best things to do in montreal
Montreal, the second-largest French-speaking city in the world, is a vibrant and eclectic destination that offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors. Here are some of the best things to do in Montreal:
- Explore Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal): This historic neighborhood is filled with cobblestone streets, charming shops, and restaurants. Visit the Notre-Dame Basilica, the Old Port (Vieux-Port), and the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts.
- Visit the Jean-Talon Market: This bustling market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, and specialty foods. It’s a great place to sample local cuisine and buy souvenirs.
- Take a stroll along the Lachine Canal: This scenic canal is a popular spot for walking, cycling, and kayaking. You can also take a boat tour or rent a bike and explore the surrounding parks and gardens.
- Visit the Mont Royal Park (Parc du Mont-Royal): This beautiful park offers stunning views of the city and is home to several hiking trails, gardens, and a famous lookout point.
- Discover the Underground City (RÉSO): Montreal’s underground network of tunnels and shops is a unique and convenient way to explore the city. You can find everything from high-end boutiques to street food and restaurants.
- Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art (MACM): This modern art museum features a diverse collection of contemporary art from around the world.
- Take a tour of the Notre-Dame Basilica: This stunning basilica is one of the most famous landmarks in Montreal. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and architecture.
- Visit the Olympic Stadium (Stade Olympique): This iconic stadium was built for the 1976 Summer Olympics and offers stunning views of the city.
- Explore the Plateau Mont-Royal neighborhood: This trendy neighborhood is known for its street art, independent shops, and restaurants. It’s a great place to experience Montreal’s vibrant arts and culture scene.
- Attend a festival or event: Montreal is known for its festivals and events, including the Just for Laughs comedy festival, the Osheaga music festival, and the Montreal Jazz Festival.
- Visit the Botanical Garden (Jardin Botanique): This beautiful garden features over 22,000 plant species and is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
- Take a day trip to the Laurentian Mountains: The Laurentians are a popular ski resort destination in the winter and a great place to hike and explore in the summer.
- Visit the McCord Museum: This museum showcases Canadian history and culture, with a focus on the country’s indigenous peoples and early settlers.
- Explore the Saint-Laurent Boulevard (Boulevard Saint-Laurent): This vibrant street is known for its street art, independent shops, and restaurants.
- Visit the Pointe-à-Callière Museum: This museum explores the history of Montreal and the surrounding area, with a focus on archaeology and anthropology.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Montreal. The city has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or outdoor activities.
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Montreal is in the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October), when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded. Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoor festivals and events, while winter is perfect for skiing and ice skating.
Getting around:
Montreal has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses, metro lines, and bike-share programs. You can also walk or take a taxi to get around the city.
Accommodation:
Montreal has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Consider staying in the downtown area or a nearby neighborhood to be close to many of the city’s attractions.
Language:
While French is the official language of Quebec, many Montrealers speak English, especially in the service industry. You can also use translation apps or ask for help if you need assistance.
Currency:
The Canadian dollar is the official currency of Quebec, but you can also use US dollars in many places.
Safety:
Montreal is generally a safe city, but as with any major city, take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
