Things To Do
in Laval
Laval is a city located in Quebec, Canada, just north of Montreal. It is the third largest city in the province and is known for its diverse population and vibrant cultural scene. The city is home to several universities and colleges, as well as numerous parks and recreational areas.
Laval offers a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for residents and visitors alike.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $75 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Centropolis, where you can enjoy a delightful breakfast at a local café. Take a stroll around the area and admire the interesting architecture.
Visit the Cosmodôme, a space-themed museum, where you can learn about space exploration and the universe. Engage in interactive exhibits that cater to all ages.
Wrap up your day with dinner at one of the many restaurants along Boulevard Saint-Martin. Enjoy local cuisine or international dishes while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Begin your day in the tranquility of Laval's parks, such as the Parc de la Rivière des Mille Îles. Enjoy a peaceful walk or bike ride surrounded by nature.
Head to the Parc des Prairies for a picnic and some relaxation by the river. Take in the views and feel the calming effect of the natural surroundings.
Finish your day at Forges de Laval, a historic site that offers evening tours and storytelling sessions. Enjoy the serene atmosphere as you learn about the region's history.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities like Montreal and Toronto.
- Strong sense of community and family-friendly atmosphere.
- Access to a variety of parks, recreational activities, and green spaces.
- Well-connected public transportation system, including metro access to Montreal.
- Diverse cultural offerings, including festivals, events, and culinary experiences.
- Limited job market compared to larger urban centers.
- Some areas may experience higher crime rates.
- Public transportation options might not be as extensive within the city.
- Weather can be extreme during winter months with heavy snowfall.
- Fewer entertainment and nightlife options compared to nearby Montreal.
Best Activities in Laval
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the natural beauty of the Rivière-des-Mille-Îles park with activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and bird watching.
Enjoy outdoor dining, shopping, and entertainment at the Centropolis area in Laval. Perfect for a day of leisure and relaxation.
Take a scenic hike or bike ride through the Île-de-la-Visitation Nature Park, offering picturesque views and tranquil surroundings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Laval with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Laval
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular shopping and entertainment complex offering stunning views of Laval from its various restaurants and rooftop terraces.
Located in Centre de la Nature, this observatory provides breathtaking views of the city and surrounding areas.
This park offers picturesque views of the river and nature, ideal for capturing beautiful photos.
Food in Laval
Laval Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Canadian dish featuring crispy fries topped with cheese curds and drizzled with rich gravy, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Must-try at Poutine Centrale or Ashton.
Must-Try!
A savory meat pie filled with seasoned ground pork, veal, or beef, traditionally served during the holiday season but available year-round. Sample the best at Boulangerie St-Méthode.
Translating to Chinese Pie, this hearty dish comprises layers of seasoned ground beef, corn, and mashed potatoes. Enjoy an authentic version at La Grande Quenouille.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Laval better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and a variety of local delicacies. Visitors can also indulge in diverse street food options such as gourmet sandwiches and crepes.
An excellent destination to explore an array of local food vendors, offering everything from Quebec cheeses and charcuterie to freshly baked pastries and regional specialties.
Laval hosts an annual Food Truck Festival, a must-visit for enthusiasts seeking an eclectic mix of global cuisines and inventive street food creations from local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Laval, Canada is a diverse and multicultural city, so it's important to respect and embrace the various cultural traditions and backgrounds of its residents.
Laval is predominantly French-speaking, so being mindful of the language and bilingual nature of the city is important for respectful interactions.
Adhering to punctuality and displaying polite etiquette are valued in Laval's cultural norms, so being respectful of others' time and demonstrating good manners is appreciated.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Laval with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Laval
Ensure a smooth experience
In Laval, Canada, tipping at restaurants, cafes, and bars is customary. The typical practice is to leave a gratuity of 15-20% of the total bill for good service. Tipping for other services such as hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides is also appreciated but not always expected. It is important to check for any included service charges on the bill before tipping.
Payment in Laval, Canada, is commonly made using credit or debit cards. Most businesses, including restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues, accept major credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard. Contactless payments and mobile payment apps are also widely used. Cash payments are still accepted but may be less common, especially for larger purchases. Foreign currency is generally not accepted, so it's advisable for visitors to obtain Canadian dollars for transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Laval.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Laval, Canada. The weather is mild and the city comes alive with blossoming flowers and outdoor activities. Expect pleasant temperatures and colorful scenery.
Another great time to visit Laval. Enjoy warm weather, festivals, outdoor concerts, and water activities. Expect lively and vibrant atmosphere.
A beautiful time to visit Laval as the foliage turns into stunning shades of red, orange, and yellow. The weather is crisp, and there are various fall events and harvest festivals to enjoy.
Winter offers a different charm with snow-covered landscapes and various winter sports and activities. Expect cold temperatures and festive holiday events.
Laval at Night
Hiking in Laval
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
This expansive park offers various trails along the river, with beautiful views and opportunities for wildlife watching.
Located a short drive from Laval, Mont Royal provides several hiking trails with scenic views of the Montreal skyline.
A natural park featuring several hiking trails through forests and wetlands, ideal for nature lovers.
A regional park with a variety of trails that cater to different levels of hikers, showcasing a rich forest environment.
Located on a group of islands in the St. Lawrence River, this park offers scenic trails and the chance to encounter local wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Laval through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Laval by plane.
The primary international airport serving Montreal, located approximately 30 kilometers from Laval. It is the busiest airport in Quebec.
An international airport located in Quebec City, approximately 253 kilometers from Laval. It serves as a hub for various domestic and international flights.
The main airport serving Ottawa, located about 143 kilometers from Laval. It is the second busiest airport in the region, providing numerous international flights.
An airport located in Burlington, Vermont, approximately 110 kilometers from Laval, providing a range of domestic and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic, primarily of Quebecois heritage, speaks French as their first language.
A diverse group including various ethnic backgrounds, with significant communities from Haiti, Italy, and North Africa.
A smaller demographic compared to French speakers, includes both native English speakers and bilingual individuals.
An increasing demographic in Laval, consisting of older adults primarily from the native population.
A substantial demographic that represents a significant portion of the population.
The Soul of Laval
Discover the essence of Laval through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey is extremely popular in Laval, with many local teams and leagues. The city has produced several professional players and has numerous rinks for practice and games.
Soccer enjoys significant popularity in Laval, attracting a diverse range of players and fans. Youth leagues and clubs are common, and the sport is played year-round.
Basketball has a growing following in Laval, with various youth programs and community leagues providing opportunities for players of all ages.
Baseball is a favored pastime during the summer months in Laval, with many local teams and a strong community of players and fans.
Rugby is gaining popularity in Laval, with growing participation at the youth and adult levels, supported by local clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Laval.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Laval's dining scene is increasingly accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants offering creative plant-based dishes. Notable venues include Végano and Copper Branch.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can explore a range of gluten-free offerings at establishments like Crudessence and Le Faux-Mage, ensuring a delightful dining experience without compromising dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Laval with these cultural adventures.
