Are you visiting Montreal anytime soon? The pristine Canadian city is known for its tourist landmarks, cultural sites, and plenty of recreational options. There is a long list of Montreal attractions worth checking out on your trip as well.
The city has something to suit everyone. In this context, here’s looking at some of the top things to do in Montreal during your time here. The interesting thing is that Montreal is a bilingual and culturally rich city which is known for its vibrant atmosphere. The guide covers neighborhoods, seasonal activities, attractions, and food, to give you a complete picture.
Top Attractions You Shouldn’t Miss in Montreal
There are several Montreal tourist attractions worth checking out in the city. Here’s looking at some of them below:
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Notre-Dame Basilica-
- It is a majestic instance of Gothic Revival architecture from Old Montreal. The key feature is the intricately designed interior along with lovely stained glass and fabulous twin towers.
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Old Montreal-
- You will love walking through the famous cobblestone streets in the district, viewing multiple attractions like the Notre-Dame Basilica and also the Place Jacques-Cartier.
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St. Joseph’s Oratory-
- Situated on Mount Royal, it is the biggest church in the country and is also a famous religious attraction.
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Pointe-a-Calliere, Montreal Archaeology and History Complex-
- It is a museum built on the site where the city was established. It showcases the history of the city from the 14th century till the present day.
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Mount Royal Park-
- It is a massive urban park that was designed by the same landscaping architect who created Central Park. It offers fabulous views of the city from the lookout points.
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Montreal Museum of Fine Arts-
- It is one of the premier art museums in North America, with its huge collection spread throughout multiple pavilions for you to check out.
You will also find several other attractions with multiple apartments in Montreal close by to help you access them conveniently. These include the Montreal Botanical Garden and the Biodome de Montreal, in addition to the Underground City (RESO), La Grande Roue de Montreal, and the Marche Jean-Talon public market.
Best Neighborhoods to Explore in Montreal
There are several neighborhoods that you can explore in Montreal, with multiple apartments available for your convenience here. Some of them include the following:
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Old Montreal-
- It is the historic birthplace of Montreal, which is synonymous with cobblestone pathways, famous buildings, and the lovely Old Port.
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Downtown Montreal-
- You will find the business and commercial core of the city here, along with the stunning Latin Quarter and The Village.
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Plateau-Mont-Royal-
- It is famous for its colorful homes, vibrant atmosphere, and the thriving art circuit. The neighborhood is one of the coolest in Montreal.
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Mile End-
- You will find it immensely popular if you’re a foodie. It is amazing for its local attractions and tasty bagels.
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Griffintown-
- This is a fast-developing and trendy locality that is situated in close proximity to the Lachine Canal. You will appreciate the contemporary vibe here, along with the easy access to the downtown zone.
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Verdun-
- You will be more relaxed here, with the neighborhood being walkable, especially in Wellington Street. There are several waterfront-related Montreal activities that you can enjoy here as well.
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Saint-Henri-
- Nestled along the Lachine Canal, the locality offers a combination of historic structures and newer developments.
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Little Italy-
- Enjoy a slice of Italy in this area, with its diverse and vibrant food circuit and the famous Jean-Talon Market.
Food & Drink Experiences in Montreal
There are several Montreal famous foods and beverages that you can try for a memorable trip. Some of the top restaurants in the city include Schwartz’s Deli, Joe Beef, Au Pied de Cochon, and L’Express. Some contemporary options include Mon Lapin, Mousso, Toque, and Maggie Oakes. Montreal is also home to several charming cafes as well, including the 49th Parallel Café & Lucky Doughnuts, Tommy Café, Crew Collective & Café, Olive and Gourmands, and of course, Le Cartet in the downtown zone.
You can also explore multiple food markets in Montreal, including the Marches Publics de Montreal, La Vielle Europe, Marche Epicure, Le Maitre Boucher, and more. Don’t miss trying famous foods from the city, including the classic poutine and smoked meat sandwiches, along with Montreal-style bagels, Tourtiere, Pouding Chomeur, Quebecois Cheese, and Cretons, which are served at breakfast.
Seasonal Activities in Montreal
There are several Montreal activities that you can enjoy based on the season. Here’s a guide for your perusal.
Winter Activities in Montreal:
- Ice skating at the Parc Jerry or Parc La Fontaine rinks
- Cross-country skiing or snowshoeing at Parc Jean-Drapeau or Parc Maisonneuve
- Biking on the Parc Jean-Drapeau trails
- Montreal Botanical Gardens for viewing the greenhouses and exploring the cross-country skiing pathways
- Winter wonderland experience in Old Montreal
- Riding La Grande Roue de Montreal to enjoy snow-covered views of the skyline
Spring Activities in Montreal:
- Celebrating the maple syrup season at sugar shacks
- Viewing tam-tam drumming circles at the lovely Mount Royal Park
- Watching the gardens and parks blooming with flowers and greenery
- Enjoying outdoor fitness classes, picnics, and more
Summer Activities in Montreal:
- Exploring the charming Quartier des Spectacles
- Having a patio brunch
- Biking along the Lachine Canal
- Going on a river cruise to enjoy lovely skyline views
Fall Activities in Montreal:
- Hiking in cooler weather and capturing the gorgeous foliage
- Going apple picking at the local orchards
- Picnicking in Mount Royal Park
Rainy Season in Montreal:
- Exploring indoor shopping malls and covered markets
- Visiting attractions like the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
- Watching movies at the Cinema du Parc or Cinema du Muse
- Participating in workshops and other activities at Espace POP and other spaces
Concluding Notes:
When it comes to enjoying your time in Montreal, make sure you keep a tab on the list of attractions mentioned above. This will help you maximize your time spent in this beautiful city. It has something for every need and you can expect a wonderful time on your trip here.
FAQs of Things to do in Montreal:
What is Montreal known best for?
Montreal is known for its vibrant cultural circuit, nightlife, delicious cuisine, and its charming architecture.
What is one thing not to miss in Montreal?
You shouldn’t miss trying ht famous poutine on your trip to the city.
What is Montreal’s famous food?
Some of the famous food items in Montreal include poutine, Tourtiere, Pouding Chomeur, Quebecois Cheese, and Cretons sandwiches.
Is 3 days enough in Montreal?
Yes, 3 days will be enough in Montreal, provided you dedicate ample time to sightseeing. If you want a more relaxed holiday, consider a timeline of about 5-6 days at least.
What is the best month to go to Montreal?
You can consider visiting during the June-September period for its lovely weather, while May and September are also good months to visit.
Montreal vs. Quebec- which is better to go?
Both Montreal and Quebec have their share of landmarks, cultural sites, and historical attractions. You should choose based on your specific preferences.
