Things To Do
in Montréal
Montréal, the largest city in Canada's Québec province, is famed for its vibrant cultural scene, blending French and English influences that manifest in its architecture, language, and gastronomy. It's a city of festivals, with events like the International Jazz Festival and Just for Laughs comedy festival drawing global audiences.
Notably, Montréal is also a hub for technology and higher education, home to prestigious institutions such as McGill University and the Université de Montréal, set against a backdrop of stunning parks and a bustling downtown area.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal. Visit the Notre-Dame Basilica for its stunning architecture and beautiful stained glass.
Enjoy lunch at a local café and then explore the Old Port area. Check out the various boutiques and shops featuring local artisans.
Dine at a charming restaurant in Old Montreal, savoring the local cuisine. Take in the vibrant atmosphere with some live music or street performances.
Hike up Mount Royal for breathtaking views of the city skyline. Enjoy the fresh air and nature along the trails.
Have a picnic lunch in Mount Royal Park and relax while soaking in the scenery. Visit the Beaver Lake area to unwind and enjoy some recreational activities.
Head to a local poutine spot for dinner, trying this Quebecois classic. Wrap up the day watching the sunset from the top of Mount Royal.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural diversity and vibrant arts scene
- High-quality education institutions, including McGill University
- Affordable cost of living compared to other major Canadian cities
- Accessible public transportation system
- Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces
- Bilingual population, primarily French and English
- Festivals and events year-round, including the famous Montreal International Jazz Festival
- Historic architecture and European charm
- Harsh winter weather with heavy snowfall
- High taxes compared to some other regions
- Language barrier for non-French speakers in certain areas
- Traffic congestion during peak hours
- Crime rates can be higher in certain neighborhoods
- Public services may experience delays and backlogs
- Job market can be competitive, especially for newcomers
- Maintenance issues in older buildings
Best Activities in Montréal
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy the scenic views of Montréal from the top of Mount Royal while exploring the various hiking trails.
Take a bike ride along the beautiful Lachine Canal, which offers scenic views and a relaxing atmosphere.
Experience Montréal from a different perspective by paddleboarding or kayaking on the Saint Lawrence River.
Tours
Uncover the best of Montréal with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Montréal
Visit one of these nice places.
Offering panoramic views of the city skyline and surrounding areas.
Historic waterfront area with picturesque views of the St. Lawrence River and cityscape.
Provides stunning views of the city from its elevated position on Mount Royal.
Food in Montréal
Montréal Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beloved Canadian dish featuring crispy fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in savory gravy. Must-try at La Banquise or Patati Patata.
Must-Try!
Distinctive and slightly sweet bagels boiled in honey water and baked in wood-fired ovens. Sample at St-Viateur Bagel or Fairmount Bagel.
Tender, hand-sliced smoked meat piled high on rye bread with mustard. Schwartz's Deli is a must-visit for this iconic sandwich.
Indulge in traditional Québécois dishes like baked beans, pea soup, and maple taffy at a local sugar shack such as Sucrerie de la Montagne.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Montréal better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of North America's largest open-air markets, offering a wide variety of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and diverse culinary specialties. Don't miss the food stalls for local delights.
Explore an array of food trucks offering diverse cuisines from around the world, often found clustered in popular spots like the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts or the Old Port.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Montréal, it's important to be respectful of the bilingual nature of the city. While French is the official language, many residents also speak English. It's polite to ask which language someone prefers to use before starting a conversation.
Montréal is a diverse and multicultural city, so it's essential to show respect for different cultural backgrounds, traditions, and beliefs. Being open-minded and appreciative of diversity is highly valued.
In social settings, it's customary to greet people with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek, especially when meeting someone for the first time. Politeness and courtesy are highly regarded in interactions with others.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Montréal with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Montréal
Ensure a smooth experience
In Montréal, it is customary to tip between 15-20% at restaurants, bars, and for other services such as taxis and hairdressers.
In Montréal, cash and credit/debit cards are widely accepted forms of payment. Contactless payment methods are also increasingly common.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Montréal.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Montréal as the city comes alive with blooming flowers and outdoor activities. The weather can be unpredictable with rain and fluctuating temperatures, but the city is less crowded and you can enjoy events like the Montréal Botanical Garden's Spring Flower Show.
Summer is peak tourist season in Montréal with warm weather and numerous outdoor festivals and events. You can expect lively street performances, food festivals, and vibrant nightlife. It's also a great time to explore the city's parks and outdoor markets.
Fall brings beautiful foliage to Montréal, making it a picturesque time to visit. The weather is crisp and cool, and the city hosts events like the Montréal World Film Festival and harvest festivals. It's also a great time to indulge in seasonal foods like maple syrup and apple cider.
Winter in Montréal is cold and snowy, but the city transforms into a winter wonderland with festive lights, outdoor ice skating, and winter sports. You can expect to experience the magical atmosphere of the Montréal en Lumière festival and enjoy traditional winter activities like tobogganing and sleigh rides.
Montréal at Night
Hiking in Montréal
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large urban park offering various hiking trails with stunning views of the city.
A natural park located along the river with beautiful trails and a chance to see wildlife.
Features a series of trails through forests and around lakes, ideal for hiking in nature.
Located north of Montréal, offering diverse trails in a beautiful forest environment.
Known for its scenic trails and beaches, this park is a great place for hiking and enjoying nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Montréal through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Montréal by plane.
The main international airport serving Montréal, located about 20 kilometers from downtown.
Located approximately 150 kilometers from Montréal, this airport serves the capital of Canada.
Situated around 250 kilometers from Montréal, it serves Québec City and the surrounding regions.
Located about 541 kilometers from Montréal, it is the largest and busiest airport in Canada.
Located roughly 500 kilometers from Montréal, this airport serves the Hartford-Springfield area in Connecticut.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Montréal, predominantly French-speaking individuals who identify culturally with Quebec.
A significant English-speaking community in Montréal, often associated with historical British influence.
People who speak a language other than French or English at home, including various immigrant groups from around the world.
Diverse population including recent immigrants from Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America.
Indigenous communities, including First Nations and Métis, with a presence in the urban landscape of Montréal.
The Soul of Montréal
Discover the essence of Montréal through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey is the most popular sport in Montréal, with the Montreal Canadiens being one of the oldest and most successful teams in the NHL.
Soccer has gained immense popularity in Montréal, especially with the presence of CF Montréal, a team in Major League Soccer (MLS).
Basketball has a significant following in Montréal, particularly with youth leagues and the influence of the NBA.
Canadian football enjoys a following in Montréal, highlighted by the Montreal Alouettes, a team in the Canadian Football League (CFL).
While the Expos are no longer in the MLB, baseball remains popular, with local leagues and events attracting fans.
Cycling is popular in Montréal, both recreationally and competitively, with many cycling paths and events like the Grand Prix.
Tennis has a strong presence in the city, with the Rogers Cup being one of the key events on the ATP and WTA tours.
Swimming is a widely practiced sport in Montréal, with many public pools and organized competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Montréal.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Montréal boasts a wide array of vegetarian and vegan-friendly eateries, such as Lola Rosa and Aux Vivres, offering creative plant-based dishes.
Many restaurants and cafes in Montréal are attentive to gluten-free dietary needs, with establishments like Le Kitchen serving up delicious gluten-free crepes and brunch options.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Montréal with these cultural adventures.
