Montreal is the second largest city in Canada, and the largest of the state of Quebec. This city is a fantastic destination, its clean, safe and there are lots of entertainment and attractions including the vibrant local music scene.
Although often referred to as Canada’s Paris, Montreal is so much more than just a copycat city; it’s got plenty of sights, shops, and restaurants that make a mark all on its own. From open-air markets to beautiful, dramatic cathedrals — a first trip to Montreal will be filled with wonders galore.
Want to know the best things to do in Montreal? Check out my tips to give a head start— there is plenty to do, tons of places to stay and lots of ways to save money!
Montreal Facts
• Montreal is one of 400 islands on the St. Lawrence River.
• One of the world’s largest wooden roller coasters can be found in La Ronde Amusement Park.
• The Japanese city Hiroshima is twinned with Montreal.
• Montreal is the second largest French speaking city in the world, behind Paris.
• Beneath Montreal is an underground city. It covers more than 18 miles and is a maze of tunnels and shops.
Montreal Tours
Book city sightseeing tours and buy attraction tickets on GetYourGuide or Viator.
Getting from Montreal Airport
Montreal airport is 25 km from the city (25 minutes drive). A fixed fare is payable for a taxi, at a cost of $38, while fares are by meter for all other destinations. A bus will cost $2.75 and there is also the option of taking the train.
Where to Stay
I’ve loved hostels the world over, and my favourite in Montreal is the M Hostel in what is called Gay Village (really). It’s in a great location just steps from a ton of restaurants, shopping and bars and is run by the friendliest staff.
Every time you come in the door they cheerfully say hello and ask you how your day was. And their bar rocks! Really eclectically designed, it’s cozy but spacious, has cheap drinks served by cool staff and has something for everyone.
From a ‘chill out’ couch area, to the man cave sports watching theatre to the pool table, you’re bound to find someone to swap stories with. No wonder they have previously won the top Hostelworld award for North America.
Top Things to See and Do in Montreal
Here are some unmissable attractions and unmissable Montreal experiences.
1. Eat Poutine
Poutine is easily the greatest thing to eat in Canada, even if you’re an extreme foodie who likes to taste test off the tourist menu; this fries and cheese curd dish is exemplary no matter how you take it. Grab it street side at Casse-Croute La Banquise or get fancy and have some at Au Pied de Cochon— just remember to book a table well in advance, this place is very popular and it fills up fast!
2. Explore Old Montreal
St. Paul Street is a classic example of what Old Montreal charm is really like; full of bars, restaurants and cafes, this main street is a perfect place to take in the feel of the city and experience the cobblestone street life. Pick a spot outside for people watching or pop into one of the small tourist shops to grab souvenirs, it’s a great spot to take in the local culture and great architecture.
3. Shop on Boulevard St. Laurent
Home to quirky shops with lots of Quebecoise flavor, the Boulevard St. Laurent is the place to go to experience Chinatown or Little Italy as well as lots of great restaurants and street art. As the traditional marker between the English Quebec and the French Quebec, don’t be afraid to go thrift shopping and grab some goodies; the eclectic shops may put you off at first, but inside you find friendly shop owners and great trinkets to take home.
4. Stay in the Plateau
Whether it be a boutique hotel or a charming B&B, the Plateau is where you want to rest your weary feet for good access to local ethnic food shops, great BYOB style restaurants, eclectic shopping, and lots of nightlife. It’s out of the way of the big chain hotels—think more European style accommodation nestled between nice, tree-lined residential streets—and will provide the authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience that makes discovering a new city worthwhile.
5. Visit Atwater Market
This outside farmer’s market is a perfect way to spend the day, or even grab a couple of groceries to make a sandwich or a quick snack. From top of the line produce like seasonal fruits and vegetables to many butchers and delicatessans, Atwater Market is located near the Lachine Canal offers many unique and specialty products that will ignite the senses, not just the tastebuds.
6. Take a Peek at The Notre-Dame Basilica
Even if you’re not the religious type, a trip inside the Notre-Dame Basilica is a must. If you appreciate architecture than the Notre-Dame Basilica is a Montreal high point. This Gothic Revival Church can be found in Montreal’s historic area and has an awe inspiring interior.
The first electrically operated organ can also be found here, the Casavant Freres pipe organ comprises 9000 individual pipes, four keyboards and 97 stops. Although the Notre-Dame Basilica is usually used for state funerals it holds classical and choral concerts on a regular basis.
7. Book A Foodie Tour
I know, you’re wondering if this is really a recommendation—but I have to admit, it’s not because there’s nothing else to do, but because there is just so much great food to eat.
The best culinary guides will be the locals, so look for tours that take you off the grid like the Mile End Montreal Food Tour from Local Food Tours, which includes 6 food stops and a guided tour through a historical theatre in Mile End.
Or you can take a taste of Old Montreal with Montreal Food Tours and discover how the modern culinary treats were influenced by culture and history.
8. Go Underground
La Ville Souterraine is Montreal’s underground city, and the largest underground complex in the world. It has over 120 access points and is crammed with commercial and office space. La Ville Souterraine contains or is linked to over 1700 boutiques, 200 restaurants and 30 cinemas. It also contains museums, halls and hotels and is one of the biggest tourist draws in the city.
9. Canadian Railway Museum
The Canadian Railway Museum is the most important of its kind in Canada, with a collection of over 160 cars, including 44 showcases in the Angus pavilion. Tours of the museum take place on an old fashioned streetcar or miniature train.
10. Gamble
Gamblers rejoice! Montreal is home to the largest casino in Canada. It is situated on its own island, minutes from the centre of the city. It’s open twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. There is also a race track surrounding the casino and the Montreal Grand Prix takes place there every summer.
11. Explore Little Italy
Montreal even has something for the foodies. Locals and tourists alike flock to take a Tour of Little Italy. Little Italy is a captivating neighbourhood brimming with quaint streets and high class restaurants. It’s also home to the largest open air food market in North America. Free samples are offered from nearly every stall and give the area a fantastic Italian aroma.
Whether you’re going for food or a taste of the unique, artistic culture that thrives in Montreal, you won’t be disappointed with a tour of its cathedrals, beautiful streets, tasty restaurants, and cool shops. So bon appetit and bon voyage!
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