Things To Do
in Montréal
Montréal is a lively, bilingual city known for its blend of European flair and North American energy. Its streets reveal a mosaic of historic old-world neighborhoods, vibrant arts, and a food scene famous for poutine and Montreal-style bagels. The city thrives year-round with festivals, markets, and riverside views along the St. Lawrence.
From cobbled lanes of Old Montréal to the vibrant Mile End, Montréal rewards curious travelers with culture, cuisine, and a distinctive francophone spirit.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café in Old Montréal, enjoying fresh pastries and rich coffee. Afterward, stroll along the cobblestone streets, taking in the stunning architecture of the Notre-Dame Basilica. Don't forget to stop by Place Jacques-Cartier, where you can admire the vibrant atmosphere and street artists.
In the afternoon, visit the Pointe-à-Callière Museum to delve into the city's history through its engaging exhibits. After immersing yourself in the past, head to the waterfront for a scenic walk along the Lachine Canal, soaking in the views of the boats and the city skyline. Grab a light lunch at a nearby bistro, savoring local dishes like poutine or smoked meat sandwiches.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a charming restaurant in Old Port, where you can taste exquisite Quebec cuisine. After your meal, explore the lively nightlife by visiting a local bar or enjoying live music at one of the nearby venues. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk along the St. Lawrence River, taking in the twinkling lights of the city.
Begin your day with breakfast at a trendy café in the Plateau-Mont-Royal neighborhood, known for its artistic vibe. Afterward, dive into the world of art by visiting the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, where you can explore a diverse collection of artworks. Take your time to appreciate the unique exhibitions that reflect both local and international talent.
After lunch at a nearby eatery, embark on a guided street art tour of the Plateau, discovering stunning murals and graffiti that tell the story of the city's culture. Visit local art galleries that showcase emerging artists, allowing you to interact with creators and learn about their inspirations. Spend some time relaxing in Parc La Fontaine, where you can enjoy the natural beauty and perhaps catch a live performance.
For dinner, indulge in a meal at a local bistro that specializes in farm-to-table dishes, highlighting the region's fresh ingredients. After your meal, explore the vibrant nightlife of the Plateau, stopping by local bars known for their craft cocktails and unique atmospheres. End your evening with a visit to a small theater for an independent film or a live performance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🚌1-month public transit pass | $86-112 |
| 🧀Grocery meal for 2 | $15-25 |
| 🎟️Museum admission | $12-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant bilingual culture
- Excellent food scene
- Walkable neighborhoods and historic architecture
- World-class festivals and nightlife
- Winter can be long and cold
- High seasonal tourism crowds and prices
- Traffic can be heavy during peak hours
- French language can be challenging for newcomers
Places to Visit in Montréal
Visit one of these nice places.
Cobbled streets, historic architecture, and the Vieux-Port provide timeless cityscapes and river reflections.
Gothic-inspired exterior and richly lit interior scenes ideal for dramatic architectural photography.
Panoramic city views from the park’s lookout—perfect for skyline silhouettes at sunrise or sunset.
Iconic river bridge offering sweeping cityscapes, especially captivating at golden hour.
Futuristic architecture and urban forms provide striking angles for modernist-inspired photography.
Vibrant street art and colorful rooftops create lively, candid urban portraits.
Food in Montréal
Montréal Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fried potatoes topped with cheese curds and gravy; iconic Montréal comfort food found in many diners, especially at late hours.
Must-Try!
Sweet, dense bagels boiled in honey-water and baked in wood-fired ovens; famous offerings come from spots like St-Viateur and Fairmount.
Dense, spiced smoked beef piled high on rye; Schwartz’s Deli is a legendary stop for this Montréal staple.
Fried dough pastries topped with sugar, cinnamon, or chocolate; popular as a sweet street treat.
Flaky pastries filled with sweet, buttery custard; a classic Canadian dessert often enjoyed with coffee.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant produce market in Little Italy offering fresh local produce, cheeses, baked goods, and prepared foods.
Historic market with butchers, fishmongers, and ready-to-eat options; great for tasting local specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
French is the primary language; greet with 'Bonjour' (and 'Bonsoir' in the evening). Service staff often speak English; politeness and patience are appreciated.
Queue patiently in stores and public transport; modest dress is typical for many indoor venues.
Keep noise levels reasonable in residential areas, especially at night; public displays of affection are common but discreet in some neighborhoods.
Safety
Tipping in Montréal
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tipping 15-20% of the pre-tax bill is customary for good service; round up or adjust for quality. In bars, $1-2 per drink or 15-20% is common.
Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common; tipping can be added to card payments or given in cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with high humidity and numerous outdoor festivals (e.g., Mural Festival, Just for Laughs). Expect occasional thunderstorms; stay hydrated and plan outdoor activities in the morning or late afternoon.
Crisp air and brilliant fall foliage; great for walking tours and photography. Layered clothing is key as temperatures swing from day to night.
Cold with regular snowfall; prepare for wind chill and icy sidewalks. Indoor attractions shine, and festive markets appear throughout the season.
Mild and changeable with rain showers; trees and flowers begin to bloom. Outdoor seating returns and city parks come alive.
Montréal at Night
Hiking in Montréal
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
In-city hiking with scenic viewpoints and forested trails accessible for most ages.
A nature reserve about 40–60 minutes away featuring forest trails and sweeping viewpoints.
Coastal trails along Lac des Deux-Montagnes with lakeside scenery about an hour away.
Airports
How to reach Montréal by plane.
Major international gateway located in Dorval, about 15–20 minutes from downtown by car or via the rail link.
Smaller regional airport serving some domestic flights; about 30–40 minutes from central Montréal.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority speak French; bilingualism is common in service sectors, and French is widely used in daily life.
A diverse mix from Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas contributes to a multicultural urban fabric.
A large student presence from universities and colleges fuels a dynamic, youthful energy in neighborhoods like the Plateau and Mile End.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Canada’s national winter sport; widely followed with local leagues, rinks, and community games.
Strong amateur and semi-professional scene with multiple clubs and outdoor facilities across the city.
Robust indoor and outdoor options, courts throughout the boroughs and organized leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Montréal.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most neighborhoods offer diverse vegetarian options; look for markets with fresh produce and restaurants labeled as vegetarian-friendly; ask for veggie versions of local dishes where possible.
Many cafés and restaurants provide vegan dishes; communicate dietary needs in French or English and request plant-based substitutions when needed.
Gluten-free options are widely available in many bakeries and restaurants; check ingredient lists and inform staff of allergies.