With its lovely mix of old and new, Montreal is a vibrating, multicultural and overall charming city. Filled with exciting things to see and do all year-round, Montreal has four very distinct seasons featuring diametrically opposed weather conditions, with temperatures soaring up over 30 degrees (90 Fahrenheit for our friends down South), and the mercury falling some 30 degrees below zero (-22 F). Hop aboard as we take you through the best things to do in Montreal—from sampling delicious food to discovering the contemporary art scene and exploring the many green spaces spread out over the city.
The cool thing about Montreal is that it is conveniently located close to the United States border. What’s more, the city is accessible via bus through Greyhound, Orleans Express and many other regional bus companies who ensure connections between Montreal and the many cities in the provinces of Quebec, Ontario and the Maritimes.
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Like in any big city, there are numerous places to stay in Montreal! To make things simple for you, we’ve selected three of the best places to stay in Montreal, with three different price points, so you can choose the one that best fits your travel budget.
The Montreal city centre is renowned for its underground malls, linked together through a network of pedestrian tunnels stretching out over some 32 km (20 miles). Known as the underground city, this area is the perfect place to get some great shopping done and experience the authentic Montreal lifestyle. Browse through shopping centres, catch a movie, grab a bite, stop by the university and even visit an art exhibition—all underground, in downtown Montreal.
Aside from wanting to walk in a Montrealer’s shoes, you might want to escape the harsh winter cold or blazing summer heat. In fact, if you’re there during the winter time, we strongly urge you to check out Art Souterrain. Completely free and easily accessible, Art Souterrain is a large-scale art exhibition spread out over the Montreal Underground City.
You can basically start anywhere and just sift through the endless tunnels and shopping centres. But, if you want to tackle your visit with a good itinerary, we recommend you start at Palais des Congrès, located at Place d’Armes metro station and make your way North to Place des Arts. This route will ensure you pass two shopping malls and food courts and multiple art exhibitions. Be sure to check out the Eaton Centre, one of Montreal’s most famous underground shopping malls.
The Eaton Centre shopping mall is located at the very heart of the underground network. It is home to more than 100 stores and on four stories, including a food court to sample flavours from all countries and origins. The Eaton Centre also hosts many cultural events. Check their Facebook page for more info!
Insider tip: Lockers are available on the Eaton Centre’s Tunnel level, in the food court for just $1, so you can shop around without lugging your coats and bags around with you.
If you’re looking for unusual things to do in Montreal, know that ice skating is a true Montreal classic and thanks to this indoor skating rink, you can skate all year round, via the underground city.
Insider tip: If you haven’t brought your skates with you, it’s not a problem! The Atrium 1000 rents them for $7 a pair and even offers various locker sizes to stock your belongings as you skate away (count an extra $3—$4.50 for the lockers).
Montreal has a lively and world-renowned food scene. In fact, you can find authentic delicacies from everywhere in the world, from mouth-watering ramen to fine produce, including amazing steakhouses and distinguished French restaurants. But fancy food aside, Montreal is also home to world-famous bagels, poutine and smoked meat sandwiches… And of course, maple syrup! Here are three of our favourite spots, not to be missed. Because yes, fabulous food is truly one of the best things in Montreal.
Known as the best poutine place in town, La Banquise is the place to go if you’re craving junk food. Fries, cheese curds and gravy make up the classic poutine dish—but at La Banquise, you can also sample some inventive variations and even customize your plate with all kinds of toppings like pulled pork, mushrooms, chicken, green peas, pickles and even BACON.
Insider tip: It can get pretty crowded at lunch and dinner time, so if you’re not starved, try to work around mealtimes and head there in the afternoon.
If you’ve had poutine on your first day in Montreal, you might be craving a healthier meal. Thankfully, Montreal features a large Japanese community with loads of delicious ramen and sushi spots to sample. Try:
Schwartz smoked meat is a legend, for a reason. It is the oldest deli in Canada, founded in 1926 by a Romanian immigrant. Stopping by Schwartz’s Deli to taste their famous smoked meat sandwiches should definitely be on your bucket list. Ok, so perhaps waiting in line for a sandwich is a weird thing to do when visiting a city, but trust us, their sandwiches are worth the wait.
Insider tip: Schwartz smoked meat sandwiches are quite popular… So most of the time, there is quite a lineup to get in! If possible, try stopping by between lunch and dinner or late in the evening, to avoid waiting in line for too long.
Whether you’re looking to bring your heartbeat up or simply relax and rejuvenate in nature, you’re sure to find a lovely park or garden to settle down and experience typical Montreal daytime activities.
A must-see for visitors and locals alike, Mount Royal is Montreal’s most beloved green haven. This volcanic mountain is located in the heart of the city and offers a welcome break from the usual concrete jungle. With the faint sound of tam-tams, miles on end of tree-adorned trekking paths, and some of the best summit views of the city… you’re sure to find something of your liking on the mountain or in the surrounding park!
Summer fun. From early May to late September, there is a free festival on Sundays starting at noon near the monument to Sir George-Étienne Cartier located at the base of the mountain, where people gather to play tam-tams and dance. So on Sundays, it’s definitely one of the best places to visit in Montreal.
Winter fun. Ah, winter fun. When the city is covered in snow, there are multiple places to sled on the mountain! On Beaver Lake, there is even some snow tubing on specially reserved lanes by the Lake. If racing down a hill is not your thing, you can also practice your cross-country skiing skills on all the mountain’s trails.
Insider tip: You can rent all the equipment you can think of (skates, skis, wooden boats, helmets, etc.) at the Pavilion located next to Beaver Lake.
Picture this: the bright warm sun shining on your face and your hair in the wind as you bike alongside the Lachine Canal, between Griffintown and Pointe-St-Charles, down to Little Burgundy’s Atwater Market. Or the brisk cool wind on your cheeks as you ski or snowshoe down on the snow-covered paths. Oh yes, the Lachine Canal is filled with fun things to do, including kayaking, canoeing, biking and visiting one of its five locks. You can also take a stroll out on part of the canal, along the linear green urban park filled with fun activities for everyone such as urban camping, picnics and even free yoga classes!
Insider tip: Kayaks and canoes can be rented on premises. Check out rental prices here. You can also use the Montreal bike-sharing system called Bixi to ride the bike paths.
Famous for its 75 hectares of thematic gardens and greenhouses, the Montreal Botanical Garden is considered to be one of the most important botanical gardens in the world, thanks to its vast selection of plant species. This magical place will enchant you with places such as the Chinese and Japanese gardens, multiple greenhouses featuring various exotic plants and even a First Nations Garden.
Insider tip: Events are hosted weekly across the garden. Check out their calendar to see if anything is on during your visit.
With its many museums and galleries, Montreal’s art scene is thriving! If you’re a contemporary art buff, you’ll want to head downtown towards Quartier des spectacles, which features a concentration of artistic and cultural venues and perhaps make a small detour down to Griffintown. Here’s why.
The MACM has interesting exhibitions year-round, as well as a fantastic permanent collection you can visit while you’re there. The museum is known for its variety of digital and sound pieces, as well as many installations, paintings and sculptures. They are known to host fabulous festive events throughout the year, featuring live performances and drinks.
Insider tip: Admission is half price on Wednesdays, between 5 PM and 9 PM!
Located inside a repurposed shipyard in Griffintown, Arsenal Contemporary Art Montreal is set in a grandiose building, dedicated to showcasing local artists and international talent. Perhaps one of the most unusual things to do in Montreal, Visiting Arsenal will please both connoisseurs and neophytes, thanks to its awe inspiring 80,000 square-foot exhibition space.
Insider tip: The Arsenal offers private guided tours at $15 per person. Reserve your tour beforehand by calling +1 514-931-9978.
The Belgo Building is famous for its numerous art galleries. Rather discrete, this six stories high building is located in the Quartier des Spectacles and also features artist workshops and dance studios. It’s a great place to wander the afternoon away and see some great art and it’s one of the top activities in Montreal for art students!
Insider tip: Building and gallery opening hours differ, so if you can, visit on a Friday or Saturday, when most galleries are open.
Founded in 1642, Old Montreal is Montreal’s historic neighbourhood. It is home to many gorgeous buildings dating back to the era of New France. The old town features lovely narrow cobblestone streets, grey stone buildings and many heritage sites, as well as a great selection of restaurants. If you’re a history buff, you might want to take a walking tour around the neighbourhood. If not, you can still have some fun discovering the great Notre Dame Basilica. Oh—and if you’re visiting Montreal in the summertime, don’t miss out on the fireworks!
Old Montreal the perfect place to catch summer fireworks, with numerous viewpoints around the docks. Montreal hosts a fireworks festival every year from the end of June to late July. These take place at La Ronde, an amusement park located almost directly across the St Lawrence River from the Old Port, which is why you’ll enjoy many awesome vantage points to watch the show from the docks if you’re exploring Old Montreal!
Insider tip: Get there early! The best spots get really crowded, really quickly. It’s no secret that Old Montreal is one of the best free vantage points amongst locals!
The great thing about walking tours is that you can choose an itinerary and tour that fits your budget, schedule and most importantly, your interests. It’s a fantastic way to discover Montreal’s historic neighbourhood and get some local insight as you discover some of the best sights in Montreal.
Insider tip: Wear comfortable flat shoes, as the uneven cobblestone streets are not easy to navigate.
Big cities are always buzzing with action and entering a holy place will always have a soothing effect. Located in Old Montreal, Notre Dame is no exception. A masterpiece of Gothic Revival Architecture, its interior is amongst the most striking in the world. It’s an absolute must see and a great place to catch your breath as you tour the city.
Insider tip: The entry fee includes a guided visit in French or in English. It is not mandatory to follow the guided visit though, you can simply browse around or just sit down, unwind and take it all in.
Claimed Party Capital of Canada, Montreal is renowned for its amazing nightlife. The city features many great bars, clubs, dance clubs and speakeasies spread out over town. Although there are thousands of places to spend an evening, here are two areas you’ll want to explore if you’re looking for some fun.
Known by locals as “The Plateau”, Montreal’s Plateau Mont Royal is a trendy and hip neighbourhood, located just north of the downtown area. Characterized by brightly coloured houses, laid-back attitude and cultural diversity, it’s home to many restaurants, bars and clubs.
Insider tip: Avoid heading to the Plateau by car. Parking and even driving in the narrow streets is a nightmare. Your best bet is to take the metro or a Bixi, Montreal’s bike-sharing system.
Recognized as one of the largest gay villages across North America, Montreal’s Gay Village features a lively bar and club scene where everyone is welcome. It’s a fabulous place to go to encounter Montreal’s diverse nature and open-mindedness.
Insider tip: Check out Cabaret Mado, an institution in the Village and in Montreal, which holds world-renowned drag shows in a 1920s atmosphere.
With local arenas and stadiums always packed and a great atmosphere, catching some live action is a good way to enjoy Montreal. Check out the Montreal Canadians, playing in the National Hockey League or the Montreal Impact playing in Major League Soccer. You can even catch the Montreal Alouettes, playing in the Canadian Football League. In any case, even if you’re not a huge sports fan, the cheerful ambiance will ensure you have a great time.
Undoubtedly the most famous sports team in the city, Montreal Canadians are nicknamed the “Habs”, which is derived from another nickname, Les Habitants. The team’s track record is remarkable, having won the most Stanley cups (championships) in the league.
Insider tip: Buy your tickets online in advance on the Montreal Canadiens’ official website.
The city’s soccer team, Montreal Impact FC, plays its home games at the Saputo stadium. Newly renovated, the open-air stadium is quite enjoyable and is the perfect place to spend a warm summer night in a festive atmosphere.
Insider tip: Buy your tickets online in advance on the Montreal Impact official website
Beer lovers, rejoice: great beer isn’t hard to find in Montreal. In recent years, the local beer scene has exploded, with brewpubs and microbreweries popping up everywhere across the city. Here are two great spots to check out while visiting Montreal.
Established in 1998, Dieu du Ciel is still thriving, for a good reason! A staple in the Montreal beer scene, this artisan microbrewery serves audacious and innovative brews that are sure to pleasantly surprise you.
Insider tip: Their imperial coffee stout Péché Mortel is to die for!
L’Espace Public (which means “public space” in English) is a hip microbrewery located in Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, an up-and-coming neighbourhood also known as Ho-Ma. The place is set up to bring people together over great beers brewed on site. If you’re a social beast, it’s definitely something to add to your Montreal bucket list. The vibe is simple and laid back, the venue is welcoming. What more could one want?
Insider tip: L’Espace Public host events to launch new beers and various parties. Check out their calendar for more info.
Montreal has multiple markets across the city, selling anything and everything from fresh produce to specialty products and handmade crafts. There are six big markets in town, but here are our two favourites.
Jean Talon Market is open year-round—even in the harsh winter months, during which walls are mounted around the central section of the market. In the summer, the market features some 300 vendors, spread out over the site in open-air stalls, selling fresh produce from various farms around Montreal. Artisan bakeries, quality butchers and cheese stores are also gathered around the market area. Since the market is located in the heart of little Italy, you can swing by the local cafes and enjoy a few Italian delicacies while you’re there.
Around since 1933, the Atwater market is worth the detour, especially if the weather isn’t cooperating! This market features an indoor hall that is home to many butchers, bakeries and restaurants. An outdoors section is also set up and features many farmers stalls selling both local and imported produce, as well as a fish shop, two cheese stores and a wine store specializing in locally produced spirits. It’s a great place to shop for high quality local products to take home with you.
If you’re wondering what to do near Montreal, the answer is: a lot! Aside from the lovely countryside, there are many historical cities to visit around Montreal, all located a short bus ride away. Whether you’re up for some urban exploring or nature walks, we’ve got two great suggestions for you.
Quebec City, not to be mistaken with the province of Quebec, is a charming historic city. Its old town is absolutely breathtaking, even more so than Montreal’s, and features a majestic castle, Chateau Frontenac, which now serves as a luxury hotel. While you’re there, be sure to visit the Citadelle, an intact fortress that forms the centrepiece of the ramparts and surrounds the old city.
Insider tip: If you’re feeling sassy, head to the Fairmont Chateau Frontenac’s Bistro Le Sam, to enjoy a drink with a view! At sunset, the Saint-Lawrence will be lit up and you can gaze at the boats in a dimmed ambiance.
> Book your tickets for a bus Montreal to Quebec City
Mont Tremblant sits at 875 meters and offers a breathtaking view on the Laurentians mountain range. Located north of Montreal, this mountain resort has many fun activities to offer all year round, such as skiing, camping, hiking, canoeing and snowshoeing. It’s truly the perfect place for an exciting weekend getaway!
Insider tip: If you can, try to plan your Tremblant getaway during the week, to avoid the usual Friday and Sunday traffic jams thanks to hundreds of city dwellers, anxious to get out of town for the weekend.
> Book your tickets for a bus Montreal to Mont Tremblant
That’s it! Our complete list of things to do in Montreal. We hope you’ll enjoy your time in the city. Share your favourite anecdotes with us below and be sure to let us know if you think we’ve missed something!
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Just a little friendly note. Lachine, the neighbourhood, is 10 km away from Atwater Market. The segment of the canal you are talking about is between Grinffintown/Petite-Bourgogne and Pointe-St-Charles.
Hi Laura-Julie!
Thanks for your comment. Indeed, it's a beautiful bike path all alongside the Lachine Canal, and you're right, the neighborhoods I was describing are in fact part of Griffintown and Pointe-St-Charles. The article has been edited to better reflect this.
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