Montreal
Montreal is synonymous with French Canadian culture, wonderful things to see & do, and a pretty good ice hockey team too!
Montreal Travel Guide
Quebec’s largest city, the French Canadian city of Montreal, is an enthralling destination, a center of arts and culture as well as a vibrant metropolis that is a melting pot of numerous fascinating cultures. Montreal is a free-spirited, energetic and hip city, home to historic buildings that rub shoulders with futuristic modern structures, long shopping streets offering every type of product imaginable and restaurants that are world-renowned for their creativity.
Comprising a number of small villages that joined forces to create this vibrant sprawl on the banks of the Saint Lawrence River, the city has an effervescent quality. It’s the largest French-speaking city in the world next to Paris, a multi-faceted urban jungle where you can feast on French pastries or the local sesame seed bagel, go hiking, exploring historic Vieux-Montreal or party till the wee hours on Rue St-Denis.
As part of a trip with to Canada, you will have a great time in Montreal which contrasts nicely with the other more rugged cities in the west of the country such as Calgary.
Locals do speak French but you can always speak English and have no troubles. Canada has a legal position of bilingualism so both languages are mandatory in shops for example.
Get stuck in to a an amazing French Canadian trip... and have some poutine while you do!
Best time to visit: Visit in the shoulder seasons – spring (March to May) or fall (September and October) when the crowds are less and prices are cheaper than in the summer months (June to the end of August).
Best Area for Sightseeing: Vieux-Montreal The old part of town is home to numerous historic attractions including Notre Dame Basilica and the Old Port. You’ll also find numerous museums and attractions to visit as well as the Bonsecours Market.
Shopping in Montreal: You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to shopping in Montreal, so take your time and scour the malls, markets, local shops and vintage stores at leisure.
Food & Restaurants in Montreal: In this multi-cultural city, cuisine is diverse, exciting and delicious. Whether you’re sampling street food or dining in an upmarket restaurant, you’re in for a treat. Make sure to visit some of the markets, including colorful Jean-Talon Market and Atwater Market, both offering fabulous fresh produce.
Nightlife: The city transforms into a vibrant, lively, noisy place after dark, with plenty of excellent bars, clubs, dancing and live music offerings. Each neighborhood has its own special charm and nightlife scene, so explore and enjoy.
- Things to do in Montreal:
- Visit the spectacular Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal.
- Take in the history on offer in charming Vieux-Montreal and the city’s quaint Vieux-Port.
- Come in the summer to enjoy Montreal’s iconic Jazz Festival.
- Enjoy ice skating in winter on a choice of 3 excellent outdoor rinks around the city.
- Hike up to the top of Mount Royal for unsurpassed city views.
- Step back in time at the Montreal History Centre and learn about the city’s past.
- View the largest collection of modern and historic Canadian fine art at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts.
- Visit the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, where the Formula One Canadian Grand Prix is held.
- Discover the neighborhood of Plateau Mont-Royal, filled with colorful Victorian homes, hip boutiques and cafes.
- Spend the day at the amazing amusement park, La Ronde, with the kids.
Best way to get around: When you’re not exploring on foot, use the city’s excellent metro or bus systems.
Best Area for Families: Plateau Mont Royal Park Located north of downtown Montreal, this residential area offers a variety of family-friendly facilities and numerous parks.