The Best Travel Guide to Montreal

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Montreal

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Overview

Montreal The guide was updated: 2023-11-01

In addition of being the largest city in the province of Quebec, Montreal is easily the most multicultural metropolis in Canada, if not all of the Americas. It keeps strong marks of its French origins but has welcomed people of so many backgrounds it has become truly cosmopolitan. As night time falls, an orange glow coats the city, and Montreal's vibrant nightlife comes into motion.

Facts

Population:	City: 1.8 million Montrealers (2021) Metro area: 4.3 million (2021)
Currency:	Canadian Dollar: 1 CAD = 100 cents
Search Accommodation:	Hotels »
Emergency numbers:	911
Newspapers:	Montreal Gazette — www.montrealgazette.com Montreal Times — www.mtltimes.ca The Suburban — www.thesuburban.com CTV News — montreal.ctvnews.ca
Website:	www.mtl.org www.montreal.ca
Opening hours:	Shops: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday 9 am to 6pm Thursday to Friday 9 am to 9pm Sunday noon to 5pm Banks: Monday to Friday 10 am to 3/4 pm Post Offices: Monday to Friday 8/8:30 am to 5/5:30 pm Restaurants: 11 am to 2 pm for lunch and 7 pm to 11pm for dinner
Tourist information:	Tourist Welcome Office in Old Montréal Place Jacques-Cartier, 174, rue Notre-Dame E., Montréal +1 800 230-0001 See website for more locations: www.bonjourquebec.com/en/plan-your-trip/contact-us

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Section in Montreal

From historical landmarks to atmospheric neighborhoods to lose yourself in, Montreal could very well be one of the coolest places on earth. There is enough to do and see to fill up an entire holiday, and every season brings its own charm. Frozen lakes in winter leave way to flowery mounts in spring, and sunbathing in the summer disappears into the maple colors of fall. Whether you choose to use the incredible public transport network, walk, or ride a bicycle, you are sure to enjoy a break in Montreal.

Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal

Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal

The most famous and picturesque cathedral in Montreal, Notre-Dame Basilica is sure to leave an impression. Walk through the nave, across the dark blue floor, watched over by the large statues, to reach the impressive altar. The Basilica is a breathtaking sight, one that will most likely put you in a meditative state.

Mount Royal

Mount Royal

Step off the busy streets of Montreal and into nature to take in city life from up above. Mount Royal is a perfect viewpoint to see the entire city in all its glory. The way up is a bit of a hike so wear good shoes, but, once you're there, take a deep breath and let the clean, fresh air fill your lungs. Do not miss Saint Joseph's Oratory.

Old Montreal

Old Montreal

After a tour of the Montreal History Centre, walk through various areas of Old Montreal, from Champ de Mars to Place d'Youville. Along the way you will have access to museums and attractions, such as the City Hall and the Bonsecours Market, as well as several beautiful public spaces. Don't forget your camera!

Montreal Botanical Garden & Green Spaces

Montreal Botanical Garden & Green Spaces

The Montreal Botanical Gardens offer a welcome breath of fresh air in the busy city. Whether you visit the Biodôme, Botanical Garden, Insectarium, or the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium, every single one will be a unique and memorable experience. All locations are conveniently close to each other, but make sure to take at least a couple of hours to explore each.

The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts

The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts

The Museum of Fine Arts in Montreal is praised by the overwhelming majority of its visitors, and for a reason: it has the largest collection of fine art in Canada, as well as a continuous rotation of exhibitions. Just like the city itself, the museum showcases two sides to art: historical and modern.

Laurentian Mountains

Laurentian Mountains

Leave the urban sprawl behind and admire Canadian natural beauty. Hop on the bus and travel through the beautiful landscapes all the way to the Laurentian Mountains. Get your camera ready to capture the steep mountain sides, adorned with bright red trees in autumn or flourishing greens in spring. Dotted with pretty little towns and impressive rock formations, the Laurentian Mountains are a great day trip.

Circuit Gilles Villeneuve

Circuit Gilles Villeneuve

The noteworthy Formula One Canadian Grand Prix is held on this impressive circuit, located on Notre-Dame island. Stand on the tarmac and experience the feeling of engines roaring past as racers battle each other for pole position. To experience the entire track, it is possible to use your own vehicle or even roller blade or bike along it.

Pointe-à-Callière Museum of Archaeology and History

Pointe-à-Callière Museum of Archaeology and History

Pointe-à-Callière is a national historical and archaeological site that allows visitors to see how old Montreal came to life. It features both historical and contemporary pieces, and takes you from day one to what the city has become now. Witness more than a 1000 years of human progress.

Bell Centre

Bell Centre

There is always something going on at Bell Centre, whether sporting events or concerts; this same 21,000-seat venue hosts the Cirque du Soleil. Alternatively, you can take one of the guided tours that will take you all the way to the locker rooms. Taking pictures is allowed and encouraged.

Montreal Biosphere

Montreal Biosphere

This museum benefits from a great location in a green environment on St Helen Island. The Biosphere Museum is dedicated to preserving the environment and sustainability. Natural environments are recreated indoors. It is a great activity for families, and the sphere is very photogenic from the outside.

Plateau Mont-Royal

Plateau Mont-Royal

Plateau Mont-Royal is simply the most beautiful and atmospheric neighbourhood in Montreal, with colorful brick Victorian houses, trendiest coffee shops and coolest boutiques in the city. A walk in the area is sure to lift your spirits.

La Ronde

La Ronde

La Ronde is a huge amusement and entertainment park located on Saint Helen Island. With around 40 attractions (ranging from roller coasters to water games), it is a great activity for families in the summer (keep in mind it closes during winter and usually reopens in May).

Rage Montreal

Rage Montreal

Do you have some stress or anger you would like to get rid off? Say no more, Rage is the activity for you. This very special place will teach you how to throw axes in eleven different throwing corridors. Whether you are here for a celebration or to release negative energy, be prepared to discover your inner warrior.

Bota Bota

Bota Bota

Bota Bota is a floating spa location on St. Lawrence River. Prepare for a unique (albeit a little pricey) experience in several saunas, hot tubs, and outdoor pools — maybe even for a dip in the freezing river. The “spa sur l’eau” (spa on the water) also hosts DJs, movies and live music events from time to time.

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