- Top Attractions
- See & Do
- Eat & Drink
- Hotels
- Apartments
- Vacation Rentals
- Bed & Breakfasts
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Why Visit Montreal
Montreal's story begins in 1642 as Ville-Marie, a French mission. This legacy is etched into Old Montreal's cobblestone streets and the Notre-Dame Basilica's Gothic Revival style. British influence added Victorian greystones, creating a unique visual blend. This history is part of what is Montreal famous for, even connecting to the modern RÉSO underground city.
At the city's heart is Mount Royal Park, a 200-hectare urban retreat designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. It offers stunning skyline views from the Kondiaronk Belvedere. In summer, the historic Lachine Canal is a hub for cycling, while winter turns Beaver Lake into a picturesque skating rink cherished by locals.
Explore the culinary scene at Jean-Talon Market, one of North America's largest open-air markets. Beyond iconic poutine and smoked meat, discover our unique bagel style-boiled in honey water. The St-Viateur vs. Fairmount debate is a local rite of passage. Many restaurants also embrace an 'Apportez Votre Vin' (BYOW) policy.
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Quick Travel Essentials
- Apr-Jun & Sep-Octmild, fewer tourists
- Jul-Aughot, vibrant events
- Wintercold, snow activities
- #ComfortableShoes
- #WeatherAppropriateClothing
- #Umbrella
- #Sunscreen
- #PowerAdapterTypeA
- #ReusableWaterBottle
- 3-5 days for highlights
- 6-7 with side trips
- Canadian Dollar ($)
- English & French
- Both are official languages
- #OldMontreal
- #MountRoyal
- #NotreDameBasilica
- #JeanTalonsMarket
- #MuseumOfFineArts
- #StJosephsOratory
- Explore Old Port
- Try poutine
- Visit the Botanical Garden
- Attend a festival
- Cycle along Lachine Canal
Recommended Hotels in Montreal by Experience
Things to do in Montreal
Discover
Exploring Montreal reveals a blend of historic and modern sights. Wander the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal, see art at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, and take in panoramic views from the summit of Mount Royal Park or Au Sommet Place Ville Marie.
Experience
Cycle the Lachine Canal National Historic Site or enjoy seasonal festivals like the Montreal International Jazz Festival. Taste local flavors at Jean-Talon Market. Experience the city's unique cultural scene through its numerous events and concerts.
Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal)
Historic district with cobblestone streets, 17th-c. architecture.
Notre-Dame Basilica
Gothic Revival church with a grand, colourful interior.
Mount Royal Park
Urban green space designed by Frederick Law Olmsted.
Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
City's largest art museum, showcasing diverse collections.
Montreal Botanical Garden
A large garden with themed areas and diverse plant species.
Jean-Talon Market
Large open-air public market with local produce and goods.
Lachine Canal National Historic Site
Urban waterway with a path for cycling, walking, and boating.
Before You Arrive
Getting There
To get to Montreal, fly into Montréal-Trudeau (YUL). The 747 Express bus is a 24/7 Montreal shuttle bus service getting you from the Montreal airport to city center in 45-70 min. A train to Montreal arrives at Gare Centrale via VIA Rail or Amtrak.
Getting Around
The STM network offers excellent public transport in Montreal via its metro and bus system. Purchase an Opus card or day/weekend passes for unlimited travel. BIXI bike-sharing is widespread for short trips, and the River Shuttle offers scenic water travel.
Local Essentials
Essential Montreal travel tips for first-timers: driving in Montreal means no right turns on red on the island. A car rental in Montreal may be tricky with parking. Plan a trip to Montreal knowing signs are in French; cards are king, but carry some cash.
Where to Stay in Montreal
Where to Eat and Drink
Celebrate
Explore traditional food in Montreal. Taste iconic smoked meat sandwiches, poutine with squeaky cheese curds, and unique bagels. The city's vibrant 'casse-croûte' culture means you can eat delicious, hearty fare at all hours.
Enjoy
Find the best bars in Montreal near bustling eateries. For iconic smoked meat, hit Schwartz's deli, expect queues. Modavie offers live jazz in a cozy setting, reserve ahead. Olive et Gourmando is a rustic-chic cafe, arrive early.
Schwartz's
Legendary deli serving iconic smoked meat sandwiches.
Au Pied de Cochon
Rich, decadent Quebecois cuisine in a lively setting.
Gibbys
Classic steak and seafood in a historic stone building.
Damas Restaurant
Upscale Syrian dishes in an elegant, exotic setting.
Events & Festivals
Celebrate
Explore Montreal's heritage through its must-see celebrations. Experience the Fête Nationale du Québec parade, a testament to French-Canadian identity. Discover Old Montreal's Christmas markets, reflecting deep European traditions and local artisanship.
Enjoy
Discover modern Montreal cultural activities, from the legendary International Jazz Festival's free shows to MUTEK's digital art. Exploring Montreal reveals a scene filled with indie music, multimedia installations, and avant-garde performances.
Montréal en Lumière
A top winter festival in February with lights, food & shows.
Intl. Jazz Festival
World's largest jazz fest with 350+ free shows each summer.
Just for Laughs
The world's largest international comedy festival each July.
Osheaga Festival
Multi-day indie music & arts fest at Parc Jean-Drapeau.
MURAL Festival
Watch live mural painting on Saint-Laurent Blvd every June.
Igloofest
Outdoor electronic music fest in Old Port during winter.
Fête Nationale du Québec
Parades & concerts on June 24 celebrating Québécois culture.
A city with so much character
Montreal is a fantastic city with a distinct European feel. We spent hours walking through Old Montreal's cobblestone streets. It's super walkable, and the mix of old and new architecture is cool. Great cafes everywhere.
Fun winter festival
We went during the MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE festival and it was great. The city is full of light shows and free activities at night. A really fun way to experience a city in winter.
Amazing architecture
Montreal has some of the most stunning architecture. The Notre-Dame Basilica is absolutely breathtaking inside, well worth the entry fee. The history feels very present when exploring the older parts of the city. Really well-preserved and impressive.
Cool neighborhood feel
Had a great time exploring Le Plateau-Mont-Royal with its colorful houses and spiral staircases. It felt like a real, living neighborhood. Found a small spot for poutine that was incredible. So many cute shops.
Loved the street art
The public art is everywhere! The murals along Saint-Laurent Boulevard are huge and so detailed. It's like an open-air museum. The city feels very creative.
Beautiful view from the top
The walk up Mont-Royal Park was beautiful in the snow. The view of the city from the top is fantastic and totally worth the short hike. It's a nice escape from the streets but still so close to everything. A must-do on a clear day.