Whether focused on the best things to do in Montréal or curious about the language and cuisine, Montréal is Canada's second-largest city and the largest French-speaking city in the Americas; French & English is the language of daily life. The perfect jumping-off point for exploring the diverse delights of Québec, Montréal is also very much an attraction in itself: from the grandeur of Notre-Dame Basilica to the eclectic streets of Plateau Mont-Royal, a mix of historical and modern inspirations that form a distinct blend of culture and fun activities.
If you have time, wander through the city to get ideas. Walking the cobblestone streets is a must-do any time of year, but head off the beaten path in fall for seasonal colors.
Best Places to Go in Montréal
Inflected with a European feel in its architecture, culture and all-around vibe, Montréal is a treasure trove for those with an appetite for sightseeing, boasting a storied past, eclectic architecture and a dynamic heritage. Downtown Montréal teems with life, its streets lined with modern skyscrapers, bustling metro stations and museums featuring art and culture as well as cutting-edge temporary exhibitions. And the Underground City, an expansive network of interconnected spaces beneath the city, can be easily accessed through various entry points in downtown, providing visitors a unique shopping and cultural experience away from the seasonal elements.
Meanwhile, Vieux-Montréal (Old Montréal) is where historic structures and quaint squares evoke a sense of yesteryear within the downtown core. Place Jacques-Cartier is a must-do plaza with shops and restaurants that's a main entrance to the Vieux Port (Old Port of Montréal); in summer it's car-free and great for al fresco dining.
Sainte-Catherine Street, Montréal's premier shopping destination, is long and runs through the city center and diverse neighborhoods, offering an extensive selection of retail options for every shopper.
The verdant expanses of Mont-Royal beckon to outdoor enthusiasts, while Saint-Laurent Boulevard, attracting food lovers and pulsing with energetic nightlife, is near Mile End in Montréal. This iconic boulevard serves as a primary artery running through the city and directly intersects with Mile End, making it easily accessible for those exploring the area. Mile End is renowned for its vibrant scene, where you can explore a diverse range of art galleries and street art that reflects the area's dynamic cultural influence.
In short, Montréal seamlessly combines its rich history and modern vibes, offering a comprehensive experience from the shopping haven of Sainte-Catherine Street to the green retreat of Mont-Royal and the cultural richness of Mile End. It's a city that invites exploration with every corner promising something unique, making it an essential destination for anyone seeking depth in their travels.
1. Admire Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal
Built from 1824 to 1829, this landmark in Gothic Revival style is symbolic of the city's profound religious and cultural heritage. Its breathtaking interior, enveloped in shades of blue with gold-leaf accents and elaborate woodwork, reveals the city’s flair for artistry.
Upon entering Notre-Dame Basilica, you'll notice an enchanting interplay between light and acoustics. That's the AURA Experience, a spectacular illumination event, casting its lavish interiors into vibrant hues matched with an engaging soundtrack.
Note: Although open to all, the AURA Experience contains laser visual effects not suggested for infants and brief light flashes that may be intense for young children and photosensitive individuals. Noise-reducing headphones are recommended, especially for toddlers.
2. Browse Old Montréal
As you meander through slender byways, it feels like you have traveled in time to New France, uncovering nearly four centuries of the city's history. Landmarks such as the Pointe-à-Callière mark where the city was established in 1642. The Old Port of Montréal is particularly illustrative of the city’s storied past.
There's also modern-day activity. Cité Mémoire’s grand outdoor video projections refresh historic buildings and structures, essentially transforming them into open-air art installations, dusk to midnight on select nights, that recount the saga of this historic city.
There are also fun activities nearby. Go shopping at exclusive stores on Saint-Paul Street and don't miss the silver-domed Marché Bonsecours, a National Historic Site that now houses boutiques and galleries showcasing Québec designers and artisans.
For history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike, the experience garnered from strolling Old Montréal is a sensory delight. Old town is full of European charm with its cobblestone streets and small shopkeepers in the heart of the city. Enjoy theatrical productions at the Centaur Theatre or unwind atop a rooftop bar.
3. Cruise the Saint Lawrence River
Consider exploring the destination from a fresh angle by embarking on a picturesque journey on the Saint Lawrence River. The St. Lawrence, which drains the Great Lakes on its way to the Atlantic, offers an exceptional vantage point on the city. Just upstream, the Lachine Rapids; the obstacle that made Montréal a port in the first place are runnable by jet boat and raft in summer. Your cruise will afford breathtaking panoramas, including Jacques-Cartier Bridge, St. Helen’s Island and Old Montréal’s characteristic architectural splendor.
The voyage not only offers stunning scenery but also an immersion into the past. Narration from live guides and multilingual audio can enrich your understanding of historical events and cultural landmarks.
If you're looking for magic under the stars, an evening cruise is one of the best things to do for couples. Glide under the moonlight in warmer months and see Montréal's skyline shimmer against the night sky, making for a picture-perfect scene for romance.
4. Find Hidden Gems in Plateau Mont-Royal
Embark on a journey of discovery through Le Plateau Mont-Royal district for an authentic local experience in Montréal. This neighborhood boasts eclectic restaurants and pulsating artistic venues. Take Casa del Popolo as an example. It’s a destination celebrated for its music and vegetarian menu offerings that locals adore. Meanwhile, Café Falco infuses the area’s cuisine with Japanese flair, presenting specialty coffee alongside traditional onigiri.
As you venture into the heart of the Plateau Mont-Royal, be prepared to encounter more than just exceptional food spots with smoked meat and fresh produce; it’s also a haven for unique shopping experiences and cultural enlightenment. Meander down Saint-Laurent Boulevard, where boutique stores proudly present Canadian-crafted women’s apparel at your fingertips.
For avid readers and graphic novel enthusiasts alike, Librairie Drawn & Quarterly awaits with shelves lined with everything from avant-garde poetry to modern prose fiction works worth exploring.
5. Indulge at a Floating Spa
Experience R&R at Bota Bota, spa-sur-l'eau, aka a serene floating spa docked within the historic Old Port of Montréal. This sanctuary allows for a harmonious balance between exploration and relaxation. Expect an invigorating water circuit journey through stages of heat in saunas or steam rooms, followed by refreshing cold baths or showers, before unwinding on plush loungers designed for ultimate comfort.
Bota Bota offers more than traditional spa treatments; however, it invites you to try locally sourced seasonal produce from across Québec. Love the idea of a digital detox or unplugging? Enjoy pampering undisturbed each Thursday as a day dedicated to limited cellphone usage.
Whether you intend to slip away momentarily or book a daylong indulgence, Bota Bota provides an exceptional experience amid floating spas unique only to Montréal’s picturesque cityscape by the old port.
6. Savor Iconic Montréal Cuisine
Whether you favor downhome delights or fancy fare, the flavorsome cuisine of Montréal will undeniably beckon you back for seconds. The cuisine of Montréal is as eclectic as its cultural tapestry. The beloved poutine served at La Banquise and the Montréal-style bagels from St-Viateur Bagel Shop, two of five places to eat iconic Montréal foods, provide a culinary journey that promises to delight your palate.
Beyond these timeless favorites, the city’s menu offerings mirror its diverse ethnic makeup. Take, for example, Ma Poule Mouillée’s unique spin on poutine, which includes:
- crispy fries
- succulent chicken
- savory chouriço sausage
- bold and spicy piri piri sauce
Those in pursuit of a more fine dining experience can indulge in Au Pied de Cochon’s lavish interpretation of poutine, adorned with foie gras or check out the cafés in Little Italy and “Mile-Ex,” aka Marconi-Alexandra.
Indeed, the dining scene in Montréal is downright superlative, what with multiple Michelin-starred eateries—among them Hoogan & Beaufort, Sushi Nishinokaze and Mastard and premier AAA Diamond-designated establishments such as Maison Boulud (in The Ritz-Carlton Montréal) and the iconic Joe Beef. When exploring Montréal, let your appetite lead the way, from Québécois classics and top-tier French gastronomy to Iberian tapas, North African tagines, and inventive global fusion.
7. Experience Montréal Nightlife
As dusk falls, the city of Montréal blooms. The metropolis features a plethora of nightclubs, pubs and live music venues that create an exuberant after-dark scene. Discover the best nightlife scene with must-visit spots like Soubois (reservation needed) in downtown and Stereo (no reservation necessary) for an unforgettable evening of dance and music.
Yet beyond its pulsating clubs lies another facet of Montréal’s after-hours charm: its eclectic mixology and tavern culture. This includes gems like:
- LGBTQ+-friendly Bar Renard, offering a stylish, inclusive ambience in Montréal's Gay Village
- Le Mal Nécessaire in Chinatown, serving cocktails in a lush hideaway
- The Wiggle Room, a woman-owned establishment harking back to the 1920s with undercover allure, complemented by thrilling Burlesque cabaret
Whether you want energetic revelry or mellow relaxation, Montréal is equipped to provide memorable nighttime activities for friends and couples.
Things to do with Kids in Montréal
Montréal is a family-friendly destination, offering a variety of attractions that cater to both educational interests and entertainment. Among the city’s most appealing spots for young visitors are:
- Experiencing the Montréal Biodôme, where various ecosystems have been meticulously recreated, in the Space for Life District, which also includes other attractions like the Biosphere, Insectarium, Jardin Botanique, Insectarium and Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium
- Engaging in experiences at a sugar shack (also available, February to May, as a private day tour with lunch from Montréal)
- Exploring scientific marvels at the Montréal Science Centre (Centre des Sciences de Montréal)
- Delving into objets d'art at the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux-Arts)
- Spending an exhilarating day full of rides and games at La Ronde amusement park
The offerings within Montréal ensure an engaging experience, whether you aim to indulge curiosity or simply stroll through botanical gardens. So gear up for adventure and explore what makes Montréal with kids in tow so magical.
8. Journey to the Montréal Biodôme
Next to the planetarium and botanical gardens, the Biodôme is ideal for educational field trips or family outings alike; it's an essential stop if you're looking for things to do with kids. It’s a place where children can explore the wonders of biodiversity and engage with various species.
Traditional information panels have been replaced with innovative mobile applications at this venue, enhancing visitors’ understanding of different habitats using augmented reality technology and ensuring an exceptional destination for families. The Biodôme recreates five ecosystems of the Americas under one roof, from a tropical rainforest to the Laurentian maple forest and the Sub-Antarctic Islands, where a colony of penguins draws the crowds.
9. Plan a Sugar Shack Adventure
Sugaring season runs roughly from early March to mid-April, depending on the year; the sap flows only when nights freeze and days thaw, so the window in any one location is usually four to six weeks. Many sugar shacks serve meals a little beyond the sap run itself.
When in Montréal during the maple syrup season, you shouldn’t miss out on an authentic Québec sugar shack experience. Working sugar shacks sit in the maple woods outside the city, roughly 30 to 60 minutes from downtown Montréal in the Laurentians, Montérégie and Lanaudière. Many run day tours with transportation from the city during the season.
The visit isn’t solely centered around syrup production. It’s equally about savoring a classic meal. Delight your taste buds with dishes like hearty pea soup, fresh crusty bread, savory smoked ham and warm baked beans, topped off with a selection of sweets laced with maple goodness. With additional attractions such as sleigh rides, train adventures and farm excursions available for enjoyment, your family’s trip to a sugar shack undoubtedly would fall under one of the best things to do in Montréal.
10. Ride La Grande Roue de Montréal
Consider a visit to La Grande Roue de Montréal in the Old Port of Montréal for an exciting family experience. Said to be one of the largest observation wheels in Canada, it presents an exceptional chance to enjoy sweeping vistas of the destination, weather permitting. See Montréal from 60 meters up (roughly 200 feet) with views that are equally impressive during daylight or against the night sky, where you will also see illuminated landmarks, such as the Jacques-Cartier Bridge and the Mount Royal cross.
Yet ascending to lofty heights is not all there is to see here. Nearby in the Old Port, Voiles en Voiles runs a pirate-themed climbing course and aerial zipline for families.
A spin on La Grande Roue de Montréal, a quintessential thing to experience here, promises a memorable outing whether you’re marking a milestone event or simply looking for some amusement with your loved ones.
See Montréal on a Budget
Looking for free and cheap things to do in Montréal? You're in luck. Montréal invites you to enjoy a wealth of attractions without breaking the bank. Delight in the natural beauty of Parc du Mont-Royal (Mount Royal Park) and dive into the city's bustling art scene all for free.
Follow along for the best free experiences Montréal has to offer, ensuring your visit is both enriching and economical.
11. Discover Mont-Royal's Natural Beauty
With its extensive network of trails and free access to many outdoor activities, Parc du Mont-Royal is a must-visit destination in Montréal. Visitors can enjoy hiking, cycling and beloved local traditions such as the Tam Tams drum gatherings, which add a vibrant cultural element to the park experience. Spanning nearly 500 acres and designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the park provides ample space for picnicking, boating and outdoor recreation suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities. Beyond its role as a recreational hub, the park serves as one of the city's most scenic viewpoints, offering panoramic views of Montréal and a welcome escape into nature. Whether taking in the skyline from Kondiaronk Belvedere or relaxing near the Mount Royal Chalet, visitors will find plenty of inviting public spaces and memorable vantage points throughout the park.
12. Learn about Montréal's Art Scene
Montréal boasts a rich tapestry of cultural expression that reflects the city’s diverse heritage. Enthusiasts can explore an extensive range of artistic encounters, from modern and street art to timeless classics, without spending a dime, including performances by talented street performers. Each year, for example, St. Laurent Boulevard morphs into an al fresco gallery during the MURAL Festival, which honors the talents of urban artists and engulfs visitors in a captivating world of public art.
Devotees of cutting-edge art should note Centre Clark’s well-known celebrations that open new exhibitions. These events present rare opportunities for you to interact within the destination's dynamic arts milieu. Meanwhile, admirers of traditional fine arts are welcomed at the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts with complimentary admission every Wednesday evening as well as on each month’s first Sunday. Mile End is where to find artists and other creatives. For both serious connoisseurs and those simply browsing what this metropolis has to offer, immersing oneself in the destination's eclectic mix of free artistic experiences is highly recommended.
13. Attend a Cultural Festival or Event
Montréal is widely recognized for its vibrant festival scene, with events celebrating music, food, culture and the arts throughout the year. From the renowned International Jazz Festival to family-friendly gatherings such as Piknic Électronik, the city offers something to suit a variety of interests. Many festivals also feature free performances, activities and entertainment, making them accessible to visitors and residents alike.
During the summer and fall, parks, public squares and cultural districts come alive with concerts, performances and community celebrations. Highlights include the St-Ambroise Montréal Fringe Festival, special events at St. Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal and cultural festivals in the Quartier des Spectacles, including Pop Montréal. No matter when you visit, experiencing Montréal's festive atmosphere is one of the best ways to discover the city's unique character and energy.
14. Nab a Bird's-Eye Overview of the City From the Port of Montréal Tower
Soaring 65 meters (213 feet) over the Grand Quay along the St. Lawrence River, the Port of Montréal Tower delivers some of the premier views in all the city. The riverscape and skyline panorama takes in such landmarks as the Montréal Clock Tower, the Jacques-Cartier Bridge, Olympic Stadium, the Stock Exchange Tower (Tour de la Bourse) and the Notre-Dame Basilica, plus the Montréal Biosphere over on Saint Helen's Island. Viewfinders help you orient yourself, a "glass cage" provides especially thrilling 360-degree sightlines and interactive art enhances your experience.
15. Explore the Wonders & Thrills of the Olympic District
Set within the Hochelaga-Maisonneuve (HoMa) neighborhood, Montréal's Olympic District presents an array of all-ages attractions, including, within Olympic Park, some of the city's most distinctive architectural landmarks and entertainment centers. After all, you've got the tallest inclined tower on the planet, the Montréal Tower and the monumental Olympic Stadium, built for the 1976 Summer Olympics and still Québec's biggest indoor amphitheater, looming over the parkscape. The Esplanade at the foot of the Tower hosts regular concerts and festivals as well as the Vans Skatepark.
The Olympic District also encompasses Canada's largest complex of nature/science museums in the form of Space for Life, which includes the Planetarium, the Montréal Biodôme, and the 75-hectare Jardin Botanique with its 20-odd themed gardens and 10 greenhouses. (Space for Life also includes the Biosphère, located across the river on Île Sainte-Hélène, and the Insectarium.)
Visit Montréal with AAA
Whether you're planning a long vacation or a day trip, let this guide inspire you to make Montréal a top destination on your bucket list.
AAA can help you visit Montréal in a way that's both efficient and exceptional. As you explore well-known landmarks, indulge in authentic cuisine or enjoy family-friendly entertainment, you'll find Montréal is full of experiences waiting to be uncovered.