Things to Do in Montreal Canada

Discover the Charm of Montreal, Canada

Located in the province of Quebec, Montreal is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of French and Canadian cultures. From historic landmarks to trendy neighborhoods, there’s no shortage of exciting things to do in this beautiful city.

Must-Visit Attractions

Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal)

  • Explore the cobblestone streets and historic buildings of this charming neighborhood.
  • Visit Notre-Dame Basilica, a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture.
  • Take a stroll along the Saint Lawrence River waterfront.

Mont Royal Park (Parc du Mont-Royal)

  • Hike to the top of the mountain for breathtaking views of the city.
  • Explore the scenic trails and gardens of this beautiful park.

Olympic Stadium (Stade Olympique)

  • Catch a sporting event or concert at this iconic stadium.
  • Take a guided tour, which includes a visit to the highest point in Montreal.

Neighborhoods to Explore

Plateau Mont-Royal

  • Discover the trendy shops and cafes of this hip neighborhood.
  • Admire the colorful street art and murals that adorn the buildings.

Mile End

  • Visit the famous St-Viateur Bagel, a Montreal institution since 1957.
  • Explore the eclectic mix of vintage shops, record stores, and restaurants.

Gay Village (Le Village gai)

  • Experience the vibrant nightlife and LGBTQ+ culture of this iconic neighborhood.
  • Enjoy the colorful decorations and lively atmosphere during Pride Month.

Foodie Heaven

Try Classic Montreal Cuisine

  • Poutine: French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy.
  • Smoked Meat Sandwiches: Thinly sliced smoked meat served on rye bread at delis like Schwartz’s or Smoked Meat Pete’s.
  • Bagels: Freshly baked bagels from St-Viateur Bagel or other local bakeries.

Visit a Local Market

  • Jean-Talon Market: A bustling marketplace offering fresh produce, meats, and specialty foods.
  • Atwater Market: Another historic market with a variety of vendors selling everything from cheese to flowers.

Festivals and Events

Summer Festivals

  • Osheaga Music Festival: A three-day music festival featuring local and international artists.
  • Just for Laughs: A comedy festival that takes over the city in July.

Winter Wonderland

  • Igloofest: An outdoor electronic music festival held at the Quays of the Old Port.
  • Fête des Neiges: A winter festival with ice sculptures, snow slides, and hot chocolate.

Getting Around

Public Transportation

  • Use the efficient metro system to get around the city.
  • Take a bus or bike-share program for shorter trips.

Walking Tours

  • Join a guided walking tour to explore Montreal’s neighborhoods and landmarks.
  • Create your own self-guided tour using online resources and maps.

Insider Tips

Learn Some French

  • While many Montrealers speak English, learning basic French phrases will enhance your experience.

Explore Beyond Downtown

  • Venture into the surrounding neighborhoods for a more authentic experience.

With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture, Montreal is a city that has something to offer every kind of traveler. Whether you’re interested in food, festivals, or outdoor activities, this guide provides the perfect starting point for planning your trip to Montreal, Canada.