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Montreal   Travel Guide

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13 Best Things To Do in Montreal

Updated December 14, 2022

Montréal's museums, landmarks, shopping districts and nightclubs provide plenty of entertainment. For a taste of historic Montréal, spend a day exploring the 18th-century buildings of  Vieux-Montréal , which now house small museums and souvenir

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Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal) Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal) free

As the site of the original city of Montreal, Vieux-Montréal (accessible from the Orange Line's Place-d'Armes and Champ-de-Mars métro stations) is the hub of the city's culture. Not much has changed in this neighborhood despite the city's rapid urbanization. Horse-drawn carriages traverse cobblestone streets and meander past such notable sites as the Basilique Notre-Dame , the Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall), the Vieux-Port (Old Port) and the Marché Bonsecours (Bonsecours Market).

Here, you'll mingle with Montrealers at sidewalk cafes while overlooking the river, or enjoy the summertime street performers at Place Jacques-Cartier. This is also a popular shopping area (despite the kitschy souvenir shops), and numerous bars and clubs bring Vieux-Montréal to life come sundown. Recent visitors said this area is a must for strolling, eating and experiencing the history of Montreal and feels very European thanks to its beautiful architecture.

Montreal Botanical Garden (Jardin Botanique Montreal) Montreal Botanical Garden (Jardin Botanique Montreal)

Thanks to 10 large greenhouses – each tailored to a specific theme – the 190-acre botanical gardens is home to more than 22,000 species of flora and offers scenic year-round respite from the metropolis' downtown core. Spend some time strolling through the tranquil bonsai trees in the Japanese Garden or learn about the principles of yin and yang in the Chinese Garden, which showcases designs from the 14th to 17th century Ming Dynasty. Outdoor gardens include a colorful rose garden and a stunning alpine garden.

Recent visitors called the garden a must-visit with lots to see. If you're visiting with kids, don't miss the ever-popular toxic plant garden. What's more, the Insectarium is one of the largest insect museums in North America, with more than 250,000 specimens of living and naturalized insects. Permanent exhibits include We Are the Insects, Atta Ants, Butterflies Go Free (a favorite among the garden's youngest visitors) and The BuzzGround, a fun discovery zone especially for kids. Reviewers say the variety is amazing and that kids love visiting.

Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux-Arts) Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux-Arts)

Montreal's most prestigious museum has been building its collection of fine arts for more than 150 years. Feast your eyes on an impressive assortment of Canadian and international works, including pieces by such renowned artists as Rembrandt, El Greco, Renoir, Cézanne and Picasso. Other interesting members of the museum's collection include 18th-century English porcelain, artifacts from World War I and several beautiful pieces of furniture designed by Frank Gehry.

Recent visitors described the exhibits as outstanding and worth the admission price, and highly recommend spending a few hours here if you have the time. There's also a bookstore and restaurant located on-site.

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Parc du Mont-Royal Parc du Mont-Royal free

This 761-foot hill from which Montreal got its name is the largest of the city's parks. Towering over central Montreal (and accessible from the Green Line's Peel métro station or the Orange Line's Mont-Royal métro station), Parc du Mont-Royal is frequented by joggers, picnickers, dog walkers and bicyclists throughout the year. During the warmer months, you can rent row boats to take on the park's  Lac des Castors (Beaver Lake), while the Chalet du Mont-Royal offers breathtaking park and city views any time of year. Also, be sure to stop by the  Croix du Mont-Royal  (Mont-Royal Cross), or the park's two cemeteries (one English and one French).

Recent visitors highly recommended walking up the stairs to the top of the hill for an unbeatable view of the city, but reviewers also warned it's a steep trek.

Jean-Talon Market Jean-Talon Market free

In a world dominated by overly refrigerated, fluorescently lit supermarkets, the Jean-Talon Market is literally a breath of fresh air and one of the largest public markets in North America. Located a block or so off Boulevard Saint-Laurent (accessible from the Blue Line's Jean-Talon métro station), this open-air market entices with the aromas of grilled sausages, Quebecois cheeses, mounds of fresh produce, home-grown spices and handmade chocolates.

Even if you're not looking to buy, recent visitors recommend that you take a stroll through the market to meet and mingle with Montrealers and check out the convivial setting. Others praised the variety saying this is a must-visit for foodies and a great place to find Montreal specialties.

St. Joseph's Oratory (Oratoire Saint-Joseph) St. Joseph's Oratory (Oratoire Saint-Joseph) free

Sitting adjacent to  Mont-Royal , this immense basilica is the highest point in Montreal. Dedicated to St. Joseph, Jesus' earthly father and Canada's patron saint, St. Joseph's Oratory was designed in an Italian Renaissance style with a copper dome rising 318 feet high. The inside of the basilica is decorated with intricately carved murals and thousands of votive candles leading to the crypt. St. Joseph's Oratory receives several million visitors each year (the most devout Catholics climb the basilica's 99 steps on their knees).

Recent visitors agree this stunning basilica is a must-see, for both devoted and secular tourists, calling it spectacular. Recent visitors were particularly fond of the view from the top of the structure. If you'd rather not climb to the top on our two feet, there is a free shuttle that transports visitors from the main entrance on Queen Mary Road to the top.

Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal (Basilique Notre-Dame de Montreal) Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal (Basilique Notre-Dame de Montreal)

It is said that when architect James O'Donnell designed the Notre-Dame Basilica in 1824, he was so moved by the outcome that he himself converted to Catholicism. Constructed in a Gothic Revival style and adorned with intricate statues and tranquil chapels, this grand church can accommodate 3,200 worshippers.

Recent visitors said a trip here is worth it, and highly recommend taking the time to go on a 20-minute guided tour. Reviewers were also complimentary of the "Aura" sound and light show that is offered regularly.

Barbie Expo Barbie Expo free

This whimsical exhibit, in what it bills as the largest permanent collection of Barbie dolls in the world, has more than 1,000 Barbies on display. Many of the dolls have been dressed to the nines by designers such as Christian Dior, Armani, Vera Wang, Bill Blass, Oscar de la Renta and practically any other fashion designer you can think of. There's even a fashion show, with Barbie models on the catwalk, with a Barbie audience in attendance. In addition, special celebrity-themed Barbies, such as Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor and Cher are on display, as well as Barbies designed as movie characters, such as the cast from "The Wizard of Oz" and "The Twilight Saga." Recent visitors said the exhibit is fun, adorable and for many, brings them back to their childhood.

Admission to the museum, which is located in the Les Cours Mont-Royal shopping center, is free. The exhibition is open Monday through Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. There is direct access from the Peel métro into the mall. For more information on the exhibition, visit its official website .

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Montreal Holocaust Museum Montreal Holocaust Museum

This powerful museum's mission is to tell the story of Jewish communities before, during and after the Holocaust. It offers both permanent and temporary exhibits featuring testimonies and objects from survivors to teach visitors about genocide in the past as well as in the present. Recent visitors called the museum humbling and moving, especially the video collection, which is narrated by survivors.

The museum, located near the Côte-Sainte-Catherine métro station (orange line), is open Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It is closed on Saturdays. Admission for adults is CA$8 (about $6) and CA$5 (about $4) for kids 18 and younger. Note that the museum's permanent exhibition is not suitable for children 8 and younger. The museum recommends setting aside between 90 minutes and two hours to tour its exhibitions. For more information, visit the museum's website .

Museum of Archaeology and History (Pointe-à-Callière Museum) Museum of Archaeology and History (Pointe-à-Callière Museum)

Many say that this is the best place to begin discovering Montreal. While the modern architecture may not be typical of a history museum, the real reason to come here is to hop in the elevator and head underground. Here, an archaeological dig revealed the foundations of the city's original settlement, established in the 17th century. You can follow the development of Montreal from its days as a fledgling colony and on up through the present day to an exhibit showing the city's multicultural lifestyle. During the summer, the museum hosts numerous period fairs and festivals.

Recent visitors highly recommend visiting the museum for its excellent exhibits and great staff. Others said it appeals to children as much as adults thanks to an exhibit devoted to pirates.

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20 Best Things to Do in Montreal

By Todd Plummer

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 .

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.

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 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 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.

Harrison Pierce

María Casbas

CNT Editors

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.

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."

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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 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.

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 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.

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).

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 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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33 Epic Things to Do in Montreal (Perfect First Time Visit)

Things to do in montreal: the 33 best places to visit (all highlights).

You’re planning to visit Montreal during your next trip and you’re looking for the best things to do?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared this guide of the 33 best things to do in Montreal , with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

In addition to my list of things to do and activities, I will also give you optimized itineraries to visit Montreal in 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 days (or even 1 week!) as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Montreal? Where to stay?

1. The Plateau-Mont-Royal

2. old montreal, 3. old port of montreal: best things to see and do, 4. saint catherine street, 5. montreal olympic stadium, 6. montreal botanical garden, 7. the montreal biodome, 8. the must-visit museums in montreal, 9. the churches of montreal, 10. visit saint joseph’s oratory, 11. montreal’s markets, 12. the village, montreal’s gay district, 13. best things to do in montreal at night, 14. visiting mount royal park in winter, 15. where to ice skate in montreal, 16. the montreal snow festival – fêtes des neiges, 17. more winter activities in montreal, 18. visiting mount royal park in summer, 19. the lachine canal, 20. jet boat/spin boat on the saint lawrence river, 21. a day out at jean-drapeau park, 22. la ronde, montreal’s amusement park, 23. stroll in other montreal parks, 24. mont saint-sauveur water park, 25. osheaga, 26. igloofest, 27. the light festival – montréal en lumière, 28. just for laughs festival, 29. autumn at mont-tremblant, 30. cap-saint-jacques nature park, 31. parc omega in montebello, 32. more activities around montreal, rockaberry for a sumptuous cheesecake, taste la banquise’s poutine, weekend brunch in montreal, montreal’s chinatown, the best restaurant in montreal, timeout market montreal, microbreweries in montreal, where to stay in montreal, grocery shopping in montreal, where to find affordable cheese in montreal, renting or buying cheap winter sports gear, you’re traveling in canada these articles will help you, visit montreal: all must-see attractions (winter + summer).

The Plateau-Mont-Royal is the quintessential “hip” neighborhood, making it the perfect starting point for this rundown of the must-see places in Montreal !

This area is well-renowned and particularly loved by French people, be they tourists or expats choosing it as their initial landing spot. So don’t expect to hear much of the Quebecois accent here!

The typical houses with exterior staircases and colorful facades add heaps of charm to the Plateau, and it’s a real delight to wander around in any season.

The neighborhood is buzzing with shops, restaurants, bars, and thrift stores spread over 4 main arteries. Perfect setup for a leisurely stroll around Montreal :

• St Laurent Boulevard , where a host of cultural communities have set up their shops
• St Denis Street , renowned for its avenue filled with terrace cafes
• Prince Arthur Street , bursting with restaurants
• Mont Royal Avenue , home to trendy bars and fashion boutiques.

Where to eat in Plateau Mont-Royal?

Here you’ll find the 2 famous restaurants that I’ll tell you more about later on:

• La Banquise with its poutines
• L’Avenue and its famous brunch.

But you can also feast at the “Saint Viateur” with a wide selection of bagels or the “ Mont-Royal Hot dog ” joint, with its charmingly outdated American diner vibe (and fantastic brunch potatoes!).

Nestled between the Saint Lawrence River and downtown skyscrapers, the Old Montreal district is the historical go-to spot in Montreal.

To explore it, stop at the “Place d’Armes” or “Champ-de-Mars” metro station .

Points of interest during this must-do visit in Montreal include:

• The old Sulpician seminary : Montreal’s oldest existing building
• Notre-Dame Basilica : I’ll talk more about this further down
• The Quebec Bank Building : built in 1888, it’s Montreal’s first “skyscraper” although just 8 stories high
• Saint Jacques Street : Montreal’s “Wall Street”
• Place d’Youville : a green oasis offering tranquil vibes
• The three courthouses
• The City Hall , best admired in the evening for its façade light display
• Jacques Cartier Square , perfect for a leisurely drink on a terrace
• Bonsecours Market , boasting luxury boutiques and temporary exhibitions.

To not miss a thing in Old Montreal and gain historical explanations about all the monuments, you should go for a guided tour .

This 4-hour walking tour covers both the East and West of Old Montreal, offering a comprehensive journey.

Book your guided tour in Montreal by clicking the green button below:

If you’re only spending a short time in Montreal before heading off on your Quebec itinerary or if you’re not a fan of walking, you can also get a great overview of the city by booking a guided bus tour .

The route includes the Old Montreal , the Old Port , the Mount Royal , the Saint Joseph Oratory and the Olympic Park . These are all places I recommend you to see in this tourist guide of Montreal.

Book your Montreal guided bus tour by clicking directly here!

The Old Port is part of the historic district of Old Montreal . It’s another perfect spot for a walk .

It’s not really a functioning port anymore since all the port activity has been relocated. Rather, it offers a wonderful walk along the Saint Lawrence River , especially near the clock tower with a view of the Jacques Cartier bridge.

A whole slew of activities await you here, whether it’s summer (think cycling, rollerblading, leapfrog, horse-drawn carriage rides) or winter (get ready for ice skating, ice fishing).

But there are 3 activities I absolutely recommend (click on the orange links to book) :

• A cruise on the Saint Lawrence River to admire Montreal from a fresh perspective. Book here !
• This cruise is also available in the evening (click here!) and comes with a fantastic five-course dinner. Perfect for a romantic outing in Montreal!
• A spin on the Great Wheel , which is the biggest Ferris wheel in Canada . You’ll enjoy a breathtaking view of the city! Book your ticket for the Great Wheel at the Old Port of Montreal by clicking right here !
• A ride on the urban zipline , the longest in Canada. Book here !

As you wander around, I’d also suggest dropping by the Montreal Science Centre , tucked away at the far end of the port.

It offers a wide range of fun, interactive exhibitions that change quite often. It’s an excellent activity if you’re wondering what to do in Montreal with kids. The centre also features an IMAX cinema for 3D documentaries.

Find all the information about the exhibitions, prices, and IMAX cinema schedule on the Montreal Science Centre website .

Not far from the Science Centre, I also recommend visiting the Pointe-à-Callière Museum , the only major archaeology museum in Canada covering a period from the Indigenous era to the present day. It’s the most visited museum in Montreal.

It offers permanent exhibitions on the history and archaeology of the city .

I also recommend trying the museum restaurant , which I’ll talk more about later in this article.

If you’re wondering where to go shopping in Montreal , look no further than Saint Catherine Street , an eminent boulevard recognized for its vibrant shopping scene.

Stretching for a whopping 11km, of which 3km are purely dedicated to retail therapy , it’s home to over 1,000 shops, bars, restaurants and major shopping centres such as Eaton Centre and Montreal Trust .

All the usual suspects are there, from H&M and Forever 21, to Victoria’s Secret and Urban Outfitters.

To get there, simply hop on the metro to Mc Gill station, which sits conveniently in the Eaton Centre.

In winter, you won’t even need to brave the snow for your shopping spree.

Montreal boasts an impressive 30km underground pedestrian network connecting a number of buildings, including the downtown shopping centres.

Built for the 1976 Olympic Games, the stadium has become one of the city’s internationally recognised symbols thanks to its distinctive architecture and iconic tower .

This is a fascinating place to visit in Montreal on a guided tour, discovering its history through an exhibition retracing its construction and featuring many sports memorabilia .

Next, take the glass funicular to climb to the top of the stadium’s tower, which happens to be the world’s highest inclined tower (165 meters high with a 45-degree inclination). At the top, you’ll be greeted by an amazing panoramic view of the Montreal region .

If you happen to be around after the sun sets, don’t forget that the Montreal Olympic Stadium is quite a sight to see when it’s all lit up.

For a different perspective of the Olympic Stadium, downtown, and Mount Royal, you should book a helicopter tour of Montreal .

This is one of the most important botanical gardens in the world , with its 75 hectares hosting more than 20,000 plant species, 10 exhibition greenhouses and over twenty themed gardens.

I was totally captivated by the Chinese pavilions . They’re absolutely amazing, adorned with gorgeous pagodas amidst water features and a multitude of lively koi fish.

Also worth checking out are the Japanese garden, the aquatic garden, and the rose garden . The greenhouses offer a journey into the plant life from both arid landscapes and the lush tropical rainforest.

The botanical garden also houses an insectarium with over 250,000 specimens of live or preserved insects. You can also find yourself amidst hundreds of butterflies fluttering freely in a greenhouse specifically dedicated for them.

Each year, the Montreal Botanical Garden transforms into a garden of light with its lantern festival . Special light structures, created just for the occasion, are cleverly incorporated into the garden décor, enhancing its charm. It’s simply stunning.

If you’re planning a winter trip to Montreal, the botanical garden is also a great visit and it’s free!

A lot of folks make the most of it by cross-country skiing or snowshoeing along the flat trails. The garden’s trail networks communicate with Maisonneuve Park and offer nearly 10 kilometers of track . You’ll need to bring your own equipment as the garden doesn’t offer rentals.

For more information about the garden and the prices, check out the botanical garden’s website .

Another must-visit spot in Montreal (especially if you have kids!): the Biodome

It provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the ecosystems of the American continent through its exceptionally crafted layout. Through a clever system that mirrors the seasons, the natural conditions such as temperature and humidity are meticulously recreated.

You can observe the fauna and flora of 5 different ecosystems :

• The tropical rainforest : lush vegetation with temperatures around 28 degrees, where you can see piranhas , caimans , parrots and capybaras.
• The Laurentian maple forest : a typically Quebecois forest with maple and birch trees, and a chance for observing lynxes, otters, and beavers .
• The Gulf of Saint Lawrence : represented by a basin containing no less than 2.5 million liters of sea water with cod, bass, salmon and on the beach numerous ducks and seagulls.
• The Arctic and Antarctic : where you’ll be able to admire an entire colony of penguins .

To plan your visit, you can get all the necessary details on the Montreal Biodome’s official website .

In Montreal, culture and art hold a significant place.

In addition to the Pointe à Callière Museum, the Biodome, and the Science Center I mentioned earlier, there are over 50 different museums in Montreal .

Here’s my pick of the top museums to see during your visit to Montreal :

• Montreal Museum of Fine Arts , located 1380 Rue Sherbrooke Ouest
• Contemporary Art Museum (MAC) , 185 Saint Catherine West Street
• McCord Museum : Items related to Canadian history, and particularly to indigenous culture. 690 Sherbrooke Street West
• Saint-Gabriel House : This charming traditional dwelling holds more than 300 years of history within its walls. Animations in traditional costumes and various activities are available on site, including a New France-style meal at the Refectory! Very lively, it’s the best history museum in Montreal in my opinion. 2146, place Dublin – Pointe-Saint-Charles
• Montreal Firefighters’ Museum (MBAM): Open only on Sundays from 1pm to 4pm, located 5100 Boulevard Saint-Laurent.
• Redpath Museum : The program includes paleontology, zoology, mineralogy, and a carnivorous dinosaur skeleton in this free museum (donations appreciated). 59 Sherbrooke West Street

You’re going to Montreal?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

And that’s even worse in big touristic cities like Montreal 😅.

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Montreal on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Montreal.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Montreal, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Montreal!

Let’s continue this Montreal guide with the must-see churches.

The most renowned is without a doubt the Notre Dame Basilica of Montreal , nestled in Old Montreal, which I’ve given a nod to earlier. The interior of this 60m high neo-Gothic building is sublime!

To the best of my understanding, it’s the solitary place of worship in Montreal that asks for an admission fee. The proceeds go towards the upkeep and refurbishment of this significant religious monument in Quebec.

A 20-minute guided tour is included in the entrance fee , but you can also visit freely.

Here are a few other places of worship that I found profoundly striking during my Montreal adventure, thanks to their extraordinary architecture!

• Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral
• Christ Church Cathedral
• Montreal Saint-Édouard Church
• St. James United Church
• St. George’s Anglican Church.

On the list of things to do in Montreal, Saint Joseph’s Oratory, located in the Côte-des-Neiges neighborhood is a must for its exceptional architecture, but also to get a sense of the importance of religious life in early 20th century Quebec.

This imposing building built on the slopes of Mount Royal is nearly 100 meters high and is topped by a mammoth dome 39 meters in diameter . It’s even more impressive on the inside!

Aside from the Oratory, you can also pop into Brother André’s quaint little chapel , and wander around the gardens with its Way of the Cross where you’ll spot a whole host of intriguing sculptures .

Feeling a bit full from all the poutine, burgers, and brunches? How about taking a trip to one of Montreal’s three major markets to scoop up some fresh and delightful local produce , or simply soak in the lively atmosphere of the colorful stalls:

• Atwater Market – perfectly located by the Lachine Canal, it’s renowned for its butcheries and cheesemongers. For those who’ve got a fondness for fromage, you can grab 3 cheeses for a mere 10 bucks here – an absolute steal in Canada, I promise you!
• Jean Talon Market – nestled in Little Italy , you’ll find fresh fruits and veggies, and a plethora of goods from around the globe, from Polish pastries to French crepes.
• Maisonneuve Market – complete with fishmongers, greengrocers, bakers, and florists stalls.

Another iconic spot to check out in Montreal is Le Village, Montreal’s gay district .

A sterling example of the tolerance and diversity that are the hallmarks of Quebec. Recognized around the world as a hot spot for LGBTQ+ tourism , this energetic neighborhood is a delight to stroll through with its cafes, bars, restaurants, nightclubs , and a delightful streetscape!

In the summer, Saint Catherine Street in Le Village transforms into a vibrant pedestrian zone , so that’s the prime time to revel in it.

Here are a few hot spots in Le Village:

• The Cabaret Mado with its wacky drag queen shows
• Le Sky , one of Montreal’s top nightclubs.
• Le Mousso , one of the city’s best restaurants.

What could be more delightful than enjoying an evening cocktail with friends ? Well, in Montreal, that’s a piece of cake as you’ll find an abundance of bars and breweries practically everywhere!

You’ll also find plenty of joints where you can have a drink while playing board games . Be it classics like Monopoly or Jungle Speed, or some downright obscure games you’ve never heard of!

When I was living in Montreal, I used to frequent Randolph , but there are other game bars and restaurants worth checking out, such as: Colonel Moutarde , La Récréation , or Meltdown .

There’s also a wide array of diverse shows, including comedy shows , which are a really popular thing on this side of the Atlantic. You can head to Montreal Comedy Club or The Comedy Nest .

If you’re not in the mood for laughs but rather a bit of a scare, I also recommend a nighttime tour themed “The Ghosts of Old Montreal” . Accompanied by a guide, you’ll trace the spirits that haunt the historic center!

You can book your spot by clicking the button below:

And for a spicier version of a night out in Montreal , you should know that strip clubs are quite common in the city.

For the ladies*, I suggest Club 281 . Also known as a “male dancers bar” it offers Chippendales-style strip teases on stage, as well as “ private shows ” where you can pay for a dance with someone.

*Men are welcome to attend the shows if accompanied by a woman.

Winter delights in Montreal

Below, I present to you my selection of the best places to go in Montreal during winter .

Mount Royal Park is Montreal’s largest park , and in winter, its paths, hills, and pond transform for you to enjoy a variety of winter activities !

You can partake in:

• Sledding : Ideal for some family or friends’ fun, it’s the perfect place to enjoy this activity for free.
• Snow scootering : Like sledding, but standing up, for a change of pace!
• Ice skating : In winter, the beaver lake turns into a free public ice rink for everyone to enjoy. Take advantage!
• Cross-country skiing : The trails on Mount Royal provide an opportunity to indulge in this sport amidst beautiful natural surroundings, just a stone’s throw from the city.
• Snowshoeing : A great alternative to cross-country skiing!

If you don’t have your own equipment, don’t worry. You can rent everything (except sleds) at the beaver lake pavilion, which also serves as a cozy little restaurant to warm up after a fun glide session.

You can also opt for a guided snowshoe hike organized by the park. Your guide will take you on a 2-hour stroll through Mount Royal and introduce you to the local wildlife along the way .

The tour is highly engaging and even perfect for families with children (ages 8 and up).

Book in advance by clicking here !

And if you’re looking for a unique activity to do in Montreal , you’ll be pleased to know that you can also go night snowshoeing with a guide from the Amis de la montagne (Friends of the Mountain Association).

To book, click here:

To reach Mount Royal Park, you can take STM Bus No. 11 that goes all the way up to the hilltop in the park.

Ice skating is a quintessential winter activity in Quebec .

In Montreal, it’s hard not to get in on this action as each neighbourhood has its own charming little outdoor rink, free of charge . Kiddos can dip their toes into skating with minimal danger, and the grown-ups can engage in the sport that gets Montreal’s heart racing: hockey .

But the most picturesque place to lace up your skates is at Montreal’s Old Port. While there is a fee to skate on this large rink, the sight of the Old Port and Saint Lawrence River is simply stunning. It’s the trendiest place to skate in the city.

In addition to the Beaver Lake at Mount Royal Park that we previously mentioned, another bustling winter spot for ice skating in Montreal is Lafontaine Park .

Here, you’ll even see numerous parents skating while pushing their strollers on the ice ! Access to the ice is free. If you don’t have your own skates, you can rent a pair for $10.

The “Fêtes des Neiges”, Montreal snow festival , is a must-attend family event held each winter. It takes place over four weekends between January and February at Jean-Drapeau Park . Entrance is free but some activities have additional costs.

All your favorite winter activities from Quebec are showcased here: ice sculpture workshops, tube sliding (on inflatables), skating, dog sledding, ziplining, musical performances.

You can also indulge in traditional Quebecois treats like maple taffy, beaver tails, and obviously, poutine .

1) Ice Fishing

You can try ice fishing right in the city, specifically at the Old Port of Montreal . It’s certainly a less immersive experience than deep in the heart of Quebec, but it’s a great way to enjoy this activity if you’re short on time for a weekend getaway!

You’ll also be able to ski near Montreal .

Alpine skiing is a must-do winter activity in Quebec, and while it’s not the Alps, here are some friendly ski resorts:

• Mont Saint Bruno : Just 30 minutes from downtown, it doesn’t get much closer to Montreal! A favorite among city-dwellers, this small resort has 15 slopes.
• Mont-Rigaud : Also just 30 minutes from Montreal, this tiny 9-slope resort is known as the perfect place for beginners.
• Bromont : To the southeast of Montreal, about an hour’s drive away, is the Bromont ski resort, with a domain boasting 141 slopes.
• Mont Saint-Sauveur : An hour from Montreal, with its 40 slopes, it’s “Viking” roller coaster, numerous restaurants, concerts, and events, it’s a delightful place for a weekend! Mont Saint-Sauveur also has an excellent snowpark for freestyle lovers!
• Mont-Tremblant : The farthest ski resort from Montreal in this list, requiring a 1.5-hour drive. However, with its 96 slopes, charming “village” and après-ski activities, it’s one of Quebec’s most popular resorts.

3) Spas and hot baths

This activity, enjoyable all year round, is especially magical in winter! In Montreal, several spas offer outdoor hot baths throughout the year. Here are some of the most well-known:

• Strom Nordic Spa on Nuns’ Island (Île-des-Sœurs)
• Spa Bota Bota , in Old Montreal
• Scandinave Spa , also located in Old Montreal.

Visiting Montreal in the summer

Summer in Montreal, contrary to what you might think, it’s really hot ! So don’t forget to pack your sunscreen and a hat for your excursions.

Mount Royal Park, a highly renowned tourist spot in Montreal, has several shaded trails for cool walks and numerous vantage points with great city views .

Be sure to stop by the Mount Royal lookout for a panorama of the entire downtown area.

The park is also an ideal spot for jogging or cycling.

In summer, it’s the perfect place to have a picnic by the Beaver Lake (Lac aux Castors) , an artificial lake surrounded by a kids’ playground and various amenities, including a bar-restaurant with a terrace .

You can spot numerous curious and friendly squirrels there. A must-see during your stay in Montreal!

If you’re wondering what else to visit in Montreal, I suggest heading over to the Lachine Canal, located in the southwest of the city . Its 14.5-kilometer route starts from the old port and ends at Lake Saint-Louis .

In summer, it’s a dream spot for safely cycling along its tree-lined, well-maintained banks. The path is flat and away from traffic, perfect for a family outing in Montreal .

You can rent bicycles near Atwater Market at a small outdoor shack along the canal: Ma Bicyclette .

You can check out the Lachine Canal not just from the banks but also by hopping on different types of watercraft .

A rental service offers pedal boats, canoes, and small electric boats for hire.

The calm waters won’t cause any problems, and you’ll have fun crossing the numerous small locks .

Voici le site du centre nautique de Lachine.

Contrasting with a peaceful walk along the Lachine Canal, you can choose a more exhilarating activity in Montreal: Jet Boating or Saute-Mouton as the locals call it.

You’ll tackle the Lachine Rapids, on the fleuve Saint-Laurent (Saint Lawrence River), aboard a rather special boat: guaranteed thrills! You’ll come out refreshed, or rather soaked.

Perfect for hot days – just bring a change of clothes!

Another idea for a boat trip in Montreal: Spin Boat . This fast boat takes sharp turns and spins around , hence the name.

In groups of about ten people, you’ll board the boat in Old Montreal’s port. The adrenaline rush is definitely guaranteed with an experience that can be compared to water rodeo !

However, it doesn’t venture into the Lachine Rapids , so don’t confuse it with “Saute-Mouton”!

All information is available here!

If you’re looking for some awesome spots to check out in Montreal, let’s head over to Parc Jean-Drapeau . It’s located on two islands just south of Montreal and has a ton of cool outdoor activities to enjoy.

Here’s the plan: 25 km of hiking trails, bike paths, kayak rentals, paddleboarding, rock climbing, wildlife and flora observation, supervised beach, food services, and picnic areas.

You’ll easily spend a whole day here. But, take a tip from me, stay till the sun dips down . That’s when you’ll get the most stunning panorama of downtown, with the city lights reflecting in the river, perfect for snapping some gorgeous photos!

These two islands, Saint Helen and Notre-Dame, which now form Jean Drapeau Park, were actually home to the 1967 World’s Fair .

Most of the pavilions were demolished after the expo, but today, the French pavilion, now the Montreal Casino , and the American pavilion, known as the Biosphere (that I mentionned earlier), remain.

Another relic from the World Expo is the Habitat 67 residential complex , located in Cité du Havre, not far from the park.

Jean Drapeau Park is also renowned for its vibrant music festivals , which I’ll discuss in more detail below. And don’t forget the Canadian F1 Grand Prix , happening every year!

Besides Jean Drapeau Park, on Saint Helen Island you’ll also find “La Ronde” the amusement park , open every summer.

This park boasts 42 attractions including some quite impressive ones, like the “Ultimate Flight”.

To plan your day at La Ronde, you can check out the official website here .

In addition to Mount Royal and Jean Drapeau Park, Montreal boasts many other delightful parks perfect for a break from the city’s bustling pace

1) Angrignon Park

Following Mount Royal, this park is the second-largest forested area in Montreal .

You can stroll along three ponds, a 1km lake, and shaded trails spanning nearly 10km. There’s also a specially designed 2km track for biking and rollerblading , which transforms into a cross-country ski track in winter .

Ideal for a family picnic by the water, barbecues are even available for use . A playground with swings is also on site.

2) Lafontaine Park

It’s one of the largest parks in Montreal city .

What sets it apart are the multiple outdoor sports fields open for free use: tennis, petanque, baseball, volleyball, and children’s playgrounds.

The park also hosts cultural events at the outdoor theater , a delightful spot for evening performances.

Nothing beats a day at a water park to chill out and have a blast.

In Quebec, I recommend the one at Mount Saint-Sauveur , about an hour’s drive from Montreal . It’s an ideal day trip when on a Canadian circuit tour !

This park is huge with its 12 water slides , toboggans , rafting and tubing descents , water games, wave pool , and other outdoor pools.

Festivals in Montreal

Throughout the year, Montreal hosts some brilliant festivals. Here are a few you shouldn’t miss!

Every year, Montreal hosts a massive music festival: Osheaga .

It’s held every summer at Jean Drapeau Park and lasts for three days . During this time, you’ll be treated to some great music. Top bands have performed here: Radiohead, Arcade Fire, Coldplay, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and more.

No doubt, if you want to see all those awesome stars, you’ll have to dish out at least $320 for the three-day festival. But hey, that doesn’t seem to stop the whopping 40,000 people who show up every single day.

Osheaga Festival website

This is the winter electronic music festival you don’t want to miss in Montreal.

Igloofest has been rocking Montreal’s Old Port for about a decade now.

Several DJs from around the world heat up the dance floor over four weekends .

Igloofest website

Another unmissable festival in Quebec during winter if you’ve decided to visit Montreal: the light festival attracting nearly 900,000 people each year.

The Montreal en Lumière program combines light installations , performing arts with theater, circus, singing , and gastronomy.

You can enjoy many free activities (ferris wheel, zipline, giant curling), wander among the light art installations, enjoy various street performances, and sample Quebec culinary specialties at the street stalls.

The festival also includes “La Nuit Blanche”, Montreal’s White Night where you can visit certain museums and churches, participate in dance, singing, or artistic creation workshops, all for free. In total, there are more than 200 activities to enjoy.

Montréal en Lumière website

The “Festival Juste pour rire” or Just for Laughs Festival is a comedy festival held annually in Montreal.

It’s the largest festival of its kind in the world and a true tradition in Quebec. On the agenda: a large number of comedians presenting their shows, both indoors and in the street.

The program is highly diverse and of excellent quality .

Festival Juste pour rire website

Best things to do around Montreal

For those craving the great outdoors, there’s a bunch of things to discover around Montreal . Here’s a little selection of places to visit!

When talking about Quebec, you can’t skip mentioning the special season that characterizes it: autumn and its fiery colors.

If you want to admire this unique landscape firsthand, around Montreal, I recommend heading to Mont-Tremblant, just an hour’s drive away.

In winter, it’s a ski resort but in the fall, the forests take on warm colors, and it’s a profusion of red, orange, and yellow trees as far as the eye can see .

It’s the ideal time for long hikes. You can either hike up the mountain or catch a lift (only on weekends) to reach the top and take in the stunning view of the valley below with its picturesque lake reflecting the vibrant colors.

The Cap-Saint-Jacques is the largest park in the Montreal area , sprawling across a whopping 300 hectares. Whether it’s summer or winter, you’ll be able to take tranquil strolls through this maple tree-dominated spot, nestled between a lake and a river, offering countless stunning views.

In the summer, you’ll have access to a massive natural sandy beach complete with picnic areas, and even pedalos and kayaks for rent. You can even fire up your own barbecue.

Come autumn, Cap-Saint-Jacques, with its west-facing beach, is the best place to watch the sunset over Montreal island. The light is just amazing!

Winter sees the park transform into a haven for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing , with all the necessary equipment available for rent on-site. You have around 32 kilometers of trails at your disposal. The on-site ecological farm turns into a sugar shack with a typical maple syrup-based menu.

But no matter the season, be sure to watch the sunset over the lake , it’s simply breathtaking and you won’t regret it. The lighting is perfect for some truly incredible photos.

Practical info:

• Open all year round, parking fees apply.
• To get there by public transport, take bus 64 from the Côte-Vertu metro station to the Cartierville terminus, then take bus 68 to the park entrance.

This wildlife park is situated between Montreal and Ottawa , about 110 kilometers from Montreal.

The park can only be explored by car as the animals live freely in their natural habitat.

Along a 10-kilometer trail, you’ll traverse meadows, forests, and lakeshores, giving you the opportunity to spot Quebec’s native wildlife, including moose, elk, black bears, and wolves . You’ll also have plenty of chances to stop and take photos.

You can easily spend half a day here, or even stay overnight! The park offers several unique accommodation options : teepees, prospector tents, wooden cabins, and stilt houses.

It’s one of the best activities to do near Montreal with kids .

Parc Omega is open all year round , hours and prices vary depending on the season, you can find all the information here: Parc Omega .

Still in the Montreal area, you can also try out some super cool activities (click on the orange links to book):

• Dog sledding in Saint-Hippolyte near Montreal
• Dog sled ride through maple groves , near Montreal
• Snowmobile outing near Montreal, in Saint-Hippolyte – Duration: from 1h to 8h
• Snowmobile excursion in the Laurentians , departure from Sainte-Agathe-Des-Monts – Duration: from 2h to a full day
• A guided quad ride near Montreal
• Whitewater rafting down the Red River (Rivière Rouge) in Mont-Tremblant
• A canoe descent on the Assomption River , (Rivière l’Assomption for the locals) in Mont-Tremblant nature park
• Via ferrata between Montreal and Mont-Tremblant, at Mont Catherine
• Zip-lining , also at Mont Catherine
• Ice climbing adventure in Montreal

33. Best things to do in Montreal My top places to eat

For me, this is, hands down, the best cheesecake I’ve ever had!

In Montreal, if you spot a Rockaberry, there’s no way you can walk past their window full of cheesecakes and pies , each looking more delicious than the last.

The hardest part is then choosing between the Rockabrownies, Banalicious, Mochamisu, or any of the fruit crumbles (blueberry, strawberry, raspberry, etc.).

Rockaberry’s website

During your stay in Montreal, you can’t miss trying this iconic Quebec dish ! Loved by some, hated by others, it’s up to you to form your own opinion about poutine .

The traditional poutine is quite simple, and consists of 3 ingredients:

• “Curd cheese”

You can find poutine in all sorts of varieties, from the basic poutine made with frozen fries from a fast food spot to the fancy homemade version with hand-cut fries cooked in duck fat. There’s something for every poutine lover out there!

Poutine is everywhere in Quebec: you can eat it at any hour in restaurants open 24/7. It’s actually the go-to choice for Montrealers after a night out!

Some restaurants even offer no less than a hundred different recipes , but beware, not all are created equal. The two most famous restaurants in Montreal for their poutine are:

• La Banquise , open 24/7.
• Poutineville : a name that speaks for itself!

Montreal is like a haven for brunch enthusiasts ! But what does the Quebec version of this meal, which falls between breakfast and lunch, entail?

The classic brunch you’ll savor in Montreal includes:

• Eggs , cooked in every possible way
• Baked beans or “Fèves au lard” as the locals call it
• Maple syrup , to drizzle all over!
• A coffee or tea and orange juice.

In addition to that, each restaurant has its own specialty and also offers a variety of options such as fresh fruit salad, smoothies, pancakes, crepes, sausages, bagels , and much more.

• L’Avenue , which well deserves its reputation for an excellent brunch, but be warned, expect a long wait before you can indulge.
• Fabergé : This trendy restaurant in Montreal’s Mile-End district serves a fantastic brunch with some original specialties!
• Le Hot Dog : This unassuming spot on the Plateau Mont Royal is a must for potato lovers, because they serve some seriously delicious, well, potatoes!

Another spot where you can dive into culinary adventures is Montreal’s Chinatown , brimming with cute little restaurants offering typical dishes from Chinese cuisine .

Here, you’ll get to try the famous bubble tea , a beverage made with tea, fruit, and tapioca pearls that line the bottom of the glass, sucked up with a fat straw.

Also a must-try: the numerous biscuits or cakes all soft and squishy from the Chinatown’s Chinese bakeries.

In Montreal’s Chinatown, you’ll also find a large Asian grocery store . If you’re staying in Montreal, this is the best place to shop for Asian products!

I just had to mention it, as it’s kind of my canteen in Montreal: “L’Arrivage” restaurant at the Pointe-a-Callière Museum . A foodie myself, I was a bit hesitant to dine at “the museum’s restaurant” the first time, but I came out totally amazed. Honestly .

Located on the museum’s second floor, the restaurant offers a fantastic view of Montreal’s Old Port .

They serve a different gourmet menu every week , and the dishes are truly delicious. I recommend you to try the “Table d’hôtes” menu with a starter, a main course, and dessert for less than $25. At this price, you’ll enjoy a sophisticated meal in an exceptional setting with unrivaled service.

It clearly is the best value for money in Montreal, and by a long shot ! It’s a hidden gem, even among Montrealers.

However, note that the restaurant only opens for lunch!

The TimeOut Market is located on Saint Catherine Ouest street, in the Eaton Centre and brings together more than a dozen of restaurants and bars all in one place .

The atmosphere is really cool, with a chic and modern vibe and carefully crafted decor. You can feast on dishes from all over the world : Indian, Italian, Greek, Vietnamese, Caribbean, Spanish… The dishes are truly of excellent quality and exceptionnaly well-cooked .

Everyone can pick their favorite dishes and gather at the shared tables in the center. That way, no one has to argue about which restaurant to choose!

Open every day from 11:30 am to 9/10 pm.

Craft beer lovers will be thrilled to learn that Montreal has numerous microbreweries , each with its own specialties! Here are a few addresses:

• Brasserie Harricana , 95 Jean-Talon West Street
• Pub Brouhahah , 295, Avenue Papineau, Ahuntsic
• La Succursale , 3188 Masson Street
• HELM microbrasserie , 273 Bernard O Street
• Dieu du Ciel! 29 Avenue Laurier Ouest

• M Montreal : A youth hostel just a 5-minute walk away from Berri Uquam metro station on Sainte Catherine street. You can grab a bed in a modern, cozy dorm for just 25€ a night, breakfast included. You can also book a double room if you prefer. Strong points: Super friendly staff, modern facilities, basement bar with occasional live performances. A fantastic choice for budget-friendly accommodations in Montreal !
• Best Western Plus Hotel Montreal : Located in the bustling Quartier des Spectacles. You can book a warm, spacious double room starting from €150 per night. Strong points: Perfect location for exploring Montreal, clean and comfy beds.
• Le Dauphin Montréal Centre-Ville: : Just 200 meters away from the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal and a 5-minute walk from the Old Port. Double rooms starting from €170, breakfast included. Strong points: Great location, spacious rooms, and large beds.
• Le Petit Hotel Montreal: : Located in the historical center of Montreal. Rooms with character (think stone walls and exposed brick) starting from €250, breakfast included. Strong points: Excellent service, a delicious breakfast, and the charming ambiance of the hotel.
• Le St-Martin Hotel Centre-ville – Hotel Particulier: : Just 50 meters away from Saint Catherine West Street. Stylish, cozy double rooms starting from €290. Strong points: An enchanting pool with waterfalls and jets, delightful staff, prime location, and comfort. My recommendation for a high-end stay in Montreal !
• Hôtel Birks Montréal : Located in the city center, this 5-star hotel offers beautifully decorated rooms starting from €500, with breakfast at an additional €19. Strong points: Prime location, beautiful architecture, friendly staff, and a luxurious spa. The best hotel in Montreal for a luxury stay !

My impressions of Montreal

What I absolutely adored about Montreal, and the reason I ended up staying for two extra years (originally planning just one), is the incredible vibrancy of each neighborhood. It’s like living in a close-knit village rather than a sprawling metropolis.

Tons of local shops, welcoming folks, top-notch quality of life, and varied activities across different seasons make Montreal one of the most enjoyable cities to live in worldwide!

Tips for those living in Montreal

In addition to travelers, many French folks choose to make Montreal their new home . Having lived there for three years, here are some nuggets of wisdom from an ex-Montrealer. If you have more, I’d be thrilled to add them to the list!

If you’re longing for “European-style” dining, food can quickly burn a hole in your pocket at standard supermarkets like Provigo and IGA (think peppers at $9 a kilo or chicken fillets at $25 or more!).

So, I’d recommend heading to a little grocery store called Esposito . There are four in Montreal; pick the one that’s closest to you. Chances are you’ll halve your grocery budget.

As a European person, if there’s one thing you might miss in Montreal, it’s the cheese . Of course, you can find it, but it often comes with a hefty price tag (Hello, Roquefort Papillon at $100 a kilo!).

But don’t worry! There’s a place where you can get cheeses (and lots of other stuff) without breaking the bank. Head to Aubut , a wholesale store open to the public!

They offer tons of products, including a delicious brie , sometimes even on sale at $10 a kilo.

Address : Aubut, 3975 Saint-Ambroise Street .

If you’re living in Montreal, it’s highly likely you’ll want to try ice skating, snowshoeing, or even skiing. But if you’re only there for a year, you don’t want to spend a fortune! It’s best to rent for the season or buy second-hand gear. And where can you do that?

The answer: at La Poubelle du Ski ! Don’t let the less-than-charming name fool you (poubelle means trash can in French), it’s a hidden gem well-known to Montrealers. A small shop where you can rent or buy great gear at a fair price. For example, I got a pair of brand new hockey skates (not a scratch) for half the retail price.

Address : La Poubelle du Ski – 8278, St-Laurent Boulevard

So, what are your plans for exploring Montreal? Tell me about your favorite places in the comments!

Discover all my articles about Canada : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Canada are listed there.

• 20 Best Things to do in Canada
• 20 Best Things to do in Quebec – All best places to visit in the French-speaking province!
• Itinerary: One week in Canada: The perfect itinerary to visit Canada in 6, 7 or 8 days!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Canada: All my best tips for organizing your 10-day trip to Canada
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Canada: How to visit Western Canada in 15 days.
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Canada: My epic itinerary to visit Western and Eastern Canada in 21 days
• Itinerary: 1 month in Canada: How to visit Eastern Canada in a month!
• Itinerary: One week in Quebec: How to visit Quebec in 6, 7 or 8 days, with all my best tips!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Quebec: An amazing 10-day itinerary in Quebec
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Quebec: All my best tips to visit Quebec in 14, 15 or 16 days
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Quebec: the perfect 3-week road trip in Quebec !
• Road trip in Canada: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month
• Road trip in Quebec: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15 and 21 days
• Calgary : Top 11 things to do during your visit
• Montreal : 33 best things to see and do
• Ottawa : 15 epic places to visit
• Quebec City : Top 17 things to do and see
• Toronto : The 17 things to do during your stay
• Vancouver : Top 25 places to visit and activities
• Toronto in 3 days – The perfect itinerary to visit the city in 72 hours!

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19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Montreal

Written by Chloë Ernst and Michael Law Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Michael Law visits Montreal on a regular basis .

A dynamic city known for its fashion sense, fine hotels, exceptional cuisine, and historical quarters, Montreal is one of the best cities in Canada to visit.

Despite the city's size, the best places to visit in Montreal are in relatively compact neighborhoods, making hitting all the key sights easy.

Vieux-Montreal is where the city began, and its old buildings and cobblestone streets make it the most picturesque neighborhood in the city. This is where you'll also find the popular waterfront promenade along the Vieux-Port (Old Port).

Major museums and arts venues are in the Centre-Ville (downtown) area, where you'll find Rue Sherbrooke, probably the city's most elegant thoroughfare. Need a new outfit to head out on the town? Rue Ste-Cathérine, Montréal's main place to visit for shopping, is a busy street lined with department stores, shops, and trendy restaurants.

For a dose of French culture, head to The Plateau , the heart of French-speaking Montreal. Strolling along Rue St. Denis often feels like being in Paris, with its smart boutiques, restaurants, and sidewalk cafés.

Montreal is a popular weekend getaway from Toronto . Flights leave on the hour for the one-hour jaunt.

Plan your trip with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Montreal below.

1. Wander through Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal)

2. explore the old port (vieux-port), 3. see the view from mont-royal, 4. jardin botanique (botanical garden), 5. notre-dame basilica, 6. oratoire saint-joseph (st. joseph's oratory), 7. parc jean drapeau, 8. montreal biodome, 9. musée des beaux arts (fine arts museum), 10. pointe-à-callière, 11. place des arts, 12. shop at atwater and jean-talon markets, 13. st. mary queen of the world, 14. mccord museum, 15. square saint-louis and rue denis, 16. lachine canal national historic site, 17. chinatown, 18. ride la grande rou de montreal, 19. montreal science centre, where to stay in montreal for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to montreal, map of attractions & things to do in montreal.

Old Montréal is tourist central in Montréal. The area is home to a remarkable concentration of buildings dating from the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries and has the delightful feel of a Parisian-style quarter. Many of these historic buildings are now hotels, restaurants, galleries, and souvenir shops. If you are looking to base yourself in the city for a few days of sightseeing, this is the best place to stay.

Its many historic sites, streets, and landmarks are easily explored on foot. Of the many things to do here, the highlights are visiting the Notre-Dame Basilica , strolling down Rue Saint-Paul , wandering around Bonsecours Market , and enjoying the open-air gathering space of Place Jacques-Cartier. For a little urban adventure, on the waterfront head to the huge Ferris wheel (La Grand roue de Montréal) and the Tyrolienne MTL zipline.

In the evening, Old Montreal comes to life with patios and restaurants lining the streets. In the summer, you can dine outdoors, either street-side or on rooftop patios.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Old Montréal

As you wander around Old Montreal, you'll most likely end up in the lively area by the Saint Lawrence River known as the Old Port (Vieux-Port). Here, you'll find plenty of things to do, from riding the giant Ferris wheel or climbing the famous clock tower, right through to screaming down a zipline that descends from dizzying heights across open stretches of water.

More sedate options include strolling the area and taking in some of the 10 fascinating displays of public art, catching a show at the IMAX theater, or brushing up on your knowledge at the Montreal Science Center. If even those options sound exhausting, grab a coffee and sit on one of the sunny patios and just soak up the scene.

In the summer, boat tours leave from the docks here. If you really want to soak up the sun there is even a man-made beach at the base of the clocktower with views back to the city or out over the river. In the winter, strap on your skates and take a twirl on the huge ice-skating rink.

Mont-Royal rises 233 meters above the city and is the green lung near the city center. A stroll through this lovely park enables the visitor to see monuments to Jacques Cartier and King George VI. Be sure to spend some time by Lac-aux-Castors, and to have a look at the cemeteries on the western slope where the city's different ethnic groups have rested in peace together for centuries.

From the summit, or rather from a platform below the cross, unfolds a magnificent panorama of the whole of the 51-kilometer length of the Île de Montréal and the St. Lawrence. On clear days, the view extends to the Adirondack Mountains in the United States of America.

High above the city in the grounds that hosted the 1976 Summer Olympic Games, Parc Maisonneuve (Pie IX Metro) is the site of Montreal's wonderfully imaginative Jardin Botanique . The diverse plants are grown in 30 themed gardens and 10 exhibition greenhouses, so a wide range of climates are represented. Outdoor gardens include the beautiful Japanese and Chinese gardens, as well as those devoted to alpine, aquatic, medicinal, shade, useful, and even toxic plants.

The rose displays are stunning, and especially interesting is a garden devoted to those plants grown or used by First Nations peoples. Soaring greenhouses contain a tropical rainforest, ferns, orchids, bonsai, bromeliads, and penjings (miniature Chinese trees). An interesting Insectarium and huge arboretum are on the grounds, as well as ponds supporting a variety of birds.

Address: 4101 Sherbrooke Street East, Montréal, Québec

Founded in 1656, Montréal's oldest church, Notre-Dame Basilica , stands in a far grander incarnation than the original. The twin towers of the neo-Gothic façade face Place d'Armes . The intricate and resplendent interior was designed by Victor Bourgeau.

Highlights are the magnificent carved pulpit by sculptor Louis-Philippe Hébert (1850-1917), the 7,000-pipe organ by the Casavant Frères firm, and the stained-glass windows portraying scenes from the founding of Montreal. The admission charge to the basilica includes a 20-minute tour, or you can take a one-hour tour that gives more historical information and access to private areas, including the second balcony and crypt.

Address: 110 Rue Notre-Dame Ouest, Montréal, Québec

The Oratoire Saint-Joseph , near the western exit from Mount Royal Park, is dedicated to Canada's patron saint. It is a mecca for pilgrims, with its huge Renaissance-style domed basilica dating to 1924.

Brother André of the Congrégation de Sainte-Croix had already built a small chapel here in 1904, where he performed miraculous acts of healing for which he was canonized in 1982. His tomb is in one part of the sanctuary in the original chapel.

Votive gifts are displayed in a second chapel. A cloister behind the church leads up to Mont-Royal . There is a good northwest view from the observatory over Montréal and Lac Saint-Louis.

Address: 3800 Queen Mary, Montréal, Québec

Île Sainte-Hélène (named after the wife of Samuel de Champlain) and the artificial island of Notre-Dame were the site of Expo '67. They are now known as Parc Jean Drapeau and have many family-minded attractions.

A remnant of the 1967 world fair, the Biosphere is now a museum dedicated to ecological issues. The building is designed in the shape of a sphere and is the largest such structure in the world. Other tourist attractions on the islands include the rides and games of La Ronde Amusement Park , the historic 1820 British arsenal at the Stewart Museum , Bassin Olympique (where the Olympic rowing events were held), and race course Circuit Gilles Villeneuve .

Visited by over one million people a year, the Montreal Biodome is a must-see attraction when visiting — especially if you have children. This massive complex is home to four different indoor ecosystems: the Tropical Rainforest, the Laurentian Maple Forest, the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and the Sub-Antarctic Islands.

As you wander through each ecosystem, you'll be fully immersed in the features of that environment. Lush greenery, birds, and monkeys surround you in the Tropical Rainforest. In the Gulf of St. Lawrence environment, you'll find cool temperatures, fish, otters, and a simulated ocean.

When you wander through the Laurentian Maple Forest, be sure to look for the elusive porcupine. Most likely he or she will be snoozing high up in a tree. In the Sub-Antarctic ecosystem, the penguins steal the show!

The Biodome is located on the former Olympic grounds and is easily accessed by car or via the metro at Cadillac Station.

The Musee des Beaux Arts is the oldest museum in Canada and houses vast collections of painting, sculpture, and new media. Its outstanding collections of World Cultures and Mediterranean Archaeology total nearly 10,000 objects, and there are excellent collections of African, Asian, and Islamic art, as well as art from North and South America.

The more than 1,400 paintings, sculptures, drawings, and prints include masterpieces by Pieter Bruegel the Younger, Canaletto, El Greco, Gainsborough, Goya, Mantegna, Poussin, Rembrandt, Tiepolo, and Veronese, and are particularly strong in artworks of the Dutch Golden Age.

The collections continue, from the Realists and Impressionists to modern art, containing works by Cézanne, Dali, Miró, Monet, Derain, Kandinsky, Matisse, Picasso, Rodin, Otto Dix, and other influential artists. Not far from the museum is the extensive campus of McGill University .

Address: 1380 Rue Sherbrooke O, Montréal, Québec

At one corner of Place Royale in Vieux-Montréal is the Pointe-à-Callière , now marked by a striking modern building housing a museum of archaeology and history. Place Royale was the center of life in Montréal's early and colonial days, where the market and parade ground were located until later government buildings displaced them. But underneath today's Montréal, remnants of these early streets and foundations still remain, and you can explore these on a visit to the museum.

The route through the city's history begins underground, where you can walk among the original stone-paved streets, drainage channels, and ground floors of 17th-century buildings. The story unfolds in layers of history told through artifacts, maps, and exhibits as you climb through the museum. Special exhibitions cover a wide range of history and archaeology worldwide.

Address: 350 Place Royale, Montréal, Québec

The Place des Arts is an entire complex dedicated to visual and performing arts, the largest of its kind in all of Canada. Three great cultural organizations make their home here: the Montreal Symphony Orchestra, Les Grands Ballets Canadiens, and the Opéra de Montréal, and its various stages and rehearsal halls provide venues for all kinds of theater, music, dance, films, and events.

These sit around a large esplanade decorated with works of art, fountains, and water cascades, a popular venue for events. The most important of these is the annual summer Festival International de Jazz de Montréal held in late June and early July, attracting visitors from all over the world and bringing in some of the biggest names in jazz.

The Musée d'art contemporain de Montréal , a contemporary art museum, is particularly worth a visit, especially as young French-Canadian artists are accorded special prominence.

Address: 185 Rue St. Catherine Ouest, Montréal, Québec

Similar establishments with many of the same vendors, the Atwater Market and Jean-Talon Market are Montréal's busiest public markets and well worth visiting for their atmosphere and local food specialties and products.

Located in warehouse-style buildings, the markets feature vendors selling fruits and vegetables, flowers, meats, fish, cheese, baked goods, and specialty foods. You'll find maple syrup and candies, dried wild blueberries, home-style fruit jams and preserves, and the region's fine cheeses, as well as restaurants and cafés selling luscious pastries. The markets are a favorite stop for locals on Saturday mornings for a boule of coffee and a flaky croissant.

The Catholic Mary Queen of the World Cathedral, east of Place du Canada, was built in 1894 as a smaller version of St. Peter's in Rome. The massive statues represent the patron saints of the 13 parishes of Montreal in the 19th century and were all sculpted by Olindo Gratton between 1892 and 1898.

The most important artwork in the interior is the crucifix by Philippe Hébert, atop the marble baptismal font. A series of nine paintings, seven of which are by Georges Delfosse, retell Montréal's tumultuous history.

Address: 1085 Rue de la Cathédrale, Montréal, Québec

The McCord Museum has an outstanding collection of exhibits on Canada's social history, especially native peoples. Its collections of costumes, clothing, accessories, quilts, and other hand-made textiles total more than 20,000 objects and include works by Montreal fashion designers.

More than a thousand pieces of furniture, silver, ceramics, glass, and items related to food and household uses, as well as toys, sports equipment, and folk art lend color and domestic detail to the picture of early Canadian life.

Artifacts and arts of the First Nations peoples include clothing and accessories, hunting and fishing equipment, weapons of war, domestic implements, ceremonial items, and art, as well as archaeological finds from early aboriginal cultures.

Address: 690 Sherbrooke Street W, Montreal, Québec

Near the Sherbrooke Metro Station, Square Saint-Louis rates as one of Montréal's prettiest old squares and is set in a turn-of-the-century French-Canadian residential quarter. In the little streets around the tree-shaded square, there are still a few attractive Victorian houses. Some now house pleasant restaurants.

At the square's eastern edge and running parallel to St. Laurent, Rue St. Denis is one of the hippest shopping, arts, and dining streets in Montréal. Historic buildings have been converted into boutiques, bistros, and cafés. At one end, St. Denis starts in the student-minded Quartier Latin neighborhood (it's handy to Université du Québec à Montréal and the Grande Bibliothèque) and heads west into the trendy Plateau area with its independent designers and chef-run restaurants.

Lachine, on the southeast bank of Montréal Island (in Lac St.-Louis), got its name from the first pioneers who, in the 17th century, made their way up the St. Lawrence looking for a route to China (in French, "la Chine"). The 14.4-kilometer Lachine Canal , a way of getting around the Lachine Rapids, was dug in 1825.

It is many years, however, since it was last used for shipping and nowadays, it forms part of a park and offers plenty of opportunities for charming trips along the canal banks. A bike path borders its entire length, through an open green space, and you can also cruise the canal by boat.

Montréal's Chinatown is centered on Rue de la Gauchetière, with Chinese gates marking the heart of the quarter. This colorful neighborhood dates from the late 1860s, when many of the Chinese laborers, who originally came to work in the mines and build the railroad, moved into the cities in search of a better life. Today's Chinatown is filled with Asian restaurants and shops, no longer exclusively Chinese, but a place where locals and tourists go to enjoy a good meal.

While visiting the Old Port (Vieux Port) area, it's hard to miss the towering Ferris wheel known as La Grande Rou de Montreal . Standing an impressive 60 meters high, the giant wheel has 42 climate-controlled (heat in winter, A/C in summer), and eight-passenger gondolas.

The views from the top over Old Montreal and the rest of the city, including the Jacque Cartier Bridge, the Saint Lawrence Seaway, and the old Expo site, are breathtaking. On a clear day, you'll be able to see nearly 30 kilometers in most directions.

If you want to step it up a notch on the luxury scale, consider booking the VIP gondola. This unit has four large chairs outfitted in the finest Italian leather and adds the thrill of a glass floor.

Conveniently located in the center of the action in the Old Port (Vieux Port) area is the Montreal Science Centre . Perfect for a rainy or cool day in the summer or an escape from the snow and cold in the winter, this interactive and innovative place is a perfect family outing in Montreal.

A couple of the highlights inside are the Fabrik exhibit, where children can build their very own creative items in an assembly line style of production using the assorted items available, and the Clic! exhibit, where you create almost anything imaginable using odd-shaped building blocks that snap together in unusual ways.

The best place to stay in Montreal is in Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal), not only for the sights but also for the ambience that comes with the old architecture and cobbled streets. This area of the city is small enough to explore on foot, so any hotel here is in a good location. Below are some highly rated hotels in or near this area of Montreal:

Luxury Hotels :

• The Hotel Nelligan is an elegant boutique hotel with impeccable service, inviting décor, and exposed centuries-old brick and stone walls that fit perfectly in Old Montreal.
• In the same caliber and with a similar historic feel is the 45-room Auberge du Vieux-Port , set along the waterfront of the St. Lawrence River.
• In a 19th-century building with modern décor, the Hotel Gault is another fine option in Old Montreal.
• If you are interested in staying in Montreal's modern city center rather than Old Montreal, the Ritz-Carlton is one of the finest hotels in the city and has hosted many celebrities over the years.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• On the edge of Old Montreal and the financial district, and just a short walk from the famous Notre-Dame Basilica, is the Embassy Suites by Hilton , with a contemporary feel and a variety of rooms and suites.
• In the heart of Old Montreal, on what was the city's first public square, the popular Le Petit Hotel offers a mix of old-world charm and modern comforts.
• Nearby, the Auberge Bonaparte is a boutique hotel set in a historic building, with lovely rooms and Louis-Philippe style décor.

Budget Hotels :

• In Chinatown, but within walking distance of both Old Montreal and downtown, is the Travelodge by Wyndham Montreal Centre , with small rooms but a convenient location.
• North of Chinatown, but also in a good location close to some of the major attractions, is the Hotel l'Abri du Voyageur . This hotel offers a variety of budget rooms at various price points.
• The Chateau de l'Argoat is a boutique hotel with plenty of character and large, comfortable rooms, about a 20-minute walk from Old Montreal.
• Sightseeing: The most popular tourist area in Montreal is historic Old Montreal. If this is your first time in the city, a guided Walking Tour of Old Montreal is a wonderful way to explore the cobblestone streets and narrow lanes while learning about the history. For a quick overview of a larger portion of the city, the Montreal City Guided Sightseeing Tour with Live Commentary offers a three-hour motor coach tour that includes the major sites around Old Montreal as well as other famous sites like Saint Joseph's Oratory, Mount Royal, and the Olympic Stadium. If you have time to explore the city and want a more in-depth experience try the Montreal City Hop-on Hop-off Tour. This option allows you to get off at any of the 10 different stops over a two-day period and sightsee at your own pace.
• Day Trips: One of the most popular day trips from Montreal is the Quebec City and Montmorency Falls Day Trip . This full-day guided tour takes you through the historic streets and sites of Quebec City and lets you see some of the countryside, including the spectacular Montmorency Falls. From May to October, you can also add on a St. Lawrence River Cruise or just wander through Old Quebec.

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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Montreal — Luxury Hotels, Beautiful Parks, and Canada's Best Restaurant Included

Here's where to eat, stay, and explore in Montreal, according to a local.

Best Hotels

• Best Things to Do

Best Places to Eat

Best nightlife, best shopping, best neighborhoods to visit, best time to visit, how to get there, how to get around.

R.M. Nunes/Getty Images

Despite its sometimes divisive language politics, extreme seasons, and chronic traffic headaches, Montrealers, or les Montréalais , are justifiably proud of their distinctive, if idiosyncratic, city — and for good reason. Travel + Leisure readers named Montreal one of their favorite cities in Canada in 2023 .

The sophisticated, French-speaking (yet very bilingual), culturally diverse city lays claim to world-class restaurants, lovely parks, superb art galleries and museums, a dynamic music scene, inspiring 18th- and 19th-century architecture, and vibrant nightlife.

It can also be a lot of fun in the winter , when locals like to get out and celebrate the cold and snow, even extending the revelry at outdoor festivals and concerts at night.

Thom Seivewright, a Montreal expert and former hotel concierge, launched his small-group tour company, Tours Montreal , in the Canadian city in 2016. “Our art scene is on par with cities two or three times our size,” he says. “There’s obviously a big emphasis placed on arts and culture in Montreal.”

There’s a big emphasis on food , too. Montrealers love their bagels, cheeses, poutine, and maple syrup, and they’re loyal to their chef-owned restaurants. “It’s a little gem of a city that has world-class dining — and world-class junk food,” says Seivewright. 

Long known for its exuberant after-dark scene, Montreal has it all, from cocktail bars to Irish pubs, jazz bars to pulsating dance clubs. The city is even planning to create a 24-hour nightlife district .

Here's everything you need to know to plan a memorable trip to Montreal.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• The fashionable, Parisian-style brasserie and rooftop terrace at Hôtel Le Place d’Armes, a boutique luxury property overlooking Place d’Armes and the Notre-Dame Basilica, attracts locals and tourists alike.
• Designed by American landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, who was also responsible for New York City’s Central Park, Parc du Mont-Royal is an oasis of greenery in the city center.
• Mon Lapin, a cozy wine bar and restaurant in Little Italy serving natural wines and an ever-changing menu of small plates, was voted Canada’s best restaurant in 2023 . 
• Bar Furco’s lovely terrace becomes lively in the summer during Montreal’s ritual cinq à sept (happy hour).
• Saint Laurent Boulevard, a.k.a. the Main, is a good place to get a glimpse of Montreal’s 19th- and 20th-century immigrant history. It's also the historical dividing line between French and English in the city.

Courtesy of Four Seasons Resorts

Hotel Nelligan

Hotel Nelligan , located in the heart of Old Montreal, was T+L readers' favorite city hotel in Canada in 2023 . Spanning four 19th-century graystones, the 105-room boutique property lies near the Notre-Dame Basilica and Old Port waterfront. Its seasonal rooftop terrace is a summer favorite for its picturesque views and lively happy hour.

Hôtel Place d’Armes

Another T+L reader favorite, Hôtel Place d’Armes is housed in four 19th-century neoclassical buildings opposite the Notre-Dame Basilica. The property is highly rated for its tasteful rooms featuring hardwood floors and brick walls, swanky French brasserie , and popular rooftop terrace. 

Hôtel Uville

One of the city’s newer hotels, opened in 2020, Hôtel Uville got its name thanks to its location in Old Montreal’s Place d’Youville. Uville is part design hotel, part museum — a love letter to the Montreal of the 1960s and '70s. This was transformative period, a time when francophone Quebecers were turning away from the Catholic church and leading the charge in North America vis-à-vis cuisine, style, and design — the culmination of which were Expo 67 and the 1976 Olympics.

“This hotel is very cool,” says Seivewright. “They did a great job. The details, like the tiled bathrooms and custom-made wallpapers, are amazing. They’ve got archival photos and artifacts from the '60s and '70s in each of the rooms, and documentary films from the National Film Board that you can watch on your room’s TV.”

The Ritz-Carlton, Montreal

Montreal’s grande-dame hotel, the Ritz-Carlton , opened in 1912 in the city's Golden Square Mile. In addition to housing chef Daniel Boulud's Maison Boulud , the refined property offers afternoon tea in the ornate Palm Court and seasonal garden terrace, Spa St. James, and an indoor saltwater pool.

Four Seasons Hotel Montreal

Located in Golden Square Mile since 2019, the posh  Four Seasons Hotel Montreal is connected via a third-floor walkway to the luxury department store Holt Renfrew Ogilvy . The hotel boasts Marcus Restaurant + Terrace, in partnership with legendary Manhattan chef Marcus Samuelsson; a Guerlain Spa; and a skylit swimming pool with an upstream current generator.

Best Things to Do 

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Parc du Mont-Royal

What Central Park is to New Yorkers and Hyde Park to Londoners, Parc du Mont-Royal, or Mount Royal Park, is to Montrealers. At 764 feet high, Mount Royal may not be much of a mountain, but the park is, as Seivewritght says, “the heart and soul of the city.” He adds, “The fact that Montreal is a four-season city and Mount Royal is a four-season park makes it even better because you’ve got skiing, skating, and tobogganing in the wintertime. And in the summer, you can go biking and walking.” You can also go for a picnic and rent a rowboat or Mölkky or spikeball equipment at Beaver Lake. 

Old Montreal

With its graystone buildings and narrow streets, Old Montreal can sometimes feel like a slice of Europe in North America. Certainly no visit to Montreal is complete without a stop here. Not only will you find the city’s most important historic landmarks, including the Notre-Dame Basilica , the 18th-century Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel , the Second Empire-style City Hall, and the neoclassic Marché Bonsecours , but it’s also home to pretty boutique hotels, haute-couture shops, and chef-owned restaurants.

Pointe-à-Callière

A national archaeological site, Pointe-à-Callière , now an impressive archaeology and history museum, sits above the ruins of the birthplace of Montreal. “The Pointe-à-Callière museum is amazing,” says Seivewright. “They’ll take you underground to see the ruins of the original fortifications of Montreal, the original city the French built here in the 1600s.” Visitors can also see Indigenous artifacts uncovered during a dig and part of North America’s first collector sewer, built between 1832 and 1838.

Arsenal Contemporary Art Gallery

Opened in Montreal in an 80,000-square-foot building in 2011, Arsenal Contemporary Art has since expanded to include locations in Toronto and New York City. “Outside of the museums, I would send my clients to certain galleries around town. These days, one of my favorites is Arsenal. It has an amazing [selection] in its permanent collection, but it also puts on temporary exhibits that are just mind-blowing,” says Seivewright.

Montreal is a city of festivals, with everything from jazz (the city hosts the world’s largest jazz festival) to Pride to circus arts celebrated here. There’s even a dedicated festival and outdoor performance space downtown called the Quartier des Spectacles . While there are festivals year-round , May to September is the city’s busiest period.

eyedias/Getty Images

La Banquise

One of Quebec's most beloved foods is poutine, traditionally a mess (translation of "poutine") of french fries, cheese curds, and gravy. But poutine continues to get more upscale. A veritable institution since 1968, La Banquise doesn’t claim to be high-end, but the casual eatery serves 35 kinds of poutine and it’s open 24 hours. “La Banquise is a classic. I’m [vegetarian], and in my opinion, the veggie gravies are even more delicious,” says Seivewright. “A lot of people knock La Banquise because it’s popular, but I stand by it.”

Montreal Plaza

The design at Montreal Plaza is elegant and stylish, yet also notable for its eccentric touches like a dollhouse hanging upside down from the ceiling and Elmo sitting on the bar. Even certain dishes, like crudo or oysters, are served atop a toy triceratops or among plastic Smurfs. Chef and owner Charles-Antoine Crête and his team enjoy serving great food in a playful, joyous way. “This is my favorite place,” says Seivewright. “It’s not the just the way the food is prepared or what it is, but the whimsical, creative way it’s presented.”

Sushi Momo , from Mexican-Canadian chef Christian Ventura, is Montreal’s best vegan sushi restaurant. The sleek, dimly lit, botanically adorned space in the Plateau area is inviting, while the artfully plated confections are a feast for the eyes and the fusion of flavors a song for the taste buds.

Nora Gray , a lively, casual restaurant in Griffintown, is known for its southern Italian cuisine, updated cucina povera , and privately imported natural and organic wines. The dark wood, banquettes, long bar, and warm candlelight lend the restaurant an intimate, romantic, and club-like feel. 

Dominique Lafond

Voted Canada’s best restaurant in 2023 , Mon Lapin is a cozy wine bar and restaurant in Little Italy. It serves natural wines and an ever-changing menu of French- and Italian-inspired small plates. Each dish highlights fresh, seasonal, and local ingredients plus unexpected flavor combinations.

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Cloakroom Bar

The 25-seat Cloakroom Bar , with a cloak-and-dagger atmosphere, was named Canada’s second-best bar in 2023 . “It’s one of my favorite bars anywhere in the world,” says Seivewright. “It’s hidden behind a menswear shop, which makes it even cooler. It’s very exclusive feeling. You tell them, 'I like gin, I like citrus,' and they’ll create something for you. If you’re three people and you all like the same thing, they’ll create three different drinks.”

Situated in the Plateau Mont-Royal, Diese Onze is an intimate jazz bar that also serves tapas and mains. “I’m a big jazz fan, and I love Diese Onze,” says Seivewright. “It’s a good mix of local and out-of-town musicians.”

Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill

A Montreal institution since 1995, Upstairs is, funnily enough, located in a basement. It attracts big-name international jazz acts who make this a routine stop on their tour itineraries.

Pub Le Sainte-Élisabeth 

Established in 1997, this European-style pub between the Quartier des Spectacles and student-heavy Quartier Latin is quite cozy inside, but it’s the enclosed, leafy terrace at the back that draws people here come summer. The service many not win any awards, but Le Sainte-Élisabeth is about the ambience. 

The minimalist redesign of the Canadian Fur Company building (hence Furco ), located on a downtown back street, is a big draw for wine lovers and the happy hour crowd. It features an adventurous food and wine menu, in addition to more traditional charcuterie and cheese plates.

Maison Marie Saint Pierre

Marie Saint Pierre 's Montreal-made, ready-to-wear pieces marry timeless feminine styles with contemporary flair and function.

Entering this handsome Crescent Street atelier-cum-boutique near the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is like stepping into an old-school European tailor shop. Started by their father, Arthur Der Shahinian, sons Tavit and John carry on the tradition of crafting impeccably fitted and designed bespoke men’s suits and shirts, with damask silk lining and hand-sewn button holes, never compromising on quality or friendly, professional service.

Simons is originally from Quebec City, but it’s popular in cities across Canada. The small, mid-range department store downtown carries popular fashion brands as well as its own collections, in addition to homewares. “I’m a big fan of Simons,” says Seivewright. “I buy half my clothes there. The price point is good, the quality is good, and I like that it’s a local brand.”

Holt Renfrew Ogilvy

Montreal’s answer to Saks Fifth Avenue, Holt Renfrew Ogilvy is a one-stop shop for all things luxury, including clothing, shoes, and accessories. Clients can also enjoy a personal shopping experience in one of the five fifth-floor suites or the glamorous art-deco Café Holt, with its remarkable solar-like orb set above the central bar.

Saint Laurent Boulevard

“Saint Laurent [Boulevard], between Saint Joseph Boulevard and up to Van Horne Avenue, has the best boutique design shopping nowadays,” says Seivewright. “You could go all the way up to Little Italy and it’s still amazing. I was walking there the other day and every single window I walked by made me want to go in. There are furniture shops, clothing shops, and jewelry shops — some of it is new, some of it is vintage, and it’s all local.”

Saint-Henri

Saint-Henri, once a francophone working-class neighborhood, is now gentrified, replete with popular, chef-owned wine bars and restaurants, antiques shops, cafes, and boutiques. Still, it retains pockets of its former self. “I love it because it has parts that haven’t changed in a hundred years and others that make it the most modern neighborhood in Montreal,” says Seivewright. “It’s got a cool, little rough-around-the-edges vibe. It’s one of those neighborhoods where you’ll have a multimillion-dollar home next to a really rundown place, and you see that contrast. Then, you listen to the people and hear French and English. You've got old people, young people — it’s a neighborhood where everything mixes.”

Plateau Mont-Royal/Mile End

Once relegated to working-class European immigrants, the Plateau/Mile End area is the epicenter of Montreal’s creativity and bohemian joie de vivre. Leafy streets lined with triplexes fronted by balconies and steep, often-winding, wrought-iron staircases invite visitors to explore this neighborhood bursting with convivial cafes, top-drawer restaurants , funky vintage shops, and trendy boutiques.

For a glimpse into how the upper crust of Montreal lived until the 1970s and '80s, head to the neighborhood of Outremont. Its two main shopping and dining strips are Bernard Ouest and Laurier Ouest avenues — part of the former turns into a pedestrian-only area come summer, with restaurant terraces sitting directly on the street.

Montreal is a four-season city. Late April to mid-May tends to be best for blooming trees, while October to early November is usually prime for leaf peeping. The holiday season is lovely, but a white Christmas is increasingly rare. For a stronger chance of experiencing the romance of winter snow, January and February are ideal. Summers in Montreal are hot and humid, and heat waves can now begin as early as May. Visit in May, June, or late August through September and October to avoid the worst of the summer temperatures and crowds.

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Montreal can be reached via regular flights with Air Canada, Delta, American, and United. Flying from New York’s LaGuardia to Montreal-Trudeau International Airport, better known as Dorval (YUL), takes about 90 minutes gate to gate. Driving may be cheaper, but it takes about seven hours, and unless you’re planning to pay for hotel parking, parking in Montreal can be a hassle. For travelers living in New York or Vermont, a more scenic and leisurely option (10 hours) is Amtrak’s Adirondack train from Moynihan Train Hall to Montreal’s Gare Centrale (Central Station).

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In summer, the best way to get around is on foot or by Bixi, the city-wide bicycle rental system. In 2023, Bixi decided to end the storage of their bicycles during the winter, so they are now available year-round. However, there are not as many stations as in summer. The metro (subway) is fairly reliable and frequent during rush hour — and often the quickest way to get from point A to point B. Buses tend to be less reliable, but they go everywhere the metro does not. An Opus card can be purchased with several fares added, if you’re planning on using the metro and/or buses often. Taxis and Ubers are readily available, too, and taxis can be hailed on the street.

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Your Trip to Montreal: The Complete Guide

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

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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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.

More From 36 Hours

Have a weekend to explore a destination we’ve got the perfect travel itinerary..

Paris: A different side of the French capital reveals smaller museums, under-the-radar spots in Montmartre and a diverse performance scene .

Montreal : Climb a mountain, wander the waterfront and enjoy a smoked-meat sandwich  in a city with a surprise around every corner.

Cartagena: With a limonada de coco in hand, explore two walkable neighborhoods over a weekend  in this coastal Colombian city.

Glasgow:  Take in Gothic architecture, green riverside walks and a global banquet  in Scotland’s largest city.

Chicago:   ​​ Cycle miles of urban trails, tour a restored Frank Lloyd Wright masterwork and catch golden hour  along Lake Michigan.

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Home » North America » Montreal

23 BEST Places to Visit in Montreal (2024)

Montreal is undoubtedly the cultural beating heart of Canada. It’s overflowing with lush green parks, historic basilicas, and creative art galleries that you can’t find anywhere else in North America. Not to mention that it boasts some of the most diverse (and delicious) restaurants around!

And while many cities in Quebec can’t decide between being proudly Canadian or culturally French, Montreal manages to pull them both off seamlessly. You can be walking down a European-style cobblestone alley and turn the corner to see towering skyscrapers and metropolitan high rises.

If you want to make the most of your time in Quebec’s largest city, check out our curated list of best things to see in Montreal. You’ll be amazed at all the fascinating attractions there are waiting for you!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Montreal:

These are the best places to visit in montreal, faq on the best places to visit in montreal, final thoughts.

Old Montreal

Old Montreal (or Vieux-Montreal) is undoubtedly the heart of the city. The oldest district in the city, Old Montreal was founded as a fur trading post by Samuel de Champlain in the early-17th century.

• Be amazed by Notre-Dame Basilica, the city’s most spectacular church and one of the largest in North America.
• Learn all about science and technology at the exciting and modern Montreal Science Centre.
• Enjoy a taste of Quebec from the 1700s at Le Saint-Gabriel restaurant.

Your accommodation in Montreal also needs to be THE BEST! It can be hard to sift all the great options that exist in this stunning city so we’ve made it easier for you. Check out the best places to stay in Montreal and get your accommodation lined up next to your favourite attractions before you go.

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#1 – Mont-Royal – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Montreal!

• Hike, walk, or bus to the top
• Amazing views from the summit
• Plenty of outdoor activities and things to see
• Designed by NYC’s Central Park designer

Why it’s awesome: Start your visit to Montreal by climbing to the top of Mont Royal! There are three different peaks, but each one boasts stunning, panoramic views of the entire city and mountains over the south bank. We recommend waking up early and visiting Mont Royal before the sun rises. Not only will you beat the mass groups of tourists, but you’ll also see one of the most picturesque views of Montreal. And for those who aren’t so keen on trekking up a mountain, don’t worry! There’s a shuttle bus to the summit.

What to do there: The walk to the peaks might be just as entertaining as the view itself. There are plenty of trees and animals to see as you make your way to the top. Or, you can bring some lunch and a couple of friends for a quiet outdoor picnic. And if you come in the winter, you can slide down the side of Mont Royal by snow tube or toboggan!

#2 – Jardin Botanique

• Themed gardens and greenhouses
• Rare, unique, and tropical plants
• On-site insectarium
• Home to botanical research facilities

Why it’s awesome: Built for the 1976 Summer Olympics, Jardin Botanique is a serene park where you can escape the hectic city life around you. Covering over 75-hectares, the sprawling park contains 30 themed gardens and ten greenhouses, each home to a variety of different plants and flowers. It’s another relaxing destination for those who are interested in escaping the city. Not only is the garden one of Canada’s National Historic Sites, but it’s also one of the most comprehensive gardens in the world!

What to do there: The best thing to do at Jardin Botanique is to wander the grounds and explore the different gardens. You’ll find Japanese and Chinese gardens, medical gardens, and even rare, toxic plants! During the spring and summer, you can also walk through the vibrant rose garden, which blooms in a rainbow of colors. Inside the greenhouses are tropical plants, orchids, bonsai trees, and bromeliads. But plants aren’t the only thing to see here! If you’re not squeamish, you can visit the on-site insectarium!

#3 – Notre Dame Basilica – Possibly one of the most important places to see in Montreal!

• One of the most popular  things to do in Montreal
• Brightly colored interior
• Grand 7,000-pipe organ
• Come for the sound and light show

Why it’s awesome: Not to be confused with the cathedral of the same name in Paris, the Notre Dame in Montreal is the city’s oldest church. Built-in a towering, Neo-Gothic Style, the church is equally as intricate from the outside as it is on the inside. Shades of bright purples, vibrant reds, and shiny silver give the interior of the church a jewel-toned hue. But by far the most impressive features are the deep blue vaults of the ceiling, which are decorated with shimming gold stars.

What to do there: If you’re a fan of architecture, you’ll enjoy marveling at the beautiful construction of the basilica. Inside, you can see the carved pulpit, which was sculpted by Louis-Philippe Hébert in the 1800s. And, you can’t miss seeing (or hearing) the 7,000-pipe organ. Admission to Notre Dame includes a 20-minute tour, but you can also upgrade to a 1-hour tour for more information, as well as access to private rooms including the balconies and the crypt.

#4 – Jean-Talon Market – A must see for foodies!

• Located in Little Italy
• Over 300 stalls and shops
• Buy directly from the farmer, fisherman, or butcher
•  A feast for the eyes (and stomach!)

Why it’s awesome: Located in Montreal’s Little Italy neighborhood, the Jean-Talon Market is your go-to destination for delicious Canadian delicacies. Surprisingly, it’s open all year round (even during the hard Montreal winter). Most of the 300 shop vendors come from the Montreal countryside, and sell produce, meats, and fish sourced directly from their farms. Not only can you buy directly from the source, but you can also meet the farmers and learn more about how they produce their goods.

What to do there: Shop of course! There is a wide variety of food stalls and shop vendors selling every type of tasty treat under the sun. Even if you don’t plan on purchasing groceries, you can still feast your eyes on the colorful, delicious fruits and vegetables that are on display. Surrounding the markets are several restaurants and specialty shops, where you can purchase spices, cheeses, imported goods, and pastries. It’s also a great place to buy cookware, as there are several kitchen stores in the area.

#5 – St. Joseph’s Oratory

• Dedicated to the patron saint, St. Joseph of Canada
• Sweeping views from the top of the hill
• Religious pilgrimage site
• Canada’s largest church

Why it’s awesome: Located in Mont-Royal Park, Oratoire Saint-Joseph, or St. Joseph’s Oratory, is a Renaissance domed basilica from the early 1920s. In fact, it’s Canada’s largest church, and is considered to have one of the largest dome tops in the world! Therefore, it’s easy to see why the church is one of Canada’s National Historic Sites. Dedicated to the patron saint of St. Joseph, the basilica is supposedly the location where he performed magical acts of healing for the citizens of Montreal.

What to do there: There are many things to look at when you enter St. Joseph’s Oratory. One of the highlights is St. Joseph’s tomb, which is located in the main chapel. However, the church is situated atop a hill, with exactly 283 steps leading up to the main entrance. And for many, the walk to St. Joseph’s Oratory is considered a religious pilgrimage. But even if you’re not of practicing faith, you can still enjoy the outstanding view from the top.

#6 – Parc Jean Drapeau – Easily one of the most fun places to check out in Montreal!

• Family-friendly attraction area
• Amusement park, museums, and race track
• Unique glass shaped dome as a building
• Perfect for a weekend away

Why it’s awesome: Covering both Saint Helens and Notre Dame Islands, Parc Jean Drapeau is one of the most exciting attractions in all of Montreal. Initially constructed for the Expo 67 World’s Fair, Parc Jean Drapeau was transformed into the ultimate amusement area. The building itself is also a fantastic sight – a giant glass sphere contains the family-fun attractions inside. So come prepared to have an action-packed day or weekend on some of the most exhilarating views in all of Montreal!

What to do there: If you’re looking for a thrilling weekend of fun in Montreal , then you’ll find it at Parc Jean Drapeau. Shoot down heart-stopping rollercoasters at La Ronde theme park, race cars on a formula-1 race track, or take a dip in the Olympic rowing basin. You can also find an environmental museum, an outdoor concert venue, and even a sandy beach! Whether you’re visiting with friends, your family, or even with your significant other, you’re guaranteed to find something that sparks your interest here at Parc Jean Drapeau!

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#7 –  Musée des Beaux-Arts

• Canada’s largest art museum
• Modern, Impressionist, Ancient, and Oriental Art
• Six individual pavilions and art themes
• Located on Sherbrooke Street

Why it’s awesome: Not only is the Musée des Beaux-Arts the oldest museum in Canada, but it’s a sprawling collection of over 10,000 items! You’ll find paintings, sculptures and even interactive installations from all over the world. Located on the Golden Square Mile stretch of Sherbrooke Street, you can’t miss large 53,000 square meter building. Highlights include paintings by Rembrandt, Canaletto, El Greco, Tiepolo, and Veronese.

What to do there: With six different pavilions, you’ll have a variety of exhibits to explore. At the Desmarais Pavilion, you’ll find the modern and contemporary art, while the Hornstein Pavilion houses archeology and ancient art. The Bourgie Pavilion contains Quebec and Canadian-focused art and the Hornstein Pavilion for Peace has an extensive collection of international pieces. Finally, there’s a 2,000 square meter sculpture garden, where you can enjoy metal, marble, and clay sculptures while getting a bit of sun! In reality, the Musée des Beaux-Arts has something for every type of taste.

#8 –  Le Plateau-Mont-Royal  – Cool place to see in Montreal with friends!

• Quirky and trendy neighborhood in Montreal
• See and be seen! Great people watching
• Busy shops, restaurants, and cafes
• Colorful buildings and houses

Why it’s awesome: With vibrant, colorful houses and a laid-back, creative atmosphere, Le Plateau-Mont-Royal is a trendy neighborhood in Montreal. Simply known as The Plateau, this densely populated district is always buzzing at every hour of the day. It was once an active ethnic community, with many immigrants commuting to the nearby factories. However, it’s now a quirky, hip area full of students, artists, musicians, and most obviously, hipsters. This neighborhood is primarily for anyone who wants to see and be seen.

What to do there: You can find all sorts of activities, day and night, here at The Plateau. Small boutiques, outdoor coffee shops, and gourmet restaurants line the streets. Sure, this might not be your average, run-of-the-mill tourist attraction, but it’s overflowing with locals. Even the architecture here is worth noting! Historic houses are painted bright oranges and purples, with iron staircases and balconies hugging the outside. Come for the cuisine, the one-of-a-kind shops, or for the people watching.

#9 –  Pointe-à-Callière Museum

• Comprised of three different archeological sites
• Showcasing different periods throughout Montreal
• A National Historic Site of Canada
• See Montreal’s first Catholic Cemetary

Why it’s awesome: Located in the historic city center of Old Montreal, the Pointe-à-Callière Museum is one of the most important museums in all of Canada. It originally opened in 1992; on Montreal’s 350th birthday, and has remained an iconic landmark since. Pointe-à-Callière is an award-winning, archeological museum, and showcases significant periods of history since Montreal’s development. If you’re looking to dive deeper into the city’s culture and history, then spend a few hours exploring the educational Pointe-à-Callière Museum!

What to do there: As soon as you step foot inside the museum, you’ll be transported back in time. Each section focuses on a different time in Montreal, and you can explore the history through artifacts, photos, and interactive exhibits. Don’t miss the archeological crypt, an underground area that contains the original stone trails, drainage channels, and floors from 17th-century Montreal. There are also rotating, temporary exhibits, and you can check the Pointe-à-Callière website to see what’s on display during your visit.

#10 –  Aire Commune

• Unique coworking office and event space
• Free wifi, live entertainment, and yoga classes
• Only open during the summer
• Several bars and food stalls on-site

Why it’s awesome: Montreal’s Aire Commune is not your average workspace. By bringing together the most creative minds and influencers around Canada, Aire Commune is a cohesive coworking office and event space. Located in the trendy Mile End neighborhood, Aire Commune attracts both foreign visitors and locals alike. However, it’s important to remember that it’s only open during the summer month from May to September. But if you happen to be in Montreal during this time, you can’t miss a visit to the unique, outdoor Aire Commune!

What to do there: Aire Commune throws a variety of daily events, including lunch and learns live entertainment, happy hours, and even yoga classes! And when you’re hungry, there are several food stalls and cafes to keep your stomach happy and full. They also have a huge outdoor terrace where you can mingle with new friends or enjoy an ice, cold bottle of beer. And since they’re free wifi everywhere, you might even be able to convince yourself to get some work done!

#11 – Habitat 67 – A great place to see in Montreal if you love architecture!

• Built for the Expo 67 World’s Fair
• Over 150 modular apartments
• Great views of Habitat 67 from Montreal’s port
• Tour the designer’s private penthouse

Why it’s awesome: Habitat 67 may be one of the most bizarre apartment buildings in the world! It was initially designed by a McGill University masters student, who came up with the idea for the Expo 67 World’s Fair. The building is made up of 67 concrete structures, that are stacked and placed in various combinations and heights. Come to think of it; they somewhat resemble a bunch of shoeboxes! However, Habitat 67 is actually comprised of over 150 apartment buildings. And since some of the homes come with portside views and large terraces, it’s surprisingly not a bad place to call home!

What to do there: Unless you are looking for a new apartment or have a friend that lives there, you visit Habitat 67 to admire the unique architecture. Whether you’re looking at the studios from the ground floor, or from across the water of Montreal Port, you’ll be amazing at how this modular structure became one of the most influential and experimental buildings in all of Canada. However, you can tour Safdie (the architects) private penthouse suite. Tickets can be purchased for the private guided tour of his apartment.

#12 – Notre Dame des Neiges Cemetery

• Over 1 million graves
• The largest cemetery in Canada
• Tombstones of poets, politicians, and Montreal’s affluent
• Over 65 monuments

Why it’s awesome: Covering over 139-hectares on Mont-Royal, the Notre Dame des Neiges Cemetery is more than just Canada’s largest cemetery. It’s actually full of iconic landmarks and monuments! Many of the mausoleums and graves belong to famous politicians, artists, and musicians. And as you walk through the fields, you might find that the cemetery looks familiar. That’s because it was modeled after the famous Père Lachaise Cemetery in Paris.

What to do there: Like most cemeteries, there aren’t too many attractions in the Notre Dame des Neiges Cemetery besides walking around. However, you’ll find some of Montreal’s most prominent people buried here. And besides, the mausoleums and tombstones are stunning, especially the La Pietà Mausoleum, which was modeled after Michelangelo’s Pietà statue. But even as you walk through the gardens and fields, you’ll find that the cemetery can be quite relaxing. And since you’re right in the middle of the city, it’s worth a quiet visit to contemplate the natural surroundings.

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#13 – Lachine Canal National Historic Site

• Used during the fur trade
• Relaxing boat rides and walks along the banks
• Open air and plenty of green space
• Over 14-kilometers long

Why it’s awesome: Nestled on the southeast bank of Montreal Island is Lachine Canal a 14.4-kilometer long canal. Pioneers from the 17th-century initially thought the route led to China, but in fact, only runs from Old Port to Lake Saint Louise. It’s now a beautiful historic site, with plenty of parks, green spaces, and fresh air. Although much of the area has been converted to usable space, you can still close your eyes and imagine how the fur traders floated down the canal on their expeditions!

What to do there: There are plenty of outdoor activities to do along the shores of the Lachine Canal. Take a picnic and plop yourself in the sun for a relaxing lunch. Or, rent a bike and cycle along the side of the river on the paved bike paths. There are even cruises that will take you up and down the canal, so you can feel the wind blowing through your hair! But best of all, you can come to Lachine Canal just to escape the bustle of the city.

#14 – Chinatown – An awesome place to visit in Montreal for half a day!

• Initially home to the Jewish population
• Bustling restaurants and cafes
• Lively nightlife area for locals and tourists
• Affordable shopping for knick-knacks

Why it’s awesome: Adorned with red lanterns and pagoda gates, Montreal’s Chinatown is a lively, vibrant, neighborhood worth exploring. Surprisingly, it was once the home to Montreal’s Jewish community, before the first Chinese immigrants moved in the late 1800s. And although many Chinese residents live in the district, Chinatown is also home to the Vietnamese population in Montreal. And since the entire area is pedestrianized, you can leisurely experience all the shops and restaurants it has to offer!

What to do there: Like most Chinatown’s around the world, Montreal’s is known for gastronomic cuisine, affordable souvenir shops, and quaint bakeries and cafes. It may only cover a small street, but at night, it becomes a busy area filled with locals, immigrants, and tourists. And as a designated tourist spot, the Canadian government allows the restaurants and bars to stay open late into the evening. Which means you can enjoy dim sum and bubble tea whenever you please!

#15 – Gibeau Orange Julep – Quite the quirky place in Montreal!

• Unique road-side attraction!
• Giant, orange-shaped restaurant
• Tasty burgers, hot dogs, and fries
• Around since the 1930s

Why it’s awesome: As you’re cruising down Autoroute 15, you might notice a strange, 40-foot orb on the side of the road. No, it’s not a giant orange! This bizarre spherical building is Gibeau Orange Julep, a delicious, fast food restaurant that’s been a Montreal staple since 1932. And while many people visit just to snap a few photos of the bright, orange building, it’s the creamy orange-sicle smoothie and crisp french fries that steal the show. You can’t miss this exciting road-side attraction when driving through Montreal!

What to do there: The sheer size and shape of the giant orange building is worth visiting Gibeau Orange Julep alone. It stands three stories high, doesn’t contain any windows, and radiates with a delicious, mouth-watering aroma. But once you go inside, it looks like a typical fast food joint! And trust us – the food will have you returning to this restaurant every time you’re in Montreal. Indulge in chili fries, char-grilled hamburgers, and cold milkshakes.

#16 – Montreal Holocaust Museum

• Canada’s only Holocaust museum
• Artifacts, audio recordings, and photographs
• Monthly educational programs
• Started by Holocaust survivors

Why it’s awesome: Founded in the 1970s, the Montreal Holocaust Museum is Canada’s only Holocaust-focused museum. Since Montreal was the third-largest city for WWII survivors, it’s easy to see why the city was chosen to set up a memorial museum. Many of the artifacts and have donated by the survivors (or family of survivors) themselves. Not only is the Montreal Holocaust Museum a harrowing reminder of our history, but it also aims to educate the future generations by shedding light on racism and hate.

What to do there: There are almost 13,000 artifacts related to WWII and the Holocaust, many of which have been transported directly from the Auschwitz concentration camp. You can find children’s diaries, photographs, and even the ash remains of an unnamed victim. But most importantly, the museum has archived over 800 oral histories from survivors. With these recordings, you can have a deeper understanding of this once, world-altering occurrence.

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#17 – Musée Eudore Dubeau – One of the more unique places to visit in Montreal!

• Canada’s only museum on the history of dentistry
• Collection of over 1000 artifacts with fascinating descriptions
• Initially founded as a teaching museum in 1978
• Named after the first dean of the dentistry faculty at the Université de Montréal

Why it’s awesome: The Musée Eudore Dubeau might be Montreal’s most unique museum! With an extensive collection of human bones, anesthesia equipment, and antique tools, the Musée Eudore Dubeau is Canada’s only museum of dentistry! Although it’s located in the Université de Montréal’s dental school, this teaching museum eventually opened to the public due to popular demand. You might not enjoy going to the dentist’s office, but trust us, this museum is nothing to be frightened about!

What to do there: The museum is home to over 1,000 items, objects, and artifacts relating to dentistry. You’ll find everything from terrifyingly rusty drills to early 1920 X-ray machines. And if that was spooky enough, there are even human bones on display! However, we particularly liked the recreated 1867 dental office, complete with squeaking chairs and not-so-sterile tools. But not everything in the museum is scary. In fact, it’s relatively educational since it dives 300 years into Canada’s dental history.

#18 – Vieux-Montréal – One of the most amazing places in Montreal!

• Montreal’s original city center
• Tons of shops, attractions, and dining options
• Historic 16th and 17th-century buildings
• Close to the port

Why it’s awesome: As the beating heart of the city, Vieux-Montréal, otherwise known as Old Montreal, is the historical and cultural center of Montreal. French settlers founded it in the 16th century, and many of the buildings remain intact today! With cobblestone streets, brick buildings, and stone churches, Vieux-Montréal is full of European charm. You might not even realize you’re in the middle of Canada! And since you’re portside next to the water, you’ll get to experience dramatic views of the surrounding area!

What to do there: There is a seemingly endless amount of activities going on at all hours of the day. Vieux-Montréal is full of cafes, restaurants, shops, businesses, and hotels, each one situated in a beautiful, antique building from the 16th and 17th-centuries (there are some great hostels here too). The neighborhood is also home to several of Montreal’s most notable attractions, including the Point-a-Calliere Museum, the Notre Dame Basilica, and the Centre d’histoire de Montréal. Catering to all different types of tourists and locals, you really will find something interesting and intriguing in Vieux-Montréal!

#19 – Château Ramezay

• Former residence of the Montreal governor
• Built in 1705
• Historical artifacts, paintings, and other items
• Located in Old Montreal

Why it’s awesome: Located on a tree-lined street in Old Montreal, the Château Ramezay Museum shows five centuries of Montreal artifacts, manuscripts, and artworks. In fact, it has over 30,000 objects to look at! The building was built in 1705 for Governor Château Ramezay, who lived in the house during his term. Even Benjamin Franklin spend a night in one of the rooms in Château Ramezay! The building was then sold to fur traders and later turned into a museum in the late 1800s. Now, it’s considered the oldest private museum and first historical monument in Quebec.

What to do there: Walking through the building and tracing the footsteps of past governors will give you a deeper appreciation for Montreal’s history. However, the artifacts and items in the museum also show Montreal’s influence on not just Canada, but on the world. And on a beautiful day, you can step outside and stroll through the on-site landscaped gardens. It’s a beautiful, serene area where you can relax in the sun!

#20 – Olympic Stadium

• Built for the 1976 Olympics
• Home to the world’s largest inclined tower
• Largest stadium in Canada
• Book a tour or tickets to see inside

Why it’s awesome: Nicknamed “The Big O,” the Olympic Stadium is a donut-like arena that was used as the main stadium for the 1976 summer Olympics . It’s the largest stadium in the entire country, seating up to 56,000 screaming fans and sports fanatics. And although the professional baseball and soccer teams once used it, it’s now only used for special occasions, such as concerts and trade shows. However, it’s still a unique piece of architecture that you won’t want to miss when in Montreal!

What to do there: The best way to see the Olympic Stadium is to book a guided tour, where you can learn about its history and even have the chance to walk the pitch! Or to see the stadium in full swing, purchase tickets to one of the organized events. However, you can still visit the Montreal Tower, the world’s largest inclined tower at 165-meters high. You’ll be taken on a glass-enclosed funicular to the top of the tower, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the city and stadium below.

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#21 – Parc La Fontaine – A great place in Montreal to relax!

• 85-hectares of beauty
• Ponds, fountains, and waterfalls,
• Activities for all seasons
• City escape

Why it’s awesome : Situated in the middle of the Plateau, Parc La Fontaine is a relaxing getaway where you can kick back and enjoy the natural surrounding of Montreal. The best part about Parc La Fontaine is that you can enjoy it any time of the year. In the summer, locals are sunbathing and having picnics. During the severe winters, the park’s ponds freeze and people start ice skating on the frozen lakes. We particularly enjoy Autumn, where the leaves begin to change colors, and you can stroll through the park admiring the beauty of the city.

What to do there: What you do in Parc La Fontaine will depend on what time of the year you visit. When it’s warm, you can swim in the two ponds in the middle of the park. And in winter, you can ice skate on the frozen lakes. In more temperate climates, you can take advantage of the bike paths and running trails that line the perimeter of the park. In reality, Parc La Fontaine is open for whatever sparks your interest! And best of all, you can quickly reach it from most neighborhoods in Montreal!

#22 – Little Italy

• Second largest Italian community in Canada
• Home to the Jean-Talon Market
• Many Italians restaurants and shops
• Charming area in Montreal

Why it’s awesome : Little Italy is another reason why Montreal’s culture is known for being unique and diverse. Covering a few blocks and streets, Little Italy is home to the mouth-watering restaurants, fashion boutiques, and caffeine-filled cafes owned by Canadian-Italian immigrants. Many immigrants came to Montreal after WWII and set up homes and shops to breath life into what we now know as Little Italy. And after Toronto, it’s now the largest community of Italian’s in all of Canada!

What to do there: If you love coffee and pasta, then you’ve come to the right place! Tourists and locals alike flock to Little Italy to devour some of the best culinary dishes on this side of the Atlantic. Food is taken so seriously that the neighborhood is even home to the famous Jean-Talon Market, where you can purchase a variety of meats, produce, and cheeses. But if you’re too stuffed from all the cannoli you’re eating, you can relax in the nearby Dante Park.

#23 – Verdun

• Charming borough of Montreal
• Plenty of restaurants and shops
• Swim or walk by the lake
• More authentic atmosphere

Why it’s awesome:  If you have an extra day, hop on the metro and head towards Verdun, one of Montreal’s most charming neighborhoods. It was settled in 1671, making it one of Canada’s oldest cities. But don’t be fooled by the age! Verdun is an up-and-coming area with some of the trendiest shops and restaurants in all of Montreal. And while it attracts travelers, it has more of a local, rural atmosphere compared to the other districts in Montreal.

What to do there:  Since Verdun sits on the banks of the Lawrence River, you can easily spend a few hours biking or walking along the edge. And if you happen to come during the summer, you’ll often find people cooling off from the heat by swimming in it! Or, you can make your way to the main street of Wellington for charming cafes and independent boutiques.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Montreal

Are there any free places to visit in Montreal?

Check out these free places to visit in Montreal: – Jean-Talon Market – Vieux-Montréal – Mont-Royal

Which are the best family places to visit in Montreal?

Families will love these cool places in Montreal: – Mont-Royal – Parc Jean Drapeau – Jean-Talon Market

What are the best places to visit in Montreal during summer?

Montreal has some amazing outdoor places to visit that are especially great during summer: – Jardin Botanique – Mont-Royal – Parc La Fontaine

Are there any good indoor places to visit in Montreal?

In case the weather is bad, check out these cool indoor places in Montreal: – Notre Dame Basilica – St. Joseph’s Oratory – Musée des Beaux-Arts

So now that you have an idea of the best places in Montreal, you should have no problem picking the best attractions for your Montreal itinerary ! The only problem is, this list is just a small taste of what this fantastic city has to offer. Montreal is a sprawling, cultural hotspot, and even if you were here a few months, it would barely be enough time to scratch the surface!

But between the contemporary art galleries, diverse ethnic communities, and stunning natural parks, we know you’ll be drawn back for another visit. You can never stay away from Montreal for too long!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Sheridan Cahoon

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Nice compilation for the tourists. Thanks from the peg

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22 Best Things To Do & Places To Visit In Montreal (Canada)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: June 6, 2019  - Last updated: October 17, 2023

There are lots of things to do in Montreal.

Some of them are obvious; there’s swimming in the summer and skiing in the winter, and you can always find resorts, restaurants and shopping malls that are ready to serve tourists.

But what if you’re looking for a higher caliber of entertainment?

What if you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Montreal, and you want to make sure that you’re only spending time in the coolest and most memorable places?

If you’re wondering how to plan a trip to the nicest city in Quebec, here are just a few suggestions for the best Montreal attractions.

Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. If you make a booking through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

1. Schwartz’s Deli

Davis Dorss / Shutterstock

Schwartz’s Deli is more than just a restaurant.

It’s one of the oldest, most renowned restaurants in Montreal, and it has the kind of zealous following that gives it weight as a genuine cultural icon for the city.

The most famous things on the menu are the sandwiches.

Schwartz’s Deli specializes in Montreal-style smoked meat that’s cured for 10 days before being cooked in a brick smokehouse and seasoned with secret spices.

People travel for miles to get a taste of the fatty, meat-loaded sandwiches, especially when they’re paired with fries, coleslaw or sour pickles.

Schwartz’s Deli is also considered something of a meat lover’s mecca. In addition to the smoked brisket, you can order ribs, steaks, chicken and even salami.

Everything comes with customized side dishes to ensure a perfect balance of tastes.

Another fun fact about Schwartz’s Deli is that it’s located right across the street from its longtime rival Main Deli Steak House.

The two restaurants are in a constant battle over who makes the best meat and who can attract the most famous clientele.

Previous customers of both establishments have included Stanley Lewis, Leonard Cohen and Celine Dion, but Celine Dion officially declared her loyalty to Schwartz’s Deli when she bought into it.

Schwartz’s Deli is one of those Montreal attractions that you have to visit at least once.

You haven’t really experienced the city until you’ve bitten into one of their thick, dripping sandwiches.

Getting the sauce on your shirt because of Schwartz’s Deli is practically a rite of passage in Montreal.

Address:  3895 St Laurent Blvd, Montreal, QC H2W 1X9, Canada

2. Old Montreal

meunierd / Shutterstock

There’s a distinctive sound in Old Montreal that you can’t hear anywhere else in the city: the clatter of horseshoes on cobblestone streets.

This historic neighborhood is filled with the commerce, culture and architecture of generations past, and it aims for authenticity right down to the horse-drawn carriages that slowly ramble down the street.

A different kind of atmosphere runs through Old Montreal. Unlike the gleaming skyscrapers of the business district, it favors a quaint, cheerfully-crowded kind of look.

Its streets are crammed with shops, bistros, museums, galleries and sidewalk vendors, and you might expect a baker to pop his head out of a window at any moment and announce the day’s fresh bread.

There’s also a lot of history to be appreciated in Old Montreal.

It boasts churches and chapels that date back to the 15th century, and its stunning centerpiece is the Basilique Notre-Dame de Montreal, the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal.

This particular landmark is one of the most famous in Canada: It receives more than 11 million visitors per year, only slightly less than the Notre Dame cathedral in Paris.

Do you want to experience history firsthand?

Check out the Chateau Ramezay, a museum where all of the staffers dress up in period-appropriate clothing, or stop by the Old Port where you can listen to the boats blow the same horns that were heard hundreds of years ago.

All in all, Old Montreal is a place where you can rewind time.

You won’t find anywhere else like it in the city, and it’s the sort of tourist attraction that you’ll fondly remember as a vacation highlight for years to come.

You should definitely hop on a carriage and take a ride!

Check details, prices and reviews here.

3. Quartier Des Spectacles

Benoit Daoust / Shutterstock

The Quartier des Spectacles is the arts and entertainment district of downtown Montreal.

Home to everything from sculpture galleries to film conservatories, it’s the beating heart of Montreal’s art scene.

Its centerpiece is the Place des Arts , a performing arts center that hosts an orchestra, opera house and world-famous ballet troupe.

It’s also home to Salles du Gesu, the oldest theater in Montreal, and Grande Bibliotheque, the most-visited library in Canada.

Hundreds of festivals take place in Quartier des Spectacles.

You’ve probably heard of the Montreal International Jazz Festival, but you might be surprised to learn about the existence of the Montreal Circus Festival or the Nuits d’Afrique Festival.

These are only the headliners, too; there’s an endless number of small, independent festivals run throughout the year.

While any time is a good time to visit Quartier des Spectacles, it’s absolutely amazing at night.

Colorful lights will beckon you from every building, and illuminated fountains will mesmerize you with water jets and laser shows.

Clear windows will let you see into all of the shops, restaurants, museums and theaters that line the streets.

If you’re a fan of the arts, you won’t want to miss Quartier des Spectacles.

It might not have official borders, but that could be considered part of its charm: It’s a free and open space where all forms of self-expression are allowed to mingle and bring people together.

If you don’t make three new friends by the time that you’ve walked from one end of the neighborhood to the other, you aren’t doing it right.

Address:  175 Saint-Catherine St, Montreal, QC H2X 1Y9, Canada

4. Montreal Science Center

EQRoy / Shutterstock

The Montreal Science Center will stun you both inside and out.

Its gleaming glass architecture is fitted with staircases that look like chromosomes, and its sprawling complex includes a museum, childcare center and IMAX theater.

There’s even more to admire when you step inside.

The Montreal Science Center doesn’t just print things on little placards; it transforms entire rooms and wings into interactive activity stations.

Kids can stack blocks, use tools, connect wires, play with magnets or join a real assembly line.

They can measure themselves against life-sized animal statues and take a walk through underwater domes.

If they’re tech-minded, they can use touchscreen computers for virtual lessons and games.

The IMAX theater is one of the more recent additions to the museum, but it’s already proving to be quite popular.

Titles include things like “Volcanoes 3D” and “Superpower Dogs.”

There’s nothing quite like seeing the whiskers of a panda twitch on a screen that’s taller than some buildings!

There are also a number of special events organized or supported by the museum.

In July, for example, you can experience the Eureka Festival, a three-day celebration of science, invention and technology.

It offers more than 100 free activities for visitors of all ages, so if you like demonstrations and workshops that won’t cost you a dime, it’s a great place to be thrifty.

The Montreal Science Center has something to offer the entire family.

Both kids and adults can enjoy its hands-on displays, and mom and dad will especially like that it educates while it entertains.

It’s the kind of tourist attraction that you can feel good about visiting, so it deserves a spot at the top of your list.

Address:  2 de la Commune St W, Montreal, QC H2Y 4B2, Canada

5. Underground City

Andriy Blokhin / Shutterstock

How do you escape the brutal winters of Canada? You go underground.

Located right under the streets of Montreal, the Underground City is a gigantic network of corridors that links together shops, offices, banks, restaurants, bus terminals and metro stations.

It stretches for 20 miles and contains literally thousands of businesses. It’s the single biggest pedestrian complex in the world.

The name is a bit of hyperbole; large swathes of the Underground City are actually just covered, climate-controlled spaces that link together the buildings of downtown Montreal.

However, you’ll still enjoy the underground vibe thanks to its unique layout, and you’ll still have access to everything from hotels to hosiery shops as you wander its halls.

You’ll appreciate the Underground City extra hard if you’re traveling to Montreal in the winter months.

Temperatures can dip quite low, so being able to escape the chilly winds and slippery sidewalks is a blessing.

Looking at photos of the Underground City, you might be tempted to call it a labyrinth. You’d be right.

While everything is marked with directions to keep people from getting lost, that doesn’t change the fact that it’s a crazy urban jungle where the scenery is constantly changing.

One section might look like a modern shopping mall with gleaming lights and multi-layer staircases; another section might be a creepy corridor full of doors that you don’t really want to open.

If you’re looking for points of interest in Montreal, it doesn’t get more interesting than the Underground City.

Your head will be on a constant swivel as you move through the maze. There are just so many things to see and do that you won’t know where to look!

Address:  747 Rue du Square-Victoria #247, Montréal, QC H2Y 3Y9, Canada

6. Mount Royal Park

Horst Petzold / Shutterstock

With lush, colorful landscapes and activity rosters for every season of the year, Mount Royal Park is one of the best places to visit in Montreal.

The first thing to know about the park is that it’s gigantic.

It’s perched atop the volcanic rock cluster that is Mount Royal, and it unfolds across all kinds of playgrounds, picnic sites, skating rinks, ski slopes, tennis courts, hiking trails, tobogganing hills and rowboating lakes.

You won’t lack for things to do or the space to do them.

Another great thing about Mount Royal Park is that it has a constant schedule of activities.

Some of them are formally planned by the city of Montreal, like the “Art and Nature Family Walk” that brings families together for an exploration of the park.

Other events are fun, free and informal, like the weekly drum circles that come together in one of the park’s most famous fields. They call their music “Tam-Tam Jams” after the sound of drums.

Last but not least, Mount Royal Park is a beautiful place to be.

It’s considered a top sightseeing destination because of its aerial views of the city, and the trails are filled with decks, gazebos and wooden belvederes to act as observation points.

In the summertime, blue skies stretch over grass; in the wintertime, the grounds are covered in crisp white snow. In the fall, leaves of every color drift and scatter around the meadows.

Mount Royal Park is easily one of the best destinations in Montreal. Not only does it offer breathtaking views, but it also provides outdoor excursions for everyone.

Whether you like running, swimming, hiking, sledding, ice skating or just sightseeing, Mount Royal Park can deliver.

Address:  1260 Remembrance Rd, Montreal, QC H3H 1A2, Canada

7. Circuit Gilles Villeneuve

FOTOimage Montreal / Shutterstock

Get your motor running with a trip to the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve .

This racing strip has played host to everything from the NASCAR Xfinity Series to the FIA World Sportscar Championship, and its sharp curves and hairpin turns have given it a well-deserved reputation as one of the wildest in the world.

Its most famous feature is “The Wall,” a tricky chicane located right before the finish line.

So many drivers have crashed on it that track officials cheekily painted it with the words Bienvenue au Quebec (“Welcome to Quebec”).

It was also nicknamed “the Wall of Champions” after it caused four separate championship racers to crash. No one escapes the Wall.

When not in use for racing, the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve is open to joggers, cyclists, skaters and dog walkers.

It’s actually quite peaceful without the screeching of cars and the roaring of a thousand fans.

It’s located next to a river, so there are always scenic views and the smell of the sea in the air, and the lawns are kept nice and green.

But most people don’t go to the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve to walk their poodle.

Most of them know that it’s one of the top Montreal attractions for high-speed action, and they want to see the Wall claim its next victim.

If you consider yourself a thrill seeker, it doesn’t get much better than waiting with bated breath to see if a driver can make it past a hairpin turn at superhuman speeds.

Buy a ticket for the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve if you like excitement, adventure and just a little bit of danger.

It’s currently home to the Canadian Grand Prix, so you’ll have the chance to see some Dominic Toretto stunts up close when you attend the next race!

Address:  Parc Jean-Drapeau, Montréal, QC H3C 6A1, Canada

8. Montreal Museum Of Fine Arts

Alastair Wallace / Shutterstock

The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is one of the most prominent museums in all of Canada.

It probably has something to do with the sheer size of the place; it boasts five multi-story pavilions, and each of them is stuffed with galleries, painting halls and showcase rooms.

You can have a lot of fun when you get lost in the museum, however.

It’s home to everything from colorful oil portraits to ancient, rusted pottery, and these collections fill every inch of the space.

Whenever you turn a corner, there’s another exhibit to see. Whenever you wander up a staircase, you’ll find another level of art.

The museum has 40,000 pieces as permanent fixtures, and there are thousands more in temporary exhibitions that come and go.

They’re usually organized by theme, so you’ll see collections with titles like “Warhol Mania” or “Bon Appetit! Contemporary Foodware Designs in Quebec.”

When your legs start to hurt from all of your walking, take a break with the museum’s on-site restaurant or gift shop.

The designers fully expected people to lose hours among the art, so they made sure to offer refreshments to keep everyone going.

You can relax and recharge at a charming little cafe table before taking a deep breath and plunging back into the museum.

It doesn’t matter if you’re a budding sculptor or a layman who just loves beautiful things.

The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is one of the best cultural centers in the country, and it’ll serve you well on your journey of artistic discovery.

Address:  1380 Sherbrooke St W, Montreal, QC H3G 1J5, Canada

9. Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park

abdallahh / flickr

There’s something magical about the Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park .

Surrounded by water on three sides, it has a kind of wild, rugged beauty that manifests as sandy beaches and gnarled trees leading into hushed forests.

It’s the largest park in Montreal, and that probably plays a role in its otherworldly atmosphere.

It’s easy to get lost among miles and miles of pinewoods. It’s easy to dive down into the lake and wonder just how deep the water goes.

For all of its mystery, however, the Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park is a happy place for visitors.

Its hiking trails are kept clean and orderly; its lake is used for swimming, canoeing, kayaking, kite surfing and paddleboarding.

It has a “sugar shack” where you can watch maple syrup being made.

It even boasts a farm that raises livestock and grows fresh produce, and there’s an adjacent shop where you can buy milk, eggs and veggies that were harvested right next door.

To put it another way, you won’t lack for things to do at the park.

Whether you want to set up a telescope or take an art class on the grass, you’ll have lots of options for outdoor activities.

Just remember that the Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park is even bigger and grander than you can imagine.

Its true nature is eternally wild. People have been exploring it since the 1700s, but there are still parts that are untraveled and unmarked on maps.

You’ll want to clear your schedule for the Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park.

It isn’t always picture-perfect, but it’s real, and it’s definitely something to consider on a long list of Montreal attractions.

Address:  20099 Boul Gouin O, Pierrefonds, QC H9K 1C6, Canada

10. Olympic Stadium

R.M. Nunes / Shutterstock

Originally built for the 1976 Olympics, the Olympic Stadium has become the best place for big events in Montreal.

Its most common purpose, of course, is for sports.

The Olympic Stadium has seen everything from soccer matches to football championships, and it’s even hosted lesser-known athletic events for wrestling, gymnastics and speed skating.

Tickets are always on sale for something new and exciting.

The Olympic Stadium is also used for other recreational events such as concerts, rallies, religious gatherings and music competitions.

If it will attract a crowd of thousands, it’s held at the stadium. You can usually buy tickets for these things as well.

Last but certainly not least, the Olympic Stadium is where you’ll find Montreal Tower.

It’s a 540-foot “inclined” tower that leans over the sky at a 45° angle, and it offers an incredibly unique look over the treetops of Montreal.

It isn’t a regular height; it’s a tilted height. Millions of visitors flock to the Montreal Tower every year just to hold their breath as they lean over the cityscape.

You’d expect a stadium built for the Olympics to be grand and impressive, and fortunately, Olympic Stadium lives up to the hype.

Check out its online calendar to see if there’s anything cool happening on the field during your vacation.

Address:  4141 Pierre-de Coubertin Ave, Montreal, QC H1V 3N7, Canada

Planning a visit to Toronto soon? You’ll love our list detailing the best things to do in Toronto !

11. Ecomuseum Zoo

Jacques Fournier / flickr

Would you like to know a surprising fact about Montreal?

It doesn’t have many zoos. In fact, if you’ve put “feed the bears” on your list of what to do in Montreal, you only have one real option: the Ecomuseum Zoo.

The Ecomuseum Zoo is a small zoo located on the very tip of the Island of Montreal.

It isn’t fancy, and it doesn’t have state-of-the-art facilities like some of the bigger wildlife facilities in Canada.

What it lacks in size, however, the Ecomuseum Zoo has in heart.

Its artic fox is named Gandalf; its twin black bears are called Juno and Genie.

The other enclosures hold wolves, lynxes, eels, toads, turtles, porcupines and one very cranky vulture.

Because of its modest needs, the Ecomuseum Zoo can devote a lot of attention to individual animal care.

It can also host grassroots activity programs like summer camps for kids and “adopt an animal” campaigns to support the zoo.

The staff is known for its friendliness, and they frequently walk the grounds just to say hi to guests.

Simply put, the Ecomuseum Zoo is one that you can feel good about visiting. You won’t have to worry about animal exploitation or money mismanagement.

It’s a decent, clean-natured facility where you can see some cool creatures and teach your kids about the circle of life. What’s not to love?

Address:  21125 Sainte Marie Rd, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC H9X 3Y7, Canada

12. Jean-Talon Market

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The sounds and smells of Jean-Talon Market will reach you long before you see it.

It’s the single biggest outdoor market in Montreal, and it bustles with the activity of hundreds of visitors and vendors.

Fresh produce is the main draw of the market. Piled high on every table, you’ll have your fill of locally-grown fruits and vegetables that are arranged in colorful tableaus to appeal to shoppers.

These crisp crops will look just as good on your plate as your Instagram feed.

If you’re craving something other than produce, there are plenty of vendors with other foods.

You can find fresh seafood and meats of every variety; butchers and fishermen will often pack it up for you right then and there.

There are eggs, cheeses, spices, syrups and snacks. Hot bread will make your mouth water. Cold parfaits will give you goosebumps on your arms.

There’s even a collection of consumer goods at the Jean-Talon Market. It’s dwarfed by the sheer volume of food, but it exists.

If you’re looking for souvenirs, the market has bags, crafts, paintings, jewelry and potted plants.

Another nice thing about the market is that it’s located in the middle of a bigger business district, so if you can’t find what you need at Jean-Talon, you can take a few steps sideways and try a more traditional retail outlet.

The single greatest thing about the Jean-Talon market, however, is that it gives you the resources to prepare your own meals.

You don’t have to live on takeout during your trip to Montreal.

In fact, one of our recommended travel hacks is to cook your own food as much as possible; it’ll save you a ton of money in overall vacation expenses.

Use the Jean-Talon Market as a grocery store and stock up!

Check out this awesome bike tour which explores Jean-Talon Market.

Address:  7070 Henri Julien Ave, Montreal, QC H2S 3S3, Canada

13. La Ronde Amusement Park

If you’re wondering what to do in Montreal with kids, you might like La Ronde .

It’s an amusement park that mixes old-fashioned rides with fresh new carnival games, so it’s an intriguing blend of pursuits that parents and kids will both enjoy.

Originally built for a world fair in 1967, La Ronde had a classic, storybook kind of charm that saw it featured in many different films and TV shows.

You might recognize it from franchises like “Are You Afraid of the Dark?” where its haunted house was used as a vintage set piece.

The park was purchased by Six Flags a few years ago, and the new bosses modernized a lot of systems and safety features, but they decided to keep La Ronde’s old-fashioned aesthetic.

You can still find things like wooden roller coasters and hand-painted carousels in between its newer constructions.

More modern rides include frisbees, fireballs, kamikazes, slingshots, star flyers and tilt-a-whirls.

You can shoot water at clown noses and win teddy bears; you can stuff your face with hot dogs, nachos and cotton candy.

A monorail will take you on a ride through the park when you get tired of lugging your stuffed prizes everywhere.

If you time your visit right, you can also catch one of La Ronda’s special events.

On Halloween, for example, they host a Fright Fest where costumed employees roam the park to give people a scare. It’ll be an extra cherry on top of your amusement park sundae.

All things considered, La Ronda is a great way to spend an afternoon with your family.

It might not be one of the highbrow tourist attractions of Montreal, but sometimes, you don’t need highbrow. Sometimes, you just need a fried candy bar on a stick.

Address: 22 Chemin Macdonald  |  St. Helene Island ,  Montreal, Quebec H3C 6A3,  Canada

14. Montreal Botanical Garden

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The Montreal Botanical Garden is actually a collection of gardens and greenhouses.

It sweeps across 190 acres of land, so it’s one of the largest sightseeing locations in the city, and it contains such amazing biodiversity that it’s been recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada.

Notably, each garden of the Montreal Botanical Garden has a theme. Here are just a few of the best:

• The Japanese garden is filled with bonsai and bamboo, and it has a gentle, tranquil atmosphere with clean-cut lines that are inspired by eastern zen. It frequently hosts tea ceremonies, kendo demonstrations and memorial bell-ringing in honor of the atomic bomb victims.
• The First Nations Garden showcases the beautiful and medicinal plants favored by the indigenous people of Canada. It also boasts a culturally authentic totem pole and a small gallery of artwork and artifacts.
• The Chinese garden is designed to look like a royal garden from the Ming Dynasty, so it has a curved temple covered in lights and lanterns and a surrounding field of flowers, stones and penjing plants.

The Montreal Botanical Garden is one of the biggest points of interest for nature lovers visiting Montreal.

If you’re looking to expand your herbology scrapbook, you’ll definitely want to stroll among the greenhouses and arbortoriums.

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

15. Saint Laurent Boulevard

Called la main (“main street”) by the locals, Saint Laurent Boulevard runs through the exact center of Montreal.

Its location has made it a central hub for the city as far back as the 1600s, and it’s often used as a geographical touchstone for everything surrounding it.

Historically, Saint Laurent Boulevard was something of a dividing line between different classes and ethnic groups.

The English speakers were on the west; the French speakers were on the east. The immigrant communities straddled the line.

Today, Saint Laurent Boulevard is more of a melting pot than a segregated line.

You can reach Chinatown, Little Italy and Little Portugal from different points of the road, and there’s a vibrant collection of cultures and languages that includes one of the largest Yiddish-speaking populations in North America.

As for the sights, many Montreal attractions can be found along the border of Saint Laurent Boulevard. These range from bars and bistros to movie theaters and art galleries.

You can also use the boulevard as a starting point for further travel in every direction, so if you’re planning a trip that encompasses a lot of Montreal’s greatest hits, the boulevard can be your ground zero.

It’s on every map, and everyone will know where it is if you have to ask for directions.

It’s possible to walk the boulevard in a day, but you probably won’t want to rush it. There’s simply so much to experience along the line that it’s best to take your time.

Saint Laurent Boulevard has a rich history that’s completely, utterly unique to Montreal, so it’s a one-of-a-kind landmark in a one-of-a-kind city. Let yourself enjoy it.

16. Redpath Museum

Vincci / flickr

The Redpath Museum offers a collection of things that you’d never want to see in real life.

Its milder exhibits include taxidermy birds and the skeletons of lizards and anacondas; the most extreme displays are real-life Egyptian mummies surrounded by their earthly possessions.

Despite its grotesque gallery, the Redpath Museum isn’t meant to be a horror show.

It’s just a natural history museum that covers a broad range of subjects, including biology, geology, mineralogy and paleontology.

There are plenty of cool things that won’t creep you out, including paw print fossils and special shells that shine like diamonds.

If you like the bizarre, however, there’s no denying that the Redpath Museum offers quite a bit of it.

As soon as you walk through the front door and see the gigantic dinosaur model with its open jaws and gaping eye holes, you’ll realize that you’re in for a wild ride.

You’ll also learn a lot.

The museum doesn’t just throw animal skulls at you; it walks you through a recreation of the animal’s habitat and displays facts about the species on scrolling digital screens.

It doesn’t just use its mummies as a razzle-dazzle display; it takes the time to educate you on their culture, religion and birthplace as they rest in their tombs.

There are two ways to explore the Redpath Museum if you decide that you want to go.

The first is a self-guided tour, which is what most tourists do, and the second is an actual tour provided by one of the museum staff.

If you decide on the second option, it’ll cost you, and you’ll need to book it in advance.

However, the Redpath Museum is such a fantastic place to explore that the extra effort is worth it.

There’s a reason why we’re recommending it as one of the top destinations in Montreal, so spare no expense when it comes to enjoying it!

Address:  859 Sherbrooke St W, Montreal, QC H3A 0C4, Canada

17. Saint Helen’s Island

It’s not within the city limits, but if you’re looking for the best things to do in Montreal, Saint Helen’s Island is just a quick trip to the south. You don’t even need to get on a boat.

Several bridges connect the greater Montreal area to the island, so you can walk, drive, bike or bus there without any problem.

Once you arrive, it’s just a question of what to see.

The Biosphere Environment Museum is covered with a gigantic, transparent dome; the Stewart Museum is tucked inside a heavily-equipped fortress that now functions as a historical site.

The Aquatic Complex is great for working up a sweat and diving into a pool to wash it off. If you want to visit the La Ronda amusement park, that’s on the island as well.

Do you like to party?

Saint Helen’s Island is the designated location for several well-known festivals, including the Osheaga Festival for indie music and the Montreal Fireworks Festival for pyrotechnical displays.

The latter is the largest fireworks festival in the world; three million people attend every year, and dozens of countries send representations to duke it out in elaborate fireworks competitions.

Not everything on Saint Helen’s Island is loud and flashy, however.

There are plenty of parks where you can grab a bottle of water and relax on a bench for a while, and the neat, clean sidewalks will lead you to all sorts of shopfronts.

It’s a very picturesque island. Many Montrealers use it to escape the everyday grind of the city.

Consider a trip to Saint Helen’s Island if you want a vacation destination that has a little bit of everything.

For the adrenaline junkies, there are fireworks and roller coasters; for the nature lovers and history buffs, there are museums and biodomes.

The best places don’t make you choose between activities. They let you have it all.

18. Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium

Taking the place of the former Montreal Planetarium, the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium will help you travel to the furthest reaches of the galaxy from the comfort of a bean bag chair.

Do you like movies? Lie back in the darkness and immerse yourself in one of the planetarium’s space shows.

They take up the entire domed ceiling, and each star will look as big as a galaxy as they rush past you in a spectacular showcase of light, sound and motion.

Do you prefer something a little more hands-on? Visit the planetarium’s special astronomy exhibit.

You’ll be able to see, read and touch things up close instead of viewing them in a larger-than-life theater.

There are two main films offered by the planetarium, so you can choose which one is best for your particular field trip.

One film is factual and educational, and the other is a crazy explosion of special effects and cool space facts.

As you can imagine, the latter is more popular with children, but the former is a better complement for the astronomy exhibit.

Oh, and if you like travel tips , here’s a good one for you: The Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium is one of four facilities in something called “Space for Life.”

They’re a series of natural science buildings located within a few blocks of each other.

The other three facilities are comprised of the Biodome, Botanical Garden and Insectarium, so if you want to have an educational weekend trip, hit up all four facilities in a self-tour!

Address:  4801 Pierre-de Coubertin Ave, Montreal, QC H1V 3N4, Canada

19. Mary, Queen Of The World Cathedral

It’s hard to live up to a name like “Queen of the World,” but even setting aside the religious implications, this cathedral manages to be larger than life.

For starters, it’s one of the biggest cathedrals in Canada.

It measures 333 feet long, 252 feet high and 150 feet wide, and its architecture includes everything from a domed ceiling to a series of saintly statues towering over the main building.

Inside, you’ll find chapels, altars, prayer rooms, burial vaults and a dedicated baptistery.

The cathedral itself is beautiful enough to make your jaw drop.

Twisting columns come together over raised, wood-carved altars, and angels are painted over every wall, window and pew.

An old-fashioned organ is perfectly preserved in the main chapel.

When the sunlight hits the building, everything is infused with a warm bronze light that feels like it comes straight from heaven.

Additionally, the cathedral is home to a series of paintings and religious texts that hold great meaning in Catholic history.

The paintings depict the martyrdom of missionaries and the charity work of nuns; the texts are gold-lettered documents dedicated to saints.

You don’t have to be religious to appreciate Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral .

As long as you have an eye for beauty and awe for history, your heart will be moved at the sight of such an impressive cathedral.

Address:  1085 Rue de la Cathédrale, Montréal, QC H3B 2V3, Canada

20. Mile End

Catherine Zibo / Shutterstock

Mile End is a hip, trendy neighborhood that takes up several blocks in Montreal. It’s the go-to destination for things like wine bars, organic coffee shops and quirky fashion boutiques.

The best way to see Mile End is with a tour.

Cycling tours are popular; they’ll take you past parks and plazas where you can relax with your shopping bags under the sun.

Food tours are another way to get around; they’ll treat your taste buds to all kinds of pizza, sushi, gyros, bagels and scones.

Make sure to try some poutine, the most famous concoction to ever come out of Quebec!

If you have money to burn, Mile End is a great place to spend it. You’ll enjoy a wide range of everything from brand-name clothing outlets to independently-run stationary shops.

You can also support local artists by scooping up paintings and crafts that they hawk along the sidewalk.

Another benefit of Mile End is that it’s located on Saint Laurent Boulevard.

If you’re using the boulevard as your north star, you can walk travel to and from Mile End without losing your way.

It isn’t the biggest or busiest neighborhood in Montreal, but Mile End is a nice little gem with lots of things to see and do.

You can eat good food, talk with friendly people and buy some unique souvenirs that aren’t made and sold anywhere else.

Consider a stroll through Mile End if you want to live like a hipster for the weekend.

Check out this awesome tour by a local.

21. Montreal Casino

Jane Rix / Shutterstock

Travel guides don’t always mention the Montreal Casino since it isn’t exactly a family-friendly establishment.

If you’re traveling solo, however, or if you’re willing to leave the little ones with a babysitter, the Montreal Casino will let you indulge in some grown-up playtime.

Thousands of slot machines line the walls. Gaming tables offer everything from blackjack to baccarat.

Keno can be found on multiple floors, and there are special, dedicated areas for speed lotteries and virtual games.

When you want to take a break from gambling, other entertainment options are waiting for you.

A cabaret puts on shows every night. Three bars and four restaurants are available for wining, dining and dating.

There are even banquet facilities for locals who want to host luxury events at the casino.

You might be wondering about the size of the place. With such larger-than-life facilities, how big can the building possibly be?

The answer is that the Montreal Casino is actually three different buildings.

There are two main structures with multiple stories, and a third annex rests behind them. The main gaming floor is 525,00 square feet all by itself.

If you’re looking to have a grand experience in Canada, visit the Montreal Casino.

Its flashing lights and chiming music will welcome you as soon as you walk through the door, and its plush carpets, deep seats and cold beer will keep you happy as you try to hit the jackpot.

Address:  1 Avenue du Casino, Montréal, QC H3C 4W7, Canada

22. Montreal Clock Tower

chrisukphoto / Shutterstock

Say goodbye to the city with a stop by the Montreal Clock Tower .

It’s one of the simpler things to do in Montreal, but it’s a nice way to round off your trip, and you can snap your last few pictures from 150 feet high.

The tower was originally built as a monument to fallen sailors. It’s sometimes referred to as “The Sailors’ Memorial Clock” for this reason.

The first stones were laid by King Edward VIII in 1919, and his original plans included a series of bells connected to the tower that would ring in commemoration for the soldiers every hour.

Things got in the way, however, and the bells were never built, and the tower morphed into more of a tourist attraction than a somber memorial.

Today, it’s just a fun thing for visitors to climb in order to see the city from a bird’s eye view.

There are exactly 192 steps to the top of the Montreal Clock Tower. If you’re willing to make the summit, you’ll enjoy bright, vivid views of the entire river and port.

You won’t even have to pay for the privilege; everything is free and open to the public.

No one wants to say goodbye to Montreal, but when you can’t put off the end any longer, bid au revoir from the top of the Montreal Clock Tower.

Address:  1 Clock Tower Quay St, Montreal, QC H2L 5C1, Canada

Start Planning Your Trip To Montreal

These are just a few places to visit in Montreal.

There are many more, of course; this list barely scratches the surface of a big, bustling city filled with events and activities as far as the eye can see.

You need to start somewhere, however, and these suggestions will take you to Montreal attractions that are truly worth visiting.

Some of them are popular, well-known places; others will send you off the beaten path or down an underground tunnel.

All of them will give you a great experience in Montreal. Happy travels!

2 Days in Montreal Itinerary: How To Spend the Perfect Weekend

Embarking on a Canadian adventure? Dive into my comprehensive 2 day Montreal itinerary.

This captivating city is ideal for a weekend escape, boasting a vibrant French-Canadian charm. As one of the globe’s largest French-speaking cities after Paris , Montreal offers a unique cultural experience that’s sure to enchant you.

The city has a decidedly European vibe, with quaint cobbled lanes and yesteryear architecture. Montreal is renowned for its captivating fusion of outdoor beauty, creative street artists, and world renowned chefs.

I’ve assembled an efficient two day itinerary for Montreal. But there are so many amazing things to do in Montreal, you could easily stay much longer.

On my last visit, I was there five days, never ran out of things to do, and spent countless hours feasting on Montreal’s delicious and varied cuisine.

My 48 hours in Montreal itinerary covers Montreal’s top must visit attractions and historic landmarks. It gives you preview of Montreal’s unique neighborhoods, wonderful museums, and outdoor venues.

I also give you essential tips on everything you need to know about visiting Montreal, including what to see/do/eat/stay.

Montreal is a unique combination of old and new.

You can stroll the cobbled streets in Old Montreal and Old Port. And then be transferred to modernity in the stylish and sophisticated downtown.

To keep you on track and help you make the most of your time in Montreal, I offer up this action packed 2 days in Montreal itinerary.

2 Days in Montreal Itinerary

Day 1 morning: vieux montreal.

Start your day in the prettiest part of the city, Vieux Montreal or Old Montreal. Dating from the 17th century, this area oozes old world charm.

You’ll feel like you’ve been power beamed to medieval France.

You may want to kick off your day with a quick guided walking tour to get oriented. Or book this 2.5 hour guided walking tour . You can also book a private walking tour . These tours are popular and tend to sell out fast.

Looking out on the St. Lawrence River, Old Montreal is populated with well preserved Colonial homes, tony boutiques, art galleries, top tier restaurants, and the iconic Notre-Dame Basilica.

If you want to kick start your day with some breakfast, there are plenty of great cafes from casual to snooty. My personal favorites were Crew Collective & Cafe and Olive et Gourmando .

1. St-Paul Street

Begin with a stroll on winding St-Paul Street.

For years, St-Paul Street was Montreal’s main boulevard. It’s a beautiful street with renovated 19th century warehouses.

They serve as boutiques, artists’ studios, art galleries, and brick residences. The street is paved with cobblestones and lined with flags, French art, and impressive stone and brick facades.

2. Basilica Notre-Dame

The Basilica Notre-Dame is one of Montreal’s most popular destinations and its most famous landmark. Building began in 1672.

The interior was completed in the late 18th century. This was where Celine Dion was married in an over the top affair in 1994.

The basilica is the oldest place of worship in North America. Built in the Gothic Revival style, the basilica’s azure blue interior is a revelation.

You might feel like you’re admiring a rather gaudy classical painting, not standing inside a church.

Because Note-Dame is dedicated to Our Lady Mary, it’s a florid blue inside. Blue was meant to reflect calm and tranquility.

To heighten the drama, the azure ceiling is studded with tens of thousands of 24 karat gold stars. Stained glass and gold leaf decoration complete the ensemble.

The basilica’s pulpit is incredibly intricate. And the eye popping altar has a Last Supper painting based on Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece in Milan Italy .

There’s also a massive organ with 7,000 pipes. Plan to spend 30-90 minutes inside, depending on your interest level. Click here for the mass schedule and here for the concert schedule.

3. Place d’Armes

Right opposite Notre-Dame Basilica is Place d’Armes, one of three main squares in Montreal.

In the center is the Maisonneuve Monument, a staff wielding statue of Paul de Chomedey, the founder of Montreal. Its commemorates Chomedey’s defense of the young French settlement against the Iroquois.

The Place d’Armes is where you’ll find Montreal’s vintage buildings — Saint-Sulpice Seminary, the New York Life Building (Montreal’s first high rise), the Bank of Montreal (Canada’s first bank), the Art Deco Aldred Building (Montreal’s first skyscraper), and the International style 500 Place d’Armes.

The square also has some whimsical public art. Be sure to check out the sculptures of the man and woman with an English bulldog and poodle.

4. City Hall

A national historic site, Montreal City Hall is also located in Old Montreal. It’s a majestic five story structure that’s the seat of local government in Montreal.

Free guided tours are usually available in summer. But right now the structure is closed, undergoing a heritage restoration since 2019.

The stunning Second Empire City Hall has a storied history. It survived a fire.

Its balcony was where French President General de Gaulle’s cried “Vive le Québec libre!” (Long live free Quebec).

This speech escalated tensions in the debate over whether the Francophile province should seek independence from Canada.

5. Chateau Ramezay

Opposite the City Hall is the Chateauz Ramezay . If you’re a history buff, this museum is definitely worth a visit. In 2008, it was named as one of the 1001 Historic Sites “you must see before you die.”

Built in 1705, the historic chateau is an architectural gem of the ancien regime. It was the home of Claude de Ramezay, governor of Montreal. Benjamin Franklin even stayed there during the Revolutionary War.

The museum tells the story of major events in 500 years of French history. There are 15 rooms and a well curated collection of 30,000 objects, displayed as they were in the 1700s.

Click here for my visitor’s guide to this intimate museum.

Then stroll 2 minutes to the Place Jacques-Quartier to soak in the vibe. (Though ignore the kitschy tee shirt shops.) It’s one of Old Montreal’s main public squares, where people wile away time at flower drenched sidewalk cafes. You may even see street performers.

6. Old Port

Jacques Cartier lies at the entrance to Montreal’s Old Port. It stretches for over a mile along the St. Lawrence River.

French fur traders used this port as a trading post as early as 1611. In 2005, the Old Port of Montreal changed its name to The Quays of the Old Port of Montreal.

The main landmark in the Old Port is the heritage building of Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel (Our Lady of Good Help). It’s one of the oldest churches in Montreal. It was built in 1771 over the ruins of an earlier chapel.

Bon Secours houses the Marguerite Bourgeoys Museum, dedicated to the life of the woman who’s called the “Mother of the Colony.”

She was a teacher, fervent Catholic, and has even been officially sainted. Bon Secours is topped with the Lady of the Harbour statue. You can climb the clock tower for a nice river view.

Nearby you’ll find the Bonsecours Market. It’s housed in a historic Palladian style building with a distinctive Neoclassical silver dome. Today, it’s completely restored. Inside are high end boutiques, galleries, and several restaurants.

Now, it’s lunch time. Since you’re in the Old Port, try out the offerings there. I recommend Stash Cafe , Tommy’s , Modavie , or Mechant Beofe . On to the afternoon!

Before you leave, though, you may want to take a spin on La Grande Roue de Montreal. It’s a massive Ferris wheel with gondola-like pods. You’ll have stunning views. Click here to purchase a ticket.

Day 1 Afternoon: Mount Royal

Want a bird’s eye view of Montreal? Mount Royal (or Mont-Royal) is Montreal’s best green space, receiving 5 million visitors a year.

Mount Royal is located atop three peaks. It was once a volcanic mountain, but is now dormant. Montreal’s name derives from this hill — “mont real” or “mount royal.”

In 1535, the first European, Jacques Cartier, arrived in Mount Royal. In honor of his patron, Francis I, he christened the hill Mount Royal. In 1643, Paul de Chomedey made a pilgrimage to the top of the mountain, planting a wooden cross.

The cross is now one of Montreal’s iconic landmarks. The current iteration is a 26 ton steel version lit with LED lights.

Mount Royal is located to the west side of Downtown. It takes about 9 minutes to reach Mount Royal from Downtown Montreal by car. Or, you can hike up the hill via several walking paths.

It takes about 45 minutes to reach the summit. I hiked up Peel Street and took the meandering path known as the “serpentine.” It’s a good way to burn off calories and get ready to indulge later.

Designed in 1874 by landscape architect Frederick Law Oldmstead, Mont Royal is a haven for runners, hikers, and dogs. Just off the summit is the main viewing terrace, Mount Royal Chalet.

From there, you have breathtaking views of Montreal. In the summer months, you can partake in a free drum circle called Tamtam s .

Slightly further afield is the St. Joseph’s Oratory, with another stunning view of northwest Montreal from its rooftop terrace.

The oratory is almost as tall as St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome and is Canada’s largest church. It’s one of the world’s most visited shrines, with a basilica, chapel, and crypt.

Day 1 Evening:

At night, return to Notre-Dame Basilica in Old Montreal to watch the spectacular sound and light multimedia spectacle called “Aura.”

With 6:00 pm and 8:00 pm showings, Aura highlights the basilica’s features and exquisite details. It’s a rather expensive show, but I really enjoyed it.

>>> Click here to book an Aura ticket

After the show, have a cocktail at one of Montreal’s rooftop terraces. I’d recommend the Terrasse William Gray, Terrasse Bonsecours, or Terrasse Place d’Armes. They’re only open in spring and summer.

Then, dine in Old Montreal. My favorite restaurants were Le Serpent , Garder Manger , and Foxy . Click here to read my reviews of them. Even closer, on Rue Notre-Dame, you can try Joe Beef or Restaurant Grinder .

Day 2 Morning:

If you’re staying in old town, start day 2 in Montreal with a stroll through Chinatown. Then, take either a food tour or street art mural tour in Montreal’s funky and vibrant Mile End neighborhood. I did both and really enjoyed the tours.

You can get to Mile End by walking down the colorful Saint-Laurent Boulevard, nicknamed “The Main.” It’s a north-south stretch, with a buzzy vibe and lots of nightlife.

It’s also Montreal’s main street art corridor. This is where you’ll begin your street art tour.

Montreal is renowned for its street art, both raw and recognized. It’s become one of Montreal’s core visual identities.

Two street art festivals keep new art work coming, the Mural Festival and Under Pressure . Some of Mile End’s most iconic graffiti images are Graffiti Granny , Jackie Robinson , and Mona Lisa . There’s also a street art gallery, Station 16, right on Saint-Laurent Boulevard.

If you opt for the Mile’s End food tour, you’ll sample all Montreal’s specialities — bagels, poutine, smoked meat, etc. It’s a great way to try the local food while seeing the sites, including the lovely St. Michael Church.

You can also weigh in on the enduring battle of whether St-Viateur Bagel Shop or Fairmount serves up the city’s best bagels. You can even sign up for a bagel making workshop .

If you sampled murals instead of bagels, it’s time for lunch. There are plenty of wonderful spots in Miles End. I liked Le Butterblume (sandwiches and salads), Mais (tasty tacos), and Juliet & Chocolate (crepes).

The latter is in the tony Outremont neighborhood, where you’ll also find beautiful brick buildings, fashionable boutiques, and even more cafes.

Day 2 Afternoon Options

After lunch, you have three options, depending on your personal inclination.

You can: (1) walk down tony Sherbrooke Street to the Museum of Fine Arts to get your cultural fix; (2) head to the Biosphere , an environmental museum and nature center; or (3) get outside on Lachine Canal.

If you have time, end your afternoon at the beautiful Botanical Garden .

1. Sherbrooke Street

If you choose an arty afternoon, head to the fetching Golden Square Mile on Sherbrooke Street. Sherbrooke is one of the city’s longest and most exclusive streets.

And it’s a must visit destination in Montreal for art and architecture fans. Sherbrooke is chock full of Victorian buildings, galleries, designer boutiques, luxury hotels, and trendy eateries.

Sherbrooke is the entrance to McGill, Montreal’s university situated at the foot of Mount Royal. If you want to explore McGill, the Redpath Museum is a must do. It’s a wonderful natural history museum. And it’s not just dinosaur bones. The museum has beautiful Victorian interiors.

2. Museum of Fine Arts

Sherbrooke Street also stars Montreal’s premiere museum, the Museum of Fine Arts (“MFA”). You’ll be greeted by a massive Dale Chihuly chandelier tower at one entrance and Jim Dine’s Hearts at another.

The Museum of Fine Arts is the oldest museum in Canada and the cultural heart of Montreal, attracting over 1 million visitors annually. It’s an extraordinary art complex, unexpectedly avant garde for a fine arts museum.

The expansive museum is housed in five separate pavilions, connected by underground passageways. And it boasts an exquisite permanent collection of works from old masters to contemporary art.

You’ll fine European heavyweights like Rembrandt, Picasso, and Monet. But the museum really shines when it comes to native Canadian artists.

3. Biosphere Environmental Museum

If you’re not an art person, you could head instead to the Biosphere . It’s a museum and nature center dedicated to the environment.

It’s located on Sainte-Helene Island in Parc Jean-Drapeau and is a symbol of 1960s avant garde architecture. You can get there via Metro line 4 to Station Jean-Drapeau.

The Biosphere is housed in a geodesic dome, which creates its own geothermal energy. It’s the only one of its kind in the world. Exhibits teach visitors about urban ecosystems and the latest eco-technologies.

You can visit the Tropical Forest or visit puffins on the Labrador Coast. Don’t forget to head upstairs for a magnificent view of the St. Lawrence River.

4. Lachine Canal

If you want to escape from the hurly burly of the city and experience Montreal’s outdoor life, head to Lachine Canal.

It’s a scenic urban park with a walkable 9 mile canal path winding through southwest part of the city. The trail attracts runner, bikers, walkers, and even swimmers.

There are several locations along the canal where you can pick up some wheels. If you need a snack, head into Atwater Market for some cheese and fruit. It’s housed in a beautiful Art deco building with a clock tower.

5. Botanical Garden

In the late afternoon, taxi or Uber to Montreal’s Botanical Garden . It’s off center, so walking isn’t a great option. You can also get there on the metro’s green line, hopping off at the Pie-IX stop.

The garden is a cherished attraction in Montreal. It’s the second largest botanical garden in the world.

There are 10 indoor greenhouses and Chinese, Japanese, lily, and rose gardens. They are pretty darn magical, a lovely place to stroll and relax. In the fall, there’s a spectacular light show at night.

Day 2 Evening

End you 2 days in Montreal itinerary in Le Plateau Mont-Royal. It’s a bohemian neighborhood that includes Mile End. Start with a cocktail or pint of IPA at Bar Darling, Buvette Chez Simone, or Le Blanc.

For eats, head to Damas (Syrian food), Maison Publique (gastropub), Chez Victoire (nouvelle bistro food), or Le Quartier General (fancy foie gras like fare).

Perhaps the most famous restaurant is Martin Picard’s Au Pied De Cochon , beloved by Anthony Bourdain. It’s a notoriously difficult place to get reservations, so plan ahead.

Alternatively, seek out one of Montreal’s newer and trendy neighborhoods beyond the touristy precincts — Little Italy, Mile-End, Verdun, Rosemont, La Petite-Patrie, and Villeray. These areas are emerging as cutting edge foodie destinations.

Or you could reserve ahead and try Montreal’s newest entrant onto the foodie scene — Hiatus . It’s one the roof top of Place Vill Marie and offers up stunning views and a fusion of Japanese and French cuisine.

Little Italy

If you opt for Little Italy, I can recommend Vin Mon Lapin , whose owner also runs the uber popular Joe Beef . Little Italy isn’t just Italian comfort food either. You can find vegetarian options and contemporary cuisine at Manitoba .

Little Italy is also home to one of Montreal’s best markets, Jean Talon Market . Established in 1933, Jean Talon is dubbed “Montreal’s stomach.” It’s a foodie’s best friend.

From May to October, the open air arcades are filled with the stalls of local farmers, fishmongers, cheesemongers, butchers, and bakers. If you want to eat here, you can grab a meal at El Rey Del Taco or Le Petit Alee.

Tips For 2 Days In Montreal

Now let’s get down to brass tacks. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Montreal.

1. Where is Montreal?

Montreal is in the Canadian province of Quebec. It’s the second largest city in Canada.

2. Getting There

Montreal is very well connected to the world’s major cities. The city is served by the Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport. You can hop in a taxi to get to your accommodation or click here to book a private transfer.

You can also drive to Montreal from Toronto, Ottawa, Boston , and Buffalo. It’s just a short drive from the states of New York and Vermont .

3 . Travel Documents

Travelers with a US/EU passport are eligible to come to Canada, without a tourist visa.

4. Currency In Montreal

Canadian Dollars (CAD) are the mode of exchange in Montreal, Canada. Credit cards are widely used as well. Debit or ABM machines can be easily found in the city to withdraw cash.

5. Montreal Attraction Pass

The Montreal Pas s is a pre-paid sightseeing card. You get free entry to 5 of the city’s top attractions, as well as free unlimited public transport. You can purchase it for a duration of 48 to 72 hours.

6. Language In Montreal

Both French and English are spoken in Montreal. Most street or road signs will be in French.

This is also true for cafe and restaurant menus. Brush up on some French terms in advance or bring a small French phrase book.

7. Food Specialties In Montreal

Montreal boasts award winning restaurants and delicious food.

Its specialties are bagels, poutine (an unappetizing sounding dish of French fries, cheese curds, and brown gravy that also comes in gourmet varieties), smoked meat, maple syrup, and seafood.

8. When To Visit Montreal

The best time to visit Montreal is shoulder season, spring or fall. The weather will be good and it will be less crowded than summer.

I last visited in mid September and the weather was fantastic. Winter is bitterly cold and snowy.

But, if you’re dressed right, Christmas is a magical time in Montreal, with Christmas lights and fireworks. If you’re visiting then, you can take a special Christmas walking tour . Or check out this “winter charms” walking tour .

9. Festivals In Montreal

Montreal is know for its festivals. The summer is particularly busy with jazz, film, fireworks, comedy, beer, winter, and Shakespeare festivals. Click here for the festival schedule.

10. Driving In Montreal

You shouldn’t drive in the city, if you can avoid it. With public transport, you don’t really need a car and it’s not worth the headache. Parking is extremely difficult and expensive.

The one way streets and speed demons will make you batty. But, if you have a car, please note that you can’t turn right on a red light. As in the US, Canadians drive on the right side of the road.

11. Where To Stay In Montreal

Try to stay in Vieux Montreal, especially if it’s your first visit. It will make it easier to sightsee, with just 2 days in Montreal. And you can soak up the old world charm.

There are loads of boutique hotels and great restaurants there.

Last time I was there, I stayed in the rather glamorous Hotel William Gray . It’s a unique luxury hotel in a historic building right near Place Jacques Cartier. If you want views, the hotel has a lovely rooftop terrace.

I can also recommend Hotel Nelligan . It’s a stunning boutique hotel with exposed brick in a historic building. Hotel Birks is a relatively new hotel with old world opulence and charm.

If you want to stay downtown, check out the Hotel Sofitel Golden Mil e (modern and artsy), the Vogue Hotel Montreal (chic and luxurious), or Le Mount Stephen (Neoclassical architecture in a heritage building)

12. How To Get Around Montreal

Driving can be tricky. I wouldn’t advise it.

Montreal is designed for walking and that’s how I got around. If you need to get somewhere fast, you can hail a taxi or Uber almost anywhere (though they’re not cheap).

There’s also a bus and subway system and loads of Bixi Bikes rental stands around town. You can also take the hop op hop off bus .

There are plenty of other fun ways to get around Montreal. You can take a:

• guided scooter tour
• 3 hour guided electric bike tour
• half day city bike tour
• bike tour through Mile’s End and Little Italy
• bateaux mouche cruise
• nighttime walking tour
• 3.5 hour bus tour

You can even book a half hour helicopter tour .

13. Day Trips from Montreal

Do you have more than 2 days in Montreal? You can turn this 2 day itinerary into a more relaxed 3-4 day itinerary.

There are also some wonderful day trip options. The most popular day trip is to quaint Quebec City, only an hour away. This 12 hour guided day tour takes you to the city and to Montmorency Falls .

Mont Tremblant is only 1.5 hours away. You can book an 8 hour guided day tour . You can also book a tour to the Eastern Townships , to see some beautiful small villages.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my 2 days in Montreal itinerary. You may enjoy these other North America travel guides and resources:

• 10 day itinerary for New Hampshire
• Berkshires Road Trip
• Hidden Gem Towns on the East Coast
• 10 day itinerary for coastal Maine
• 7-10 day itinerary for Vermont
• One week itinerary for southern New England
• Fall foliage road trip in New England
• 2 week itinerary for the American Southwest
• 10 day itinerary for southern California
• 25 most beautiful towns in New England 
• 45 amazing destinations in the United States
• Best places to visit in Massachusetts

If you’d like to spend 2 days in Montreal, pin it for later.

15 thoughts on “2 Days in Montreal Itinerary: How To Spend the Perfect Weekend”

There are too many ads on the site, tbh. They are very distracting. While it’s a lot of great information, the ads can be overwhelming.

Appreciate the comment Mary Ann. I am looking into my site speed on desktop to see if I can improve things. Unfortunately, ads are the main way bloggers make a living so you’ll find that other sites have them too.

Do you have a hotel location recommendation for an elderly couple arriving via train from Quebec and leaving from the airport in walkable area of Montreal?

You should stay in the Old Town. Check out the William Gray, Auberge due Vieux Port, Le Mount Stephen. The best budget hotel is Hotel Epic Montreal.

Fantastic post, thanks a lot for sharing this as it comes with a lot of details and has been very helpful

Thank you so much Bob!

excellent review looking forward to our trip…I know the time will fly by too quickly

Enjoy! You will love the city.

Thank you for sharing this itinerary. It’s very comprehensive and covers many of the must-sees as a first-timer in Canada. I will be following this itinerary on my trip to Canada.

Thank! Have a fantastic time Priya!

Fantastic post. Very detailed and straightforward. I’m going to Montreal for 2 days this month and this post helped me narrow down the many many options of things to do and see there. Thank you!

Thank you Thanny! Enjoy Montreal.

I am extremely impressed with your writing skills as well as with the layout of your blog. And also this article is really useful and informative.

Hi. Thank you for this informative post. Do you think it would be uncomfortably cold to visit Montreal in October?

That depends on how sensitive you are to cold. For me, it would be fine if it’s in the mid 50s and I was doing a lot of walking.

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Last Updated on August 27, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

Must-see attractions in Montréal

Parc du Mont-Royal

The charming, leafy expanse of Parc du Mont-Royal is charged for a wide range of outdoor activities. The wooded slopes and grassy meadows have stunning…

Musée des Beaux-Arts de Montréal

Montréal’s Museum of Fine Arts is an accessible and beautifully updated oasis of art housed in architecturally striking buildings. A visit here is a must…

Basilique Notre-Dame

Old Montréal

Montréal's famous landmark, Notre Dame Basilica, is a 19th-century Gothic Revival masterpiece with spectacular craftsmanship – a visually pleasing, if…

Oratoire St-Joseph

The stunning Oratoire St-Joseph church built on the flanks of Mont-Royal commands grand views of the the Côte-des-Neiges area and northwest Montréal. The…

Jardin Botanique

Montréal’s Jardin Botanique is the third-largest botanical garden in the world, after London’s Kew Gardens and Berlin’s Botanischer Garten.

Place d'Armes

This open square is framed by some of the finest buildings in Old Montréal, including its oldest bank, first skyscraper and Basilique Notre-Dame. The…

Pointe-à-Callière Cité d'archéologie et d'histoire de Montréal

One of Montréal's most fascinating sites, this museum takes visitors on a historical journey through the centuries, beginning with the early days of…

Montréal's Old Port has morphed into a park and fun zone paralleling the mighty St Lawrence River for 2.5km and punctuated by four grand quais (quays)…

Canal de Lachine

A perfect marriage of urban infrastructure and green civic planning: a 14km-long cycling and pedestrian pathway, with picnic areas and outdoor spaces…

Marché Jean-Talon

The pride of Little Italy, this huge covered market is Montréal’s most diverse. Many chefs buy ingredients for their menus here or in the specialty food…

Parc La Fontaine

At 34 hectares, this great verdant municipal park is the city’s third largest, after Parc du Mont-Royal and Parc Maisonneuve. In the warmer months weary…

Marché Atwater

Just off the Canal de Lachine, this fantastic market has a mouthwatering assortment of fresh produce from local farms (some promoting sustainability),…

Musée McCord

With hardly an inch to spare in its cramped but welcoming galleries, the McCord Museum of Canadian History houses thousands of artifacts and documents…

Rue St-Denis

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At this captivating exhibit you can amble through a rainforest, explore Antarctic islands, view rolling woodlands, take in aquatic life in the Gulf of St…

Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours

Known as the Sailors’ Church, this enchanting chapel derives its name from the sailors who left behind votive lamps in the shapes of ships in thanksgiving…

Québec’s largest amusement park, La Ronde has a battery of impressive rides, including Le Monstre, the world’s highest double wooden roller coaster, and…

Centre Canadien d'Architecture

A must for architecture fans, this center is equal parts museum and research institute. The building incorporates Shaughnessy House, a 19th-century gray…

Maison St-Gabriel

This magnificent farmhouse in Pointe St-Charles is one of the finest examples of traditional Québec architecture. The house was bought in 1668 by…

Boulevard St-Laurent

A dividing line between the city’s east and west, Blvd St-Laurent (previously ‘the Main’) has always been a focus of action, a gathering place for people…

Église St-Pierre-Apôtre

Located in the Village, this neoclassical church from 1853 has a number of fine decorations – flying buttresses, stained glass, statues in Italian marble …

Écomusée du Fier Monde

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Place des Arts

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Belvédère Kondiaronk lookout

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Avenue du Mont-Royal

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Île Ste-Hélène

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Chalet du Mont-Royal

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Château Ramezay

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Hôtel de Ville

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Musée d'Art Contemporain

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Insectarium

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Parc Jean-Drapeau

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Morgan Arboretum

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Parc Nature du Cap-St-Jacques

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Place Jacques-Cartier

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The best gardens to visit in Montreal, from botanical to secret spots

Big, small, hidden or wildly beautiful, the best gardens of Montreal show off the city's most fabulous side

Wander through someof the most beautiful gardens of Montreal, filled with blossoms , horticultural variety or just sheer, unabashed beauty. Unlike the greatest parks in and around Montreal , or the greatest green spots for day trips , these beautiful gardens are all central and accessible by metro—often also conveniently located next to the city’s top cafés and sandwich shops , so you can pick up a picnic on the way.

RECOMMENDED: Best things to do in Montreal right now The best parks in Montreal The best hiking in and around Montreal

An email you’ll actually love

Best botanical gardens

1.  Botanical Garden

The Jardin Botanique de Montréal has a variety of natural environments to soak in. In the warmer months, stroll through the beautiful grounds that encompass the Chinese, Japanese and First Nations gardens, each with their own vibe and species. They all come to life at night at the annual Gardens of Light event in early fall, a lantern festival so popular you have to book your spot way ahead. Year-round, you can soak up the vibes, smells and humid earthiness of the vast greenhouses, ranging from indigenous to tropical. It does the soul good midwinter, that's for sure.

2.  Les Floralies

Take the metro (or the free shuttle bus that runs all day from downtown Montreal to the Casino) to Parc Jean-Drapeau, an incredible island park packed with 25 km of trails lined with blooms and views of the St. Lawrence in the summer months. The star of the show is the Floralies garden: just outside the Casino, it’s a collection of shrubs, trees and flower beds crisscrossed by pretty walkways. Take in La Toundra and Place du Canada while you’re there, two iconic buildings dating back to Expo 67.

3.  Governor’s Garden 

The green space behind the Old Port’s historic Château Ramesay museum is free of access from the street, and you’ll often find it animated with some educational activity or another in the growing months. Bring a snack and sit among the highly groomed shrubs, aromatic plants and fruit trees that make homage to the New France gardens of the 18th century.

4.  The Quiet Garden 

It wears its name well. You’d never think you’re smack bang in the middle of downtown’s busiest strip in this garden of the Church of St. Andrew and St. Paul. This true oasis of calm and green abundance is appointed with a couple of benches for contemplation anytime between June and September. Keep in mind it’s intended as a meditative space and it’s privately owned by this presbyterian church, so keep it quiet, like the name says.

5.  Christ Church Cathedral Garden

This Anglican Gothic Revival cathedral on Sainte-Catherine has small grassy grounds punctuated with flowering trees, under which downtown workers congregate to eat their lunches. It’s not the most glorious of gardens, but it’s a lovely spot of green in the centre of the concrete jungle, and the perfect pit stop for a quick hit of chill.

6.  Musée des Hospitalières Garden 

You’ve probably wondered what’s behind the wall if you’ve ever walked along the beach volleyball courts on Avenue du Parc, at the foot of the mountain. This is what: a truly breathtaking enclave owned by the Musée des Hospitalières, ex-monastery related to the Hôtel-Dieu hospital. The garden was initially used as a kitchen garden to feed both the community and the hospital’s patients; now it’s a pleasure garden packed with flowerbeds and a large orchard, open to the public all summer long.

7.  Westmount Conservatory and Greenhouses

This lovely four-season spot on the edge of Westmount Park was built in 1927. It's been restored and updated over the decades, notably by being linked with the Victoria Hall next door via the creation of an exhibition space, often worth a look itself. Shallow pools, water features, specimens from the four corners of the globe—it’s a whole universe in there, well worth a half-day.

8.  Concordia Greenhouse

This 13th-floor greenhouse that’s original to Concordia’s Hall Building (built in 1966) is an all-organic space geared towards community, education and sustainable horticulture, and good news, it’s open to the public. It’s a year-round, sun-drenched, south-west facing green space full of produce grown using eco practices, and it’s the site of all sorts of workshops and events to raise awareness around contemporary agriculture and consumerism.

9.  Garden of the Way of the Cross

The grounds of Saint Joseph’s Oratory are one of the best kept secret gardens in the city, with both formal French-style gardens and wild English-garden flowerbeds strewn with 42 towering stone sculptures, plus sitting spots. The famous landscape architect Frederick Todd designed the pathway meandering around this lush, leafy garden on the flank of the mountain, which abuts onto the Père-Louis-Trempe Natural Reserve.

10.  Esplanade Tranquille

This beautiful rooftop garden in the Quartier des Spectacles is prime strolling grounds for the downtown crowd seeking some natural refuge over lunch or after work. Its sprawling 7,000 square feet of harvested space included decorative plants, flowers and produce, the latter of which is used by local chefs or sold at nearby farmers’ markets.

11.  Grand Quay de Montréal Walkway

Another city initiative to greenify common areas, this handsome wooden walkway running along the second floor of the Grand Quay to Montréal towards the river has really cool flower beds filled with local species in a re-wilding initiative, requiring very little tending and giving the whole stretch a really nice wild prairie feel. It’s great for a quick walk, but you can also park yourself on one of the benches and gaze out at the river views all around

12.  Ruelle Champêtre Henri-Julien

Montreal has a growing number of green lanes—some of which are designated that way just because they’re closed to traffic, while others, like this one, take the term much more literally. This community project in the back lane between Henri-Julien and Drolet near Carré Saint-Louis is tended with loving care by the residents, who’ve planted a true Garden of Eden back there. Wander through at your leisure, and feel free to pick something from the community book box while you’re there.

13.  Pub Le Sainte-Élisabeth Garden  

It’s more of a backyard, we’ll concede, but this is the quaintest green spot you’re likely to find to sling a pint back in the city. This Irish pub in the Village draws the summertime crowds for its incredible back garden, set under a canopy of leafy trees, with every surrounding wall covered with lush creeping vines. It’s a real oasis, but the kind where you never go thirsty.

14.  Café Santropol Garden

This Californian-style sandwich shop on the Plateau (est. 1976) doles out some vegetarian-forward snacks that are decent indeed, especially if you enjoy them in the gorgeous back garden at the foot of Mount Royal. It’s small but mighty atmospheric, with cotton lanterns, bunting and twinkly lights for the evening, and lots of small tables set in nicely landscaped nooks. Try the carrot cake, still one of the best in town.

15.  Maison Boulud Garden

Nestled within the Ritz-Carlton Montréal is Daniel Boulud’s eponymous restaurant, and nestled in the back of that restaurant? Easily the prettiest little restaurant garden of all. Order your weekend brunch (hello, Parma ham and cheese tartine) or an elaborate dinner (starring the squid ink taglierini topped with Rimouski urchin, perhaps) from a table overlooking the water feature and the little bridge. Venture out to stretch your legs after the feast.

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The 20 Best Museums in Montréal, Canada [2024]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

778 Published Articles

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Jessica Merritt

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84 Published Articles 482 Edited Articles

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Keri Stooksbury

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1. Afromuseum

2. arsenal contemporary art montréal, 3. barbie expo, 4. the biosphère, 5. canadian centre for architecture, 6. centre des mémoires montréalaises, 7. centre des sciences de montréal (montréal science centre), 8. château dufresne, 9. château ramezay, 10. fonderie darling, 11. insectarium, 12. marius barbeau center, 13. montréal biodôme, 14. musée d’art contemporain de montréal (montréal museum of contemporary art), 15. musée des beaux-arts de montréal (montréal museum of fine arts), 16. musée des hospitalières de l’hotel dieu de montréal (museum of the hospitallers of the hôtel-dieu of montréal), 17. musée mccord stewart (mccord stewart museum), 18. musée redpath (redpath museum), 19. notre-dame-de-bon-secours chapel, 20. planétarium, how to get free or reduced admission to montréal museums, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

As one of the largest cities in Canada, it’s not surprising that Montréal has some of the country’s best and most beloved museums. From art and culture to science and history, there’s a facility to suit anyone’s interests. Whether you’re planning a solo trip or a family getaway, here are the best museums in Montréal worth considering.

The Best Museums in Montréal

Originally founded to document and preserve the culture and history of Canada’s Haitian and Afro-Canadian population, the Afromuseum in Montréal has become a center of art, history, and education.

This facility sets itself apart from others by not having a stored collection on-site. Instead, the museum works with its partners to showcase pieces in temporary exhibitions to highlight a wide range of cultures and stories.

Additionally, special events are a regular part of the museum’s calendar. Comedians, actors, writers, and people from other industries celebrate Haitian and African-Canadian traditions and identities at these events. Most are family-friendly, but make sure to check before arriving. Private events, like cocktail parties, conferences, and film screenings, can also be planned at the museum.

The museum is open Wednesday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission varies depending on eventual events or exhibitions on display. Donations are always welcome. The nearest bus stops are Ontario and Berri.

• Address: 533 Ontario St. E., Montréal, Québec H2L 1N8, Canada

With 3 locations across North America, Arsenal Contemporary Art is a leader in showcasing the most prominent names in the art world.

Since opening in 2004, Montréal’s location has grown to have one of the most important contemporary collections in the country. The facility’s exhibits showcase over 500 artists, including established and rising talents in the industry.

The site’s galleries showcase a wide range of mediums, from paintings and sculptures to multimedia installations. The “Collection Majudia” is one of the most popular permanent wings on-site, but the museum is also known for its temporary exhibitions, which rotate a few times throughout the year. Arsenal Contemporary Art Montréal also offers artist residency programs to highlight the talents of local creators, giving visitors a first look at their pieces.

The museum is open Thursday and Friday from 1:30 to 7 p.m., Saturday from 9.30 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from 9.30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free for children under 6, CA$10 (~$7) for kids 6 to 17, CA$12 (~$9) for students and seniors 65+, and CA$15 (~$11) for adults. The nearest bus stops are Notre-Dame and Georges-Vanier.

• Address: 2020 William St., Montréal, Québec H3J 1R8, Canada

Montréal’s Barbie Expo has grown to become one of the city’s most exciting pop-culture exhibits. With over 1,000 different Barbie Dolls on display, the expo is beloved by guests of all ages.

In addition to teaching visitors about the history of one of the world’s most famous toys, the Barbie Expo shows just how ingrained the doll is in the real world. Fashion lovers enjoy the progression of the doll’s style over the years, especially pieces that famous brands like Dior and Vera Wang designed.

Those who love learning about new cultures can see how Barbie has adapted to international markets. Art and culture lovers, on the other hand, can admire dolls and sets inspired by artists such as Van Gogh, brands like Coca-Cola, and celebrities like Elvis and Farrah Fawcett.

Barbie Expo is open Monday to Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Thursday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 12 to 5 p.m. Admission is free for everyone. The nearest metro stop is Peel.

• Address: 1455 Peel St. Level 3, Montréal, Québec H3A 1T5, Canada

First opened in 1967 as a pavilion for the Expo 67 event, Montréal’s Biosphère is dedicated to the environment, its connection to society, and how the world develops. To promote awareness of people’s environmental impact, the facility uses a mixture of hands-on displays, photos, and actual greenery to encourage critical thinking and an interest in environmentalism.

All ages are welcome at the facility, and most exhibits offer explanations and visual representations of ideas so children and adults can both get the most out of the experience. This is also the largest structure of its kind in the world, with its shape making up over 75% of a complete sphere. There are no time limits for visitors, but plan to spend at least 2 hours on-site, especially if you intend to read and fully experience everything.

Montréal’s Biosphère is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission is free for children under 5, CA$12 (~$9) for kids 5 to 17, CA$17 (~$13) for students 18+, CA$21 (~$16) for seniors 65+, and CA$23.25 (~$18) for adults. The nearest metro stop is Jean-Drapeau.

• Address: 160 Chem. du Tour de l’isle, Montréal, QC H3C 4G8, Canada

The Canadian Centre for Architecture (CCA) offers visitors a chance to see how the industry has progressed over time. Housing the largest collection of drawings, artifacts, and other pieces, the museum captures how architecture takes a concept and eventually transforms it into buildings.

The museum features influential architects from throughout history, like Ernest Cormier and Aldo Rossi. Still, it also features lesser-known designers who have greatly impacted how buildings have changed in appearance.

CCA also functions as a research facility, with a library of references available to the public. Additionally, the museum hosts lectures each year for both those interested in studying architecture and the general public. This museum also has a regularly updated online presence, where articles about the field are frequently published, which can add to your visit experience.

The museum is open Wednesday and Friday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Admission is free for students, children, members, first responders, and members of indigenous communities, CA$7 (~$5) for seniors 65+, and CA$10 (~$7) for adults. Ticket fees are waived for everyone on Thursdays and the first Sunday of the month. The nearest metro station is Georges-Vanier.

• Address: 1920 Baile St., Montréal, Québec H3H 2S6, Canada

MEM, the Centre des Mémoires Montréalaises , is dedicated to the city’s history and development over time. Spread across 3 different floors, the space uses artifacts like photographs, costumes, film clips, and everyday items to give visitors a peek into the daily lives of Montréal citizens since the city was first founded. MEM’s permanent collection on the ground floor highlights people, events, and places that helped make Montréal what it is today.

On floors 2 and 3, temporary exhibitions delve deeper into specific periods or topics. Special events are also hosted on these levels. Today, the site houses over 4,000 objects, many preserved over the past century. The galleries particularly well-document the Expo 67 fair.

MEM is open Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Access to featured exhibitions is free for children under 13, CA$6.70 (~$5) for teens 13 to 17, CA$10.90 (~$8) for students, CA$13.20 (~$10) for seniors 65+, and CA$15.50 (~$11) for adults 18+. The nearest metro stop is Saint-Laurent.

• Address: 1210 St Laurent Blvd., Montréal, Québec H2X 2S5, Canada

Montréal’s Science Centre first opened to the public in 2000 in the city’s port. Since then, it’s been one of the area’s most beloved places to learn about the sciences. The center fosters an interest in science and technology in visitors of all ages through interactive exhibits and an on-site IMAX theater.

Currently, 5 permanent exhibits that explore topics from evolution to outer space. There are also several temporary exhibitions on display at the center at any given time, which take a closer look at more niche topics, such as nature-inspired technology and how tech can be used in fields such as botany.

In addition to the special events hosted at the facility, which are primarily geared toward kids, the museum is also available for private parties.

Montréal’s science center is open Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Standard admission is free for children under 2 and members, CA$17.50 (~$13) for kids 2 to 12, CA$18 (~$13) for teens 13 to 17, and CA$27 (~$20) for adults. The nearest metro stop is Place-d’Armes.

• Address: 2 De la Commune St. West, Montréal, Québec H2Y 4B2, Canada

Built as a sprawling French-inspired residence, Château Dufresne was constructed and furnished throughout the first half of the 1900s by the Dufresne entrepreneurs who wished to evoke their French heritage.

Château Dufresne’s permanent exhibit consists of its rooms, many of which still contain the items purchased by the Dufresne family. This exhibit showcases what a wealthy French-Canadian home would have looked like 100 years ago. Sitting rooms, bedrooms, and offices are just a few of the rooms that are open to public viewing.

Special exhibitions and events are also regularly hosted on the property and delve into specific periods, art styles, or artists related to the mansion and its furnishings. While the museum is a self-guided experience, guided tours are offered on weekend afternoons. Alternatively, arrangements can be made to reserve a special tour.

Château Dufresne is open Wednesday to Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free for members and kids under 6, CA$7 (~$5) for kids 6 to 17, CA$13 for seniors 65+ and students 18-30, and CA$14 (~$10) for adults. Québec residents can visit for free on the first Sunday of the month. The nearest metro stop is Pie-IX.

• Address: 2929 Av. Jeanne-d’Arc, Montréal, QC H1W 3W2, Canada

Built at the beginning of the 1700s as a residence for the governor, Château Ramezay was the first building in the city to be considered a historic structure. Since 1894, the mansion has been open to the public as a museum, though it was initially just a portrait gallery.

Today, the space houses paintings, sculptures, books, and furnishings from Montréal’s early history. In total, over 30,000 pieces are preserved at the château, either on display or in the archives.

There are 3 permanent exhibits on display:

• “Hochelaga,” which shows how Montréal developed during the 19th and 20th centuries in particular
• “Life at the Chateau,” which recreates what an 18th-century home would look like
• The “Multimedia Circuit,” which houses photos and videos

The staff also dresses in period-accurate costumes to add to the experience.

Château Ramezay is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free for children under 5, CA$6 (~$4) for kids 5 to 17, CA$10 (~$7) for students, CA$12 (~$9) for seniors 65+, and CA$14 (~$10) for adults. The metro stop is Champ-de-Mars.

• Address: 280 Notre-Dame St. East, Montréal, Québec H2Y 1C5, Canada

Since its opening in 2002, Fonderie Darling has been one of Montréal’s premier sites for contemporary art. Located in what was once an industrial foundry, the gallery is in what is now considered one of the most artsy parts of the city.

Rather than house a permanent collection, the museum regularly rotates its galleries to showcase both established and up-and-coming names in the art world. As a result, each visit ensures a different experience.

Mark Lewis, Barbara Steinman, and Elsa Werth are just some artists the museum space highlights. Notably, Fonderie Darling doesn’t focus on any specific art medium so long as the work being presented is contemporary in nature. Experimental work, including performance arts and technological installations, is most frequently showcased on the property.

Fonderie Darling is open Wednesday and Friday to Sunday from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Thursday from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. Admission is CA$8 (~$6) for all visitors. The nearest metro stop is Square Victoria.

• Address: 745 Ottawa St., Montréal, Québec H3C 1R8, Canada

Since its opening in 1990, the Insectarium has housed insect specimens from around the world, both alive and dead. Not only is the space the largest insectarium in North America , but it’s also the only facility of its kind that allows so many insects to roam freely in specially designed enclosures so visitors can observe how they live and interact with one another.

Butterflies, ants, worms, and bees are just some of the insects housed and displayed at the Insectarium. Through its exhibits, the museum aims to promote more positive feelings toward the insect world by showing how important they are to the environment.

Some of the highlighted species at the Insectarium are the “Orchid Praying Mantis,” the “Umtali Flower Beetle,” and the “Common Morpho” exhibits, which are all kept as live specimens.

The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free for children under 5, CA$12 (~$9) for kids 5 to 17, CA$17 (~$13) for students 18+, CA$21 (~$16) for seniors 65+, and CA$23.25 (~$17) for adults. The nearest metro stop is Pie-IX.

• Address: 4581 Sherbrooke St. East, Montréal, Québec H1X 2B2, Canada

Since its opening, the Marius Barbeau Center has aimed to collect and preserve the city’s culture and history. What sets the center apart from other cultural museums in the city is its focus on immaterial preservation methods. Rather than store concrete artifacts, the space preserves stories, songs, and traditions to celebrate history and culture.

Marius-Barbeau is broadly divided into 16 different departments, ranging from ethnology and legends to folk games and recipes. These topics are represented through 10,000 artifacts that help bring them to life. Each year, the space also hosts a variety of events that take a closer look at elements of local folk heritage and specific cultures from the Québec territory.

The museum is open Tuesday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Friday from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and Monday from 1 to 4:30 p.m. Admission is free for members, CA$3 (~$2) for seniors and students, and CA$6 (~$4) for adults. The nearest metro stop is Laurier, which is a 20-minute walk away.

• Address: 4839 Rue de Bordeaux, Montréal, QC H2H 2A2, Canada

Originally built as a stadium for the 1976 Summer Olympics, Montréal’s Biodôme is a unique structure that simulates the 4 different ecosystems found in the continental Americas .

In particular, the space is divided into:

• The “Tropical Forest,” meant to represent the rainforest of South America
• The “Laurentian Forest,” which replicates the forests of North America
• The “Saint Lawrence Marine Eco-system,” modeled after the coast of Prince Edward Island in Nova Scotia
• The “Sub-Polar Region” is meant to recreate the Arctic

Each habitat in the Biodôme is home to a small variety of live animals that would be found in their real-life counterparts. Macaws are in the tropical section, penguins are in the polar wing, lynx are in the forest area, and fish swim in the marine wing.

Montréal’s Biodôme is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free for children under 5, CA$12 (~$9) for kids 5 to 17, CA$17 (~$13) for students 18+, CA$21 (~$16) for seniors 65+, CA$23.25 (~$17) for adults. The nearest metro station is Viau.

• Address: 3805 Bd Curé-Labelle, Laval, QC H7P 0A5, Canada

The Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal (MAC) was the city’s first exhibit space specifically designated for contemporary works of art. Since its opening in the 1960s, the museum has acquired over 7,000 pieces from over 1,500 artists.

Though this artwork comes from around the world, the vast majority of pieces are from Canadian and Québecois artists. Half of the museum is dedicated to showcasing items from the permanent collection, which are rotated regularly. The other half is set aside for temporary exhibitions and special events.

Art mediums of all kinds are represented in the space, from drawings to film. Even performance arts have been featured. Some highlights are “Beaver Casino” by Kim Adams and “Great Moments in Modern Art II” by Robert Adrian X.

MAC is open Tuesday to Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Admission is free for visitors under 19, Canoo members, and visitors with disabilities, and CA$10 (~$7) for the general public. Fees are waived on the first Sunday of the month for Québec residents. The nearest metro stops are McGill and Bonaventure.

• Address: niveau galerie commerciale, Pl. Ville-Marie local 11220, Montréal, QC H3B 3Y1, Canada

Montréal’s Museum of Fine Arts , also known as MBAM and MMFA, is the country’s largest gallery space and the city’s most-visited museum.

The museum complex, spread across 5 different buildings, houses over 40,000 different pieces from around the world. This collection has been growing since the museum was founded in 1860, making it the oldest in Canada. Today, the museum is split into 6 main wings, which range from contemporary art to ancient and prehistoric artifacts.

Some of the highlighted pieces in the collection are Alberto Giacometti’s “Portrait of the Artist’s Mother,” William George Richardson Hind’s “The Game of Bones,” and a collection of daggers, rattles, and everyday items used by Canada’s historic indigenous people. Special exhibitions, lectures, and day camps are also regularly hosted on the property.

MBAM is open Thursday through Sunday and Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Admission is free for visitors under 20 and members, CA$16 (~$12) for adults 21 to 30, and CA$24 (~$18) for adults 31+. Tickets purchased online receive a CA$3 (~$2) discount. The nearest metro stop is Guy-Concordia.

• Address: 1380 Sherbrooke St. West, Montréal, Québec H3G 1J5, Canada

“An exciting place of discovery, dialogue, and wonder, the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts offers something for everyone. With its extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, photographs, drawings, decorative arts, design, and more, the museum’s exhibitions and collections offer fresh and broad perspectives on art, its history, and our time. Whether you’re drawn to iconic figures of international art or intrigued by Canadian and Indigenous art, an inspiring and enriching experience awaits you.” Mary-Dailey Desmarais, chief curator, Montréal Museum of Fine Arts

The Musée des hospitalières de l’Hotel Dieu de Montréal depicts the history of Montréal through the lens of one of its oldest hospitals. Focusing specifically on healthcare and the medical sciences, the museum uses illustrations, documents, and artifacts to showcase 400 years of history.

Some highlighted pieces from the facility are “Women’s Ward,” a painting that depicts women being treated for illnesses, “La Sainte Famille,” and “Marie De La Ferre,” who was one of the most important figures in the hospital’s administration.

“Exploring a Hospital Heritage” is the museum’s permanent exhibit, which truly shows how the medical field has changed, especially in the last 100 years. Temporary galleries are also regularly hosted on the premises, which delve into specific periods or figures in Canadian medicine. Choose from 5 guided tours for a more in-depth visiting experience.

The museum is open Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free for children under 5, CA$5 (~$4) for kids 5 to 17, CA$10 (~$7) for students 18+ and seniors 65+, and CA$12 (~$9) for adults. The nearest bus stop is Des Pins and Basset.

• Address: 201 Pine Ave. West, Montréal, Québec H2W 1R5, Canada

First opened in 1921, the McCord Stewart Museum is a teaching and research center focusing on documentary art, costumes, fashion, textiles, Montréal’s indigenous populations, material culture, and photography.

Due to the museum’s multidisciplinary nature, the space houses a massive collection of over 2.5 million pieces. The largest collection is, by far, the Photography wing, which features photographic evidence of how Montréal has changed from the 1840s to the present day.

Some of the highlighted pieces from this collection specifically are “Stormy Day, Saint Catherine Street” and “Portrait of Peter Redpath,” both by William Notman, and “McGill College Avenue, Looking South from Sherbrooke Street” by Alexander Henderson. McCord also hosts temporary galleries each year, which display items on loan from other facilities as well as pieces from the museum archives.

The museum is open Tuesday and Thursday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. During the summer schedule, the museum is also open Mondays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is free for members, children under 18, and members of indigenous communities, CA$15 (~$11) for students 18+, CA$19 (~$14) for seniors 65+, and CA$20 (~$15) for adults. A CA$2 (~$1) discount is available for tickets purchased online. Ticket fees are waived for select exhibits on Wednesday evenings and for Québec residents on the first Sunday of the month. The nearest metro stop is McGill.

• Address: 690 Sherbrooke St. West, Montréal, Québec H3A 1E9, Canada

Commissioned by Peter Redpath, the Redpath Museum is a natural history exhibit space that contains items related to science fields, including biology, paleontology, and geology. Currently, the museum has 4 permanent collections, which display a portion of the millions of artifacts in its possession.

Some of the museum’s most famous pieces are “Gorgosaurus,” a dinosaur skeleton, fossilized scallops, and an anaconda skeleton. Temporary exhibits are also hosted on the premises, which offer a closer look at specific scientific topics and monumental figures in the field’s development.

Redpath Museum hosts group tours and special events for the public, but it’s also available for rent for private events like conferences and galas. Cultures from around the world are also celebrated, with artifacts dating back to ancient civilizations of Africa, Egypt, and the Mediterranean.

Redpath is open Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free, but a donation of CA$10 (~$7) for adults and CA$20 (~$15) for families is suggested. The nearest metro stop is Station Peel.

• Address: 859 Sherbrooke St. West, Montréal, Québec H3A 0C4, Canada

Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel is one of the oldest churches in the city and is the site of the Marguerite Bourgeoys Museum . This exhibit space is dedicated to Marguerite Bourgeoys, who founded the church and was Montréal’s first teacher.

The museum’s collection of artifacts and documents depicts the church’s history and connection to Montréal’s society and culture. However, several items also showcase the area’s colonial history and the very first years of a French presence in Canada.

In addition to the museum wings and the chapel, the facility has an archeological site, which features all that remains of the first church ever built in Montréal. Special events, like workshops, lectures, and guided tours, are also held at the museum and change seasonally.

The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free for all guests. The nearest metro stop is Champ-de-Mars.

• Address: 400 Rue Saint-Paul East, Montréal, QC H2Y 1H4, Canada

Officially, the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium, the Montréal Planetarium focuses on studying space, more specifically the Milky Way galaxy.

The Planetarium consists of 2 theaters, “Chaos” and “Milky Way,” to teach visitors about astronomy through a series of shows. Topics include the aurora borealis lights, celestial bodies, and maps of the stars. Notably, these shows are generally rotated 1 to 2 times each year, with up to 10 different shows showing at any given time. So, visitors can visit multiple times and continue to have different experiences.

Most of the shows and lectures at the Planetarium are available for visitors of all ages, but some recommended ages are listed to ensure young kids aren’t scared or overwhelmed. There are also a number of displays that allow visitors to learn about space in general, no matter their ages.

The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission is free for children under 5, CA$12 (~$9) for kids 5 to 17, CA$17 (~$13) for students 18+, CA$21 (~$16) for seniors 65+, and CA$23.25 (~$17) for adults. The nearest bus stop is Viau.

• Address: 4801 Pierre-de Coubertin Ave., Montréal, Québec H1V 3V4, Canada

We’ve indicated with each museum whether or not children, students, or seniors receive free or reduced admission. Several other programs offer similar concessions.

Musées Montréal offers 4 museum passes starting at CA$115 (~$84), which can be used to visit any of the city’s participating museum facilities.

• The Excursion card offers visitors a free visit to any or all participating museums for 3 consecutive days.
• The Excursion+ card allows 1 adult and 1 child under 17 a free visit to any or all participating museums for 3 consecutive days.
• The Discovery card allows holders 1 free visit to any or all participating museums for a full year.
• The Discovery+ card offers holders and a guest 1 free visit to any or all participating museums for a full year.

Montréal museums participating in the program include the Afromuseum, the Age of Union Centre, the Arsenal Contemporary Art Montréal, the Science Centre, and more.

Participation is subject to change; please verify participating museums and entry conditions before your visit.

There’s no shortage of exhibits or galleries in this corner of Québec. No matter what interests you most, there’s a Montréal museum worth adding to your travel itinerary. We hope this list has helped inspire you to narrow your options so you can pick the museums that interest you most.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many museums are there in montréal.

There are around 50 active and open museums in Montréal. However, that number is likely to change as new facilities open or others close down. This count doesn’t necessarily include small exhibitions or galleries found on university campuses or temporarily hosted in spaces.

Are museums free on Sunday in Montréal?

Many of Montréal’s museums offer free admission on the first Sunday of the month. While some of these museums allow free access to all visitors, some limit this perk to Québec province residents. Make sure to check the terms of each museum.

Is Montréal known for its museums?

Montréal has started to earn a reputation as a city for art and culture. Its museums are some of the city’s most popular sites among tourists and locals. The art and history museums are the most beloved.

What is the biggest museum in Montréal?

The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is the city’s largest museum by space and collection. It’s also the most-visited museum in Canada. Its collection is one of the most renowned in the world, with thousands of pieces from some of history’s greatest artists.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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Apple Store in Downtown Montréal Reportedly Moving to 125-Year-Old Heritage Building

Apple is preparing to move its retail store on Saint-Catherine Street in Montréal, Québec, according to Canadian newspaper La Presse .

Bloomberg 's Mark Gurman last year reported that Apple was considering relocating its Saint-Catherine store . At the time, he said Apple aimed to open the new store in February 2025, but the timeframe could change. La Presse reported that Apple's current space on the street is already listed as available for lease online. Apple has not publicly announced any plans to relocate the store, and it did not respond to our inquiry.

The new location would be Apple's first store within a historic building in Canada, with many of the company's other locations in the country found in indoor shopping malls. Apple recently relocated its store at the Square One shopping mall in Mississauga, Ontario, just west of Toronto, as it continues to modernize its Canadian retail fleet.

Thanks, Kevin!

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Top Rated Comments

This might be the most classy-looking Apple store I've ever seen. ?

This is sad... a soulless corporate entity taking over a beautiful building only to ram a bunch of brand cheerleaders gawking over shiny iphones like sheep just to fill the pockets of a THREE TRILLION DOLLAR COMPANY. Ugh.

Still not very well located. It's too far to the west. Would be nice more central near McGill College and near Eaton Centre.

Maybe an unpopular opinion, but I wish they wouldn’t do this. I was in DC last year and stopped by the store near the national portrait gallery and really didn’t like it, super weird place.

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10 Cities To Visit In Canada (Besides Toronto, Montreal, or Vancouver)

W hen touring the Great White North, backpackers and jet-setters often venture to the top Canadian cities like Toronto, Montreal, or Vancouver. These cities offer something for everyone, making them attractive destinations. However, besides the allure of Toronto's world-famous CN Tower , Old Montreal's colonial architecture , or Vancouver's Granville Island (which is excellent for food) , there are other unique destinations nestled in other Canadian cities. Instead, travelers booking their vacations in Canada should stop by these fantastic cities to discover their unique charm and personality, coast to coast!

Victoria, British Columbia

The Canadian coastal city of Victoria is British Columbia's capital city, sitting on the southern end of Vancouver Island. Victoria's cityscape is like a painting, blessed with picturesque views around the harbor and beyond. Equipped with an ideal growing climate, it's no wonder Victoria earned its nickname "Canada's Garden City!". Being one of the best cities in Canada to visit, there's plenty to do and see. Stroll through Victoria's green spaces this summer and appreciate the blooming flowers ( counted as 27,875,292,158 in 2022 )! Visitors can also explore the city's neighborhoods and attractions, such as Victoria's Chinatown (which is one of the oldest in Canada).

• Top Attractions in Victoria: Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, Royal BC Museum, Beacon Hill Park

Quebec City, Quebec

Visit Quebec's capital of Quebec City, which is nestled along the northern shores of the St. Lawrence River and is one of the top cities to visit in Canada. Quebec City is the only city in North America with a Francophone government and functions as a hub for Francophone culture. Specifically, curious visitors can explore the cobblestones streets of Quebec's UNESCO-listed Old City , a World Heritage Site and the only fortified city north of Mexico! Within these walls, travelers can climb the steps of the Casse-Cou stairs or take a snapshot of the Château Frontenac.

• Top Attractions in Quebec City: Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Montmorency Falls, La Citadelle de Quebec

Ottawa, Ontario

Nestled on the Ottawa River near the border of Quebec lies Canada's capital, the city of Ottawa, which offers plenty of fun and unique things to do . Besides learning about the Canadian government at Parliament Hill, travelers can uncover the capital city and partake in recreational activities around the Rideau Canal (the world's longest skating rink), visit the Royal Canadian Mint, or appreciate art at the National Gallery of Canada! The city also hosts a collection of summer events, including the Ottawa Jazz Festival, Almonte Celtfest, the RBC Bluesfest, and Canada Day.

• Top Attractions in Ottawa: Parliament Hill, National Gallery of Canada, Rideau Canal, Canadian Museum of Nature

RELATED: Visiting Ottawa? 10 Foods You Can't Miss While You're There

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

The capital of Prince Edward Island is on Hillsborough Bay, sitting on the mouths of the Elliot, North, and Hillsborough Rivers. Charlottetown serves as the primary municipality in Canada's smallest province, attracting tourists yearly due to its pleasant weather, nearby beaches, and coastal charm. Today, Charlottetown's cityscape retains many of its historic buildings and landmarks. Travelers can admire the city's historic church architecture while visiting St. Dunstan's Roman Catholic Basilica, its mansions like Beaconsfield Historic House, or the Brighton Beach Lighthouse.

• Top Attractions in Charlottetown: St. Dunstan's Cathedral, Beaconsfield Historic House, Confederation Landing

St. John's, Newfoundland And Labrador

Discover the beauty of Canada's east coast with a visit to St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, one of the best cities to visit in Canada as a tourist. This hilly and quaint city has no shortage of things to see. Visitors can learn about Newfoundland's history by visiting Signal Hill , appreciate the vibrant houses along Jellybean Row, visit Cape Spear lighthouse, the oldest surviving lighthouse in the province , or enjoy the city nightlife at George Street. The heart of Canada's east coast beats at St. John's, a historic city with stunning vibes!

• Top Attractions in Newfoundland and Labrador: Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site, Signal Hill National Historic Site, The Rooms, Qidi Vidi Lake

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Spend the summer exploring the capital of Nova Scotia and the largest urban area in Atlantic Canada in Halifax. This coastal city hosts one of the world's largest harbors and serves as a vital center for the economy within Atlantic Canada (and within Canada). Halifax lures tourists with its mild winter climates, beaches, and fresh seafood. Watch the noon gun at Citadel National Historic Site (which also features a great view of the city), walk the Halifax Boardwalk, and sample a comforting donair (Halifax's official food made with pita filled with roasted shaved beef, tomatoes, onions, and donair sauce)!

• Top Attractions in Halifax: Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, Halifax Public Gardens, Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, Point Pleasant Park

RELATED: Colorful Houses To Breathtaking Scenery: 10 Prettiest Coastal Towns In Newfoundland

Saint John, New Brunswick

New Brunswick's second-largest city is located on the Saint John River and is the only "true" city to be located on the Bay of Fundy, which offers lots of tourist attractions . Canadian history is plentiful at Saint John, as it's Canada's oldest city! History buffs will love walking through the city and discovering its collection of National Historic Sites, including those at the Trinity Royal Heritage Conservation Area and the Saint John City Market (Canada's oldest farmer's market). Saint John is also a gateway to soaking in the sights of the Bay of Fundy, which has the highest tides in the world!

• Top Attractions in Saint John: Saint John City Market, Irving Nature Park, Rockwood Park, Kings Square, Rockwood Park

Whitehorse, Yukon

Visit the capital of Yukon, a city founded during the the historic Klondike Gold Rush and named after the foam in the rapids on the Yukon River (which resembled manes on white horses)! Travelers venturing along the Alaska Highway should make a stop at Whitehorse, a small city with a huge backyard. Nicknamed the Wilderness City, visitors stopping by this Yukon City can enjoy a range of outdoor activities nearby, like mountain biking and hiking. What's more, in 2011, Whitehorse was recognized as having one of the cleanest air in the world !

• Top attractions in White Horse: SS Klondike National Historic Site, Miles Canyon, MacBridge Museum of Yukon History, Yukon Wildlife Preserve

RELATED: 10 Things You Can Only See In Canada's Yukon Territory

Winnipeg, Manitoba

Taking on several nicknames like the "Bull's Eye of the Dominion" or the "Gateway to the West," Winnipeg is Manitoba's largest city and its capital. Travelers can explore the Canadian Prairies with a stop at Winnipeg, a city with ties to the fur trade, the railway, grain exchange, and the Indigenous communities of Canada. Today, visitors can explore Winnipeg and its reputation as a hub for Canadian art, technology, aerospace, and literature. Check out aircraft exhibits at the Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada or learn some history at the Manitoba Museum.

• Top Attractions in Winnipeg: The Forks Market, Canadian Museum for Human Rights, Children's Museum, Kildonan Park

Calgary, Alberta

In the summer, Calgary is filled with tourists who come to appreciate the beauty of the Canadian Rockies (which is only a two-hour drive from the city ). Aside from enjoying the mountains, visitors can easily enjoy themselves in Calgary in the warmer months. This Alberta cosmopolitan offers an intricate network of paths, bikeways, and acres of green spaces. Visitors can even enjoy some city rafting along the Bow River. In the summer, the Calgary Stampede is a must-see attraction, boasting its reputation as the world's largest outdoor rodeo !

• Top Attractions in Calgary: Calgary Tower, Heritage Park, Prince's Island Park, Nose Hill Park

Watch CBS News

When and where you can see April's Pink Moon

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: April 22, 2024 / 4:39 PM EDT / CBS News

Astronomy fans can check out the Pink Moon this month as April's full moon rises.

April's full moon will reach peak illumination at 7:49 p.m. EDT on Tuesday, but it will appear full from Monday through Thursday morning, according to NASA . The Old Farmer's Almanac details specific moonrise times for different ZIP codes across the U.S. 

Why is April's full moon known as the Pink Moon?

Full moon names often come from seasons, historical crops and the behavior of certain animals. The "Pink Moon" moniker unfortunately has nothing to do with the moon's color, according to The Old Farmer's Almanac. Instead, it's connected to the early springtime bloom of certain wildflowers, including one native to eastern North America often called "moss pink."

April's full moon goes by several other names, too, including Breaking Ice Moon, Moon When the Streams are Again Navigable, Budding Moon of Plants and Shrubs and Moon of the Red Grass Appearing. It also has several names connected to animals, including Moon When the Ducks Come Back, Moon When the Geese Lay Eggs, Frog Moon and Sucker Moon.

NASA notes it's also the Pesach or Passover Moon — the Jewish holiday begins this year on Monday evening. This full moon also corresponds with the Hanuman Jayanti festival on the Hindu lunisolar calendar in most regions, according to the space agency. 

Look up — what else can you see in the sky this spring?

The Eta Aquariids meteor shower is estimated to peak Saturday, May 4 through Sunday, May 5. And May's full moon, the Flower Moon, reaches peak illumination on May 23. 

In case you missed it,  the Lyrid meteor shower  peaked late Sunday night, between April 21 and 22.

Aliza Chasan is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

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