most convenient option likely being to drive. And no worries if you’re not visiting during the winter, as the resort has activities available all year round.

It’s always best to leave early in the morning so that you can enjoy a full day at Tremblant. To ease yourself in after a long trip, regardless of the season, round off your morning with a short hike on the mountain. Take the gondola up to the top of the mountain, and make your way along with one of the many hiking trails that Tremblant has to offer. 

While at the mountain’s peak, stop off for lunch at le Grand Manitou , a cafeteria offering a spectacular view of the vicinity. Serving hot and cold food, this is the place to regain your energy for the main activity of the day.

After lunch, if you’re visiting in the winter, it’s finally time to try your hand at skiing. Mont Tremblant has a whole host of trails, from beginner to expert, so whether you’re a seasoned skier or it’s your first time, Tremblant’s got you covered. If you’re visiting the resort in the summer, try your hand at some rock climbing .

With no climbing experience necessary, you will be able to climb the cliff several times with the assistance of an experienced guide.

For dinner, head into the pedestrian village and take a seat at the Choux Gras Brasserie Culinaire for some French-Canadian cuisine. With vegetarian and gluten-free options, Choux Gras Brasserie Culinaire’s warm contemporary atmosphere overlooking the pedestrian village will make for a lovely evening meal. 

After dinner, head to the Casino de Mont-Tremblant , a small casino and bar featuring live music and an outdoor patio. Whether you’re looking for a drink at the bar or want to try your luck at the slot machines (or both!), this is the perfect place to finish off your day in Tremblant. And if you’d prefer to save the trip back for the next morning, there are plenty of lodging options and hotels available in the pedestrian village .

Day 4 – Quartier des Spectacles and Chinatown

For our fourth day in Montreal, we’re going to be checking out the Quartier des Spectacles (the Entertainment District) and Chinatown. For your morning activity, head into the Quarter and make your way to Saint-Catherine Street to find the Montreal Contemporary Art Museum (Musée d’Art Contemporain de Montréal), Canada’s first museum devoted entirely to contemporary art. Inside, you will find contemporary collections of over 7,000 works of art featuring Quebecois, Canadian, and international artists.

Unique exhibitions are constantly running , currently featuring the work of artists such as Arthur Jafa, Ron Moppett, and Kathleen Graham. Admission to the museum is $10 for adults, $4 for teenagers, and free for children under 12.

After a morning of cultural exploration, take a (very!) short walk to Eggspectation Complexe Desjardins on Saint Catherine West for some lunch or brunch. As the name suggests, Eggspectation specializes in eggs and breakfast food, but there truly is something for everyone. With imaginative variations on classic breakfast and brunch food, as well as non-breakfast food, you won’t be disappointed.

In the afternoon, head over to Chinatown, a small district within the Quartier des Spectacles, for a little exploration. One of the oldest Asian communities in North America, Montreal’s Chinatown started to emerge around the 1890s and was first recognized as a tourist attraction in the late 1960s.

The main attractions of Chinatown include its many shops and food vendors (try the bubble tea!). Make a stop at one of the many souvenir shops, or venture inside one of the Asian grocery stores for some authentic products. And be sure to make a stop at the corner of René-Lévesque and Saint-Laurent by the north gate to see a gorgeous mural produced by MU, one of the many examples of Montreal’s street art scene.

While in Chinatown, head to Ruby Rouge for some authentic Chinese cuisine. Their key dish is dim sum, which is continuously being wheeled around for customers to pick from, alongside a variation of Cantonese and Szechuan cuisine. And if you’re looking for a fun evening activity in Chinatown, look no further than CEO Karaoke, which is conveniently situated in the basement of Ruby Rouge. 

If karaoke isn’t your thing, head back into the main part of the Quartier and you’ll find the Theatre Sainte-Catherine Cafe-Bar . This unique bar is also an independent theatre, hosting musical performances, film screenings, and comedy all throughout the week. What better way to enjoy a drink within Montreal’s renowned Entertainment District than with some independent theatre?

Day 5 – The Village and Quartier Latin

With the university nearby, Montreal’s Quartier Latin is known to be a student-friendly district within the city, bustling with art, indie cinemas and theatres, and a vibrant nightlife. As such, Quartier Latin is highly focused on education and history, making this neighborhood the perfect spot for those that are beyond their university years but still love to learn. In the morning, head into the Quartier Latin and make your way to la Galerie de l’UQAM , an art museum located within the University of Quebec in Montreal.

As the gallery is primarily focused on student enrichment, many of the works on display are by students of visual arts, art history, and museology, making this gallery a highly unique and contemporary way to experience art created in the heart of Montreal.

For lunch in the Quartier Latin, head to Resto Végo , a vegetarian and vegan buffet located on Saint-Denis Street. Alongside an extensive buffet selection to suit anyone, Testo Vego also has a gourmet counter, stocked with prepared sandwiches, pizzas, and salads for those looking for something a little different from the buffet range.

Alternatively, if you’re hankering for something sweet, head over to Juliette et Chocolat , a French dessert cafe also located on Saint-Denis Street. Offering a plethora of desserts and hot chocolates, Juliette et Chocolat also has savory meals and brunches to suit everyone.

To really understand Montreal as an all-inclusive cosmopolitan city, visitors need to take a trip to the Village, which is where we’re headed for the afternoon. Located near the Quartier des Spectacles, Montreal’s Gay Village is the largest in North America, receiving consistent investment and promotion by all three levels of government as the heart of Montreal’s LGBT community.

It is often recommended to treat the Gay Village as an open-air museum, due to the large number of public art installations, including an outdoor gallery (Galerie blanc) and the mural by Cecile Gariepy. Unfortunately, the iconic large-scale installation comprising 180,000 hanging rainbow-colored balls has recently been taken down, but will soon be replaced with another fantastic installation. Keep an eye out!

For dinner, head to Grenade on Ontario Street East for some contemporary Asian food within a beautifully designed Asian-inspired interior. Grenade also features a cocktail bar, with a menu that’s jam-packed full of Asian-inspired and imported drinks. If visiting in the summer, the restaurant’s rear terrace is opened up for you to enjoy the balmy air.

To round off your evening in Montreal’s Gay Village, a visit to Cabaret Mado is essential. A testament to Montreal’s vibrant drag scene, Mado is a great spot to catch a glamorous show (and maybe even see some famous faces) while enjoying a good drink. There is always a show on, interspersed with special events, so check out the website for upcoming shows ! 

Day 6 – Quebec City

For your sixth day in Canada, it’s time for another day trip! One of the most popular day trips from Montreal is Quebec City, the capital of the province of Quebec. At around 3 hours’ drive from Montreal, it is recommended to rent a car for this trip, though a direct train is also available with similar travel time. 

Start off your visit to Quebec City with a stroll down Old Quebec (Vieux-Quebec), a World Heritage Site and the location of New France’s first permanent settlement.

Make sure that Place Royal, the city walls, and Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral are stops on your exploration of this historic city. If you have enough time, be sure to take up one of the many tours of the city and take advantage of Quebec’s highly-qualified and knowledgeable guides.

After a wander around Old Quebec, head down Petit-Champlain (and be sure to marvel at the beauty of this pedestrian street!), where you’ll enjoy a bite to eat at Le Lapin Saute . With a terrace opening up in the summer, and a fire to warm you in the winter, this is a great place to settle down for lunch regardless of when you’re visiting. 

After lunch, head to the Musée de la civilization , located between Old Quebec and the Old Port, where you can learn all about early Quebec and the First Nations people.

The museum features a whole host of natural specimens, historical artifacts, and documents of Old Quebec. Alongside permanent collections, the museum holds temporary exhibition s such as ‘Quebec City’s Firefighters: 250 Years of Courage’, which will run until March 29th, 2020. Many of the exhibitions and collections are interactive, making them all the more engaging for both adults and kids. Adult admission tickets start at $11, and children under 11 enter for free.

For dinner, take a short walk to Saint-Paul Street, where you’ll find Chez Rioux & Pettigrew . Serving French-Canadian cuisine, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, Rioux & Pettigrew aims to please with their gourmet styling and cozy industrial backdrop. 

Alternatively, for those wanting to experience a very unique experience of fine dining, be sure to make a booking at Restaurant Taniere ahead of your trip.

Rated to be the best restaurant in Quebec city, Taniere offers a contemporary gastronomy experience set in a series of underground 17th Century vaults. The food is locally sourced and expertly prepared over several courses, between 15 and 20, with options for a beverage pairing experience. Well worth the price, this is an unmissable place in Quebec for foodies.

If you’ve still got some steam come the evening, head to Le Sacrilège on Saint-Jean Street, a friendly bar featuring art exhibitions and live music. A favorite of locals, this is the bar to go to if you want to get a real taste of Quebec City’s charming nightlife. 

You can decide to stay the night in Quebec city too or drive all the way back to Montreal.

Day 7 – Rosemont

In the morning, we’re heading to Rosemont for a trip to Montreal’s Botanical Gardens (Jardin Botanique), which is a part of the Montreal Space for Life science complex. To get the most out of your experience at the Botanical Gardens, guided tours of the exhibition greenhouses are offered free with your admission ticket. Alongside an impressive collection of plant species and exhibition greenhouses, the Garden is also home to various thematic cultural gardens.

The Japanese Garden features a spectacular arrangement of bonsai trees, ranging from 20 to 100 years old, all within a specially-arranged serene environment. The Chinese Garden was created with materials shipped from Shanghai and built by 50 Chinese craftsmen. The result was a living exhibition of the Chinese art of landscape design, creating a sense of harmony using the four major elements: plants, water, stones, and architecture.

Finally, the First Nations Garden is designed to evoke the close bonds between the natives and the natural world, serving to promote the sharing of knowledge and culture between native and non-native Quebeckers.

For lunch, head to Little Italy, a small neighborhood north of Mile End that was heavily influenced by a wave of Italian immigration in the early 20th Century. Corneli is an Italian restaurant located on Saint-Laurent Boulevard, serving meat, fish, pasta, and pizza authentically cooked in their wood oven. 

While in Little Italy, head on over to the Jean-Talon Market for the afternoon. Jean-Talon is Little Italy’s famous food market and is one of the oldest public markets in Montreal, dating back to 1933. The market provides a unique produce shopping experience, even for those not looking to buy.

Nearby are various cafes, such as the Cafe Saint-Henri , which serves fantastic coffee and sweet snacks. Alternatively, Rosemont is also home to Montreal’s Olympic Village , which is a perfect visit for sport-lovers. While a perfect trip can be made out of a simple walk around the village, various tours and events are made available by the Olympic Park.

Open most of the year, the Montreal Tower Observatory is open to visitors, offering a panoramic view of the city from the world’s tallest inclined tower. Guided tours for the Tower are also available, as well as the Since 1976 exhibition that showcases the history of the park. Alongside this, the Stadium is also open, with regular guided tours and a seasonal events schedule . 

For dinner, head to rue Beaubien Est for a seat at Il Bazzali , a quaint Italian restaurant serving European and Mediterranean cuisines. If you’re lucky, you might even get to experience the famous “singing chef”. The restaurant is a BYOB but, luckily, there are plenty of wines to choose from le Marche des Saveurs du Quebec (the Quebec Flavor Market) in Jean-Talon Market.

To round off your trip in Montreal, head to La Succursale on rue Masson. La Succursale specializes in craft beers and ciders, within a friendly contemporary interior. If visiting during the summer, La Succursale also features an outdoor terrace, perfect for sipping on your drink during the warm evenings.

Final Thoughts On Montreal In One Week

We hope our guide helped you find new ideas for your week in Montreal.

Wondering where to stay during your trip to Montreal?

Read our article to help you pick the right neighborhood and the right hotel.

Genki insurance

A beginner’s guide to visiting Montreal

Melanie Lieberman

It had been more than a decade since I'd last crossed the border into Canada on a high school trip to Quebec. So in 2019, when I discovered I'd be returning to Montreal for a work trip without much notice and an entire weekend to fill, I started scouring the internet and messaging every friend and colleague who had ever been to this cosmopolitan city up north.

(Photo by Melanie Lieberman/The Points Guy)

On Aug. 9, Canada reopened to vaccinated Americans after a 17-month border closure. Americans who are fully vaccinated can finally enter Canada for tourism or other nonessential purposes by air and land so long as they pack a negative PCR test.

So, unsurprisingly, many travelers are beginning to plan long-overdue trips across the northern border to popular destinations including Montreal.

Travelers visiting Montreal for the first time will find that it's an accessible taste of Europe: Everyone speaks English, it's incredibly walkable and the food is as close as you'll get to Paris without flying across the Atlantic. Here's where to get your morning coffee, where to bed down and everything else you need to know for a first trip to the City of a Hundred Steeples.

Want more tips and tricks for planning a trip to Montreal? Visit our new destination hub here , and check back throughout the week for travel guides, restaurant recommendations and more!

Where to eat and drink in Montreal

Almost every time my stomach started grumbling, I checked out restaurants in the Plateau and Mile End neighborhoods. When in doubt, you can walk or Uber to these areas and wander until you see a menu that fits your needs.

Where to get the best bagels

There's one thing everyone will tell you about eating in Montreal: Get the bagels. Montreal's distinctly sweeter take on the Jewish classic is hand-rolled, boiled in honey-infused water and finished in a wood-burning oven.

travel in montreal canada

Find them at Fairmount Bagel, the 24-hour St-Viateur Bagel Shop or, if you want something a bit less traditional, one of four Hinnawi Bros locations. At Hinnawi Bros you can get breakfast sandwiches crafted with Montreal bagels (I ordered the Végé with avocado, mozzarella, bell pepper, grilled onions, cucumber and other toppings).

Where to eat poutine

The other thing you'll probably feel compelled to order during your first trip to Montreal is poutine. The simple Québécois dish consists of French fries smothered in squeaky cheese curds and rich brown gravy. You can find it pretty much anywhere in the city (including the hot dog stand Chez Ma Tante and the retro diner Greenspot), but the novelty of snacking on poutine at some odd hour of the morning means a trip to La Banquise, which is open 24/7 and has dozens of varieties on the menu.

Poutine. (Photo by JML Images/Getty Images)

The best restaurants in Montreal

For lunch or brunch, Olive et Gourmando is one of the most popular spots in the city. You'll find it on an attractive street in Old Montreal.

The pressed sandwiches are a highlight, so consider the "Poached Egg on Your Face" panini with slow-roasted tomatoes and raw milk cheese or the smoked brisket and cilantro-pesto mayo "Mr. Miami," served with a side of jalapeño pineapple chutney you'll want to put on everything.

I didn't order a salad, but regretted that when I saw massive bowls of greens, herbs, pumpkin seeds and vegetables passing through the cozy dining room.

(Photo by Isabelle Raphael / The Points Guy)

For a traditional Parisian bistro experience without flying to France, there's L'Express on Rue Saint-Denis. The kitchen stays open late and turns out chicken liver pâté, quiches, duck confit — you get the idea.

Vegetarians may want to skip Au Pied de Cochon (read: pig's foot), a Plateau institution that has an entire section of the menu dedicated to foie gras. But if this temple to meat is at the top of your dining list, make a reservation and order the duck in a can: garlic, thyme, balsamic, duck breast and, of course, more foie gras.

A playful mix of traditional Québécois and British fare, dinners at Bar George include quail stuffed with liver and pork mousse and beef Wellington with mushrooms and prosciutto. You also can't go wrong with the bacon jam-topped hamburger.

Elena, in the St. Henri neighborhood, is a great spot for thin, crusty pizza and wine.

Related: A food guide to eating Vegan and gluten-free in London

You'll probably want to try at least one of chef Marc Cohen's three restaurants (owned in partnership with Sefi Amir, Ethan Wills and Annika Krausz). You can get a sandwich at Boucherie Lawrence (or stock up on charcuterie), sit down for a casual meal at Larrys or splurge on dinner at Lawrence, which is set to reopen in September.

La Diperie, a local ice cream institution that's best known for its dipped cones, has expanded far beyond its original location in the Plateau. But this cozy shop remains a popular place to stop on a warm night for simple soft serve dipped in unexpected flavors and fun toppings. You can eat your dessert outside in front of the painted turquoise wall and, of course, take one for the 'gram.

(Photo by Isabelle Raphael / The Points Guy)

Where to drink

Great spots for a cocktail include Terrasse Nelligan (a seasonal rooftop crowning Hotel Nelligan) and the 25-seat Cloakroom Bar, hidden inside a former 19th-century mansion.

Related: The best starter credit cards

What to see and do in Montreal

It's not called the City of a Hundred Steeples for nothing. Everywhere you look in Montreal, there's an elegant church tower, spire or dome rising above the relatively low city skyline.

One of the most famous is the Notre-Dame Basilica, a 17th-century structure that will transport you straight to Paris with its twin Gothic Revival towers and stunning stained glass. It's not to be confused with the equally popular Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel, one of the oldest in the city, dating back to 1771. Located in Old Montreal, it overlooks the harbor.

(Photo by Melanie Lieberman/The Points Guy)

Also a replica of a famous European landmark, the sprawling Mary Queen of the World Cathedral is evocative of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. The downtown cathedral is crowned with a green copper dome and guarded by 13 patron saints from around Montreal.

On the summit of Mount Royal is Saint Joseph's Oratory. It's the largest church in Canada, but it's not the only reason travelers flock to Mount Royal. More hill than mountain, this vast 495-acre green space was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted (the same visionary landscape architect responsible for Central Park in New York City). Here, you can spend a warm summer afternoon walking, cycling, or picnicking; come winter, there's ice skating, snowshoeing and sledding.

(Photo by Melanie Lieberman/The Points Guy)

For a celebrated spa experience in Montreal, Bota Bota is on a ship located in the Old Port. Spread across five decks are saunas, baths, pools and treatment rooms.

And if you do find yourself in Montreal during the winter, make sure to visit during the Lumière Festival. Typically from late February through early March, the frozen city is transformed by colorful light installations, live art and music performances, culinary exhibits and more.

Montreal en Lumiere. (Photo by L. Toshio Kishiyama/Getty Images)

The best museums in Montreal

Art lovers will love the Contemporary Art Museum of Montreal (MAC; temporarily closed) and the city's Museum of Fine Arts. Both are located in the Ville-Marie borough.

For history buffs, there's the Pointe-à-Callière (the Museum of Archaeology and History) with artifacts dating back to the prehistoric aboriginal habitation of Montreal.

Where to stay in Montreal

Fairmont queen elizabeth.

Accor's historic Montreal hotel has been a fixture downtown since it debuted in 1958. It has hosted British royals and John Lennon and Yoko Ono's Bed-in for Peace. In 2017, the property — directly connected to Montreal's main Gare Central train station — got a top-to-toe refresh by Sid Lee. Request a room with a view of the Mary Queen of the World Cathedral across the street from the Fairmont, and, if you have status with Accor, use your complimentary welcome drink to try one of the signature cocktails at Bar Nacarat, the upscale lobby bar that spills out onto a terrace during the summer.

Every bit a W, down to the loud house music emanating from the bar and the generous use of gold pleather furniture, this hotel is conveniently located in downtown Montreal. Use your Marriott points (from 40,000 per night on off-peak dates) to stay at this Category 6 property.

(Photo by Isabelle Raphael / The Points Guy)

Ritz-Carlton Montreal

Splurge at this Category 7 grand dame — one of the oldest Ritz-Carlton properties on earth. Since it opened in 1912, the elegant property has been a fixture of the city's culinary and social scenes. If you don't want to drop hundreds of Canadian dollars on a room (expect to spend roughly $500 per night even during the shoulder season) it's a great place to redeem a free-night certificate (rooms start at 50,000 on off-peak dates). Or, make a reservation at Maison Boulud or pop by for the brand's famous afternoon tea.

Four Seasons Montreal

Putting an end to a dry spell for luxury hotel development in Montreal, the Four Seasons opened in the city's Golden Square Mile in May of 2019. It's home to the first-ever Canadian restaurant by star chef Marcus Samuelsson. With a stunning and subtle gray-and-dusty-pink color scheme elevated by accents of white marble, polished gold and ample velvet, this hotel redefines Canadian luxury — but it doesn't come cheap. If you're going to bed down here, be sure to book through the American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts (FHR) program if you have The Platinum Card® from American Express or The Business Platinum Card® from American Express . That way, you'll earn 5x points on prepaid bookings with American Express Travel and receive exclusive perks, like a complimentary upgrade upon arrival when available and a property credit.

What to skip

For travelers, time is precious, so don't waste it shivering in the biting cold or overpaying for mediocre attractions.

"Unless you have kids and it's raining or frigid, skip the Biodôme," travel writer and author Grace Per Lee told TPG. "It's just an indoor zoo."

A former Montreal resident told TPG that Montreal in winter is overrated. Another tip: "Avoid downtown, because you really want to venture into the interesting neighborhoods. [Old] Montreal can be tacky, but it's charming."

Old Montreal and City Hall. (Photo by Perry Mastrovito/Getty Images)

Oh, and you should certainly try the poutine — but maybe not at every meal.

The details

Getting to montreal.

With frequent nonstop flights of less than an hour and a half and daily trains from major stations on the East Coast of the U.S., Montreal is an easy weekend getaway. (Though I took the 13-hour train one-way from New York City to Montreal and wholeheartedly recommend that you fly.)

(Photo by Melanie Lieberman/The Points Guy)

If airfare into Montreal is higher than you wish it were, miles and points represent a great opportunity to keep cash in your wallet. We recently found deals from dozens of U.S. cities to Canada from 5,500 SkyMiles one-way.

From points farther away in the U.S., Canada typically prices in a similar way to domestic destinations.

Plus, Chase recently added Air Canada Aeroplan as its newest transfer partner . Chase points now transfer to the Canadian airline at a 1 to 1 transfer ratio. Remember, Air Canada completely revamped Aeroplan in 2020 , and the new program is more powerful than ever with no fuel surcharges, cheap stopovers and a standard award chart.

You need your passport, but fortunately, you won't need to brush up on your high school French. Although it's the second-largest city in the world where a majority of the population speaks French (after Paris, of course), you can pretty much count on everyone speaking English, too.

Right now, of course, travelers will need other documents to travel to Canada.

  • You'll need to prove you're fully vaccinated and received your last dose at least 14 days prior to entry.
  • You'll need to bring a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of your flight's scheduled departure to Canada.
  • Submit entry documentation through the Canadian government's new ArriveCAN app within 72 hours of arrival in Canada.

Related: How to get to Montreal with points and miles

Canadian currency and tipping

At this time, $1 U.S. has gotten you about 1.25 Canadian dollars (CA$). This means that something priced at $100 in CA$ would cost you about $80 U.S., making Montreal an affordable destination for U.S.-based travelers. Just be sure you're paying with a card that doesn't charge foreign transaction fees .

Tipping is customary in Canada, so expect to leave between 15% and 20% when dining out and drinking, much as you would in the U.S. However, during my visit, I found that a gratuity was occasionally included, so double-check your bill.

Fortunately, tipping in Montreal is a piece of cake. Rather than handing off your card to the waiter and doing hasty math in your head, it's customary for waiters and other servers to bring over a handheld terminal, which will likely prompt you to tip either by a percent or a fixed amount. Usually, you'll be able to choose if you want the payment to process in U.S. or Canadian dollars (always pick the local currency).

(Photo by Isabelle Raphael / The Points Guy)

Getting around

If you're planning to ride the Société de Transport de Montréal — the city's public transport network which includes buses and an underground metro — you no longer need to worry about fare vending machines only accepting chip-and-pin cards. Using your favorite credit card for travel rewards , you can buy a single ticket (CA$ 3.50 or $2.80) or a pass.

Consider buying the three-day pass (now CA$ 20.50 or about $16.70) or the one-week pass (CA$ 28 or $22.40), valid on unlimited rides.

You can take Ubers in Montreal, but I was surprised to find that Lyft is not yet available in this city (though there are reports the ride-hailing service is on its way). There are plenty of cabs in Montreal, but it's said that an Uber can be significantly cheaper.

The best time to visit Montreal

Montreal is a year-round destination, with warm, sunny summers and a ski resort just two hours north of the city for winter.

If you can stand the frigid temperatures, traveling to Montreal in winter can be a great opportunity to take advantage of deeply discounted hotel room rates and flight deals. Another reason to visit Montreal in the winter? The giant EDM dance party known as Igloofest and the aforementioned Lumière Festival.

Of course, if you can't stand the cold (or snow), a summer visit to Montreal probably makes more sense. Montreal's event calendar is typically stacked in the summer, especially during July. Consider pegging your trip to Montreal's Just For Laughs festival.

Shoulder-season travel, when the weather is milder, can also confer great travel deals with fewer crowds.

Bottom line

For travelers who love history, art and food, Montreal is a fantastic destination that works well as a long weekend getaway. And though it has many of the trappings of a European vacation, you'll discover elements that are unmistakably and wonderfully Canadian, not to be confused with (or traded for) anywhere else on Earth.

36 Hours in Montreal

By Danial Adkison Updated Oct. 12, 2023

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“Bonjour hi,” the ubiquitous greeting servers and shopkeepers use to figure out whether you prefer French or English, encapsulates so much about Montreal, which like its province, Quebec, retains a strong French Canadian identity. In this 381-year-old city of 1.78 million, which Mark Twain once described as a place “where you couldn’t throw a brick without breaking a church window,” one of Canada’s most vibrant L.G.B.T.Q. scenes thrives, and communities formed by Jewish, African, Asian, Italian, Portuguese and Haitian immigrants all offer something special to see (and taste). The city is on an upswing: Modern apartment buildings, cafes and bike paths are popping up in formerly industrial Griffintown, while the Plateau and Mile End areas offer art and music worthy of the place that nurtured Arcade Fire and Leonard Cohen. There is too much for just 36 hours, but if you bring some good walking shoes, you’ll find terrific meals, stunning views atop Mont-Royal and a creative spirit that comes across in any language.

Recommendations

  • Candide is a restaurant focused on Quebecois ingredients and built in the rectory of a former church in the Petite-Bourgogne neighborhood.
  • Kondiaronk Belvedere , a mountaintop lookout at Parc du Mont-Royal, offers panoramic views of Montreal and the St. Lawrence River.
  • Bota Bota is a spa near the Old Port that features saunas, hot tubs, cold plunges and relaxation areas aboard a now-docked former ferry and in an adjacent garden.
  • McCord Stewart Museum , near McGill University, focuses on Montreal’s history, with a special emphasis on its Indigenous heritage.
  • Biosphère , a museum devoted to the environment and climate change, is set in a giant Buckminister Fuller-designed dome that was part of the United States pavilion for the 1967 World’s Fair.
  • Aigle Noir is an inclusive and friendly L.G.B.T.Q. bar in the Gay Village neighborhood.
  • Complexe Sky , one of Canada’s largest L.G.B.T.Q. nightclubs, has dancing, drinks and a rooftop with views of the Gay Village.
  • SoLIT Café , a small orange-tree-themed cafe with a garden tucked between two buildings downtown, offers delicious breakfasts and lunches.
  • Snowdon Deli is a local favorite for smoked meat, one of Montreal’s most prized delicacies.
  • Dispatch Coffee serves delicious brews in a spare concrete space with big windows overlooking Boulevard St.-Laurent.
  • Le Butterblume is a cozy Mile End restaurant that focuses on fresh produce and creative approaches.
  • HELM is a microbrewery that pours a variety of excellent beers in a welcoming, slate-and-wood space in Mile End.
  • Ping Pong Club is a comfortable Mile End bar that offers food, music, cocktails and, yes, table tennis.
  • Le Trou is a small cafe in Griffintown that serves Montreal-style bagels fresh out of the oven.
  • Eva B. is a vintage store in a rambling old row house packed full of mannequins, furniture, clothing, books and more.
  • Ô Miroir is a home goods store on Boulevard St.-Laurent that sells mirrors of all shapes and sizes.
  • Style Labo Antiquités is a Mile End antique store full of attractive midcentury furniture, lamps, shelves and a few old globes.
  • La Pompadour is a furniture shop, also along the Mile End strip, that focuses on the offbeat and hard to find.
  • Fairmont the Queen Elizabeth is a 950-room downtown stalwart with rooms furnished in a mod-flavored style, including a very pink Barbie Dream Suite (with a disco ball). Visitors taking the restarted Amtrak Adirondack service from New York City may appreciate the hotel’s location next to the train station. Rooms from 420 Canadian dollars, or about $305.
  • Hôtel Le Germain , in a refurbished 1960s office tower, emphasizes that era’s design in large, quiet rooms with bentwood tables, exposed concrete, peekaboo showers and clear acrylic bubble chairs hanging from the ceiling. Rooms from 385 dollars.
  • Le Cartier Bed and Breakfast is a tiny gem with homey rooms and a gorgeous back garden on a quiet side street in the Gay Village. In the shoulder season, rooms from 120 dollars.
  • Short-term rental options are abundant, particularly in the Mile End neighborhood, where hotel options are limited.
  • Montreal has an extensive Metro system for a city of its size, and it is quiet, clean and safe. Single rides are 3.75 dollars. (Save money by buying two trips for 7 dollars.) The Bixi bike share system covers much of the central city and beyond, and there are protected bike lanes, often two-way, on many major streets (fees start at 1.75 dollars plus 15 cents per minute). Ride hailing options like Uber (but not Lyft) are also available.

A close-up of an inviting meal and a glass of wine in a dim, warmly lit restaurant, with geraniums in a vase on a wooden table.

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It can be a travel-writing cliché to describe a destination as a “juxtaposition of old and new”, but in MONTRÉAL this is spectacularly evident. In the space of one weekend, you can stroll under gas lamps on the narrow streets of Vieux-Montréal, as a calèche (horse carriage) softly clip-clops by; flirt bilingually at a rooftop electro dance party; eat your way around the world, from Portuguese to Thai to Québécois; gaze up at the soaring ceiling of a neo-Gothic cathedral; pedal the leafy banks of the Lachine Canal; and watch the dizzying acrobatics of home-grown talent, Cirque du Soleil.

Bixi: pedal your way across Montréal

Drinking and nightlife, entertainment, get festive, griffintown: from factories to fashion, lgbt montréal, parc olympique and espace pour la vie, plateau mont-royal, vieux-montréal, basilique notre-dame, five terrific water tours.

Canada’s second-largest city is geographically as close to the European coast as to Vancouver, and in look, taste and feel it combines some of the finest aspects of the two continents. Its North American skyline of glass and concrete rises above churches and monuments in a melange of European styles as varied as Montréal’s social mix. This is also the world’s second-largest French-speaking city after Paris, but only two-thirds of the citizens are of French extraction, the other third being a cosmopolitan mishmash of les autres (“the others”), including British, Eastern Europeans, Chinese, Italians, Greeks, Jews, Latin Americans and Caribbeans. The memorable result is a truly multidimensional city, with a global variety of restaurants, bars and clubs, matched by a calendar of festivals that makes this the most vibrant place in Canada.

It is also here that the two main linguistic groups – anglophones and francophones – come into greatest contact with one another. In the wake of the “francization” of Québec, English-Canadians hit Hwy-401 in droves, tipping the nation’s economic supremacy from Montréal to Toronto. Though written off by Canada’s English-speaking majority, the city did not sink into oblivion. Instead, it has undergone an extraordinary resurgence, becoming one of the driving forces behind the high-tech industries helping transform Canada’s economy.

Everywhere are signs of civic pride and prosperity. In the historic quarter of Vieux- Montréal , on the banks of the St Lawrence River, the narrow streets, alleys and squares make ideal strolling grounds, past the mammoth Basilique Notre-Dame and steepled Chapelle de Notre-Dame-de-Bonsecours , old steep-roofed homes, boutique hotels and outdoor bars serving artisanal cocktails. Close by, the once-disused Vieux-Port has been turned into a summer playground with landscaped parklands and urban beaches facing onto the St Lawrence.

To the northwest unfolds the downtown area, where the modern glass frontages of the office blocks reflect Victorian terraces and the spires of numerous churches. Here, the boulevards and leafy squares buzz from the morning rush hour right through to the wee hours, when clubbers return from the establishments of rue Ste-Catherine and the diverse bars and lounges of the Plateau and Quartier Latin districts. The dazzling new Quartier des Spectacles serves as the city’s cultural hub – home to numerous festivals – booming with performing arts venues, lively restaurants and sun-speckled outdoor public spaces and walkways. Below the surface, downtown is underlain by the passages of the Underground City , which link hotels, shopping centres and offices with the Métro.

Rising above downtown, the city’s landmark, Mont Royal – known by residents as “The Mountain” – is best accessed from the easterly Plateau Mont-Royal. The cafés, restaurants and bars of The Main and rue St-Denis throng with people day and night. Further out to the east, the enormous Stade Olympique complex and the vast green space of the Jardin Botanique – second in international status only to London’s Kew Gardens – are the main pull. The islands facing the Vieux-Port that make up Parc Jean-Drapeau and the westerly Lachine Canal offer all manner of activities, many of them family-friendly.

The city has a notable clutch of museums. The Centre Canadien d’Architecture has one of the continent’s most impressive specialist collections, focusing on the role of architecture in society, innovative design practice and the history of ideas. The Musée d’Art Contemporain is one of Canada’s finest contemporary art museums, while the Musée des Beaux-Arts is the oldest fine-arts museum in the country. Among several superb new contemporary art centres is L’Arsenal in the emerging neighbourhood of Griffintown , showcasing temporary exhibits of emerging art, from sculpture to video installations. Equally outstanding are the museums devoted to Montréal and Canadian history; of these, the Musée McCord has a pristine collection of aboriginal artefacts, while the Musée d’Archéologie et d’Histoire de Montréal delivers a state-of-the-art presentation of archeological findings at the site of Montréal’s founding in 1642.

Montréal has a wide range of accommodation , from five-star palaces to moderately priced B&Bs to stylish hotels, rock-bottom hostels and university residences. Vieux-Montréal is easily one of the most popular neighbourhoods for bedding down, in large part because of the ever-growing number of boutique hotels, many housed in charming historical buildings, and offering the inviting combination of ancient facades and stone walls plus high-thread-count sheets and gourmet minibars. Downtown is very central, with easy access to most parts of the city, and features an extensive variety of accommodation, from big-name chain hotels to smaller but no less elegant properties. For cosy B&Bs, head to the Plateau neighbourhood, while the student-thronged Quartier Latin has a number of simple and cheap residences and hostels.

Montréal’s public bike system – the first launched in North America – features over 5000 self-service bikes available 24hr across the city at 450-plus stations, from April to November. Montréal researched similar bike programmes in other cities, including Paris and Barcelona, to emerge with the well-oiled, wonderfully accessible Bixi ( w bixi.com ; the name comes from “bike” plus “taxi”). Renting a bike is simple: at a Bixi stand (which are all solar-powered, and liberally scattered across the city), swipe your credit card and ride off. A 24hr access pass is $5; during that period, you can borrow bikes as often as you like, and the first 30min is free. Beyond that, you pay additional charges. A 72hr pass is $12. Also on offer are 30-day ($30) and one-year ($85) subscriptions.

Montréal has elevated joie de vivre to a high art – and nowhere more so than at the bars and clubs. The city’s nightlife keeps going strong into the small hours of the morning – bars are generally open until 3am. One of the liveliest after-dark areas is the bar-packed Plateau . Cutting a wide swath through the Plateau – and into the adjacent neighbourhood of Mile-End – is blvd St-Laurent , lined on both sides with an eclectic array of nightspots, from sleek lounges to dive bars. Downtown , the action centres on rue Crescent, while Vieux-Montréal is increasingly buzzing with new hotel lounges, restaurant-bars and breezy terraces. Also popular are the student-packed Quartier Latin bars and the nearby Village , heart of the gay scene. Griffintown is also establishing itself as an after-dark hangout, with an array of hip bars. For up-to-date listings, check out the English-language daily Montréal Gazette ( w montrealgazette.com ).

A culinary destination that rivals the gourmet capitals of the world, Montréal is said to have the highest number of restaurants per capita in North America after New York City. It was Toqué – helmed by master chef Normand Laprise – that catapulted the city to the top culinary ranks, and since then numerous home-grown chefs have captured the world’s attention, from Martin Picard of Au Pied de Cochon to Guillaume Cantin, who took over the reins at Les 400 Coups .

Montréal’s ethnic diversity is amply displayed by the variety of cuisines available. The city has its own Chinatown just north of Vieux-Montréal, a Little Italy around Jean-Talon Métro (near the excellent Jean-Talon market ; w marchespublics-mtl.com ) and a Greek community whose cheaper restaurants are concentrated along Prince Arthur; for more traditional Greek cuisine, head further north along avenue du Parc.

Most prominent of the international restaurants are the Eastern European establishments dotted around the city. Opened by Jewish immigrants, their speciality is smoked meat , served between huge chunks of rye bread with pickles on the side. Another Montréal speciality is poutine , fries smothered in gravy and cheese curds, generally served in diners and snack joints. Montréal comes a close second to New York as the bagel capital of the world; they’re sold everywhere from grimy outlets to stylish cafés. Montréal’s coffee scene has always been robust, but a new wave of coffee shops is bringing even more innovative variety to the caffeinated city. The city has also long embraced the concept of apportez votre vin (“bring your own wine”), with a wide variety of lively “BYOW” restaurants.

Montréal’s gleaming entertainment quarter, the Quartier des Spectacles , is the hub of the city’s performing arts scene. The world-famous Cirque du Soleil ( w cirquedusoleil.com) is headquartered in Montréal, and though it doesn’t feature a permanent show, the circus generally performs in late spring and early summer in the Vieux-Port, where it erects its famous blue-and-yellow tents. Montréal also has numerous excellent dance troupes, from Les Grands Ballets Canadiens ( w grandsballets.qc.ca ) and Les Ballets Jazz de Montréal ( w bjmdanse.ca ) to the avant-garde La La La Human Steps ( w lalalahumansteps.com). For cinema check in the Montréal Gazette for show times; English films are indicated by v.o . ( version originale ), not v.f. ( version français ), which means it’s dubbed.

In many cities, festivals are special occasions; in Montréal, they’re a way of life. In the summer, especially, the city explodes with festivals, many taking place in the gleaming entertainment quarter, Quartier des Spectacles . For festival news and updates, consult the excellent w tourism-montreal.org. You can buy festival tickets via a variety of sources, including the festival websites (worth checking frequently for special deals); La Vitrine Culturelle , the Quartier des Spectacles’ central info and ticket centre; and Admission , a division of TicketMaster ( t 514 790 1245, t 1 800 361 4595, w admission.com ). The world-renowned Cirque du Soleil ( w cirquedusoleil.com), based in Montréal, regularly puts on shows. Here’s a selective list of the best events:

Fête des Neiges de Montréal Late Jan w fetedesneiges.com . Île Ste-Hélène hosts ice-sculpting and general seasonal carousing.

Vues d’Afrique Late April w vuesdafrique.org . Brings a rich variety of African and Caribbean films to Montréal.

International Fireworks Competition Throughout June and July w international

desfeuxloto-quebec.com . The most visually spectacular of the city’s shindigs, featuring breathtaking, music-coordinated pyrotechnics from countries around the globe at the La Ronde amusement park on Île Sainte-Hélène.

Francofolies Mid-June w francofolies.com . Dance to international tunes at this festival, which brings French musicians from around the world to various downtown stages.

Festival International de Jazz de Montréal Late June and early July w montrealjazzfest.com . North America’s largest jazz event, with more than four hundred shows, most of them free at huge open-air stages in the Quartier des Spectacles.

Montréal First Peoples’ Festival Generally in July w nativelynx.qc.ca . A lively event celebrating Aboriginal peoples’ history and featuring traditional activities, from throat-singing to stonecutting.

Juste pour Rire (“Just For Laughs”) Mid-July w hahaha.com . The world’s largest comedy festival, with past headliners including Tim Allen, Louis CK, Jerry Seinfeld, Rowan Atkinson, Jim Carrey, John Candy, Lily Tomlin and Whoopi Goldberg.

Festival International Nuits d’Afrique July w festivalnuitsdafrique.com . The sounds of African beats fill the city to full effect.

Griffintown is a neighbourhood on the rise. This gritty wedge in the southwest of Montréal was once the domain of Irish labourers; in 2012, Montréal Fashion Week ( w montrealfashionweek.ca ) moved in, and is now held here every spring and autumn. Griffintown is also swelling with new restaurants, bars and hotels, as well as the massive arts centre L’Arsenal (2020 rue William; t 514 931 9978, w arsenalmontreal.com ), housed in a former shipyard. Griffintown, which rubs up against another emerging neighbourhood, Little Burgundy , lies a little over 1km west of Vieux-Montréal; one of the most enjoyable ways to reach it is by walking or biking along the Lachine Canal from the Vieux-Port. Explore by sauntering the streets, including rue Notre-Dame , dubbed the Quartier des Antiquaires , for all its antiques and vintage shops.

Montréal has an excellent LGBT scene , with the action concentrated in the area known as The Village – roughly located on rue Ste-Catherine est between rue Amherst and the Papineau Métro station. Fugues ( w fugues.com ) is one of the city’s main monthly French gay and lesbian magazines and websites. In early August, Divers Cité ( w diverscite.org ), the gay and lesbian pride parade, is the event of the year, while in October the massive Black & Blue circuit party ( w bbcm.org ) is one of the city’s – if not Canada’s – biggest and wildest gay parties.

Most of the restaurants and hangouts in The Village cater to an LGBT crowd in the evening, but are more mixed during the day.

The Parc Olympique lies east of the city, an easy hop on the Métro to either Pie-IX (pronounced “pee-nuhf”) or Viau, or a twenty-minute drive on rue Sherbrooke. The Parc encompasses several main sights, including the striking Stade Olympique and the sprawling Espace pour la vie (Space for Life) complex, which includes the lush Jardin Botanique, the environmental centre Biodôme and the Planétarium Rio Tinto.

Stade Olympique

The Parc Olympique’s main attraction, the Stade Olympique , is known by Montréalers as the “Big O” for several reasons: its name, its circular shape and the fact that it took the city thirty years to pay for it. The main facilities for the 1976 Summer Olympics were designed by Roger Taillibert, who was told money was no object. The complex ended up costing $1.4 billion (over $2 billion with subsequent interest and maintenance) – and it was not even completed in time for the games. After the Olympics, it was used sporadically, and in a continuing attempt to pay off debts, the schedule featured everything from football to trade shows. But, the area around the stadium is being improved, most notably with the esplanade at the western end. Once relatively overlooked, the esplanade is being transformed into an urban park and user-friendly public space, with a surprisingly varied series of events, particularly in the summer, and a weekly gathering of the city’s best food trucks. The highest inclined tower in the world, the stadium’s 175m tower was erected to hold a retractable 65-tonne roof, but the retraction process never really worked properly. The main attraction here is the funicular that takes you up the tower to an observation deck with 60km views and an exhibition of historic photos of Montréal. Also here is the Centre sportif (Sports Centre), with five pools, from a water-polo pool to a diving pool, along with two smaller ones for kids. You can also visit the Stadium and Sports Centre on daily guided tours.

Rio Tinto Planetarium

In 2013, the Rio Tinto Planetarium celebrated its splashy opening, unveiling not one but two state-of-the-art circular theatres. The permanent exhibit, EXO, Our Search for Life in the Universe, is filled with kid-friendly interactive displays on everything from space exploration to mighty meteorites.

Biodôme de Montréal

The Biodôme de Montréal , housed in a building shaped like a bicycle helmet, started life as the Olympic velodrome. Now it is a stunning environmental museum comprising a variety of ecosystems: tropical, Laurentian forest, St Lawrence maritime, Labrador coast and polar. You can wander freely through the different zones, which are planted with appropriate flourishing vegetation and inhabited by the relevant birds, animals and marine life. It’s both entertaining and educational, for kids and adults alike.

Jardin Botanique

The grounds and greenhouses of the Jardin Botanique contain some thirty types of garden, from medicinal herbs to orchids. Highlights include a Japanese garden, its ponds of water lilies bordered by greenish sculptured stone and crossed by delicate bridges, while the nearby Chinese garden is especially resplendent during the autumn lantern festival. Also popular are the well-curated temporary exhibits. The bug-shaped Insectarium forms part of the same complex and features insects of every shape and size, from brightly coloured butterflies to ink-black, fuzzy spiders.

Parc Exalto

This soaring aerial adventure park – the first of its kind in North America – offers a wide range of high-altitude acrobatic attractions, with gorgeous views of Montréal to boot. Among the highlights are an aerial obstacle course, zip lines and a junior acrobatics area.

The lively, historical, and culturally rich neighbourhood of Plateau Mont-Royal is an absorbing jumble of sights, sounds and smells, filled with delis, bars, nightclubs, cafés and bookshops, and an ever-growing number of trendy boutiques. Traditionally, boulevard St-Laurent divided the English in the west from the French in the east of the city. Montréal’s immigrants, first Russian Jews, then Greeks, Portuguese, Italians, East Europeans and, more recently, Latin Americans, settled in the middle and, though many prospered enough to move on, the area around The Main is still a cultural mix where neither of the two official languages dominates.

Wandering north from rue Sherbrooke on The Main, you’ll pass through the strip’s flashiest block, filled with see-and-be-seen restaurants and clubs, before arriving at one of Montréal’s few pedestrianized streets, rue Prince-Arthur , thronged with buskers and caricaturists in the summer. Its eastern end leads to the beautiful fountained and statued Square St-Louis , the city’s finest public square. Designed in 1876, the square was originally the domain of bourgeois Montréalers, and the magnificent houses were subsequently occupied by artists, poets and writers. The east side of the square divides the lower and upper areas of rue St-Denis .

A major north–south artery, rue St-Denis is the traditional francophone strip of Montréal, lined with bars, clubs, cafés, restaurants and eclectic shops. The Quartier Latin , which covers the part of rue St-Denis that leads south from rue Sherbrooke to rue Ste-Catherine, is the traditional student quarter, colonized by terrace cafés and bars crammed with students from the nearby Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM) well into the early hours. By contrast, the Plateau stretch of rue St-Denis north of Square St-Louis is the stomping ground of the stylish set, with boutiques and restaurants to match.

Parc du Mont-Royal

Little more than a hill to most tourists but a mountain to Montréalers, Mont Royal reaches just 233m but its two square kilometres of greenery are visible from almost anywhere in the city. Mont Royal holds a special place in the history of the city – it was here that the Iroquois established their settlement and that Maisonneuve declared the island to be French – but for centuries the mountain was privately owned. Then, during an especially bitter winter, one of the inhabitants cut down his trees for extra firewood. Montréalers were outraged at the desecration, and in 1875 the city bought the land for the impressive sum of $1 million. Frederick Law Olmsted, designer of New York’s Central Park and San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, was hired to landscape the hill, which now provides 56km of jogging paths and 20km of skiing trails to keep city inhabitants happy year-round.

The city has steadfastly refused any commercial developments on this lucrative site, the only construction being Lac aux Castors , built in the 1930s as a work-creation scheme for the unemployed; it now serves as a skating rink in the winter and pedal-boat playground in the summer. In the 1950s, protection of the mountain reached a puritanical extreme when a local journalist revealed young couples were using the area for amatory pursuits and, even worse, that people were openly drinking alcohol. Consequently all of the underbrush was uprooted, which only succeeded in killing off much of the ash, birch, maple, oak and pine trees. Within five years Mont Royal was dubbed “Bald Mountain” and a replanting campaign had to be instigated.

Severed from downtown by the Autoroute Ville-Marie, the gracious district of Vieux-Montréal was left to decay until the early 1960s, when developers started to step in with generally tasteful renovations that brought colour and vitality back to the area. North America’s greatest concentration of seventeenth-, eighteenth- and nineteenth-century buildings has its fair share of tourists, but it’s popular with Montréalers, too – formerly as a symbolic place to air francophone grievances; more recently as a spot to check out the buskers on Place Jacques-Cartier, take in the historic monuments and roam the port’s waterfront.

The focal point of Vieux-Montréal is Place d’Armes , its centre occupied by a century-old statue of Maisonneuve, whose missionary zeal raised the wrath of the displaced Iroquois. The mutt that you see represents the animal who warned the French of an impending attack in 1644; legend says the ensuing battle ended when the supposedly unarmed Maisonneuve killed the Iroquois chief on this very spot. Place d’Armes is the most central Métro station, although Square-Victoria or Champ-de-Mars are handier for the western and eastern ends of the district.

The twin-towered, neo-Gothic Basilique Notre-Dame , the cathedral of the Catholic faithful since 1829, looms over Place d’Armes. Its architect, the Protestant Irish-American James O’Donnell, was so inspired by his creation that he converted to Catholicism in order to be buried under the church. The western tower, named Temperance, holds the ten-tonne Jean-Baptiste bell, whose booming could once be heard 25km away. The breathtaking gilt and sky-blue interior, flooded with light from three rose windows unusually set in the ceiling, and flickering with multicoloured votive candles, was designed by Montréal architect Victor Bourgeau. Most notable of the detailed furnishings are Louis-Philippe Hébert’s fine wooden carvings of the prophets on the pulpit and the awe-inspiring main altar by French sculptor Bouriché. Imported from Limoges in France, the stained-glass windows depict the founding of Ville-Marie. Behind the main altar is the Chapelle Sacré-Coeur , destroyed by a serious fire in 1978 but rebuilt with an impressive modern bronze reredos by Charles Daudelin. Time your visit for the 35-minute “And then there was light” son et lumière (sound and light) show, offering the chance to see the architectural details artfully lit up.

When you’re in the urban centre of Montréal, it can be easy to forget that it is, in fact, an island. One of the best ways to remind yourself is by taking to the waters. The Vieux-Port is the major departure point for various boat trips .

Amphi-bus Corner of rue de la Commune and blvd St-Laurent t 514 849 5181, w montreal-amphibus-tour.com ; four to ten departures daily May–Oct; 1hr–1hr 30min; $35. A bus that trundles through the city and then morphs into a boat on entering the river.

Bateau-Mouche Quai Jacques-Quartier t 514 849 9952, t 1 800 361 9952, w bateau-mouche.ca ; up to five daily departures mid-May to mid-Oct; 1hr–1hr 30min; $25–130. Meandering river cruises in glass-topped vessels, with sunrise breakfast cruises and gourmet dinner cruises also available.

Croisières AML Quai King-Edward t 1 866 856 6668, w croisieresaml.com ; daily departures mid-May to mid-Oct; brunch cruise 1hr 30min, $53; buffet dinner and fireworks 4hr, $119. This family-run company offers a variety of comfortable and informative cruises on the river.

Le Petit Navire Quai Jacques-Cartier t 514 602 1000, w lepetitnavire.ca ; daily departures mid-May to mid-Oct; 45min; $19.50. Ecofriendly, electric-powered boats for short tours around the Vieux-Port, with special trips during the annual International Fireworks Competition (1hr 30min; $40).

Saute-Moutons Quai de l’Horloge t 514 284 9607, w jetboatingmontreal.com ; daily departures May–Sept; 1hr; $67. Get wet in the Lachine Rapids on these exciting jet-boat trips. Also on offer are shorter speedboat trips (which don’t go into the rapids) for $26. Check website for discount coupons.

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Justin Plus Lauren

Montreal 3 Day Itinerary: 72 Hours in Montreal for the Ultimate Getaway

Posted on Published: October 16, 2020  - Last updated: October 7, 2023

Categories Blog , Canada , City Guides , Montreal , Quebec , Travel Guides

Montreal 3 day itinerary

This Montreal 3 day itinerary will show you how to have an amazing getaway to this fantastic Canadian city. There are so many awesome things to do in Montreal, and I’ve created a Montreal itinerary that I’m sure you will love, too. As I live in the Toronto area, I’ve been to Montreal on numerous occasions (it’s only about a five hour drive away). With this handy travel guide, you can spend the best 3 days in Montreal ever, whether it’s your first time visiting or you’ve gone a few times before.

Whether it’s one day , 36 hours, 2 days in Montreal, or a long weekend, this travel blog will give you lots of great ideas when searching for what to do in Montreal. Feel free to pick and choose your favorite aspects or follow it to a T. This Montreal 3 day itinerary will allow you to see the most iconic areas of the city, plus some of its hidden gems. Ready? Let’s go!

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Table of Contents

Day 1: Old Montreal and Old Port

One of the first areas of the city that comes to mind when you think of Montreal might be Old Montreal and Old Port. With its cobblestone streets and grandiose architecture, you might feel like you’ve transported yourself to Europe. It makes sense to start your first day in Old Montreal.

In the first day of this Montreal 3 day itinerary, we’ll explore Old Montreal by foot and also wander to some nearby neighborhoods. Then, I highly recommend that you rent a bike and do some cycling. Montreal is a very bike-friendly city. Cycling around Montreal is one way that you’ll feel connected to the city and feel a little more like a local resident.

Old Montreal

Montreal 3 day itinerary: Old Montreal - Vieux Montreal

Old Montreal (Vieux Montreal) likely tops your list of the best places to see on a weekend trip to Montreal. We’ll start the first day of your 3 days in Montreal with a walking trip around Old Montreal and other notable areas near downtown Montreal.

I recommend that you wander around Old Montreal on foot. Walk up and down all of its streets and side streets. You never know what you might discover around each corner. The historic cobblestone streets and old architecture definitely ooze European vibes.

Cobblestone streets and old buildings of Old Montreal / Vieux Montreal

If you enjoy walking tours to get acquainted with new cities, there’s no better place in Montreal to go for a walking tour than Old Montreal. I suggest booking this Old Montreal Walking Tour that’s about two hours long with a maximum of six people per group.

More into spooky experiences? Check out this Old Montreal Ghost Walking Tour of the older parts of the city. Hear chilling stories and tales from your guide, and be on the lookout for the spirits that haunt Old Montreal. There are lots of scary tales and unexplained mysteries, and your guide will share all of the gruesome details.

Rue Saint-Paul

Rue Saint-Paul, Old Montreal

Rue Saint-Paul is the oldest street in Montreal, and some of its cobblestones date back to 1672. Yes, there are many souvenir shops on this stretch. However, keep walking and you’ll find some interesting boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and patios.

Bonsecours Market

Bonsecours  Market, Old Montreal

Bonsecours Market is the home of the largest public market in Montreal, dating back 150 years. You can’t miss its glimmering silver dome. It was built in 1847 and once served as City Hall. It became Montreal’s main marketplace for over a century until it closed in the 1960s.

Nowadays, it’s a heritage building that was recently renovated in the 1990s. You’ll find it on Rue Saint-Claude. It’s no longer the traditional farmers market that it used to be, but you’ll find lots of boutique and high end shops inside this grandiose building. There are also three restaurants, including a cafe, a brewpub, and a Japanese sushi restaurant.

We didn’t do much shopping inside the Bonsecours Market, but Justin and I definitely took a moment to admire this stately architectural work before continuing on our way. If you’re looking for a public market, head to the Jean-Talon Market in Little Italy.

Notre-Dame Basilica / Basilique Notre-Dame

Notre-Dame Cathedral / Basilique Notre-Dame

Notre-Dame Basilica in Old Montreal is one of the most visited monuments in North America with over 11 million visitors annually. This work of Gothic Revival architecture is one of the most brilliant and dramatic, decorated in blue and gold. The stained glass windows depict scenes from Montreal’s religious history rather than biblical scenes. There is a small admission fee to visit Notre-Dame Basilica as a tourist.

By night, you can visit Notre-Dame Basilica for AURA , an illuminating light show experience at the cathedral. It’s a three act multimedia spectacular featuring the architecture, lights, and orchestral music. It’s a fascinating and captivating way to visit the cathedral at night time.

Artist Alley on Rue Saint-Amable

 Montreal 3 day itinerary: Rue Saint-Amable, Old Montreal

The Arts Court, Artist Alley, or as its officially known, La Cour des Arts du Vieux-Montreal, is a must visit for those looking to purchase a gift or memento from their trip. Its tucked away inside a little alley off Rue Saint-Amable. Once you enter through the doorway, you’ll walk into a partially covered, partially open-air courtyard.

There are many vendors here selling local, handmade wares that are much more lovely than anything you’d find in the souvenir shops. You’ll find handmade jewelry, art, prints, wood carvings, and all sorts of locally produced gems.

Artist Alley Old Montreal

Château Ramezay

Château Ramezay is a historic site and museum in Montreal featuring over 500 years of history in its exhibits and gardens. This home was originally built in 1705 as the home of the governor, Claude de Ramezay. Later, it was the first building to be declared as a historical monument in Quebec, and it was designated as a National Historic Site of Canada in 1949.

Its permanent collection has over 30,000 objects, and there are also many temporary exhibitions and multimedia displays. There’s also a glorious garden on the property where you can go for a stroll. It’s divided into three sections: an orchard, a kitchen garden, and a pleasure garden. There are plant species that are very close or similar to the ones grown back when Ramezay lived at the property.

Coffee at Cafe Olimpico

Coffee at Cafe Olimpico

When you’re in Old Montreal and Old Port, pop by Cafe Olimpico for a cup of coffee. Cafe Olimpico was founded in 1970 and it remains one of Montreal’s favorite coffee shops. You can get a variety of coffee and espresso beverages. It’s definitely one of the best cups of coffee that I’ve had in Montreal.

When I was walking around the artist alley in Old Montreal, one of the shop owners asked if I was from Montreal. When I replied that I wasn’t, she said that she was surprised to see someone from out of town drinking a coffee from Cafe Olimpico. She said that most tourists go for the bigger chains and they don’t realize that Cafe Olimpico has the best coffee. So, there you have it. When one of the locals can vouch for it, you know that their coffee must be one of the best.

Old Port Montreal

The Old Port of Montreal is a historic 2km stretch along the St. Lawrence River. Old Port dates back to the year 1611 when it was used as a trading post for fur traders. Old Port is right next to Old Montreal, making it easy to combine a visit to both areas. You’ll likely walk from Old Montreal right into the Old Port area without even realizing it.

Montreal 3 day itinerary: La Grande Roue de Montréal - Ferris Wheel

There are lots of activities and attractions in Old Port, such as the Montreal Clock Tower, La Grande Roue de Montréal (a gigantic ferris wheel), the Montreal Science Centre, zip lines, and paddle boat rentals. There are paved paths for cycling, roller blading, and walking that lead to the Lachine Canal. There’s no shortage of things to do in Old Port to add to your Montreal 3 day itinerary.

I also loved walking along Rue de la Commune to look at the old buildings and architecture that lines the waterfront. There are a few other places of interest in Old Port, such as the Pointe-à-Callière (Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History) and the Scandinave Spa Vieux Montreal . You can also book a craft beer tour in Old Port where you’ll be able to sample nine different craft beers along with some snacks.

Lunch at Le Panthere Verte

La Panthere Verte vegan restaurant in Montreal

La Panthere Verte , or The Green Panther, is an all vegan establishment in Montreal that’s perfect for lunch. They’ve got some of the best falafels in town. La Panthere Verte serves up delicious sandwiches, hummus, bowls, and sweet potato poutine. I also highly recommend that you pair your meal with one of their refreshing fruit smoothies.

La Panthere Verte takes pride in serving meals made with fresh and organic ingredients. They use locally grown food whenever possible. Plus, they emphasize bringing your own container when possible, and they only use compostable takeout containers. It’s great to support a plant-based restaurant that also cares about the environment, too.

While La Panthere Verte has six locations across Montreal, there’s one not too far from Old Port that works perfectly with this Montreal 3 day itinerary. You’ll find it in the Latin Quarter of Montreal at 1735 Rue Saint-Denis. They also offer delivery with Uber Eats.

Gay Village

Montreal's Gay Village

The two of us visited Montreal’s Gay Village on our last visit, and we suggest going for a walk through this lively and colorful Montreal neighborhood. A few years ago, we walked around an area that was closed down to traffic where we admired lots of outdoor public art. The Gay Village neighborhood is a brilliant place to include on a Montreal 3 day itinerary.

Les Boules Roses

One of the main art installations there was  Les Boules Roses  – pink balls strung across the entire length of the road. It was so cool to see all of the pink balls overhead extending for as far as we could see. There’s always lots of street art on the buildings and public art displays. In addition, there are shops, restaurants, cafes, and more.

Rent a Bike and Go Cycling

Things to do in Montreal: Riding bikes

Riding bikes around the city was one of our favorite things to do in Montreal during this Montreal 3 day itinerary. There are so many bike paths in Montreal, so there are numerous places to go cycling. We stuck to more of the scenic areas and parks for a pleasure ride between Old Port and Parc Jean-Drapeau.

You have a few options for riding bikes in Montreal. First, if you are looking for a guided tour experience with a local, I recommend booking this Montreal Bike Tour . This tour offers a few different options, such as riding around downtown and Old Montreal, venturing to vibrant neighborhoods like Mile End and Le Plateau, or combining your bike ride with lunch and a trip to the Nordic spa.

How to Rent Bikes in Montreal

For those looking to take shorter bike rides from place to place, there are Bixi Bikes all over Montreal. These are meant more for short distance bike rides from one spot to the next. You can download their app to see where there are bikes available at each station. You can buy day passes with Bixi Bikes. Use the bike for 30 minutes or less (or there will be additional charges). This program is designed more for city dwellers who need to get around from one place to the next rather than visitors looking to explore for a few hours by bike.

The third option is the one that we decided to do, which was rent bikes from a shop. Ça Roule Montréal , or Montreal On Wheels, offers half day or full day bike rentals. We rented our bikes for four hours, which gave us the freedom to ride wherever we liked. This is a slightly more expensive option than using Bixi Bikes. However, if we rented the Bixi Bikes and didn’t return them for many hours, it would be far more expensive. We also found that the bike rentals from Ca Roule Montreal were more comfortable and better quality than the Bixi Bikes.

The employees at the bike shop gave us a map and explained a few routes that we could take. We decided to ride from Old Port along the waterfront to Habitat 67 and Parc Jean-Drapeau. Justin and I wanted to ride our bikes around the neighboring islands to check out the Biosphere and Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve, an F1 race track where you can go cycling.

Montreal 3 day itinerary: Habitat 67 Montreal

Habitat 67 is a unique housing complex in an architectural style that I haven’t seen anywhere else. Check it out on a bike ride between Old Port and Parc Jean-Drapeau. Designed by Israel-Canadian architect, Moshe Safdie, Habitat 67 was built as a pavilion for Expo 67. While it was conceived as a way to revolutionize housing around the world, it never quite stuck. There weren’t any others designed that used this one as a model.

Habitat 67 Montreal

In 2009, Habitat 67 was granted heritage status by the Quebec government. Today, Habitat 67 in Montreal is a popular residence and a community in itself. Many of the cubes that were singular apartments are connected together for sprawling residences with multiple terraces.

The views of the river and the city skyline are beautiful. It’s one of the most sought after properties in the city to call home. It’s also one of the most unique Montreal attractions and a must visit for architecture lovers on this Montreal 3 day itinerary.

The Biosphere

The Biosphere Montreal

The Montreal Biosphere was built for Expo 67 to house the United States pavilion. Today, it’s a museum devoted to the environment. There are interactive exhibits and activities relating to climate change, sustainability, biodiversity, water, and much more. The goal is to raise awareness about these important issues and encourage visitors to take action in their daily lives.

The Biosphere was closed when we visited, but we rode our bikes to Parc Jean-Drapeau to admire this unique and photogenic structure. There’s also a Metro stop at Parc Jean-Drapeau, so it’s really easy to access by public transportation if you want to visit without riding a bike there.

Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve

Bike riding on Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve in Montreal, the F1 race track

Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve is a Formula 1 race track that hosts the Grand Prix du Canada (since 1978). It’s 4,361 meters long and wraps around Notre Dame Island, a man-made island built up for Expo 67 (and now part of Parc Jean-Drapeau). When the F1 races aren’t happening, this race track is repurposed as a multi-use track for everyone to enjoy.

Bike riding on Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve in Montreal, the F1 race track

You can ride your bike around the F1 circuit track. It’s also possible to go rollerblading, go for a jog, and even drive your car around the F1 track. There’s a separate lane for pedestrians and cyclists, and there’s another lane for cars. Whether navigating the track by bike or car, it’s a pretty exhilarating experience to glide around an actual F1 circuit track (even if you’re traveling way slower than the professionals!).

Montreal 3 day itinerary: Chinatown in Montreal

We returned our bikes after riding around Old Port and Parc Jean-Drapeau for a few hours. If you find yourself with some spare time before dinner, it’s not too far to walk from Old Port to Montreal’s Chinatown neighborhood. Chinatown is essentially one large city block in Montreal, bordered by Rue Saint-Dominique, René-Lévesque Boulevard, Rue Viger, and Rue Jeanne-Mance.

There are four paifang  gates at each of the four entrances to Chinatown, which are intricately decorated archways to demonstrate that you’re entering Chinatown. In fact, Montreal has the most paifang gates out of any city in North America. Go for a stroll around Chinatown to visit shops, restaurants, and even check out some street art and murals.

Dinner at LOV

LOV - Vegan restaurant in Montreal

For dinner, LOV is our first restaurant choice in Montreal for fresh and flavorful meals. Their restaurants are super popular so you’ll want to make a reservation in advance. They’re 100% vegan, and the food leans towards a fine dining experience (but the restaurant is casual enough that you don’t need to get dressed up).

LOV - Vegan restaurant in Montreal

To drink, I ordered the Peach Bum cocktail, which has a little fuzzy peach candy sticking out of it. For food, it was a really tough decision. We decided to split the dumplings (mushroom and vegetable with an almond butter kimchi sauce). For our main courses, Justin and I ordered the LOV tacos (breaded tofu, avocado sauce, chili and red onion pickling) and the Mac n’ cheese LOV.

While we ate delicious food throughout our entire stay in Montreal, our meal at LOV was our favorite of all. The food is skillfully prepared, looks beautiful on the plate, and tastes super yummy.

Day 2: Mont Royal and Mile End

On day two of this Montreal 3 day itinerary, we’ll explore Mont Royal and the Mile End/Le Plateau neighborhoods. After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we’ll start the day off by climbing to the top of Mont Royal. It isn’t a super far walk from the hotel, but you can also choose to take the Hop On Hop Off Bus to learn a few facts about the city on your way.

Climb Mont Royal

Mont Royal - Views from the top of Montreal city scape

Mont Royal (or Mount Royal) is Montreal’s small mountain or volcanic-related hill, and it’s where Montreal gets its name. Mont Royal is right in the middle of Montreal, not far from the downtown core. At the top of Mont Royal, you’ll be able to savor incredible panoramic scenery of the city. A visit to Mont Royal is an absolute must for your Montreal 3 day itinerary.

Climbing Mont Royal stairs to get to the top

There are winding paved paths so you can ride your bike up to the top (these are also accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, although it can get a little steep). Climbing the staircases is the quickest way to reach the top. It’s a little bit of a trek to get to the top, and it might leave you a little winded.

If you’re in a reasonable amount of shape, it isn’t a problem to hike to the top. We managed to see some locals jogging up and down the stairs, as well as a woman dressed in heels and business attire climb to the top (while chatting on the phone, I might add) without breaking a sweat.

Montreal 3 day itinerary: Mont Royal - Views from the top of Montreal city scape

The views from the top are absolutely worth the climb. I know that the scenery here must look amazing in all four seasons. I’ve also heard that this is a fantastic place to watch the sunset.

Walk the Trails and Visit Beaver Lake (Lac aux Castors)

Mont Royal Park Trails

Mont Royal Park is so much more than that one viewpoint. It’s a beautiful park designed by Frederick Law Olmstead, the same man who designed Central Park in NYC. It’s a magnificent green space, one of the largest in Montreal, with a small lake and walking trails. When you’re looking for the best things to do in Montreal in 3 days, take the time to appreciate Mont Royal Park.

Beaver Lake (Lac aux Castors)

Beaver Lake (Lac aux Castors) is a beautiful, man-made lake where visitors can go for a stroll to admire the views. There’s vast open green spaces around the lake that are perfect for a picnic lunch. You can rent rowboats there in the summer and go ice skating there in the winter, making it the ideal all seasons destination. There are also many interesting sculptures to view on your walk between the summit of Mont Royal and Beaver Lake.

Coffee Break at Dispatch Coffee

Dispatch Coffee in Montreal

Dispatch Coffee is one of the top coffee shops in Montreal. I suggest stopping for a coffee after you visit Mont Royal and before you explore Mile End and Le Plateau Mont Royal neighborhoods. It’s a charming little cafe with a funky mural on the side of the building.

Dispatch Coffee in Montreal

They source, roast, and distribute their own coffee, keeping the prices affordable. At the same time, they are responsible in purchasing beans at a fair price directly from the farmers. Dispatch Coffee has a great selection of plant-based milks, including my favorite, oat milk. I ordered an iced Americano with oat milk and it was super refreshing.

Search for Street Art in Mile End

Montreal 3 day itinerary: Montreal street art - Murals in Montreal

Many areas of Montreal are virtually open air art museums that you can visit for free, any time of the day or night. Mile End likely has the most murals as the art festival, MURAL, happens annually each June on  Saint-Laurent Boulevard. On this Montreal 3 day itinerary, you can’t help but stop to admire the street art because it’s virtually everywhere you look.

Montreal street art - Murals in Montreal

Don’t limit yourself to exploring only Saint-Laurent Boulevard. Some of the best works of art are around the corner, whether they’re painted on buildings down side streets, down narrow alleyways, or the backs of buildings facing parking lots. Sometimes we walked down the street only to realize that there were incredible works of street art behind us that we didn’t even notice. It won’t take long for you to stumble into one amazing piece after another.

Montreal street art - Murals in Montreal

If you love public art, street art, and murals, you should book this Montreal street art tour . You’ll walk around with a local guide to learn more about the artists and discover the most famous murals in the city.

Even though we saw so much street art throughout our stay, there’s always more to discover. I’m not sure you’ll be able to see all of the Montreal street art in one visit, but you’ll certainly see a lot of it when you walk around Mile End. In addition to soaking up those amazing street art views, I also adore the houses and buildings in this neighborhood, too.

Montreal 3 day itinerary: Bicycles at a home in Montreal

Lunch at Mimi & Jones

Mimi & Jones is a vegan diner featuring delicious comfort food. You can choose from a burger, a cheeseburger, tofu nuggets, raviolis, Caesar salad, or their famous milkshakes. We decided to order some burgers, nuggets, and a chocolate milkshake.

Mimi & Jones vegan diner

Everything was super yummy! The tofu nuggets were heavenly little bites, especially when you dip them in the maple Dijon dipping sauce. They operate mostly for takeaway during the pandemic, but we dined on a small bench just outside of the restaurant.

Shop at the Boutiques of Mile End and Le Plateau Mont Royal

Montreal 3 day itinerary: Antique shop in Montreal's Mile End

When you wander around Mile End and Le Plateau Mont Royal, you can pair street art hunting with boutique shopping. There are loads of great stores with unique, one of a kind items. We loved browsing the antique shops and poking our heads into indie record stores. There’s a shop for every taste and style, whether you’re looking for clothes, gifts, or something for your home.

Flower shop in Montreal

Relax at Square Saint-Louis

Square Saint-Louis is an urban park and square in the Plateau Mont Royal neighborhood. There’s a Victorian fountain in the middle of the park, and the park is surrounded by rows of brightly painted Victorian homes. Throughout this Montreal 3 day itinerary, I’ve tried to build in some moments of relaxation. Square Saint-Louis is a great place to unwind with a cup of coffee, people watch, rest your legs, and collect your thoughts.

Montreal 3 day itinerary: Square Saint-Louis fountain in Montreal

It’s one of the most beautiful parks in Montreal, and a great place to rest your legs after all of the walking you’ve been doing all day. Bring your camera as you’ll want to take some photos of the colorful graystone row houses.

Dinner and Drinks at Bowhead Pub

Montreal 3 day itinerary: Bowhead Pub Montreal - Vegan pub

The Bowhead Pub is Montreal’s first vegan pub, and we absolutely adore it! They have a delightful patio just outside of the restaurant where we enjoyed a couple pints of beer along with some delicious appetizers. They have a full menu, but we were really feeling the sharable items that night. Justin and I ordered the Chkn Wings and the Cheese Sticks (vegan feta in a Guinness batter). They also have burgers, comfort main dishes, and desserts.

Day 3: Olympic Park and Museums

I’ve left the third day of your 3 days in Montreal devoted to some of the best museums and attractions in Montreal. You’ll start off your morning by visiting MAC, the contemporary art museum in Montreal. After lunch, you’ll travel a little outside of downtown Montreal to Olympic Park. I suggest taking the Metro there as there’s a subway stop right at Olympic Park.

If you’re only spending 2 days in Montreal, I’d suggest simply doing the first two days of this Montreal itinerary. However, if you’re able to create a Montreal 3 day itinerary, this plan is perfect. If you only have a weekend in Montreal, you can also mix and match your favorite aspects of this travel guide.

Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal

Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal , also known as MAC, is the modern art museum in Montreal. Their collection includes over 7000 works by more than 1500 artists. They primarily focus on artists from Quebec and across Canada. You’ll find everything from paintings to digital and sound works, installations, sculptures, and more. It’s easy to spend at least a couple of hours wandering around MAC, enjoying the atmosphere and all of the thought-provoking works of art.

Lunch at Lola Rosa

Lola Rosa - vegan Montreal

Lola Rosa is a delightful vegan restaurant in Montreal with three locations. There’s one right across the road from the Montreal Contemporary Art Museum, so it’s easy to pop over for a quick bite. They have lots of comforting, hearty dishes that will please vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.

Lola Rosa - vegan Montreal

Justin and I both couldn’t resist ordering their Cajun Burger (it’s funny when we both decide to order the exact same thing on the menu!). I got mine with a vegan poutine because…when in Montreal, right? They’ve also got a great selection of local beers, as well as pitchers of sangria and cocktails.

Montreal Botanical Garden

To reach Olympic Park , you’ll need to take an Uber or a Metro ride as it’s a little farther outside of town. The Montreal Botanical Gardens is a wonderful and peaceful place to visit, whether you’re roaming the gardens by day or visiting a special exhibit by night. I recommend adding the Botanical Gardens to your Montreal 3 day itinerary, whether you are admiring the gardens by day or attending the lantern festival in the fall.

It’s 75 hectares of gardens and greenhouses with a remarkable selection of plants and themed gardens. There are 10 greenhouses and numerous gardens, like the Chinese Garden, the First Nations Garden, the Japanese Garden, the Rose Garden, the Toxic Plants Garden, and more. Depending on the time of year that you visit, different plants and flowers will be in bloom, so your experience can vary from one time to the next.

Montreal’s Lantern Festival at the Botanical Gardens

Montreal 3 day itinerary: Gardens of Light Festival (Jardins de Lumière) in Montreal - Montreal lantern festival

If you’re visiting Montreal in the fall, I highly recommend that you check out the Gardens of Light Festival ( Jardins de Lumière ). It’s an annual tradition at the Montreal Botanical Gardens. Hundreds of lanterns flood the Chinese and Japanese Gardens with light, illuminating the landscape with bursts of bright colors. The lights transport you to another place for the evening. I felt as though I was in China rather than Montreal.

Montreal 3 day itinerary: Gardens of Light Festival (Jardins de Lumière) in Montreal - Montreal lantern festival

Though Chinese lanterns typically celebrate Chinese New Year, they’re on display here for the fall harvest, or Moon Festival. The lanterns are handmade in Shanghai, and it takes a full year of preparations to organize and display the lights. Every small detail contributes to the magical atmosphere of the festival.

Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium

If you’re a fan of outer space, science, or planetariums, you’ve got to pay a visit to the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium at Montreal’s Olympic Park. It’s a must for any Montreal itinerary if you love museums and attractions. There are a number of French and English language shows, although there are fewer English ones. It’s best to plan accordingly ahead of time so you don’t miss out. They have their programming schedule posted online (as well as some virtual programming at the moment, until the planetarium reopens).

Coffee Break at Caffe in Gamba

Montreal 3 day itinerary: Caffe in Gamba - Montreal cafe

Want a little pick-me-up before dinner? Venture over to Caffe in Gamba for a delicious cup of coffee or espresso beverage. It’s back in the Mile End neighborhood where you’re invited to do more exploring before dinner. I ordered a simple black coffee here and it hit the spot. I’m all about finding great coffee shops on the go, so be sure to add Caffe in Gamba to your list of Montreal cafes.

Dinner at Aux Vivres

Aux Vivres continues to be one of our favorite restaurants in Montreal, ever since we first traveled to the city together back in 2013. Back then, we actually ate dinner at Aux Vivres and went there for brunch one morning, too! You know the restaurant is good if you choose to dine there twice.

Aux Vivres vegan restaurant Montreal

It’s a 100% vegan restaurant and one of the original vegan restaurants in Montreal. They have a huge menu with lots of favorites, from sandwiches and wraps to bowls and burgers. We also adored the blueberry pancakes that they serve for weekend brunch.

Pints at Le Sainte-Elizabeth’s Patio Garden

Montreal 3 day itinerary: Pints at Le Sainte-Elizabeth's Patio Garden

End your trip to Montreal with a pint or two at Le Sainte-Elizabeth pub. They have a gorgeous back patio that’s the closest thing I could find to a beer garden in Montreal. You’re surrounded by tall, brick walls covered in vines and greenery. There are tall trees in the middle of the patio garden. Plus, there are tons of heat lamps, meaning that this patio is open all year long.

More Than 3 Days in Montreal?

If you find yourself with more time, there are still many more things to do in Montreal. For instance, you could stay within the city and check out some more museums . You can book a relaxing Nordic spa experience just a few minutes away from downtown Montreal. Or if you’re looking for what to do in Montreal and you’re thinking about taking a day or two away from the city, I suggest a trip to nearby Mont Tremblant.

Visiting Mont Tremblant From Montreal

Mont Tremblant in the summer

If you have an extra couple of days, I recommend making the short drive from Montreal to Mont Tremblant. Tremblant resort is a fantastic experience any time of the year, whether you’re visiting Tremblant in the summer or partaking in outdoor activities in the winter . In the summer, Mont Tremblant hosts their sensational International Blues Festival , and there are also lots of great vegan restaurants at Tremblant , too.

Want to see more photos of Montreal?

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Where to Stay in Montreal

Montreal 3 day itinerary: Hotel Bonaventure Montreal

Justin and I spent three nights at the Hotel Bonaventure Montreal . It was our second time staying here. We enjoyed our first stay so much that we didn’t hesitate to make it our temporary home again in Montreal. It’s right downtown in the perfect location, right in the middle of all the action. We’re able to walk almost everywhere from this hotel.

Hotel Bonaventure Montreal

The hotel has all the modern amenities you need for a comfortable stay, whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure. There’s complimentary Wi-Fi and we found the speeds were lightning fast. We stayed in one of their newly renovated rooms, which was super comfortable and spacious. There’s a rooftop pool, a terrace garden with ducks, a fitness center, and restaurants on site.

Montreal 3 day itinerary: Hotel Bonaventure Montreal Rooftop Pool

Everything you could possibly want or need is right here at the Hotel Bonaventure. Click here to book your stay  at the Hotel Bonaventure Montreal. There are also many more  reviews of Hotel Bonaventure Montreal  online, and I encourage you to check them out when you’re reviewing hotels in Montreal for your holiday.

Montreal Frequently Asked Questions

Thinking about planning a trip to Montreal? You might have a few questions about Montreal that I haven’t answered already. Here’s some basic info about Montreal that you should know before you go.

Of course, yes! I have visited Montreal on multiple occasions. Even though it’s not too far away (about 5 hours by car), I think Montreal is a great city to visit even if you are coming from abroad. There are many things to see and do, and it’s such a vibrant and awesome city.

Yes! Most people in Montreal speak both French and English. While you may be initially greeted in French, don’t worry if you cannot speak French. I’m sure many people would appreciate if you tried. But, if you start speaking in English, pretty much everyone will flip over to English and communicate that way.

Montreal is a very walkable city. You can walk most places, especially if you stay in a centrally located downtown hotel. However, there’s also the fabulous and easy to navigate Montreal Metro if you’d rather travel by the subway or public transportation.

3 days is the perfect amount of time to visit Montreal. You’ll be able to see many attractions and places of interest. Of course, you can visit for 2 days or 4 days (or even longer), but you should be able to tackle most of the best things to do in Montreal in 3 days.

Please use Canadian currency in Montreal. We do not use US dollars here. I am sure many places will accept US dollars, but they won’t do any currency exchange for you. As the US dollar is valued much higher than the Canadian dollar, it makes more sense to convert your money into Canadian dollars.

Montreal is a great city to visit all year long. However, it does get quite cold and snowy in the winter, so you’ll need to dress appropriately. I love the spring and the fall the most in Montreal. September is a great time of year (after Labour Day weekend) because there are fewer crowds and the weather is still warm. The prices for hotels are more affordable during the shoulder seasons (March to May and September to November).

Map of Montreal

Navigate your way around the city with this handy map. See everything that I mentioned for this Montreal 3 day itinerary visually represented on a map.

Do you want to save this map for future reference? If you click the star beside the map title, it will be saved to your Google Maps account. Then, you can access it while hiking from your own Google Maps app (it will be listed under “your places” and then “maps”).

More Things to Do in Quebec

For more Quebec travel guides and itineraries, please check out these popular travel blog posts:

  • 20 Best Things to Do in Laval
  • Mont Tremblant in Summer
  • Mont Tremblant in Winter
  • Montreal 3 Day Itinerary
  • Terrebonne and Ile-des-Moulins, Quebec
  • Quebec City 3 Day Itinerary
  • Quebec City in Winter
  • Quebec Winter Carnival
  • Snow Tubing in Quebec at the Ultimate Winter Playground
  • Quebec City Christmas Market
  • Ice Hotel Quebec: A Survival Guide to Staying Overnight
  • Le Monastere des Augustines: Quebec Monastery Turned Wellness Centre
  • 7 Day Itinerary for a Gaspe Peninsula Road Trip
  • Whale Watching in Tadoussac
  • 3 Days In Lanaudière Mauricie Itinerary

Here is the ultimate Montreal 3 day itinerary to help you plan your trip there. There are so many amazing things to do in Montreal. Spend 3 days in Montreal for a super fun and memorable getaway.

Is there anything else that you’d add to your Montreal itinerary?

Let’s stay in touch.

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Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

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10 Best Things To Do In Montreal, Canada

10 Best Things To Do In Montreal - Canada (10)

Montreal is pretty much the epitome of French Canada and a city you shouldn’t miss whilst in Quebec. It is after all the largest city in French-speaking Quebec province in Canada and the second largest in all of Canada . As it’s pretty big, there’s a shed load of amazing and best things to do in Montreal during any season. 

10 Best Things To Do In Montreal - Canada (2)

That’s the thing about Montreal, it’s not the kind of city that just shuts down during the winter months, there’s something going on all year round! 

Better still, Montreal is a totally fun and pretty city to explore, plus, the food here is uh-mazing!

With that in mind, I wanted to share some of the best things to do in Montreal during your next visit. 

10 Best Things To Do In Montreal - Canada (1)

Take a look, below, at the best things to do in Montreal. Have the best time and gorge on all the poutine! 🤣

1.) Travel back in time to Old Montreal

10 Best Things To Do In Montreal - Canada (9)

Located along the St. Lawrence River near downtown, Old Montreal is a collection of the oldest and prettiest buildings in the city. Strolling the streets is easily one of the best things to do in Montreal whilst in the historic centre. 

For me, the quaint old streets and buildings are reminiscent of Paris, with plenty of little shops and restaurants just waiting to be explored.

10 Best Things To Do In Montreal - Canada (8)

Be sure to stop by Notre-Dame Basilica too, the 1656 religious jewel of the city, as well as the Old Port and Place Jacques-Cartier.

2.) Go for a jaunt along Rue Sherbrooke

10 Best Things To Do In Montreal - Canada (5)

A trip down Sherbrooke Street, known as Rue Sherbrooke in Montreal, is one of the best ways to get acquainted with all of the best museums in the city.

The oldest museum in Canada, the Musée des Beaux-Arts, is located along this street, housing a major collection of paintings, sculptures, and newer media arts.

For a more general history of Canada, especially the First Nations People, head to the McCord Museum of Canadian History. It really is one of the best things to do in Montreal to get a grasp of the long history of this area and people.

Now, as the main street in the city of Montreal, there are a plethora of other fantastic spots I just know you’ll bump into. Plus, it’s a great little area to stop for lunch or brunch as there are plenty of eateries. 

Afterwards, pop over to Restaurant Tandem for some of the tastiest food in the city. Plus, you can bring your own wine with you! 

3.) Visit the beautiful Notre-Dame Basilica

10 Best Things To Do In Montreal - Canada (7)

Over the years, many changes have occurred within the church and in its architecture and it’s come to look incredible. Seeing the Notre-Dame Basilica is easily up there as one of the best things to do in Montreal, especially if you love a bit of history. Heck, it’s incredible regardless! 

10 Best Things To Do In Montreal - Canada (17)

Now, by 1843, the famous twin towers were completed, with the western tower which looks very similar to the one in Paris, no? Today, it’s home to the La Persévérance, housing the 11 ton “Jean-Baptiste” bell.

Tours are available for visitors to step inside and take a look at the stunning interior decor of the church, and occasionally, choirs put on performances within the church’s magnificent walls.

4.) Marvel at St. Joseph’s Oratory

10 Best Things To Do In Montreal - Canada (16)

Another grand religious site in Montreal, St. Joseph’s Oratory is a Roman Catholic basilica and national shrine, as well as Canada’s largest church. The construction of a smaller church began in 1904, but the final product we have today was not completed until 1967.

Visitors will find the Oratory Museum on site, showcasing treasured religious art of the church and Quebec. Tours are also available, as well as gardens that lead to Mont Royal. It really is one of the best things to do in Montreal if you’re already in the area. 

10 Best Things To Do In Montreal - Canada (14)

If you’re feeling peckish, head over to Bistro L’entrepont which serves up some of the tastiest French-Canadian dishes that are just too good to miss.

5.) Check out the view on Mount Royal

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Rising 765 feet (233 m) above the city is Mont Royal, a beautiful hill-park that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

You can stroll up and around the hill can view the many monuments located in the park, as well as see Lac-aux-Castors. Look for the cemeteries on the western slope of the hill as well, and for the best view, head to the summit.

The views are so fantastic from the summit that, on clear days, you can actually see the Adirondack Mountains over in the US. 

6.) Pop into Parc Jean-Drapeau

10 Best Things To Do In Montreal - Canada (6)

A place perfect for the whole family, Parc Jean-Drapeau is a massive park and activity centre comprised of two islands: Île Sainte-Hélène, and the artificial Notre-Dame island.

In 1967, the world fair was held here, leaving behind the impressive Biosphere, a large ‘bubble’ clearly visible on the island.

The Biosphere is now a museum for ecological issues and is the largest structure of its kind in the world. Visitors can also enjoy La Ronde Amusement Park, the race course Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, the Bassin Olympique, and the Stewart Museum.

7.) Explore the Old Port of Montreal

10 Best Things To Do In Montreal - Canada (3)

Located along the St. Lawrence River, just to the east of Old Montreal, is Old Port. Visitors can find plenty of things to see and do, both indoors and outdoors, at Old Port. You can see it just behind the big skyscrapers of Montreal (pictured above).

It’s the perfect place for a lazy jaunt along the river on the pathways of the Port area. Or you could just spend some time fishing here. There are also shops, an IMAX theatre, Science Center, and cruises are all available at the scenic Old Port.

Long story short, there’s a lot to do here so make sure you pop in and check out what’s on offer.

8.) Tunnel through the Underground City

10 Best Things To Do In Montreal - Canada (11)

Known as La Ville Souterraine, as well as RESO, Montreal’s Underground City is the largest of its kind in the world. (This “ largest of its kind ” thing is starting to become quite a theme with Montreal isn’t it? 😉 )

It began as a simple underground shopping centre in 1962, beneath Montreal’s first skyscraper. Eventually, the city grew, connecting shops, restaurants, train stations, hotels, and subways all together. The City provides a warm place for visitors and residents to shop and meet during the cold winter months.

Over 20 miles (32 km) of tunnels link all of these places together so try not to get lost when you visit (to be fair, it’s pretty well signposted so you’d have to try really hard to get lost here 🤣).

With all that said, if you’re not into indoor activities or shopping, you’ll probably wanna give this spot a miss.

9.) Visit the Botanical Garden of Montreal

10 Best Things To Do In Montreal - Canada (13)

It would seem that all great cities of the world have a botanical garden, and Montreal is no exception. Now while the idea of spending an afternoon in a garden might not be everyone’s cup of tea, if it is your cup of tea, then you’re in for quite the treat here!

To be honest, even if you’re not into botanical gardens, a visit to this botanical garden (located on Rue Sherbrooke) is the perfect excuse for a brief and fun escape from the busy city.

10 Best Things To Do In Montreal - Canada (15)

The garden is filled with thematic greenhouses and exhibitions, as well as an Insectarium for visitors to learn all about insects! The Olympic Stadium is also in the area, as well as the city’s Biodome. It really is one of the best things to do in Montreal on a bright and sunny day.

After a little stroll in the morning, head for brunch at the Regine Cafe . It’s so tasty and a real treat. 

10.) Eat all the poutine

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No regrets or guilt, it has to be done! 

A well-known dish from Quebec, poutine is essentially French fries with lashings of cheese curds, topped with a light brown gravy and any (indeed, every) trip to Montreal has to include poutine. In fact, I think it should be the law! 🤣

For some tasty spots, head over to Frite Alors: with multiple locations in the city, it is easy to find and has several variations of poutine to choose from.

La Banquise also seems to be the agreed-upon destination for poutine, with over 30 varieties to choose from. Honestly, you’ll be stuffed when you visit here.

Just try not to make yourself sick from eating too much of the cheesy goodness while you’re out and about. Honestly, gorging on Poutine has to be one obligatory and one of the best things to do in Montreal. 

Read more: Best places to visit in the Canadian Province of Alberta

17 Very Best Things To Do In Alberta, Canada

                                 

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Visiting Montreal for the First Time (16 Tips & Tricks)

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Planning a trip to Montreal? Here are 16 things you need to know before visiting Montreal, Quebec!

Located in the Canadian province of Quebec, Montreal is the second largest city in Canada (and the 9 th largest in North America).

It’s a unique blend of the Old and New Worlds, where you can marvel at 18 th -century architecture against its 21 st -century skyline.

It’s the perfect place to visit if you want to experience the charm of a European city without having to cross the ocean.

From indulging in its incredible food scene to shopping in its underground city, Montreal is a magical place that you’ll quickly fall in love with.

But it’s important to note that some of its laws and customs may be confusing when you’re visiting for the first time. Here are some insider tips to help you plan an unforgettable trip to Montreal!

Related Posts:

  • Weekend in Montreal: The perfect 2-day itinerary
  • 10 romantic things to do in Quebec City
  • The ultimate guide to visiting Quebec City on a budget

first time guide montreal

Table of Contents

What to expect in Montreal for first-timers

Best time to go : The best time to visit Montreal is in the summer (June and July) and fall (September and October) when the weather is warm and there are tons of events happening. 

Spring in Montreal is mild and sunny, but it’s not uncommon to see snow in the early spring. Winters in Montreal can get extremely cold. But there are lots of great things to do in the winter if you don’t mind the snow.

Best area to stay : Old Montreal  is the best area to stay if you’re visiting Montreal for the first time. Other areas you’ll love include  Downtown Montreal ,  Le Plateau Mont-Royal ,  The Village , and  Mile End .

Best way to get around : The best way to get around Montreal is on foot. The city is very walkable. The Montreal metro is also a quick and easy way to explore the city.

If you want to give your feet a break, consider riding the  Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour . This a fun way to get familiar with the different neighborhoods in Montreal.

Top 5 things to do in Montreal : La Grande Roue of Montreal ,  Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal ,  Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal , and exploring  Old Montreal .

What’s Montreal known for? Montreal is famous for its bagels and poutine. It’s also known for being the first city to hold the Olympics in Canada in 1976, Mount Park Royal, and being the birthplace of Cirque du Soleil.

Currency : Canadian dollars.

How to get from the airport to downtown Montreal

Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) is located about 13 miles outside of downtown Montreal.

To get from the airport to downtown, you have two options: Take a taxi or private shuttle, or take the bus.

Taxi / Private shuttle – This is the fastest and most comfortable way to enjoy door-to-door service from the airport to your accommodations.

Taking a taxi or private shuttle takes about 25 minutes to reach downtown.

Bus – A more cost-effective option is to take the 747 Express bus from the airport to downtown. The 747 Berri-UQAM terminus route takes about 45 minutes to 70 minutes.

What is the best area to stay in Montreal?

I’ve visited Montreal several times and these are my favorite areas to book my accommodations:

  • Old Montreal  – The BEST location for first-time visitors.
  • Downtown Montreal  – This is ideal for luxury travellers.
  • Le Plateau Mont-Royal  – This area is ideal for families.
  • The Village  – A small neighborhood home to Montreal’s LGBTQ community.
  • Mile End  – The perfect neighborhood for foodies and art lovers.

Below are 16 helpful travel tips to make the most of your time in Montreal!

1. Montreal is a bilingual city

first time guide montreal

Montreal is the second largest primarily French-speaking city in the world. It’s also the most bilingual city in Canada since nearly 60% of its population can speak both French and English.

You don’t need to worry about whether or not you’ll have trouble communicating with the locals. Most people in the tourism industry speak English and many restaurants have English menus available.

However, it’s always a good idea to learn a few basic words in French as this is a sign of politeness, and the locals will always appreciate it.

  • Bonjour  – Hello (Say this in the morning and afternoon)
  • Salut  – Hello (This is another popular way to say ‘Hello’)
  • Bonsoir  – Good evening
  • S’il vous plait  – Please (It’s always polite to say “please” and “thank you”)
  • Merci  – Thank you (You can also say “Merci beaucoup” which means “Thank you very much”)
  • Bonne Journée  – Have a good day (Your waiter may say this when you leave the restaurant. You can smile and reply with “Merci”)
  • La facture  – The bill (If you want to ask for the bill, say “La facture s’il vous plait”)

2. You can’t turn right at a red light

first time guide montreal

You can turn right at a red light everywhere in Quebec, except on the island of Montreal. A lot of visitors don’t realize this when driving around Montreal.

Since Montreal prides itself on being a pedestrian friendly city, this law benefits pedestrians and cyclists by putting their safety first. 

3. The city comes alive during the summer

first time guide montreal

While there are fun events taking place all year long in Montreal, summer is the most popular (and best time) to visit the city.

Montreal is known for its festivals, with the Jazz Festival being the most well-known. No matter which neighborhood you visit, chances are you’ll find yourself in the middle of a lively event or open-air market.

When planning your trip to Montreal, I recommend checking the city’s event calendar to see what’s on so you can make the most of your holiday. Below are some of the popular festivals to check out:

Just for Laughs – The largest international comedy festival which happens for two weeks in July.

Montreal International Jazz Festival – The world’s largest celebration of Jazz, which takes place in Montreal every summer.

Osheaga – A three-day outdoor music festival that takes place every August.

Montréal Pride – Celebrate Montreal’s LGBTQ communities for a full two weeks during this collection of events.

St-Ambroise Montreal Fringe Festival – A 20-day event where you can watch a variety of over 800 stand-up and theatre performances.

Festival International Nuits d’Afrique de Montréal – A festival which celebrates African, Caribbean and Latin American music.

Igloofest – If you want to brave the cold winters in Montreal, check out this outdoor electronic music festival.

4. Montreal has excellent public transportation

first time guide montreal

The “metro” in Montreal means subway. It’s officially known as the STM (la Société de transport de Montréal).

Besides walking, riding the metro is the best way to get around the city. It’s safe, affordable, and reliable. There are four Metro lines which are named by color.

Orange Line – This line travels east to north between Ville St-Laurent and Laval.

Green Line – This line travels through the commercial section of downtown Montreal underneath Boulevard de Maisonneuve.

Blue Line – This line travels north of downtown Montreal and connects to the Orange line at Snowdon metro.

Yellow Line – This line travels across the water and connects to both the Orange and Green lines.

While the metro will take you to most places in the city, the STM bus is good for traveling beyond the city center to the suburbs and airport.

If you’re not comfortable riding public transportation, below are some other ways to get around Montreal:

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour – If you’re visiting for the first time, this is the perfect way to get familiar with the city.

It’s fully narrated so you can learn helpful information and it’ll take you around to all the popular neighborhoods, landmarks, and attractions.

Bike – Montreal is a great place to bike. With over 901 km of bike lanes, this makes it easy to travel all over the city, parks, and along the river.

Taxi / Uber – Taxis can be a safe and reliable way to get around Montreal, but they’re expensive. I only recommend taking a taxi or Uber if absolutely necessary, especially if you’re traveling on a budget.

5. Moving day is on July 1 st

July 1 st is Canada Day. But in Montreal, it’s also known as moving day. This is when the majority of residential leases begin and end in Quebec.

Moving day is a well-practiced tradition, but it’s also one of the most hectic days of the year. If you’re visiting the city during this time, avoid driving and plan accordingly.

6. There are two taxes in Quebec

Other provinces in Canada have a Harmonized Tax, but Quebec charges two taxes (one on top of the other).

This tax will be shown on your bill as: 5% GST (Canada) and 9.975% PST (Quebec).

7. Montreal is known for its delicious food

first time guide montreal

If you want to find the best food in Canada, head to Montreal! The city’s culinary scene is known for its smoked meat sandwiches, fresh bagels, and poutine (which is Canada’s comfort food).

For smoked meat sandwiches, check out Schwartz’s Deli, Delibee’s, and Snowdon Deli.

For bagels, check out St-Viateur Bagel, Fairmount Bagel, or Bagel St-Lo.

For poutine, check out Chez Tousignant, Chez Claudette, and Greenspot.

Montreal also has tons of great bistros and spots for brunch. If you feel like something sweet for breakfast (or a snack), I really love Juliette et Chocolat.

8. W33d is legal

W33d is legal in Canada, and you can buy it for recreational consumption. But it’s important to be aware of the rules first.

The legal age to possess or purchase w33d is 21 years old. You can purchase w33d in any of the legal shops within Canada, but smoking is not permitted in any indoor public space.

9. The legal drinking age is 18

first time guide montreal

In most of Canada, the legal drinking age is 19. But in Montreal, the legal drinking age is 18, which is why many young people love visiting.

Besides its festivals, Montreal is known for being a party city. You’ll find tons of bars, pubs, and clubs throughout the city, which is great for students and bachelor / bachelorette parties.

10. Quebec beer is slightly stronger than other beers

Speaking of drinking, Montreal is known for its variety of microbreweries, which is perfect for beer lovers.

But you’ll want to pace yourself, especially during happy hour because most beers are over 6%. Montrealers like their beer strong and it’s not unusual to find beers over 10% in the city.

11. A “Dep” is a convenience store

first time guide montreal

“Dep” is short for the French word “depanneur”, which refers to a convenience store or corner store. This is a place where you can pick up snacks, cigarettes, and affordable wine or beer.

If you’re in Old Montreal, check out Le Petit Dep, which will be hard to miss with its charming aqua-green façade.

Here you’ll find local products for sale such as high-quality souvenirs, coffee, art, and tasty food.  

12. “5-à-7” means “Happy Hour”

During the week while exploring Montreal, you’ll see signs in front of pubs and bars sharing 5-à-7 or cinq-a-sept deals.

This is Montreal’s way of advertising happy hour, which is available all year long. In the summer months, you can sit on the outdoor terraces, which are lively with people and music.

13. Montreal is an island

The island of Montreal is the largest island in Hochelaga Archipelago, which is comprised of 235 islands and the second most populated river island on the planet.

The best way to get a beautiful birds-eye view of the city’s layout is to take a helicopter tour of Montreal. This is a really unique experience that makes for lasting memories.

14. There’s an underground city in Montreal

If you want a break from the hot summer sun or the freezing snow, head to Montreal’s Underground City. The is a pedestrian friendly space under the heart of the Montreal, which connects metro stations to shopping plazas for over 33km (20.5 miles).

15. Montreal has tons of great outdoor space

first time guide montreal

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, there’s no shortage of green space and parks in Montreal. Below are some great spots to visit:

Parc Jean-Drapeau – This is the third largest park in Montreal, and it was the site of the 1976 Olympics.

Mount Royal – This park is busy all year long with activities. You can ice skate, snowshoe, bird watch, or hike up to the top to see an incredible view of Montreal.

Lachine Canal – This 13.5-km path runs between the Old Port and Lake Saint-Louis. This path is popular for walking and cycling.

Not too far from the canal path, you’ll find Atwater Market, which is a great spot to buy picnic items to enjoy by the water.

16. Bring your walking shoes

If you’re visiting Old Montreal, you’ll have to navigate cobblestone streets and narrow sidewalks. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. The streets can get congested, especially during peak season.

Visiting Montreal for the first time FAQs

Can you get around montreal without speaking french.

Yes, you can easily get around Montreal without speaking French. Even though French is the official language in the province of Quebec, the majority of people in Montreal can speak English quite well. It would be greatly appreciated though by the locals if you can say “Bonjour” (Hello) and “Merci” (Thank you).

Is 2 days enough for Montreal?

Two days is enough time to see the main landmarks and attractions in Montreal. But if you don’t want to feel rushed, you can easily spend a week exploring the different neighborhoods in Montreal and taking day trips.

How many days is enough for Montreal?

3 days is the minimum amount of time to get a good feel for the city and see the main highlights of Montreal. Ideally, you’ll want to stay a little longer so you can explore the different neighborhoods and use Montreal as a base to visit more places in the Quebec province.

What do I need to cross into Montreal?

If you’re entering Canada from the United States, U.S. citizens are encouraged to show a U.S. passport.

If you don’t have a valid passport, you can show a photo ID and proof of U.S. citizenship (such as a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or expired U.S. passport). U.S. citizens who are entering Canada from a third country must have a valid passport.

Can you get around Montreal without a car?            

Yes. Montreal’s public transportation makes it easy to get around anywhere in the city. The pedestrian-friendly streets also make it a very walkable city. There’s no reason to drive a car when visiting Montreal.

Do you need a passport to go to Montreal from Toronto?

You do not need a passport to go to Montreal from Toronto. If you’re flying between provinces in Canada, you just need to provide a Canadian identification document. A passport is only required for U.S. citizens to enter Canada.

Is it better to stay in Old Montreal or Downtown Montreal?

Old Montreal is the best area to stay for first-time travelers since it’s close to all the main tourist attractions.  However, if you’re looking for great shopping and dining, then Downtown Montreal is a better area to stay than Old Montreal.

What is the prettiest street in Old Montreal?

Saint Paul Street is the oldest and most beautiful street in Old Montreal. Here you’ll find picturesque buildings filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries.

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About Eden Ashley

Eden has an MBA and a degree in Psychology. She wants to show you how to use simple tools to help you take back control of your spending so you can live a more authentic and abundant life. When she is not writing, Eden enjoys traveling and exploring the outdoors. Click here to learn how to create a better budget!

What’s happening in Montréal?

This season, Montréal is your playground! New things to do every week and memorable #MTLmoments to share!

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Picture a video game projected on the floor. And you’re the remote. ARcade is where you and your buddies can go on an exciting, immersive journey that’s part video game, part sports, part fun night out! Age 18 and over.

MTL Experiences

Hop from one festival to the next, from homegrown tastes to exotic flavours, from the trails of Mount Royal to the cobblestone streets of Old Montréal. Get inspiration from our lists to live the full Montréal experience.

#MTLMOMENTS

Discover Montréal through the eyes of locals and tourists alike as they post all kinds of images using the #MTLmoments hashtag – join the online Montréal party by sharing your favourite moments from your visit!

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Montreal blog — the ultimate montreal travel guide blog for first-timers.

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Canada has long been one of the attractive tourist destinations of the Americas. Canada not only has prosperous, thriving and bustling cities but also has majestic nature with spectacular mountain ranges, breathtaking national parks. Coming to Canada, you will discover many famous tourist cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, Quecbec or its capital of Ottawa, etc. And definitely speaking of the famous tourist cities of Canada, it is impossible not to mention the city of Montreal — Which dubbed the Canada’s capital of culture, a beautiful and impressive city. So, what to do and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Montreal for the first-time? Let’s check out our Montreal blog (Montreal travel blog, Montreal travel guide blog) with the fullest Montreal travel guide (Montreal visitor guide, Montreal canada travel guide, Montreal city guide, Montreal guide, Montreal tourist guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

  • My trip to Montreal — One of the best cities to visit in Canada
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Montréal — the economic, industry, technology center of the Québec province and the second most populous city in Canada after Toronto with a population of around 4.2 million (Montreal Metropolitan in 2022). With 2 cultures Anglo-French coexisting and harmonizing, when traveling to Montreal, one of the tips that visitors should not miss is to learn a few basic French sentences to communicate, because there are half of Montrealers use French as their primary language.

Montreal blog: Overview of the city of Montreal

travel in montreal canada

Montreal is a large and thriving city located in the province of Quebec, in the southwestern region of Canada. Montreal is about 150km from Ottawa and about 200km from Quebec City. Traditionally, Montreal once was known as the largest city in Canada and also the second largest city in the world after only to the French capital Paris.

If Toronto is one of the cities that bring slightly Urban Style in American style, Montreal is a bustling city in European style. The city of Montreal possesses a modern but equally romantic beauty. Add to that a bit of extravagance. As a large city with a immigrant population from more than 100 different countries, Montreal has a diverse, unique and rich culture.

travel in montreal canada

A brief history of Montreal and culture

Montreal is located in southwestern Quebec on an island in the bed of the Saint Lawrence River, named after a hill on the island — Mount Royale. The Island of Montreal Island has been the land of the Algonquin, Huron and Iroquois indigenous for thousands of years before the French arrived to explore North America in the early 16th century.

Montreal from above Mont Royal

In 1642, missionaries founded a village within the boundaries of present-day Montréal. That village was named Ville-Marie and it kept expanding. The majority of Ville-Marie’s population is French, but after Ville-Marie was handed back to the British Empire in 1760, immigrants from England, Ireland, Scotland and other parts of Europe also settled here. For that reason, Montreal is mainly a place of intersection between French and British cultures, a miniature of Europe in the heart of Canada.

Montreal in the Autumn

Besides France, Montreal is home to the world’s largest French-speaking community: Nearly 50% of Montrealers speak French, more than half of Montreal’s population can speak both French and English very well.

Old Town of Montreal. Image of Montreal travel blog

Montreal brings the beauty of a romantic and poetic French city, from the ancient streets, calm river to the churches covered with green moss — All bring Montreal peace, leaving a deep impression in the heart of every visitor who have visited here.

Montreal travel blog: When should you visit to Montreal?

tropical forests biodome montreal

Montreal is a city influenced by continental climate with high average humidity throughout the year. Therefore, summer in Montreal is quite warm and pleasant. Summer is also the time when many exciting and attractive festivals in Montreal takes place such as Jazz Festiaval or Just for Laughs.

Most tourists who have traveled to Montreal will admit: Montreal is most beautiful and charming in the fall (September – November). Besides the fresh, cool and pleasant air, the autumn of Montreal also captivates visitors with the yellow and red color of the carpets of maple leaves. The whole space will be brilliant and romantic in the moment when the changing season comes.

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Autumn is the most beautiful season of the year, when the trees begin to change their leaves colors and cover the city. While summer is the time for festivals like Jazz Festival in early July, Just for Laughs and Fantasia in mid-July.

montreal jazz festival

Summer (June – August) is a favorable season for tourists from tropical regions like Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam and other tropical countries the weather is hot and humid, the average temperature fluctuates around 20 degrees, convenient for sightseeing, outdoor activities.

Meanwhile, the winter of Montreal (December – February) is extremely harsh, with heavy snowfall, sometimes with very large blizzards. Snow falls from early December to early March. For that reason, you should visit Canada’s warmer cities like Vancouver.

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Spring (March – May), the weather is getting warmer, this is the season to restart Montreal tourism after a long “winter break”, after 3 months of cold winter.

Montreal in the Spring

Montreal travel guide: How to get to Montreal?

All flights to Montreal will land at Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport which located just over 20km from the city center. The lowest airfare will be about USD 500 – 600 from Vietnam. You should book tickets at least 1 month in advance to save traveling costs.

travel in montreal canada

In addition, you can also take a bus from Toronto, Ottawa or New York from the U.S. to Montreal with affordable prices. Train is also an interesting option. The trains run between Montreal and Halifax, Toronto and New York, it offers wireless networks and beers to drink during the trip.

Getting to Montreal from Toronto

Because I live in Toronto, so there is only Megabus is the cheapest option. But before buying tickets, you should pay attention to find coupons for Megabus, if you are lucky, you can buy tickets at a much lower price for the route Toronto-Montreal. To find these coupons, just go to Google and type a few keywords to get a “bunch” of suggestions. In addition, if you buy in groups, you can also get a discount.

travel in montreal canada

It takes about 6 hours of traveling from Toronto to Montreal. One thing I forgot to say about Megabus is that the terminus is close to the Metro (subway), so it’s very convenient for commuting.

Besides Megabus you can take Greyhound , Via Rail … to get to Montreal from Toronto. If you don’t have a car but have a driver’s license, you can use Zipcar service to rent a car.

Montreal travel blog: Getting around Montreal

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Montreal is a city with a fairly developed and convenient public transport system. The whole city has about 192 bus routes, 4 subway lines and 68 tram stations. With a such modern public transport system, you can reach to any place in the city. If you travel a lot, you should buy a day ticket (Pass) to be able to use all kinds of vehicles at cheap prices.

travel in montreal canada

Tourists can buy a day ticket to be able to use all kinds of vehicles at a cheap price with a 1-day or 3-day ticket. Also, there are dedicated bike lanes in Montreal, so if you’re feeling a little adventurous, hop on a Bixi bike, a city public bike-sharing system, and explore the city in another perspective.

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Since we were in Montreal for 3 days, we decided to use the Metro Pass (3-day pass for $18). Travel freely with Metro and bus. When buying tickets, remember to ask for a Metro map for easy travel.

travel in montreal canada

Montreal blog: Where to go, what to do in Montreal

The city of Montreal owns a beautiful landscape, impressive small spaces, a peaceful atmosphere. When traveling to Montreal, visitors will admire many quaint, ancient architectures from the 17th and 19th centuries and also many corporate headquarters built in the early 20th century. In particular, the attractions around the city mostly serve free to the community.

travel in montreal canada

Address: 2600 Av Pierre-Dupuy, Montréal, QC H3C 3R6, Canada Architectural style: Brutalist architecture Opened: 1967

Montreal has many interesting attractions for us to explore. One of the most famous attractions in Montreal is Habitat 67 Apartments which is also an strange inconic of the city, was designed by Moshe Safdie, an Israeli-Canadian architect. This is a very unique architectural complex made up of 354 architectural cubes made of reinforced concrete. The cubes are arranged on top of each other in a very special way. This is also considered one of the most unique architectural works in the city of Montreal.

Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal

Address: 110 Notre-Dame St W, Montreal, Quebec H2Y 1T1, Canada Opened: July 1, 1829

The next place to visit that you should not miss is the Notre Dame Basilica. This is a beautiful old cathedral built in the Gothic Revival architecture and English Gothic architecture styles with a height of 60 m. Coming here, you will surely be amazed and impressed by the intricate carvings on the ceiling of the church. The altar here has an extremely splendid orange-yellow color.

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It is the first parish church in North America (construction started in 1647), the Cathedral is steeped in the history of Montreal. It had hosted major events such as the visit of Pope John Paul II in 1982 and the marriage of the Canadian famous singer Celine Dion in 1994.

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This is a prominent site of Vieux-Montreal, designed by an Irish architect and built from 1824 – 1829. If you have the opportunity, go inside the Catholic church to admire the works of art and its interior design. It is revealed that the stars on the blue-green ceiling are made of 24-carat pure gold.

Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal

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Address: 3800 Queen Mary Rd, Montreal, Quebec H3V 1H6, Canada

The famous Catholic Church in Montreal which opened in 1904 with a height of 129 m and built in the architectural styles of Renaissance architecture, Italian Renaissance. The church not only attracting more than two million visitors to visit and pray every year, thousands of people of different religions from all over the world to pray because of the sacredness of “Brother Andre Jesuit” – who is the founder of the church.

Ville-Marie (The historical district of Old Montreal)

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Don’t forget to enjoy the panoramic view of the city from the highest point: Mount Royal – where the name Montreal comes from. Montreal is also the filming location of many beloved American movies and TV series such as Catch Me If You Can, The Aviator, Lucky Number Slevin and The Notebook… Wandering around the Old Montreal, drop by shops, exploring some famous tourist spots, sipping a hot cup of coffee while watching people pass by is also a great experience.

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Place Jacques Cartier

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This is a lively, bustling public square, surrounded by the unique historic architecture of buildings, cafes, shops and restaurants. During the summer, the area will be closed to vehicles so that locals and tourists can walk freely. Place Jacques Cartier offers views of Montreal City Hall and the impressive Nelson’s Column, the city’s oldest structure.

Saint-Paul Street (Rue St-Paul)

Considered a tourist icon of the city of Montreal, Saint-Paul Street was established in the late 1600s. The street is less than 1 mile long and was once a bustling shopping district in the old town area of ​​Montreal. The most prominent feature is the cobblestone street, the surrounding eateries, bars and old buildings.

Montreal Science Centre

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Address: 2 de la Commune St W, Montreal, Quebec H2Y 4B2, Canada Tickets: CA$18–20 Opened: May 6, 2000

The Montreal Science Centre was founded in 2000, formerly is a science museum of Motreal, Quebec. Here visitors can explore science and technology while they also can imagining the future through dynamic and interactive exhibitions. A good place that suitable for families with kids with interactive exhibitions on science and technology and an IMAX theatre as well.

Montreal Museum of Fine Arts

Montreal Museum of Fine Arts 2

Address: 1380 Sherbrooke St W, Montreal, Quebec H3G 1J5, Canada Hours: 10AM–5PM/Monday; Tuesday: Closed

Perhaps this is the Montreal’s most prestigious museum, the museum of fine arts was originally founded in 1860 by a group of local art collectors and supporters. Today, the museum includes paintings, sculptures, graphic arts, photographs and decorative artworks displayed through five galleries namely international art, world culture, art decoration and design of Quebec province and Canada and international art.

Inside Montreal Museum of Fine Arts

Montreal Museum of Contemporary Art

Address: 1 Place Ville Marie, Montreal, Quebec H3B 3Y1, Canada Hours: 11AM–7PM/Saturday, Sunday: 12–5PM/Monday: Closed Founded: 1964

Since 1964, the Museum of Contemporary Art has showcased some of the best contemporary art from around the world. The Montreal Museum of Art is a free entry after 5:30 p.m. every Thursday where visitors can explore the collections of European masters.

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Here you will find a wide range of digital and acoustic works, paintings, installation art, temporary works, sculptures and more. Located in the heart of the Quartier des Spectacles (the city’s major cultural district), the museum is a cultural hub that makes art an integral part of everyday life in the city of Montreal.

Montreal Insectarium

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Address: 4581 Sherbrooke St E, Montreal, Quebec H1X 2B2, Canada

Opened: February 7, 1990 and located in the Botanical Garden, this is a unique insect museum that gathers nearly 250,000 insect specimens with the number of species of 95 and is the largest insect museum in North America. Don’t be surprised to see giant spiders or scorpions.

La Ronde Amusement Park

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Address: 22 Chem. Macdonald, Montréal, QC H3C 6A3, Canada

Opened in April 1967 with an area of 59 ha and 8 Roller coasters for Expo 67, the 1967 World Fair. If you go with a family with young children, you should try once to visit La Ronde park – the largest amusement park in Eastern Canada. There are many attractive games such as roller coaster, ferris wheel…

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Known as the arts and hipster hub of Montreal, Mile End is a neighborhood located in the Plateau-Mont-Royal district of Montreal. This is a place for young people in general and art lovers in particular. Here you’ll find an array of fashion boutiques, eateries, live music bars, vintage shops and underground music venues. All of these sites immerse themselves in the culture of Canada’s Jewish and Portuguese communities, embodying the richness and diversity of the Mile End.

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Mile End has even been called “the heart of Montréal’s incomparable independent music scene”. Some of Mile End’s most famous attractions include Church of St. Michael and St. Anthony, Café Olimpico, Casa Del Popolo, Drawn & Quarterly Bookstore, Wilensky’s Light Lunch (made famous by author Mordecai Richler) and Frank and Oak

La Ville Souterraine (Montreal Underground City)

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Traveling to Montreal, visitors cannot help but visit the underground city of La Ville Souterraine. This is a place full of restaurants, shops, hotels, cinemas, exhibition areas, subway stations, nightclubs and libraries.

Montreal Biodome

Known as “the home of life”, the Biodome is home to four models of the ecological systems of the Americas, home to 750 species of plants and 4,800 species of animals. In the Naturalia area, children can play educational games and interact directly with the animals. At the fossil exhibition area, you can admire the white whale skeleton up to 10,000 years old.

Lachine Canal

As a national historic site with ancient beauties, it is a destination that anyone coming to Montreal should not forget to visit. The roads on both sides of the canal is a rest stop or picnic for many people. Especially the souvenir shops, the surrounding small markets create a wonderful beauty for interesting discoveries that make you forget the time.

travel in montreal canada

The Lachine Canal has a length of 4km starting from Old Montreal to Atwater Market. Coming here, you can explore the daily life of the people on both sides of the canal which will be very interesting.

Montreal Botanical Garden

Montreal Botanical Garden 2

Address: 4101 Sherbrooke St E, Montreal, Quebec H1X 2B2, Canada

Consisting of 190 acres of gardens and greenhouses along with the no. of species of 22,000, the Montreal Botanical Garden was established in 1931 and offers a range of themed green spaces including Alpine Garden, Chinese Garden, Rose Garden, Rhododendron garden, Japanese Garden… There are a total of 10 greenhouses, and over 22,000 species that can be explored around the peaceful grounds. This is also an interesting place to watch the sunset. If you go in May, you will see cherry blossoms everywhere.

Montreal Botanical Garden 2

Jean Talon Market

Address: 7070 Henri Julien Ave, Montreal, Quebec H2S 3S3, Canada Hours: 8AM–6PM

Jean Talon Market is considered one of the oldest markets in the city of Montreal, located in the Little Italy neighborhood. During the high season, there are more than 300 vendors with various products ranging from fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, meat, spices, cheese to handmade goods. Jean Talon Market is also one of the largest in North America, with most of the produce being local specialties or from Quebec.

travel in montreal canada

The market is open year-round and the stalls change with the seasons. Those interested in exploring Montreal’s cuisine can enjoy sandwiches, pancakes, tacos, cakes, ice cream, fresh juices and great coffee. In particular, the Le Marché des Saveurs du Québec (Address: Marché Jean-Talon, 280 Pl. du Marché-du-Nord, Montréal, QC H2S 1A1, Canada/Hours: 9AM–6PM) store specializes in Québec specialties such as wine, cider, fresh cheeses, smoked meats and some other elegant gifts. This is a great place to buy fresh food and soak up the open atmosphere of the locals. This is a great place to buy fresh food and soak up the open atmosphere of the locals.

Montreal used to be famous as a city with a developed maritime industry. Old Port was once a busy place with hundreds of ships and boats coming in and out. Today, the Old Port has become a familiar resting and relaxing place for Montrealers as well as tourists. Here, you will see the ancient architecture. You will have the opportunity to walk on the cobblestone roads, visit the beautiful Place Jacques-Cartier square. In addition, Old Port also has many modern shops and shopping centers.

travel in montreal canada

Just a few minutes from the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal you will find the Old Port. See the quaint buildings spread along both sides of the road. This is a bustling part of the city and a hub for shopping, dining and even live music performances. Stop by to enjoy the performance of talented street artists.

Mount Royal Park

Montreal from above Mont Royal 2. Image of Montreal travel blog

Mount Royal Park is not only a place where you can enjoy the fresh and pleasant atmosphere. Because it is located at the highest point of the city, this park is also an ideal place for you to see the city of Montreal from above. Mount Royal Park is like an observatory in other famous cities in the world.

mount royal park

Olympic Stadium

Address: 4545 Pierre-de Coubertin Ave, Montreal, Quebec H1V 0B2, Canada

Built for the 1976 summer Olympics with a capacity of 66,308 and a height of 165 m as one of the most recognizable structures in the city, it was the home of Montreal’s former baseball team, the Expos, until they moved to the United States to become the Washington Nationals. Currently, it serves as a venue for special events, concerts, trade fairs and conferences. The stadium is a part of the Olympic Park complex, a larger entertainment destination that includes other famous landmarks and attractions: Biodome, Botanical Garden and Insectarium.

travel in montreal canada

This is one of the most impressive works, it is also the most controversial architecture because it was built for the Olympic Games in 1976, but still not completed until 1980 despite the cost up to 1.47 billion of dollars. However, this is also a very attractive place for tourists.

montreal chinatown. Image of Montreal travel blog

Similar to Vancouver, in the city of Montreal, there is also a neighborhood dedicated to Chinese people living and working. Montreal’s Chinatown is located at De la Gauchetière Street. This place sells a lot of items from food, fashion, households to convenience stores for visitors to explore and discover.

Montreal International Jazz Festival

Jazz Festival is the largest international jazz festival in the world. Come to Montreal in July and take part in a 10-day festival spread across 20 other stages, clubs, and concert halls across the city. Every year attracting more than 3,000 artists from many countries around the world. There are about 650 performances and attracts more than 3 million visitors each year.

travel in montreal canada

When the free outdoor shows take place, most other entertainment activities in the city are closed. The show usually has 100,000 people attending and sometimes even doubles. A few big names who have performed at the festival over the years include Ray Charles, Diana Krall, the Symphony Orchestra, Miles Davis, Ella Fitzgerald and Ahmad Jamal.

Montreal blog: What and where to eat?

3Poutine vancouver

You will definitely want to try the traditional dish and also known as the national dish called “Poutine”. This dish consists of French fries topped with curd cheese and topped with a brown meat sauce. La Banquise (Address: 994 Rue Rachel E, Montréal, QC H2J 2J3, Canada) is the exclusive shop that offers Poutine (in many variations) and is open all day. Many restaurants here have taken Poutine to a new level with the addition of some other attractive ingredients such as bacon, mushrooms, onions…

Beaver Tails

travel in montreal canada

Referring to Montreal cuisine, beaver tails cannot be ignored. This is a type of pastry made from flour, similar to a donut but with a flattened shape like the tail of a beaver. The pastry is fried to a crispy golden color and spread with a layer of greasy butter or chocolate sauce, fruit jam… When enjoying, you will see that the outside of the cake is golden crispy, the inside is soft and fluffy, and the sweetness of the toppings blends together.

Montreal bacon

Bacon has made its own mark on Montreal cuisine thanks to its distinctive flavor. Unlike any other, the bacon here is made from lean pork loin, adding spices and covered in cornstarch layer. When processing, the pork will be marinated longer, add more pepper and less sugar, so the bacon has a different flavor than other places in Canada. It can be eaten with rye bread and mustard, the bacon is very tender, rich with the flavor of smoke that will stimulate your taste buds.

travel in montreal canada

The best place to try the world famous bacon in Montreal is the restaurant Schwartz’s Deli (Address: 3895 St Laurent Blvd, Montreal, Quebec H2W 1X9, Canada/Hours: 10AM–10PM). Schwartz’s Deli is the most famous restaurant in Montreal. Especially, this place always attracts millions of visitors with its bacon. Accordingly, the bacon here is selected from the lean pork loin. Then it will be processed with typical cooking spices and rolled in cornstarch to be smoked. Therefore, this dish has made the name of Schwartz’s Deli restaurant for many years. Mix with the locals and don’t hesitate to order more a plate of pickles and fries while enjoying Motreal bacon.

Caesar Cocktail

travel in montreal canada

The unique combination of vodka and clamato juice – a mixture of tomato juice and sea scallop soup, with a little spicy chili sauce or pepper sauce. An indispensable ingredient is the special Worcestershire sauce, specially formulated from food to mature for 18 months.

Bagel is a ring-shaped bread, famous all over the world, sprinkled with sesame seeds. There are bakeries in Montreal that have been around for hundreds of years, with a special style of baking that is kept very secret. This cake is very popular with tourists because of its unique and attractive taste thanks to the secret of the mixing ratio of ingredients: flour, malt, honey, eggs, yeast, cinnamon…

You can get this bagel at two shops vying for the top spot, Fairmount Bagel or Saint-Viateur Bagels.

Fish and brewis

This dish was created by sailors, is a combination of salted cod and bread. Bread will be soaked in water to soften, salted cod is also soaked in water to reduce salinity, then all are boiled and mixed with cracklings.

travel in montreal canada

After trying all of these greasy dishes and cakes, you may want to enjoy the farmhouse and delectable menus of celebrity chef Normand Laprise by visiting Toque or Brasserie , which together belongs to a small chain of restaurants.

Montreal cuisine

From open coffee shops to Starbucks, Montréal has it all. Through the bustling streets of the city center and even the old houses, you can easily find warm cafes. If you are looking for the perfect combination of delicious pastries, coffee and a place that can make you emotional, go to Tommy Cafe or Cafe Olimpico. If you’re a tea lover, when the clock ticks to 4 o’clock, arrange for Birks Café par Europea to enjoy their famous afternoon tea.

Cappuccino coffee cup

Montreal travel blog: Shopping in Montreal

travel in montreal canada

Take time to stop by Canada’s first lavish fashion house, Marie Saint-Pierre , which also has a boutique on Rue Montagne street. Otherwise, you may want to check out the Ogilvy Department Store (Address: 1307 Saint-Catherine St W, Montreal, Quebec H3G 1P7, Canada) has been established since 1866. Or you can strolling along Saint-Catherine Street where you can find a lot of expensive goods, major brands and stores.

travel in montreal canada

Saint Catherine Street is home to many unique shops and multi-storey shopping centers, and in the basement there are many retail stores to choose from.

Montreal blog: Where to stay?

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

  • Hotel Nelligan ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
  • Hotel Place d’Armes Old Montreal ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
  • Auberge du Vieux-Port ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
  • Hotel Bonaventure Montreal ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
  • Hilton Garden Inn Montreal Centre-Ville ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
  • Le Square Phillips Hotel & Suites ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )

travel in montreal canada

Check out more top hotels in Montreal on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

travel in montreal canada

Happy traveling! Read more guide to other cities: Ottawa , Quebec , Toronto and Canada travel guide here .

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  • 8 Montreal Travel Tips To Keep In Mind While Traveling To The Old World City!

23 Mar 2023

Cover Image Courtesy: Pixabay

Montreal has earned the title of an Old World city due to its ancient facades and elegant boulevards that have bewitched many travelers from around the globe. But this metropolis is no fossilized relic and is now full of youthful energy that is redefining Montreal. It offers an umpteen number of tourist spots apart from the cobbled streets of Vieux-Montreal. Montreal is a potpourri of cultures that not only includes French but also Chinese, Carribean, and Italian. If you are planning a vacation to this Canadian metropolis then you must know about some of the essential Montreal travel tips that will help you have a butter-smooth excursion.

Top 8 Montreal Travel Tips

If you are planning a visit to this Canadian metropolis then this list of things to know before visiting Montreal will help you plan your vacation smoothly.

1. When To Travel To This Metropolis

When To Travel To This Metropolis

Harsh winters in Montreal have kept several people at bay from the month of December March. But brave souls who love to travel in winter will be surprised by the number of activities offered by this city from playing hockey and attending musical performances to shopping at the ‘underground city’. Besides this, the summer season witnesses a large number of tourists as it marks the festival season in the city. If you are thinking of exploring Montreal in the summer months then you must make your bookings in advance.

Must Read: Places To Visit In Montreal: 7 Best Destination To Be Explored

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2. Get Familiar With Traffic Rules

Traffic Rules Signs

Image Source

Unlike other cities in Canada, you cannot take a right turn on a red light in Montreal, unless indicated. This hard and fast rule in Montreal has landed a lot of out-of-towners facing some hefty fines. This law was implemented to benefit pedestrians and ensure their safety. So, if you are planning to drive in this city then get familiar with their traffic rules and save yourself from fines.

Suggested Read: 10 Stunning Experiences Of Montreal In Winter Ensuring The Best Vacay!

3. Learn New French Words

people talking

Although Montreal is a bilingual city and you will find both English- and French-speaking people scattered all around the city, still it is always better to learn a few words from the French dictionary. After Paris, Montreal holds the position of the second-largest French-speaking city in the world. You will not find any issue while communicating in the French language, however, learning a few French words for greeting and thanking will harm nobody.

Suggested Read: 9 Indian Restaurants In Montreal To Enjoy Desi Tadka With A Modern Twist

4. Hit To The ATMs

Cash

If you running out of Canadian dollars then it is best to go to an ATM and take out the cash for your daily expenses. If you want to get your currency exchanged then banks are going to hit you with pricey transaction fees every time you want to buy something across the border. So, either you keep enough exchanged money or hit to the ATMs.

Suggested Read: Montreal In December Is A Magical Paradise That No One Can Afford To Miss!

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5. Getting Around In Montreal

Getting Around In Montreal

If you are not planning to drive through the roads of Montreal then you must get familiar with its metro lanes. With 68 metro stations and buses running every 10 minutes, you will not find any problems for commuting in Montreal. Moreover, it is pretty easy to find a taxi or an Uber in this metropolis and if you are the kind of person who likes to travel around on foot then you will be mesmerized by the beauty of this city at every turn you take.

Suggested Read: 5 Montreal Rivers That Will Drive You Head Over Heels With The Ethereal Nature

6. Look For 5-a-7 Deals

Cheers for drink

While exploring Montreal, you will see the signboard of 5-a-7 or cinq-a-sept deals in front of bars, restaurants, and pubs on someday of the week. This is the sign of Happy Hours in Montreal where you will find heavy discounts on drinks and food. So, if you are planning a budget trip to Montreal then you must keep your eyes open for 5-a-7 deals.

Suggested Read: Montreal In September: Your Guide To Experience The Best In The City

7. Attend Festivals

Fireworks

Not attending festivals in Montreal is like a sin, does not matter which month it is. Whether planning your trip in winter or summer, you will find numerous festivals being organized in Montreal. As it is one of the most festive cities in Canada, people love to visit this metropolis and enjoy festivals to the fullest. From open-air markets and impromptu music sessions to EDM concerts, there are a variety of festivals for every kind of traveler.

Suggested Read: Top 10 Things To Do In Montreal To Spend Your Vacation The Right Way

8. What To Pack

Packing items

The choices of clothes totally depend on the month you are planning to travel in. If you are going to explore Montreal in the winter months then you must not forget to carry your warmer, fleece jacket, hoodie, long-sleeved shirts, caps, muffler, or sweaters so as to protect yourself from the harsh weather of Montreal. The summer season is not much different from the winter season so carry a light sweater, full sleeved-shirts, and light layers

Further Read: 7 Best Places For Budget Shopping In Montreal To Shop Till You Drop

This list of Montreal travel tips is essential for every traveler planning a vacation to the largest city of the Quebec province. Before traveling to any new city or state, it is better to do some research and gain a bit of knowledge about it. So, if you are planning a Canada holiday this year then keep these travel tips for Montreal handy as they will help you guide in the city. Wait no more and get ready to pack your bags because Montreal is waiting for you and you definitely need that break from your work.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Question About Montreal Travel Tips

Why should I take a tour of Montreal?

Montreal attracts many tourists per year because of its dynamic festivals, delicious foods, history, arts, and culture, etc. Apart from these things, there are more reasons to visit Montreal. For example, street arts, museums, shopping, architecture and many more.

How many days should I spend in Montreal?

Montreal is a city where you can enjoy many festivals, historical places, museums, etc. So, to experience all these things, you should plan a trip of 5-7 days which will be enough for the Montreal tour.

What is the language of Montreal?

In Montreal, over 59% of people use to speak both French and English. However, almost all the people speak French that is why it is the second-largest French-speaking city in the world.

When should I visit Montreal?

Montreal is a place where you can visit any time but from March to May and September to November is the best time to visit this city. In these months, the weather is quite favorable and hotel rooms will be available.

Is Montreal Expensive?

Montreal, in comparison to many other cities of Canada, is affordable. The accommodation, food, and transportation are cheaper in comparison.

What are the famous places in Montreal?

Mount Royal Park, Montreal Botanical Garden, Old Port of Montreal, Old Montreal, Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal are some of the most famous places in Montreal.

Which is the nearest airport to Montreal?

The nearest airport to Montreal city is Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL). It is situated about 7.9 miles from Montreal city.

What is the currency of Montreal?

As we know, Montreal is a Canadian city, so the currency of Montreal city is the Canadian Dollar. The value of one Canadian Dollar is 100 cents.

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Measles may be spreading in some Canadian communities, officials warn

2 cases not linked to travel identified in quebec, ontario.

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There are early signals that measles — one of the world's most contagious viruses — may be quietly spreading within parts of Canada as health officials brace for more imported infections during the March Break travel season.

The country now has at least nine confirmed infections for 2024, according to a CBC News count, a two-month tally that's not far off the dozen cases reported Canada-wide for all of 2023 .

Two recent cases, identified in Quebec and Ontario, were not tied to prior travel and didn't come into contact with any known measles cases, suggesting the individuals may have been infected within their communities. 

Laval Public Health announced on Thursday that one infected person has been isolating at home since Feb. 26 — and previously visited a school, a corner store, a medical clinic and CHU Sainte-Justine Hospital, all in the Montreal suburb of Laval, while highly contagious. The individual was unvaccinated and hadn't traveled, officials said. 

That infection is one of three known cases in Quebec, the province's public health director Dr. Luc Boileau said on Friday, as several more suspected infections remained under investigation by late afternoon.

travel in montreal canada

Measles may be spreading in some communities, health officials warn

"We think it is the beginning of transmission inside the community," warned Boileau. 

Quebec's case comes on the heels of another infection reported this week in York Region , a municipality north of Toronto, which was not linked to travel. There, health officials say a man in his 30s got infected from an unknown source. 

"The unique thing about this case — a rather unfortunate thing — is that this case does not have any travel history or any history of exposure," said Dr. Barry Pakes, medical officer of health for York Region, in an interview with CBC News.

The man was vaccinated and had a mild course of illness, and it's possible he may have caught the virus in the community, Pakes said. Prior to being diagnosed, the individual spent time in various parts of the Greater Toronto Area, including a restaurant in Mississauga, a hospital in Vaughan, and a medical clinic in Woodbridge.

  • Public health reports cases of measles in Laval and Montreal, urges people to get vaccinated
  • York Region Public Health investigating adult case of measles with 'unknown' infection source

Pakes said the man's vaccination status likely lessens the risk that he transmitted the virus any further, but where he caught it remains a mystery — a situation the physician described as "concerning" but expected.

"It doesn't mean there is an outbreak by any means," he added, "because we have great vaccination rates, thankfully."

Another recent case, an unvaccinated child in Brant County, Ont., was hospitalized after acquiring measles on a trip to Europe, and more than 200 people may have been exposed at various settings including Pearson International Airport near Toronto — though health officials told local media that no further infections have been reported.

No risk of 'massive measles outbreak'

Multiple medical experts who spoke to CBC News agreed that any onward spread of measles in Canada will likely fizzle out. Still, outbreaks remain a possibility if infections strike communities where vaccination uptake is lower.

"We've had the importation of measles in Canada and had small chains of transmission within the country … but by no means in March of 2024 are we at risk for a massive measles outbreak in Canada," said Dr. Isaac Bogoch, an infectious diseases specialist with the University Health Network in Toronto.

  • With March break travel weeks away, local health officials urge people to get measles vaccine

"Coverage rates are still high enough that we should be able to prevent significant amounts of onward transmission," echoed Dr. Jesse Papenberg, a pediatric infectious diseases specialist at the Montreal Children's Hospital. 

Still, he added, there can be pockets where vaccine coverage rates aren't high enough to stop secondary spread when there is an imported case.

Country-wide data also shows overall vaccination rates have dropped, while a new survey suggests more Canadian parents are wary of getting their children routine shots — despite long standing medical consensus that vaccines are both effective and safe.

travel in montreal canada

Measles cases skyrocket in Europe, doctors worry it will spread here

Federal data from 2021 shows that 79 per cent of children had two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine by their seventh birthday, down from 83 per cent in 2019 and 87 per cent in 2017. That suggests close to two in 10 children hadn't yet had their full set of shots, far from Canada's target of 95 per cent coverage for that age group.

Meanwhile an opinion poll, released Wednesday by the Angus Reid Institute , found 17 per cent of parents of minors say they are "really against" vaccinating their kids, compared with four per cent in 2019. 

"It's very concerning when we hear that people are increasingly skeptical of vaccinations, especially the routine childhood vaccination," Bogoch said. 

"If people are choosing not to vaccinate themselves or vaccinate their children, it's going to come to no one's surprise that we see the resurgence of vaccine-preventable illnesses, even here in Canada."

Virus is highly contagious

Those trends could make controlling measles more challenging going forward.

Thought to be one of the most contagious health threats, the virus spreads easily through the air, transmits before people even show symptoms, and can linger inside enclosed spaces for up to two hours. One individual infected by measles can infect nine out of 10 of their unvaccinated close contacts, notes the World Health Organization .

It also has a long incubation period — usually between 10 and 14 days — and, in some cases, can lead to life-threatening complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling, or death.

  • Hamilton-area public health officials confirm case of measles, warn of exposure at Pearson airport, hospitals

Yet health officials stress the two-dose vaccine regimen against measles is more than 95 per cent effective at preventing infection, offering a simple path to avoiding the most serious cases.

Dr. Theresa Tam, Canada's chief public health officer, stressed that Canadians should check their vaccination records and ensure they're up-to-date on their measles shots . And "if in doubt," she recommended getting an additional dose prior to any travel.

  • Second Opinion Measles has exploded in Europe. Clinicians say it's only a matter of time before outbreaks hit Canada

Tam also said she's hopeful the country still has a "firewall" in terms of adequate vaccination levels.

"I do think it's a bit like a spark dropping into an area that's dry, and you start a bit of a fire," she added. "So areas that are underimmunized — there are pockets in Canada — and that's where you will see outbreaks. It is a possibility."

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

travel in montreal canada

Senior Health & Medical Reporter

Lauren Pelley covers health and medical science for CBC News, including the global spread of infectious diseases, Canadian health policy, pandemic preparedness, and the crucial intersection between human health and climate change. Two-time RNAO Media Award winner for in-depth health reporting in 2020 and 2022. Contact her at: [email protected]

  • @LaurenPelley

With files from CBC Montreal

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Travelling for March Break? The Canada Border Services Agency gives tips for a smoother trip

From: Canada Border Services Agency

News release

February 29, 2024 Ottawa, Ontario

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) reminds travellers of what to expect when crossing the border during March break.

Everyday, the CBSA works hard to protect Canadians, support the economy, and ensure the safe and efficient movement of people and goods across our borders. In 2023, we welcomed 86,575,393 travellers and intercepted over 72,200 kg of prohibited drugs, cannabis, narcotics, and chemicals, representing an increase of over 29% from 2022.

The CBSA invests significant effort planning and preparing for peak periods, including long weekends and holidays. We monitor traveller volumes and work hard to minimize border wait times at ports of entry, including international airports, without compromising safety and security.

Here are some tips to help you plan for your trip: 

  • Plan ahead, expect delays and check  border wait times . Travellers crossing the border by land are encouraged to cross during non-peak hours such as early mornings.
  • When  travelling with children, it is recommended that the accompanying adult have a consent letter authorizing them to travel with the child if they share custody or are not the parent or legal guardian. Border services officers are always watching for  missing children , and in the absence of the letter, officers may ask additional questions. 
  • Have your travel documents handy . Whether travelling by land, air or water, travellers can help speed up processing times by always coming prepared with their travel documents.
  • Save time with Advance Declaration . You can make your customs and immigration declaration up to 72 hours in advance of your arrival into Canada at the Toronto, Vancouver, Montréal, Winnipeg, Halifax, Québec City, Ottawa, Billy Bishop, Calgary and Edmonton international airports. Data shows that using this tool cuts your time at a kiosk or eGate by up to 50%.
  • Be prepared to declare. All travellers must declare their goods upon entry into Canada. For returning residents, have your receipts readily available for goods purchased or received while outside of Canada. Travellers should be aware of everything that is inside their vehicle and are responsible for its contents. You are encouraged not to travel with firearms, but if you choose to do so, be sure to check the  rules on importing firearms  and other  restricted and prohibited goods , which includes pepper spray and certain knives.
  • Know your exemption limits.  Returning residents planning to make purchases or pick up online purchases across the border should be aware of their personal exemption limits , including alcohol and tobacco. You are encouraged to use the  CBSA duty and taxes estimator  to help you calculate monies owed on goods purchased abroad.
  • Cannabis: Don’t bring it in. Don’t take it out.  Bringing cannabis across the border in any form, including oils containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabidiol (CBD), without a permit or exemption authorized by Health Canada  is a serious criminal offence subject to arrest and prosecution, despite the legalization of cannabis in Canada. A medical prescription from a doctor does not count as Health Canada authorization.
  • Bringing traditional Indigenous medicines or ceremonial goods to Canada?  Medicines such as sage, cedar, sweetgrass, peyote and tobacco are recognized as sacred items and can be brought across the border by Indigenous Peoples in Canada. However, plant materials are subject to regulations and inspections. 
  • If you are travelling with a pet or planning to import an animal into Canada , you will need the right paperwork at the border to meet Canada's import requirements.

Not sure? Ask a CBSA officer. The best thing you can do to save time is to be open and honest with the CBSA officer. Be sure to follow all instructions they provide to you. If you are not sure about what to declare, don't hesitate to ask. Our officers are here to help!

Associated links

  • Plan your trip across the border
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For more information or to schedule an interview with a CBSA representative, please contact:

Media Relations Canada Border Services Agency [email protected] 1-877-761-5945

Page details

travel in montreal canada

Quebec reports 10 cases of measles in Montreal area, health officials urge vaccinations

travel in montreal canada

Sainte-Justine Hospital in Montreal on Feb. 8, 2023. Graham Hughes/The Canadian Press

Ten cases of measles have been confirmed in Greater Montreal over the past few weeks, making the city the epicentre of the current Canadian outbreak, Quebec health officials said Monday.

Caroline Quach-Thanh, a pediatrician, microbiologist and infectious disease specialist at CHU Sainte-Justine in Montreal, said seven of the cases appear to have been acquired locally, while the rest were connected to international travel. The latest case was identified Sunday, she said during a news conference.

More than a dozen measles cases have been reported in Canada recently. One was confirmed last week in the York region of the Greater Toronto Area. Another was found in a Brantford-area child who returned from Europe.

One more case was reported in British Columbia over the weekend, where officials advised people on Monday to get vaccinated before travelling during the coming spring break.

Only 12 cases of measles were reported in Canada in all of 2023.

“We are concerned about the situation,” said Quebec Public Health Director Luc Boileau, who warned that the disease could spread rapidly among unvaccinated people. “Public health is following the evolution of all these situations very closely.”

Last month, the country’s Chief Public Health Officer, Theresa Tam, issued a statement in advance of March break saying she is concerned that an uptick in measles cases around the world could lead to transmission of the virus in Canadian communities with low vaccination rates.

Opinion: The return of measles is cause for concern, not disdain

For now, Quebec does not intend to make vaccination mandatory, Dr. Boileau said, but rather will provide information, facilitate access to shots and answer people’s questions.

“The vaccine is safe, it’s efficient, it acts quickly, it’s the best way to protect oneself from measles.”

Montreal public health director Mylène Drouin said seven of the province’s 10 cases occurred in the city. Places and times where contact with identified infected people could have happened were posted on the Montreal Health website , along with tips on what to do if you were exposed or show symptoms.

Vaccination coverage is too low in schools in Montreal and its suburbs, such as Laval and cities in the Montérégie region, and in Quebec City, Dr. Boileau said, adding that unvaccinated children will have to be pulled from class in the case of an outbreak.

A vaccination rate of 95 per cent is required to prevent community transmission. In Montreal schools coverage averages about 80 per cent, Dr. Drouin said. Some schools have rates as low as 30 per cent, though this could partly be the result of delays in translating foreign vaccination records, she added.

Explainer: Are you fully immunized against measles? Canada’s public health agency says to check

Vaccine hesitancy and limited access to vaccines for newly arrived children play a role, Dr. Drouin said. Local health authorities will organize vaccination campaigns in schools where coverage is particularly low and will also contact individuals directly to answer questions and facilitate appointments.

Dr. Quach-Thanh said that although the rash that typically presents with measles looks benign, several complications can occur, including ones with debilitating or potentially fatal outcomes. Ten per cent of infected children develop pneumonia, some of whom need hospitalization, she said.

Between one in 1,000 and one in 600 children can develop complications such as encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), measles-induced acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (swelling in the brain and spinal cord) or subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (which affects the central nervous system).

“One out of 3,000 might die,” Dr. Quach-Thanh said.

The World Health Organization reported a 79 per cent increase in the number of global measles cases in 2023 compared with the previous year.

Quebec public health authorities said on March 4 that measles is now spreading in the Montreal area, where 10 cases of the virus have now been detected.

The Canadian Press

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By Analysis by The Big Story podcast

Posted March 5, 2024 7:04 am.

In today’s The Big Story podcast, ultralow-cost airline Lynx Air abruptly announced it was shutting down just ahead of busy March Break travel. Customers were left scrambling to make new – and likely more expensive – bookings.

Jonah Prousky is a management consultant and freelance writer who focuses on business, technology and society. “Even though we are in a sort of lull, and we’ve now in recent memory seen a kind of exodus of low-cost carriers, there’s no reason to think that in the future innovation and market entrance couldn’t spur new models for low-cost aviation in Canada,” said Prousky. 

So why wasn’t Lynx able to keep their promise of making air travel more affordable for Canadians?

Does this mean Canadians are destined to pay more for air travel?

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S eventeen cases of measles have been confirmed in Quebec, Ontario, Saskatchewan and British Columbia — more than half of those in the Montreal area, while one Ontario case has been linked to a high school.

Quebec public health director Dr. Luc Boileau confirmed 10 cases on Monday, almost all of them involving children and making Montreal the country's epicentre. He said only three of the cases were linked to travel outside of the country, indicating community spread in and around the city.

Public Health Ontario confirmed five cases of measles and said all but one involved travel.

The latest case, announced last week, was in a man in his 30s in the York Region north of Toronto and was "likely" related to community transmission, the region's medical health officer said.

The man had "close contacts" among students and teachers at a high school so public health officials in that region are ensuring everyone there is vaccinated, Dr. Barry Pakes said.

More than 1,500 students and 150 staff received notification from public health officials on Feb. 29 that they were exposed to a positive case of measles, he said in an email.

Pakes said they were invited to an immunization clinic on Sunday and had “excellent turnout." The school has a 95 per cent measles vaccination rate “and climbing," he added.

Students without proof of two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine will not be allowed to return to school until March 15, Pakes said.

He said the man in his 30s was fully vaccinated.

Dawn Bowdish, an immunology professor at Hamilton's McMaster University, said that it's rare for someone to be infected after getting vaccinated.

"When I hear about a case like this, I'm thankful this person was vaccinated because it means they probably had a less dangerous course (of illness) than they might have had," she said, noting that measles is not only the most contagious known virus, but also has the “highest death rate of all the vaccine-preventable infections.”

"The patient would also be less likely to spread measles to others than if he had been unvaccinated," she said.

B.C.'s provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry said one case of the virus, related to international travel, was recorded in the Vancouver Coastal health region on the weekend in a child younger than 10. A case in Saskatoon, confirmed in January, was also linked to travel abroad.

British Columbia and Ontario last reported cases of the virus in 2019 when the western province mandated parents and guardians to provide public health units with immunization records for students enrolled in the public school system.

Infectious disease specialists say a small number of measles cases can escalate to widespread infections as it has elsewhere in the world, including Europe, where thousands of cases have been confirmed.

Henry urged parents to ensure children are vaccinated against measles, especially if they plan to travel during spring break, which starts next week in British Columbia. Her federal counterpart, Dr. Theresa Tam, issued the same message in a statement on Feb. 23.

B.C. Premier David Eby said confirmation of the single case in that province is "terrifying" for parents of infants. He issued a rebuke to people "trafficking in misinformation about vaccines."

"Without those vaccines you're putting infant children in our province at risk of very, very serious illness," he said.

Symptoms of measles are similar to those of a cold or flu before a rash appears. The virus can lead to severe illness in children including pneumonia and swelling of the brain.

Health Canada said that by March 2021, national vaccination coverage rates were similar to those in 2019, with 92 per cent of two-year-olds vaccinated against measles.

Canada has set a target of 95 per cent cent coverage by 2025 for various childhood vaccines, including two doses of a measles-containing vaccine by about age seven.

— With files from Dirk Meissner in Victoria and Jacob Serebrin in Montreal.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 4, 2024.

Canadian Press health coverage receives support through a partnership with the Canadian Medical Association. CP is solely responsible for this content.

Camille Bains and Nicole Ireland, The Canadian Press

Four provinces confirm measles cases with Montreal deemed Canada's epicentre

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