Montreal: Best Things to Do & Top Attractions
This city is located on an island in the Saint Lawrence River. It is known for its diverse culture, festivals, and historical architecture, offering a mix of French and English influences in its language and lifestyle.
- Population
- 1.78 millions
- Size
- 431 square km
- Airport
- Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau – Int'l & 1 other
- Train Station
- Gare Centrale & 2 others
- Subway
- Montreal Metro
- Est. Visit Days
- 4 days
Overview
Montreal is the largest city in Quebec, Canada, known for its rich culture and history. Pros include a magnificient arts scene, diverse culinary options, and a mix of French and English influences. The city offers many festivals and events throughout the year. However, cons include cold winters and a higher cost of living in some areas. Overall, it appeals to many for its unique character but may not suit everyone’s preferences.
Traffic & Transport
The city's layout is well-suited for exploration, with a robust public transit system that includes buses and a metro, offering convenient access to popular attractions. Biking is also a popular choice, with numerous bike-sharing programs and dedicated lanes. Walking is ideal for navigating downtown and historic neighborhoods, making it easy to discover hidden gems. Traffic can be congested during peak hours, so plan trips accordingly. For taxi services, reliable companies include Taxi Diamond and Taxi Hochelaga, both of which have longstanding reputations in the area. Popular taxi-booking apps, such as Uber and Lyft, are also available, providing convenient alternatives for getting around.
History
Founded in 1642, the area was initially settled by French colonists. It became a key trading post due to its location along the St. Lawrence River. Control shifted to the British Empire after the Seven Years' War in 1763. The city played a significant role during the War of 1812, serving as a military hub. In the 20th century, it emerged as a cultural center, influenced by its diverse population and historical ties.
Itinerary Sample
This itinerary offers a structured exploration of Montreal over four days.
– First day: Arrive in Montreal, explore Old Montreal, visit Notre-Dame Basilica, walk along the waterfront, and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
– Second day: Visit Mount Royal Park, hike to the chalet for city views, explore the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, and dine in the Plateau neighborhood.
– Third day: Discover the Jean-Talon Market, sample local produce, tour Little Italy, visit the Basilica of Santa Cabrini, and try Italian cuisine in the area.
– Fourth day: Explore the Museum of Contemporary Art, stroll through Quartier des Spectacles, visit the Botanic Garden, and depart for home.
Near Excursion
This city offers several captivating day-trip options within a short drive. Here are a few ideas:
– Mont-Tremblant at 130 km: A popular resort town known for its ski slopes and beautiful Laurentian mountain scenery.
– Oka National Park at 50 km: Offers hiking trails, a beach on the lake, and pleasant views.
– Granby Zoo at 85 km: A large zoo featuring a wide variety of exotic animals and a water park.
– St-Eustache at 40 km: Historic town with the 18th-century church and September's annual harvest festival.
– Rigaud at 70 km: Known for its Mont Rigaud hiking trails and the charming Sucrerie de la Montagne.
Attraction
Known for its rich culture and history, the city offers a blend of modern and classic attractions:
– Old Montreal: Explore cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and magnificient shops in the city's historic core.
– Notre-Dame Basilica: Famous for its beautiful Gothic Revival architecture and beautifully ornate interior.
– Mount Royal Park: Offers scenic views, trails, and a peaceful escape from urban hustle without leaving town.
– Jean-Talon Market: Experience diverse flavors and fresh produce at one of the largest public markets.
– Museum of Fine Arts: Features diverse world-class art collections, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.
– Biodome: Discover ecosystems from tropical rainforest to polar sub-regions in this unique indoor nature exhibit.
Activity
In Montreal, travelers can enjoy diverse activities that showcase the city's culture, nature, and lovely atmosphere.
– La Ronde: An amusement park featuring thrilling rides and entertainment for all ages, located on Île Sainte-Hélène.
– Lachine Canal: Perfect for cycling or kayaking, this scenic waterway offers a unique view of Montreal's landscapes.
– St. Joseph's Oratory: A pilgrimage site with nice architecture and gardens, providing panoramic views of the city.
– Montreal Botanical Garden: A large garden space showcasing various plant species and themed gardens, ideal for peaceful walks.
– Jean-Talon Market: A vibrant market with local produce, unique foods, and cultural experiences in Little Italy.
Cuisine
The city's food culture blends Canadian and French influences, offering a range of dishes from casual to gourmet. Some of the city's most famous dishes include:
– Poutine: French fries topped with cheese curds and rich gravy.
– Montreal-Style Bagels: Dense, sweeter bagels baked in a wood-fired oven.
– Smoked Meat Sandwich: Cured beef brisket served hot on rye bread with mustard.
– Tourtière: Traditional meat pie often filled with spiced pork or beef.
– Steamé Hot Dog: Steamed hot dog in a soft bun, often topped with mustard and onions.
– Beaver Tail: Fried dough pastry typically topped with sugar and cinnamon.
Shopping
One popular shopping area is the underground city with various shops and boutiques. A unique gift option is local maple syrup, which is a Canadian classic. Additionally, artisanal chocolates from local chocolatiers make for great souvenirs. You can also find handmade crafts at local markets. Jewelry featuring Canadian gemstones can be a thoughtful gift. Overall, there are plenty of shopping opportunities for visitors.
Arts & Culture
The city hosts the Montreal International Jazz Festival, one of the largest jazz festivals in the world, attracting artists and visitors each summer. Various art galleries are found in the Plateau-Mont-Royal area, showcasing contemporary art. The city is also known for its lively street art scene, particularly in neighborhoods like the Old Port and Little Italy. Additionally, numerous theaters and performance spaces host local and international productions throughout the year.