15 Amazing Things to Do in Montreal for an Unforgettable Trip
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The City of Contrasts
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to step into a European city without leaving North America? Montreal might just be the magical place you’ve been dreaming of! This amazing Canadian city feels like two worlds mixed together – old-world charm with modern excitement. There are so many incredible things to do in Montreal that visitors often find themselves wishing they had planned a longer stay.
What Makes Montreal Special?
Montreal sits on an island in the Saint Lawrence River in the province of Quebec. What makes this city so unique is its wonderful mix of French and English cultures. Many people speak both languages, and you’ll see signs in French first, then English. This cultural blend gives Montreal a special feeling you won’t find anywhere else in North America.
With its cobblestone streets in Old Montreal, amazing food scene, beautiful parks, and exciting festivals, the list of things to do in Montreal can fill many days of adventure. Let’s explore the best places to visit and activities to enjoy in this charming Canadian city!
15 Must-Try Things to Do in Montreal
1. Wander Through Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal)
Step back in time as you walk along the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal. This historic neighborhood has buildings from the 1600s! Don’t miss Place Jacques-Cartier, a lively square with street performers and outdoor cafes. The beautiful Notre-Dame Basilica with its colorful interior is also a must-see in this area.
2. Climb Mount Royal Park
One of the most popular things to do in Montreal is visiting Mount Royal Park. This large hill (more like a small mountain) sits in the middle of the city. You can hike to the top for amazing views of the entire city. In winter, people go cross-country skiing and snow tubing here, while summer brings picnickers and outdoor concerts.
3. Explore Underground City (RÉSO)
Montreal gets very cold in winter, so they built an underground city! This huge network of tunnels connects shopping malls, metro stations, hotels, and office buildings. You can walk for miles without going outside. It’s one of the coolest things to do in Montreal when the weather isn’t nice.
4. Visit the Montreal Biodome
Once part of the 1976 Olympics, this building now houses four different ecosystems! You can walk through tropical rainforests, a maple forest, the Arctic, and underwater environments all in one place. See penguins, monkeys, fish, and many other animals in their natural habitats.
5. Shop and Eat at Jean-Talon Market
Food lovers will find many delicious things to do in Montreal, starting with a visit to Jean-Talon Market. This huge outdoor market is filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, cheese, bread, maple syrup, and other local treats. You can sample foods as you walk around or grab lunch from one of the small restaurants.
6. Attend a Festival
Montreal loves festivals! The city hosts over 100 festivals each year. Some of the biggest are:
- Montreal Jazz Festival (summer)
- Just For Laughs comedy festival (summer)
- Montreal en Lumière winter festival (February)
- Osheaga Music Festival (summer)
No matter when you visit, checking out a festival should be on your list of things to do in Montreal.
7. Ride a Bike Along the Lachine Canal
Montreal is very bike-friendly with many paths throughout the city. Renting a bike and riding along the peaceful Lachine Canal is a wonderful way to see different neighborhoods. The path is flat and easy, perfect for casual cyclists.
8. Visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
Art lovers will find plenty of things to do in Montreal, especially at this amazing museum. It has art from all over the world, from ancient times to today. The best part? The main collection is free to visit!
9. Try Poutine and Other Local Foods
You can’t visit Montreal without trying poutine – a dish of french fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. It’s delicious! Other local foods to try include:
- Montreal-style bagels (different from New York bagels!)
- Smoked meat sandwiches
- Maple treats
Eating your way through the city is one of the tastiest things to do in Montreal.
10. Explore the Botanical Garden
One of the world’s largest botanical gardens is right in Montreal! With 10 greenhouses and 30 themed gardens, you can see plants from around the world. The Chinese and Japanese gardens are especially beautiful. In fall, don’t miss the Gardens of Light festival when they light up the gardens at night.
11. Watch a Hockey Game
Canadians love hockey, and Montreal’s team, the Canadiens (often called the “Habs”), is one of the oldest and most successful teams. Watching a game at the Bell Centre is an exciting experience even if you don’t know much about hockey!
12. Visit Space for Life Attractions
Near the Biodome, you’ll find the Insectarium, Planetarium, and Botanical Garden – all part of the “Space for Life” complex. Learning about bugs, stars, and plants makes for fun things to do in Montreal with kids.
13. Enjoy the View from the Montreal Observation Wheel
This giant Ferris wheel in the Old Port gives you amazing views of the city, the river, and beyond. The glass cars are heated in winter and air-conditioned in summer, so it’s a perfect activity in any weather.
14. Take a Food Tour
With so many delicious restaurants and food markets, taking a guided food tour is one of the tastiest things to do in Montreal. Local guides will take you to hidden gems and tell you about the history behind Montreal’s unique food scene.
15. Relax at Spa Scandinave
After all that exploring, treat yourself to some relaxation at this peaceful spa. Following the Scandinavian tradition, you move between hot saunas, cold plunges, and relaxation areas. It’s the perfect way to recharge during your Montreal adventure.
Best Times to Visit Montreal
Montreal has four very different seasons, and each offers unique things to do in Montreal:
Summer (June-August): This is the most popular time to visit. The weather is warm, and many festivals happen during these months. Parks are green and lively, and outdoor dining is everywhere.
Fall (September-October): The weather is cool but pleasant, and the fall colors are beautiful, especially in Mount Royal Park. There are fewer tourists, but most attractions are still open.
Winter (November-March): It gets very cold and snowy! But Montreal knows how to do winter right. The Underground City keeps you warm, and winter festivals bring fun to the cold months. Plus, you can ice skate outdoors in several parks.
Spring (April-May): As the snow melts, the city comes back to life. Flowers bloom in the parks, and outdoor cafes start to open. It might be rainy, but prices are lower before the summer tourist season begins.
Getting Around Montreal
Exploring all the amazing things to do in Montreal is easy thanks to the city’s great transportation system:
- Metro: Montreal’s subway system is clean, safe, and reaches most tourist areas
- Bus: Buses go where the metro doesn’t
- Bixi Bikes: Rent bikes from stations around the city
- Walking: Many neighborhoods are perfect for exploring on foot
Buying a day or week pass for public transportation is the easiest and cheapest way to get around.
Where to Stay in Montreal
The best neighborhood to stay in depends on what things to do in Montreal interest you most:
- Old Montreal: Stay here for historic charm and easy access to the Old Port
- Downtown: Perfect for shopping and nightlife
- Plateau Mont-Royal: A hip area with great restaurants and cafes
- Mile End: An artsy neighborhood with cool shops and bakeries
Montreal on a Budget
You don’t need to spend a lot of money to enjoy things to do in Montreal. Here are some budget-friendly tips:
- Many museums have free days (usually the first Sunday of the month)
- Pack a picnic and enjoy it in one of the city’s beautiful parks
- Take advantage of the free festivals throughout the year
- Get a tourist pass if you plan to visit many attractions
- Try the affordable food trucks instead of sit-down restaurants every meal
Conclusion
From its historic streets to its modern attractions, Montreal offers something for everyone. Whether you love food, art, history, or outdoor adventures, the many things to do in Montreal will keep you entertained and wanting to come back for more.
This unique city blends European charm with North American energy to create an unforgettable destination. So pack your bags (and maybe a French phrase book!), and get ready to discover all the amazing experiences waiting for you in Montreal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to speak French to visit Montreal?
No, you don’t need to speak French. While French is the official language, most people in tourist areas speak English too. Learning a few basic French phrases like “Bonjour” (hello) and “Merci” (thank you) is appreciated but not required.
What’s the best way to get from the airport to downtown Montreal?
The 747 bus line runs 24/7 between Montreal-Trudeau Airport and downtown. It costs about $10 and takes 45-60 minutes. Taxis and Ubers are faster (about 20 minutes) but more expensive (around $40-50).
Is Montreal expensive to visit?
Montreal is generally less expensive than cities like New York or San Francisco, but prices can be higher than in smaller U.S. cities. Budget travelers can find affordable accommodations, and many attractions offer free admission days.
How many days should I spend in Montreal?
At least 3-4 days is recommended to see the main attractions. A week would allow you to explore more deeply and perhaps take day trips to nearby areas like Quebec City.
What should I pack for my trip to Montreal?
It depends on the season. Summers are warm (70-80°F/20-27°C), while winters are very cold (often below freezing with lots of snow). Fall and spring can be unpredictable, so layers are best. Comfortable walking shoes are essential year-round.
Is Montreal safe for tourists?
Yes, Montreal is generally very safe for tourists. As with any big city, take normal precautions like being aware of your surroundings and keeping valuable items secure, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.