BEST THINGS to DO IN MONTREAL
Montreal is one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in Canada. This extraordinary urban center has the largest French-speaking population outside of France, creating an authentic European feel only found in French Canada. This city has many fun activities to offer, whether you are looking to enjoy the beautiful architecture of Old Montreal or the bustling streets of downtown Montreal.
Montreal has many great things. Summer brings amazing festivals and outdoor patio seasons. Winter in Montreal allows you to enjoy ice skating or relax at the Bota Spa. No matter what season it is, there are activities for all ages.
We have highlighted some of the top Montreal attractions to make planning easier. These include shopping, outdoor activities and top museums. To fully experience the French-Canadian culture, we recommend spending at least a weekend in Montreal. However, you can easily spend as much as 5 days.
Montreal’s Top Things to Do
Montreal, located on the St. Lawrence River, is one of Canada’s most beautiful cities to explore. There are many cafes along the streets of Old Montreal. Bicycles can be rented to explore the waterfront. Grand historical buildings have stood the test of time.
Montreal is just five hours away from Toronto and only 3 hours from Ottawa. Trains can also be used to get to Montreal. Transportation by Rail Canada – Toronto to Montreal Train
Mark Twain called Montreal “The City of a Hundred Steeples”, and it’s easy to see why when you visit. Montreal is home to more than 650 churches. The French cathedrals are the foundation of French culture. Montreal is a city that exudes European charm and old-world charm. You won’t regret visiting.
Explore the History of Old Montreal
It’s about enjoying the moment and taking your time when exploring Old Montreal. Although the city was established in 1642, it has a lot of historical significance. However, they have done a wonderful job blending the old and the new. Old Montreal is a great place to take in the atmosphere and slow down. As you sip your coffee au lait and enjoy a croissant, you will feel like you are in a small piece of Europe.
Old Montreal is a well-maintained attraction with its Victorian architecture, cobblestone streets and classic street lamps that line the walkways. Place d’Arms – Enjoy a cup of coffee on the terrace at a top cafe while you watch street performers and musicians. You can also visit the market to shop in one of the many souvenir shops or boutiques in the old city.
Saint Laurent Boulevard Shopping Spree
Saint Laurent Boulevard is the ideal place to shop for all your needs. It runs through the heart of Montreal. You can spend hours looking at all the different brands and styles available.
It is located in the middle of Montreal Saint Laurent Boulevard, which can be used to guide you around the city. This street can be a starting point when planning all the fun things to do in Montreal.
Please stop by the local artisans selling their goods along the sidewalk. You can be certain that you will walk away with a unique piece of art that you will cherish forever. It also helps to support local artists.
You can shop on Saint Laurent Boulevard, but you should also stop by one of the cafes and restaurants to grab a drink or great food. For the amazing Montreal Smoked Meat, stop by Schwartz’s Deli. This Montreal Smoked Meat is a must-try if you’re in Montreal.
Participate in a Festival
Montreal is known for its festivals. There’s always something happening in Montreal. Particularly in summer. There are always celebrations, including the Montreal International Jazz Festival and Just for Laughs Festival. Check out our complete listing of Fetes de Neige events in Montreal.
Montreal’s Quartier des spectacles host many festivals. It is the city’s main cultural and entertainment district, featuring outdoor events and installations throughout the year. A cool fact is that Montreal also has a Quartier Latin, a Latin Quarter, which, like Paris, France, houses many cinemas, restaurants, bars, and theatres.
Marvel At Notre Dame Basilica
Although it may not be as well-known as the Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris is a prominent monument in Montreal. The Montreal Notre Dame Cathedral, located on Saint Paul Street (rue Saint Paul), is as impressive from the inside as its exterior. The Gothic Revival basilica, built in the 1800s, is one of North America’s most beloved churches. It has more than 11,000,000 visitors each year. It would help if you visited the interior to see its elaborate displays of religious events.
To learn more about the church and its history, it is worth taking a guided tour for 20 minutes. The guided tour includes the CAD 4 adult admission to Nore Dame Basilica. We think it is well worth the effort.
Mount Royal Park: Hike up
Mount Royal is a favorite place to visit in Montreal. It is also known for its stunning views of the city. You can hike up Mount Royal Park to enjoy a picnic or ride a bicycle. Mount Royal is more than a park. It’s also a fashionable neighborhood in Montreal that offers great shopping and dining.
Mount Royal Park is a must-see if you are visiting Montreal in winter. You can enjoy snowshoeing, ice skating, cross-country skiing, and snow tubing. Beaver Lake offers equipment rental if you don’t have your own. This is a great spot for family fun in Montreal.
Are you looking for adventurous activities in Montreal? Take a Zipline Ride in Montreal’s Old Port. You will fly over Bonsecours lagoon and down a 1200-foot steel cable. You’ll be able to skip the long line at this Montreal attraction if you have your advance ticket.