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Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal (Basilique Notre-Dame de Montréal) is the city's oldest Catholic church and the venue of Quebec hero Celine Dion’s wedding. The Gothic Revival-style church is one of Canada’s most lavish cathedrals, with stained-glass windows, intricate wood carvings, frescoes, sculptures, and a 7,000-pipe organ all vying for attention beneath a blue ceiling studded with gold stars.

Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal (Basilique Notre-Dame de Montréal)

Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal (Basilique Notre-Dame de Montréal) is the city's oldest Catholic church and the venue of Quebec hero Celine Dion’s wedding. The Gothic Revival-style church is one of Canada’s most lavish cathedrals, with stained-glass windows, intricate wood carvings, frescoes, sculptures, and a 7,000-pipe organ all vying for attention beneath a blue ceiling studded with gold stars.Notre-Dame Basilica is a major city attraction featured on hop-on hop-off bus tours and walking tours of Montreal. French and English guided tours are offered daily and are included in the admission price. Tours last 20 or 60 minutes, with the longer guided tour granting access to otherwise out-of-bounds areas in the intricately designed interior, such as the second balcony and part of the crypt. Some tours even allow you to get close to the famous Casavant organ.Sightseers can also visit independently. After paying admission at the door, take one of the informational leaflets to guide you around the beautiful church.<ul><li>The basilica is a must-see for architecture fans.</li><li>Dress conservatively to ensure access to the religious site.</li><li>Notre-Dame Basilica is wheelchair accessible.</li></ul>Notre-Dame Basilica is located on Notre-Dame Street West, overlooking the Place d’Armes plaza in Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal). To get there, ride Montreal’s orange metro line to Place d’Armes.The basilica is open year-round, but occasionally closes for special events such as weddings or funerals. Check ahead of time to make sure it’s open during your visit. Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Chapel (Chapelle Notre-Dame du Sacré-Coeur frequently closes during midday mass and on Saturdays for weddings. For your best chance of viewing it, try visiting in the early morning or late afternoon on a weekday instead.Located behind the main altar, the Chapelle Notre-Dame-du-Sacré-Coeur is one of the most eye-catching parts of the church. Rebuilt using traditional methods after the old chapel was destroyed by fire in 1978, it is dominated by a huge 32-panel bronze altarpiece by Quebec sculptor Charles Daudelin.

Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal) charms visitors with its picturesque squares, grand architecture, and winding cobblestone streets. Whether in the Old Port or walking down the main street Rue Saint-Paul, it’s easy to feel transported back in time—in fact, some architectural remains date back to New France. The historic site is considered to be the best preserved Old Town in North America.

Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal)

Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal) charms visitors with its picturesque squares, grand architecture, and winding cobblestone streets. Whether in the Old Port or walking down the main street Rue Saint-Paul, it’s easy to feel transported back in time—in fact, some architectural remains date back to New France. The historic site is considered to be the best preserved Old Town in North America.Exploring Old Montreal is the best way to experience the city’s history, culture, and architecture. Myriad group and private tours are designed to introduce visitors to a combination of all three on foot, by bike, by scooter, or even from the air. Choose a night tour if you prefer an after-dark atmosphere, or a food tour to dive into the local food-truck and craft-beer scenes.<ul><li>Walking tours are a great way to experience Old Montreal, as the best way to get around this part of the city is on foot.</li><li>Old Montreal is known for its quaint sidewalk eateries and café culture, so it's a great place to stop for a drink or a bite.</li><li>Be sure to wear appropriate footwear for the cobblestone streets.</li><li>Private tours often also visit nearby Mont Royal.</li></ul>Old Montreal is bound by Rue Bern to the west, Rue Saint-Antoine to the north, Rue McGill in the east, and Old Port and the St. Lawrence River to the south. The area is easily accessible from Downtown via the Underground City, and can be reached by several bus routes and metro stations (Square-Victoria, Place-d'Armes, and Champ-de-Mars on the orange line).Summer typically brings the best weather, the biggest festivals, and the most tourists to Montreal. But the city is charming in winter as well, and Old Montreal becomes even more scenic and romantic after fresh snowfall.The historic area’s pulsating center is Place Jacques-Cartier. From here, its center promenade slopes down from Rue Notre-Dame to the Old Port, lined with 18th-century stone buildings. At the base of the plaza are horse-drawn carriages, outdoor cafés, art galleries, and street performers. Nearby, you’ll find the Bonsecours Market, the oldest and largest public market in the city, and the stone Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel. West of Place Jacques-Cartier is the beautiful Place d’Armes, dominated by the Notre-Dame Basilica. The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and Museum of Archaeology and History are also worth visiting.

Mount Royal (Mont Royal), a 764-foot (233-meter) “mountain” in the midst of urban Montreal, is much-loved by locals and visitors alike, with Montrealers frequenting the leafy slopes as if the area were their own backyard. Cyclists, joggers, sunbathers, picnickers, and strollers abound in the summer, while snowshoers, tobogganers, ice skaters, and cross-country skiers dominate in winter. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted—the creative force behind New York City’s Central Park—the 470-acre (190-hectare) Mount Royal Park (Parc du Mont-Royal) encompasses forest trails, monuments, and grassy meadows. On a clear day, the views from the Mount Royal summit lookout can’t be beat.

Mount Royal

Mount Royal (Mont Royal), a 764-foot (233-meter) “mountain” in the midst of urban Montreal, is much-loved by locals and visitors alike, with Montrealers frequenting the leafy slopes as if the area were their own backyard. Cyclists, joggers, sunbathers, picnickers, and strollers abound in the summer, while snowshoers, tobogganers, ice skaters, and cross-country skiers dominate in winter. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted—the creative force behind New York City’s Central Park—the 470-acre (190-hectare) Mount Royal Park (Parc du Mont-Royal) encompasses forest trails, monuments, and grassy meadows. On a clear day, the views from the Mount Royal summit lookout can’t be beat.A stop at Mount Royal Park is commonly included on Montreal sightseeing tours and on hop-on, hop-off bus tours, but the site can also be explored on a midday stroll, picnic lunch, or as part of a guided nighttime tour. E-bike and walking tours are popular options no matter the season, and in winter, travelers can traverse the snowy terrain and go ice skating, snowshoeing, or tubing.<ul><li>Wear sturdy walking shoes, as some of the paths in the park are narrow and uneven.</li><li>Montreal can be extremely cold during winter, when a hat, gloves, scarf, winter boots, and an appropriate winter coat are a must.</li><li>Bring a refillable water bottle and make use of the fountains dotted around the park.</li></ul>Mont Royal is in the Ville-Marie borough of Montreal. Ride the 80, 435, or 129 bus to the Sir George Etienne Cartier Monument and make the 30-minute uphill walk to the top. To avoid the trek, take the 11 bus from Mont-Royal metro station to Lac aux Castors (Beaver Lake) and walk from there.Mont Royal is a year-round attraction, providing you are properly prepared; be sure to wrap up warmly during winter. On summer Sundays, the park hosts what are known as Tam Tams, informal festival-like gatherings with a drum circle and dancing. Fall is perhaps the most scenic time to visit, as the park’s maple and oak trees turn lovely shades of red, orange, and gold.Mont Royal has several must-see spots, most notably the 1932 stone Chalet du Mont-Royal and the adjacent Kondiaronk Lookout. Not far from here are the landmark Mount Royal Cross, which is illuminated at night, and Beaver Lake (Lac des Castors), which serves as an ice-skating rink in winter. If you want more information about the park, the 19th-century Smith House (Maison Smith) has displays on the park’s habitats and wildlife. The eastern lookout, Observatoire de l’Est, affords another perspective across the city.

St. Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal (L'Oratoire Saint-Joseph du Mont-Royal) located in Montreal’s Westmount neighborhood, is Canada’s largest church and a registered National Historic Site. Started as a small chapel in 1904, the Roman Catholic basilica has grown to contain a cryptic church, a museum, gardens, a 56-bell carillon, and one of the largest church domes in the world.

St. Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal (L'Oratoire Saint-Joseph du Mont-Royal)

St. Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal (L'Oratoire Saint-Joseph du Mont-Royal) located in Montreal’s Westmount neighborhood, is Canada’s largest church and a registered National Historic Site. Started as a small chapel in 1904, the Roman Catholic basilica has grown to contain a cryptic church, a museum, gardens, a 56-bell carillon, and one of the largest church domes in the world.As one of Montreal’s top landmarks, St. Joseph’s Oratory is a stop on most hop-on hop-off bus routes, which is a convenient way to explore without the hassle of navigating on their own. Since the oratory is off the beaten path, city tours that provide coach transportation typically include a stop or drive-by viewing. You can also opt for a private tour, which will allow you to tack on an oratory visit to a customized itinerary.<ul><li>St. Joseph’s Oratory is a must for planners and history buffs.</li><li>Wear comfortable walking shoes and prepare to climb 280 steps to reach the main basilica.</li><li>The oratory is wheelchair accessible; wheelchairs are available for free at the votive chapel.</li><li>Guided tours are available for $5 from June through September.</li><li>Mass is typically held in French, though there’s also the occasional mass held in English.</li></ul>Located just 2.4 miles (4 kilometers) from Downtown, St. Joseph’s Oratory is easily accessible using Montreal’s public transit system. The nearest transit stops are the Côte-des-Neiges metro station on the blue 5 line, Oratoire Saint-Joseph on bus 166, and Victoria and No 4811 on bus 124. If traveling by car, drive north on Côte-des-Neiges Road and turn left on Queen Mary Road. Visitor parking is available for $5 per vehicle.A place of Roman Catholic worship, the oratory is busiest on Sundays. Go on a weekday for a quieter visit. Mass is held in the cryptic church from Monday to Saturday, and in the basilica on Sunday. An annual celebration of Saint Brother André, patron saint of caregivers in Canada, is held throughout the month of August and includes outdoor concerts, recitals, Wednesday sunsets on the terrace, and exhibits on Brother André.St. Joseph’s Oratory holds a variety of concerts throughout the year—a local secret often unknown to visitors passing through Montreal. In addition to the Sunday Concert Series that features world-renowned organists from around the globe, the oratory holds frequent carillon recitals, boys’ choir concerts, and sunset performances on the terrace throughout the summer. A full calendar of these events can be found on the oratory's website.

Once a busy shipping hub, the Old Port of Montreal (Vieux Port de Montréal) is now an entertainment center stretching along the St. Lawrence River. In addition to the promenade, the port is also home to the Montreal Science Centre, La Grande Roue de Montréal, an observation wheel, a boat spa, and seasonal outdoor attractions including an urban beach and an ice rink.

Old Port of Montreal (Vieux Port de Montréal)

Once a busy shipping hub, the Old Port of Montreal (Vieux Port de Montréal) is now an entertainment center stretching along the St. Lawrence River. In addition to the promenade, the port is also home to the Montreal Science Centre, La Grande Roue de Montréal, an observation wheel, a boat spa, and seasonal outdoor attractions including an urban beach and an ice rink.Set along the St. Lawrence riverfront, the atmospheric Old Port is one of downtown Montreal’s biggest attractions. There are two main ways to explore: either on land or by water. Bike, quadricycle, and walking tours of the Old Port typically follow routes along the waterfront and through Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal), the historic landmark-packed heart of the city. In summer, sightseeing cruises, Jet Ski tours, and self-guided paddleboat tours depart from the Old Port. Many family-friendly attractions are located in the Old Port, including La Grande Roue de Montréal observation wheel, and aerial obstacle and zipline courses.<ul><li>The Old Port is a must for families.</li><li>The Old Port promenade has free Wi-Fi and lots of benches and seating.</li><li>The promenade at the Old Port is paved and wheelchair-accessible.</li></ul>The Old Port of Montreal is situated between Old Montreal and the St. Lawrence River. The nearest Metro stations are Champ-de-Mars, Place-d’Armes, and Square-Victoria, all about a 10-minute walk away.Visit in summer for the widest range of activities. The area is busiest on weekend afternoons and evenings; arrive early to beat the crowds. Although it’s quieter in winter, there is still lots to do, including ice skating, riding the observatory wheel, and soaking in the outdoor hot tub at a floating boat spa.Among the most notable buildings situated along the waterfront is the 148-foot (45-meter) high Montreal Clock Tower, which was built between 1919 and 1922 to mark the entrance to the port and to serve as a memorial to sailors lost at sea. In spring and summer, climb to the top of the tower for spectacular city and river views.

During the 17th century, Quebec City’s charming Old Port (Vieux-Port) was bustling with European vessels and crews offloading supplies to New France. Now thronged with passengers from incoming cruise ships, the area is filled with historic buildings occupied by art galleries, boutiques, and inviting French-influenced restaurants.

Quebec City Old Port (Vieux-Port)

During the 17th century, Quebec City’s charming Old Port (Vieux-Port) was bustling with European vessels and crews offloading supplies to New France. Now thronged with passengers from incoming cruise ships, the area is filled with historic buildings occupied by art galleries, boutiques, and inviting French-influenced restaurants.The Old Port area of Quebec City is among the city’s most atmospheric districts. Visitors arriving in the city by cruise will pass through here on their way from Lower Town to Upper Town, while those who arrive by other means may be drawn here to visit the Museum of Civilization (Musée de la Civilisation), the Old Port Market (Marché du Vieux-Port), or Place Royale and Notre-Dame-des-Victoires, one of the oldest churches in Quebec. Many walking, cycling, and scooter tours of the city cover Old Port, as do hop-on hop-off bus tours, which also venture to UNESCO World Heritage–listed Old Quebec.<ul><li>You can find plenty of outdoor seating along the Old Port waterfront.</li><li>Parts of the Old Port area, including the Museum of Civilization, are accessible to wheelchair users.</li><li>Wear sturdy walking shoes; some of the streets in this area are cobbled and uneven.</li></ul>If you arrive in Quebec City by cruise ship, you’ll most likely disembark at Quebec City Old Port, which sits alongside the St. Lawrence River. Visitors coming by train will arrive at the Gare du Palais station, at the eastern border of the Old Port district. The number 11 bus connects Old Quebec to Old Port.The Old Port area is busiest between May and October, when cruise ships dock here. Docking days vary according to schedules, but Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays are typically busiest. For a quieter experience, go in winter when fewer tourists roam the atmospheric, snow-covered streets. Note that some stores and restaurants may be closed during the winter season.Quebec City’s cuisine has a distinctive French influence, and—thanks to the fertile regions surrounding the city—an abundance of fresh, local produce. Take stock of Quebec’s food scene at the Old Port Market, where vendors sell farm-fresh produce trucked in from farms just outside the city. You can sample local cheese, charcuterie, maple syrup, and ice wine, and pick up locally grown produce at this year-round market.

Montreal Chinatown was established in the late 19th century with the arrival of Chinese immigrants from western Canada who came to work on the Canadian Pacific Railway. Though just a couple of blocks long, the district offers a wide selection of Asian eateries and shops selling traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.

Montreal Chinatown

Montreal Chinatown was established in the late 19th century with the arrival of Chinese immigrants from western Canada who came to work on the Canadian Pacific Railway. Though just a couple of blocks long, the district offers a wide selection of Asian eateries and shops selling traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.Chinatown is situated in downtown Montreal, its boundaries marked by four traditional Chinese gateways. Explore the neighborhood on foot, either independently or as part of a guided walking tour of Ville-Marie (the wider downtown area). Chinatown is also seen on some bike tours of Montreal and on food tours of the city. Hop-on hop-off bus tours stop at the neighborhood as part of their city route.<ul><li>Montreal Chinatown is a must for foodies and shoppers.</li><li>Come hungry as Chinatown is home to lots of tasty, inexpensive restaurants, including some of the best dim sum and noodle spots in the city.</li><li>Chinatown is accessible to wheelchair users via the Place-d’Armes metro station (Orange Line), which is equipped with elevators.</li></ul>Situated in downtown Montreal, Chinatown is located on and around Rue De La Gauchetière, Rue Saint-Urbain, and Saint-Laurent Boulevard, between René Lévesque Boulevard and Viger Avenue. The nearest metro stations are Place-d’Armes (Orange Line) and Saint-Laurent (Green Line).Montreal Chinatown buzzes with people year-round. It’s best explored during summer, when the streets are warm enough for wandering, vendors set up on the sidewalks, and Place Falun Gong members demonstrate at Sun-Yat-Sen.Despite the movement of many Chinese residents to suburbs such as Brossard, Chinatown remains a hub for Chinese celebrations. The biggest celebration staged here is Chinese New Year, held in January or February. During the annual Mid-Autumn Festival, Chinatown bakeries sell traditional mooncakes, while in summer, Montreal’s Chinatown hosts a series of sidewalk sales.

The St. Lawrence River flows 743 miles (1,196 kilometers) across a vast chunk of North America, from the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean. A lifeblood for Ontario and Quebec, the river has long sustained communities, from native tribes to European colonizers. Its waters host wildlife, including whale species and endangered belugas.

St. Lawrence River

The St. Lawrence River flows 743 miles (1,196 kilometers) across a vast chunk of North America, from the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean. A lifeblood for Ontario and Quebec, the river has long sustained communities, from native tribes to European colonizers. Its waters host wildlife, including whale species and endangered belugas.Because of its sheer size, the St. Lawrence River is hard to miss. For the same reason, most visitors to Canada see only a tiny portion of it. No matter, if you’re going to Quebec (be it Montreal, Quebec City, Saguenay, or Gaspe), southeastern Ontario (Kingston or Thousand Islands), or northeastern New York state in the US, odds are high you will encounter the waterway while on your trip.To experience the river, take a cycling tour along the scenic riverbanks. Or get out on the water with Jet Ski, kayak, and canoe tours; paddleboat rentals; narrated river cruises; and whale-watching excursions. Helicopter tours over Ontario’s Thousand Islands region reveal the many rugged islets that comprise the archipelago, while tours from Quebec City to the agricultural river island of Ile d’Orleans often stop at Montmorency Falls, which spill into the St. Lawrence River.<ul><li>Wear warm layers. It gets very cold here in winter and parts of the river regularly freeze. Even in summer, it can be cold on the water.</li><li>Be on the lookout for animals, such as beaver, deer, flying squirrels, mink, muskrat, and porcupine, among others.</li><li>The Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park is among the best whale-watching spots in Canada.</li></ul>Ride Montreal’s orange metro line to Square-Victoria-OACI or Champ-de-Mars stations; the Old Port, which runs parallel to the St. Lawrence River, is fewer than 10 minutes on foot from there. In Quebec City, the riverfront is accessible on foot from Old Quebec.Warm summer is a prime time to explore the St. Lawrence River, as winter is bitterly cold, with temperatures often far below freezing. May–Nov. make up the best period for whale watching.For river views in Quebec City, stroll the elevated Dufferin Terrace boardwalk, which winds along a high cliff behind the famous Fairmont Chateau Frontenac hotel. The boardwalk leads to Battlefields Park and affords a bird’s-eye view of the river and the cruise ships pulling into port. In Montreal, the best river vistas can be seen from the Old Port.Yes, you can tour the St. Lawrence River. There are many options at different price points and with different focuses. Some visitors choose a scenic ferry ride, while others want to connect with the area’s nature and choose a whale-watching excursion. Peaceful tour options include kayaking or canoeing.Visitors looking to go whale watching along the St. Lawrence will want to plan a trip between May and October. During this period, more than a dozen species of whales, including blue whales and humpbacks are found in the St. Lawrence. The summer months of August and into September are especially beautiful.Yes, you can swim in the St. Lawrence River, but only some days. Potential swimmers should be aware that water quality is constantly monitored, and not all days are swimmable. Swimming sites on the St. Lawrence are rated based on water quality, and swimmers can find up-to-date information online.Yes, visiting the St. Lawrence River is worth it. It is a destination for admiring views and participating in outdoor trips like nature tours, whale-watching excursions, and scenic ferry rides. Adventurous travelers may want to canoe, kayak, try a stand-up paddle board, or even go ice canoeing on the frozen river.No, reservations are not required but may be suggested for some activities along the St. Lawrence River. Visitors with limited time schedules and the desire to do specific activities such as whale watching should definitely make reservations in advance. For activities like renting a kayak, reservations are less critical.August and September are the best months to visit the St. Lawrence River, when autumn winds have not picked up, and fog is rare. But while summer is popular for outdoor activities on the St. Lawrence, winter offers its own pleasures, such as ice canoeing on the frozen river.

With more than 20,000 species growing across 185 acres (75 hectares), the expansive Montreal Botanical Garden (Jardin Botanique de Montréal) is often ranked among the world’s finest. Explore themed gardens—among them, Japanese, Chinese, First Nations, alpine, and medicinal—as well as hot and humid greenhouses dotted with orchids and tropical flowers.

Montreal Botanical Garden (Jardin Botanique de Montréal)

With more than 20,000 species growing across 185 acres (75 hectares), the expansive Montreal Botanical Garden (Jardin Botanique de Montréal) is often ranked among the world’s finest. Explore themed gardens—among them, Japanese, Chinese, First Nations, alpine, and medicinal—as well as hot and humid greenhouses dotted with orchids and tropical flowers.The Montreal Botanical Garden is situated on the same site as the Montreal Insectarium, a family-friendly bug-themed attraction. A single ticket provides access to both. Visitors can also book package tickets, which grant entry to the botanical garden and the Space for Life museum (either the Biodome or the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium). Alternatively, choose a combined ticket to the garden and the Montreal Tower Observatory, which offers spectacular views over the city and the St. Lawrence River. Select sightseeing passes also include access to the garden.<ul><li>The Montreal Botanical Garden is a must for families and gardening enthusiasts.</li><li>A mini-train runs through the gardens in summer; visitors with reduced mobility are given priority access.</li><li>Interpreter-led tours and activities, from bird-watching excursions to tea-tasting sessions, are regularly held throughout the gardens.</li><li>There are drinking fountains throughout the site.</li><li>The gardens have a wheelchair-accessible route that passes the major highlights.</li></ul>The Montreal Botanical Garden is situated in the Olympic Park, right next to the Biodome, Insectarium, and Montreal Tower. The nearest metro stop is Pie-IX (Green Line), about 10 or 15 minutes away on foot.One of the best times of the year to visit the garden is during the annual Gardens of Light event, which takes place in fall and sees the grounds lit up spectacularly. In winter, many of the outdoor gardens are covered by snow, though plants grow in the greenhouses year-round.The Montreal Botanical Garden is one of several attractions within Montreal’s Space for Life museum district, and you can combine a visit with a trip to one of the other nearby attractions. Find out more about the wonders of the universe at the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium, watch an ant colony at work at the Montreal Insectarium, and wander through different ecosystems at the Biodome. Though not officially part of the Space for Life site, the Olympic Stadium complex, which contains the Montreal Tower, is also right beside the garden. Ride the funicular up to the observation deck of the 541-foot (165-meter) tower for bird’s-eye views of Montreal.Yes, guided tours are available at the Montreal Botanical Garden. From May to October, free guided tours are offered daily by volunteer guides, depending on availability. Additionally, groups of 15 or more can make advanced reservations for a guided tour of both the outdoor gardens and exhibition greenhouses.The best time to visit the Montreal Botanical Garden is from late spring through fall, particularly from June to August. During this period, the garden is in bloom, with vibrant flowers, lush greenery, and various outdoor events. In fall (typically September–October), the annual Gardens of Light display illuminates the garden.The time it takes to walk through the Montreal Botanical Garden can vary, depending on your pace and how much you want to see. Usually, visitors spend about 2–3 hours exploring the garden, though it could take half a day to stroll leisurely through the full complex.The Montreal Botanical Garden is full of must-see features, including 10 exhibition greenhouses showcasing diverse plant life from around the world; themed gardens like the Japanese Garden, Chinese Garden, and First Nations Garden; and the Insectarium, which provides a fascinating look at the micro world of insects.You can get to the Montreal Botanical Garden by public transportation. From downtown Montreal, take the Green Line towards Honore-Beaugrand and get off at Pie-IX station. The station is a short walk from the garden’s entrance. Several bus routes also serve the area.Yes, dining options are available at the Montreal Botanical Garden. The Jardin Botanique Restaurant offers the widest variety of fare—beyond that, there’s The Garden lunch hop, the Terrace Café and Cremerie, and a vegetarian spot, Espace Végo. Additionally, there are several picnic areas where you can enjoy a meal outdoors.

Montreal’s Underground City (or RÉSO) is a vast indoor complex that extends across a large portion of Downtown Montreal. Subterranean tunnels connect malls, hotels, cinemas, theaters, offices, museums, banks, universities, and metro stations, serving as a warm refuge during the city’s brutal winters.

Montreal Underground City

Montreal’s Underground City (or RÉSO) is a vast indoor complex that extends across a large portion of Downtown Montreal. Subterranean tunnels connect malls, hotels, cinemas, theaters, offices, museums, banks, universities, and metro stations, serving as a warm refuge during the city’s brutal winters.With some 20 miles (33 kilometers) of tunnels, 190 access points, and thousands of shops, the Underground City can be something of a maze, especially to the uninitiated. To avoid getting lost, consider joining a guided tour. Tours of the complex show off highlights of the underground realm, which features everything from shopping malls to public artworks and even a segment of the Berlin Wall.Some tours split their time between the Underground City and the ground-level attractions of Downtown Montreal, stopping at landmarks such as Christ Church Cathedral and the monument-dotted Dorchester Square.<ul><li>The Underground City is a must for visitors who want to shop, eat, or simply escape the frigid winter temperatures.</li><li>Find Underground City maps at Montreal metro stations.</li><li>Many of the major complexes, malls, and attractions in the Underground City are wheelchair-accessible with street-level access and elevators, though some of the tunnels and metro stations are not.</li></ul>Access points to the Underground City can be found throughout Downtown Montreal. Easy-to-find entrances include malls such as the Eaton Centre, Les Cours Mont-Royal, and Complexe Desjardins. The underground complex is also connected to metro stations, including Atwater, Peel, McGill, Place des Arts, Berri UQAM, Bonaventure, Square-Victoria, and Place d’Armes. Entrances to the Underground City are marked RÉSO.With heating and air-conditioning keeping temperatures in the tunnels pleasant, the best time to visit is during extreme weather—whether that be humid summer days or the freezing chill of winter.For shopping, head to the Eaton Centre and Complexe Desjardins, where you’ll find high-street chains, independent stores, cafés, restaurants, and fast-food outlets. For something a little more cultural, browse the exhibits at the Montreal Museum of Contemporary Art (Musée d'Art Contemporain) or head to the Palais des Congrès de Montréal, which hosts numerous conventions and events every year, including Montreal Comiccon. For a bird’s-eye view of the city, ascend to the 607-foot-high (185-meter-high) observation deck at Place Ville Marie.The Montreal Underground City, also known as the RÉSO, is a 20-mile (32-kilometer) network of interconnected tunnels dotted with shops and restaurants. The tunnels lead to above-ground attractions, from metro stations to museums and more. The RÉSO offers a convenient way to navigate the city’s downtown core during harsh weather.Access points to the Montreal Underground City are scattered throughout downtown. Entrances can be found at metro stations, shopping centers, office buildings, hotels, museums, and more. Signage can be a bit haphazard—look for the word “RÉSO,” as signs typically will be only in French. Locals also can help direct you.Many of downtown Montreal’s main attractions have basement levels in the Montreal Underground City. You can access the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, Complexe Desjardins (a shopping mall), Time Out Market (a food hall), the Place des Arts, and other top sites, along with stand-alone shops, cafés, and theaters.Yes, you can take a guided tour of the Montreal Underground City (aka RÉSO). Tours of this massive tunnel network offer insight into the history, architecture, and hidden nooks of the structure, alongside how best to navigate. Check with local tour operators or visitor centers for tour availability and schedules.Spanning about 20 miles (32 kilometers) of tunnels and corridors, the Montreal Underground City is one of the largest underground complexes in the world. It connects more than 120 exterior access points and encompasses a wide range of commercial spaces. In some places, the underground tunnel reaches four stories tall.Certain sections of the Montreal Underground City (RÉSO) are accessible 24-7. However, opening hours of businesses vary—each facility within the underground network keeps its own hours. Generally, shopping centers and commercial establishments like museums have standard operating hours. Check the opening hours of individual venues before planning your visit.

Built for the 1976 Olympic Games, the Montreal Olympic Park (Parc Olympique de Montréal) now houses several attractions that form Montreal’s Space for Life museum district. There’s the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium, the 56,000-seater Olympic Stadium, the Biodome, an indoor zoo with around 4,500 animals, as well as the Botanical Gardens and Insectarium in neighboring Maisonneuve Park.

Montreal Olympic Park (Parc Olympique de Montréal)

Built for the 1976 Olympic Games, the Montreal Olympic Park (Parc Olympique de Montréal) now houses several attractions that form Montreal’s Space for Life museum district. There’s the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium, the 56,000-seater Olympic Stadium, the Biodome, an indoor zoo with around 4,500 animals, as well as the Botanical Gardens and Insectarium in neighboring Maisonneuve Park.Visitors to Montreal’s Olympic Park can purchase individual tickets for each attraction. Admission to the Biodome comes with entry to the indoor zoo’s five temperature-controlled ecosystems, where you can spot animals including penguins and capybaras. A ticket to the Olympic Stadium includes access to a bi-level cable car ride up the 540-foot (165-meter) Montreal Tower (Tour de Montréal). Tickets can be purchased for individual shows at the planetarium, and for the Botanical Gardens and Insectarium, which are considered one attraction and are accessible with the same ticket.Visit more than one attraction at the Space for Life site with a multi-attraction ticket. Buy a 2-site package ticket and combine a visit to the Olympic Stadium with a trip to the Botanical Gardens, or opt for a sightseeing pass for free access to all Olympic Park attractions and other major city sights and, in some cases, unlimited public transportation. Some group and private tours of Montreal also visit certain attractions at Olympic Park.<ul><li>Olympic Park is a must for families, architecture enthusiasts, and plant lovers.</li><li>Space for Life features several dining areas, restrooms, and cloakrooms.</li><li>All attractions at the site are wheelchair accessible.</li></ul>To get to Olympic Park, ride the metro Green Line to Pie-IX station. The park is just a short walk from there.Olympic Park is open year-round. The Botanical Gardens are arguably at their best during summer and autumn, as most of the outdoor exhibits are buried beneath snow for much of winter and spring. The Biodome makes a great year-round attraction, with the toasty tropical rain forest space providing respite from bitter winter weather.Olympic Park hosts popular exhibitions, including the Gardens of Light display at the Botanical Gardens in September and October and sees the garden atmospherically lit after dark. In winter, the Botanical Gardens hosts the Butterflies Go Free exhibition, where thousands of butterflies flutter freely within the garden’s main greenhouse, perching on plants and sometimes people. Olympic Stadium, meanwhile, is the setting for First Fridays, a food truck festival during the summer season.

Built in the 1840s, this neoclassical silver-domed building has served as a farmers market, theater, and for a brief stint as Montreal's city hall. It was threatened with demolition before being converted into the current market complex, which contains cafes, restaurants, galleries, and shops selling Quebec-made crafts and design items.

Bonsecours Market (Marché Bonsecours)

Built in the 1840s, this neoclassical silver-domed building has served as a farmers market, theater, and for a brief stint as Montreal's city hall. It was threatened with demolition before being converted into the current market complex, which contains cafes, restaurants, galleries, and shops selling Quebec-made crafts and design items.A National Historic Site in the heart of Old Montreal (Vieux-Montreal), Bonsecours Market (Marché Bonsecours) is commonly visited by travelers exploring on foot. Wander around the shops at your leisure, admiring high-quality products ranging from kitchenware to handmade jewelry. Galleries inside the market display works from First Nations and Quebec artists.Many walking tours of Old Montreal include time at the market. Guides can provide additional information on the history of the market, which has witnessed many periods of political turbulence.<ul><li>Bonsecours Market is a must for architecture enthusiasts and shoppers looking to pick up quality local goods.</li><li>Several restaurants and cafes can be found within the market.</li><li>Bonsecours Market is partially though not fully wheelchair accessible, and some of the surrounding cobbled streets may prove challenging.</li></ul>Bonsecours Market is in Old Montreal next to the Old Port (Vieux-Port). The nearest metro station is Champ-de-Mars (Orange Line), which is less than 10 minutes away on foot.The indoor Bonsecours Market is open year-round. In winter, it provides a warm shelter from the freezing city streets, while in the hot summer, it serves as a cooling refuge. The market is typically busier during summer, when more tourists are in town.Bonsecours Market is in Old Montreal, a district known for its atmospheric cobbled streets and historic architecture, some of which date back to the early days of New France. While you're in the area, be sure to take a stroll down Rue Saint-Paul, on which the market is located. This cobbled stretch is one of the city's prettiest thoroughfares. Other worthwhile attractions within easy walking distance of the market include the 18th-century Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel and Ramezay Castle (Chateau Ramezay), the 18th-century residence of French governors, which now serves as a history museum displaying historic art, furniture, and other items.

Named after a 16th-century French explorer, Jacques-Cartier Square (Place Jacques-Cartier) is one of the main squares in Old Montreal (Vieux-Montreal). It was laid out in the early 19th century, and is lined with cafe terraces where visitors can watch as street performers and caricature artists vie for the attentions of passing tourists.

Jacques-Cartier Square (Place Jacques-Cartier)

Named after a 16th-century French explorer, Jacques-Cartier Square (Place Jacques-Cartier) is one of the main squares in Old Montreal (Vieux-Montreal). It was laid out in the early 19th century, and is lined with cafe terraces where visitors can watch as street performers and caricature artists vie for the attentions of passing tourists.Few places evoke the historic, European-influenced flavor of Old Montreal quite like Jacques-Cartier Square. Myriad walking tours of Old Montreal, both private and group tours, stop at the square, as well as other nearby attractions including Notre-Dame Basilica, St. Paul Street (Rue Saint-Paul), and the waterfront Old Port (Vieux-Port). Tours by coach introduce visitors to the square, as well as highlighting other Montreal sights, such as Montreal Chinatown, Mount Royal (Mont-Royal), and the Olympic Stadium.<ul><li>Jacques-Cartier Square is a good spot for a coffee, glass of wine, or lunch, with several open-air cafes and restaurants situated around its perimeter.</li><li>The square is pedestrianized, meaning you can wander without worrying about traffic.</li><li>Jacques-Cartier Square is mostly wheelchair accessible, although the inclined surface may pose problems to manual wheelchair users.</li></ul>Jacques-Cartier Square is situated in Old Montreal, stretching for two blocks from Montreal City Hall down to the waterfront. The nearest metro station is Champ-de-Mars (Orange Line), which is about five minutes away on foot.Jacques-Cartier Square is at its best in summer when restaurants and cafes around the square open up their outdoor terraces, and musicians and street performers come hoping to earn their keep. The square is also atmospheric during the Christmas season, with festive lights strung on the surrounding trees and snow often on the ground.Towering over the top of Jacques-Cartier Square is Nelsonâs Column monument, which was erected in 1809. Unusual for this Francophone city, the monument pays homage to a British rather than a French hero: Admiral Horatio Nelson. Admiral Nelson was killed during the Battle of Trafalgar, in which the English were victorious over French and Spanish forces.

First opened in 1933, Jean-Talon Market (Marché Jean-Talon) is a local institution. Montrealers come to shop farm-fresh ingredients, from Quebec-reared pork and seafood from the country’s east coast to colorful vegetables, everything from purple carrots to orange cauliflower and strangely shaped gourds—all of which are artfully stacked in sellers’ stalls.

Jean-Talon Market (Marché Jean-Talon)

First opened in 1933, Jean-Talon Market (Marché Jean-Talon) is a local institution. Montrealers come to shop farm-fresh ingredients, from Quebec-reared pork and seafood from the country’s east coast to colorful vegetables, everything from purple carrots to orange cauliflower and strangely shaped gourds—all of which are artfully stacked in sellers’ stalls.Jean-Talon Market offers a top-notch farmers market experience in Montreal. Some Montreal food tours make stops at the market, guiding participants as they sample Quebec-grown crops and artisan goodies. Many food tours combine a visit to Jean-Talon Market with a tour of the surrounding Little Italy neighborhood, as well as the Mile-Ex and Mile End districts, which are known for hip dining, craft beer, and third-wave coffee shops.<ul><li>Jean-Talon Market is a must for foodies and photographers thanks to its colorful produce displays.</li><li>The market has bathrooms, water fountains, and seating.</li><li>Bring cash as many vendors don’t accept cards. While there is an ATM, lines form during busy periods.</li></ul>Underground and outdoor parking is available at the market, but unless you plan on buying more than you can carry, it’s best to come by public transit. The nearest metro stations are Jean-Talon (Blue and Orange lines) and De Castelnau (Blue Line), both of which are about five minutes away on foot.Jean-Talon is open year-round. During winter, walls are erected to protect the covered part of the market from the elements. In warmer months, the walls are removed, and extra open-air stalls are added. On Thursday-Sunday between June and October, the streets around the market are closed to traffic and fill with strollers, shoppers, and buskers.Arrive hungry so you can taste a diverse range of Canadian produce at Jean-Talon Market. Start at the produce stalls, where samples of fresh fruit such as mangos, strawberries, and mandarins are often available. Pick up some regional specialties, perhaps native fiddlehead ferns, tourtière (meat pie), cretons (pork spread), or any number of Quebec cheeses. Try La Boite aux Huitres for palate-cleansing oysters or indulge in sweet baked goods at Joe La Croûte bakery.

When Montrealers refer to “the mountain,” they mean Mount Royal. Really, it’s a 764-foot (233-meter) hill, but that’s no matter. Mount Royal Park was designed in 1876 by none other than Frederick Law Olmsted—of Central Park fame—and since then, it’s been the city’s green lung, where locals go hiking, biking, boating, bird-watching, and picnicking.

Mount Royal Park

When Montrealers refer to “the mountain,” they mean Mount Royal. Really, it’s a 764-foot (233-meter) hill, but that’s no matter. Mount Royal Park was designed in 1876 by none other than Frederick Law Olmsted—of Central Park fame—and since then, it’s been the city’s green lung, where locals go hiking, biking, boating, bird-watching, and picnicking.Right in the middle of Montreal, Mount Royal Park is a 700-acre (283-hectare) green space with winding trails, lookouts, a lake, pavilions, sculptures, and chalets. It’s where Montrealers congregate rain or shine, summer or winter, sunrise or sunset. Oddly enough, “the mountain” has three summits: Colline de la Croix, Westmount Summit, and Tioh’tia:ke Otsira’kehne, renamed in 2017 to reflect the area’s Mohawk heritage. On that first summit, you’ll find the Mont Royal Chalet, the Kondiaronk Belvedere (a lookout), and the famous Mount Royal Cross.<ul><li>Boat rentals are available at Beaver Lake in the summer.</li><li>If you’re traveling by car, the lookout along Camillien-Houde Lane is a fan favorite.</li><li>You can find snacks and drinks at Smith House, the Mont Royal Chalet, and the Beaver Lake Pavilion.</li></ul>Mont Royal Park is in the city center and easily reachable by public transit, bike, car, taxi, or rideshare. If you’re utilizing the metro, get off at the University of Montreal stop or the Edouard-Montpetit stop; if you’re riding the bus, several routes provide direct service to the park; if you have your own wheels, there are two paid parking lots within Mont Royal Park; traveling on foot is a good option, too.There’s no bad time to experience Mont Royal Park—it should be on any Montreal visitor’s to-do list. Crowds will be largest on weekends and when the weather is nice; if you’d like an experience more for yourself, visit early in the morning or later in the evening. At night, the Mont Royal Cross is illuminated, making for quite the scene. In winter, the trails and green spaces are open for hiking, skiing, tubing, and ice skating.For those looking to experience the Mount Royal Chalet, the Mount Royal Cross, and the fabulous city views from the Kondiaronk Belvedere (aka lookout), know that this scenic overlook is inaccessible by car. For the shortest walk, park your car at the Smith House parking lot, a 5-minute walk away.

Covering an area of 480 square miles (1,245 square kilometers), the protected waters of the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park (Parc Marin du Saguenay-Saint-Laurent) are among Eastern Canada’s best wildlife-viewing hot spots. Many impressive cetaceans, from blue whales to belugas, as well as several types of seals and hundreds of different species of sea birds dwell here.

Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park (Parc Marin du Saguenay-Saint-Laurent)

Covering an area of 480 square miles (1,245 square kilometers), the protected waters of the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park (Parc Marin du Saguenay-Saint-Laurent) are among Eastern Canada’s best wildlife-viewing hot spots. Many impressive cetaceans, from blue whales to belugas, as well as several types of seals and hundreds of different species of sea birds dwell here.There are several ways to explore the park. Go kayaking or boating around the inky waters of Saguenay Fjord, or brave the cold depths during a dive in the St. Lawrence estuary.For the best chance of seeing whales, opt for a whale-watching cruise in the company of a certified naturalist. Choose between high-speed zodiac cruises that will put you at eye level, or opt for a cruise on a larger observation vessel. Some cruise experiences include round-trip transport from Quebec City.<ul><li>Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.</li><li>Bring extra layers, as it can feel colder out on the water than on dry land.</li><li>Head to an interpretation center (Pointe-Noire Interpretation and Observation Centre, Cap de Bon-Désir Interpretation and Observation Centre, and the Marine Environment Discovery Centre in Les Escoumins) for information on the marine environment and available activities.</li></ul>The Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park spreads from La Malbaie to Les Escoumins along the St. Lawrence River and to Lake St. Jean via the fjord. The park is about a 2- to 3-hour drive from Quebec City, and about a 4- to 6-hour drive from Montreal.The best time to visit is during summer and early fall, as this is peak whale-watching season. Whale-watching cruises typically run between May and October, with more frequent departures from late June to early September.There are many places in and around the park where you can discover the marine environment without having to step aboard a boat. Many whales, including belugas, can be spotted from designated whale-watching areas along the shore. Also, in the Marine Environment Discovery Centre at Les Escoumins, visitors can watch interpretive divers exploring the seabed via a screen.

Artsy and laid-back, Plateau-Mont-Royal, aka the Plateau, captures the spirit of Montreal perhaps more than any other neighborhood. Spiraling iron staircases crawl up Victorian-era residences on tree-lined streets, while magnificent street murals add color to commercial thoroughfares. Restaurants, cafés, bars, and boutiques abound.

Plateau-Mont-Royal (the Plateau)

Artsy and laid-back, Plateau-Mont-Royal, aka the Plateau, captures the spirit of Montreal perhaps more than any other neighborhood. Spiraling iron staircases crawl up Victorian-era residences on tree-lined streets, while magnificent street murals add color to commercial thoroughfares. Restaurants, cafés, bars, and boutiques abound.To understand Montreal, a visit to Plateau-Mont-Royal is a must. Many visitors explore the Plateau’s main thoroughfares—Saint-Laurent Boulevard and St. Denis Street (between Sherbrooke and Van Horne) and Mont Royal Avenue—as part of guided walking tours and bike tours.Food tours of Montreal, including niche tea and chocolate-themed tours, also tend to center on the Plateau because of its high concentration of restaurants and coffee shops. Mile End, home to the city’s legendary bagel producers, St-Viateur and Fairmont, proves especially popular on food tours.<ul><li>Exploring the Plateau is a must for anyone who wants to get a feel for life in Montreal.</li><li>The Plateau is littered with small cafés and bakeries, meaning you’re never far from your next caffeine or sugar hit.</li><li>Most parts of the Plateau have curb cuts for wheelchair users, though the quality of streets and sidewalks is variable. Some have large potholes and uneven surfaces.</li></ul>Take the metro (orange line) to Mont Royal or Laurier stations. Bixi bike-sharing stations can be found throughout the Plateau during the summer months, while the 55 bus runs north up Saint-Laurent, also known as the Main—the buzzing shop-lined heart of the neighborhood.The Plateau is at its best in summer, when Montrealers take to the streets to soak up the sunshine. Bars and restaurants set up temporary pavement terraces. Sections of major streets are often closed to traffic during special summer events, including the Mural Festival, which takes place in June on Saint-Laurent. Later in the summer, a four-day street festival takes place on Mont Royal Avenue.The Plateau’s biggest green space, Parc LaFontaine is the third-largest in the city, with only Mount Royal Park (Parc du Mont-Royal) and Maisonneuve Park (Parc Maisonneuve) taking up more space. In winter, its lake serves as an ice-skating rink and local families go tubing down its slopes, while in summer, it’s the domain of picnickers, with open-air plays at the Théatre de Verdure and cinema screenings attracting evening crowds.

Situated at the northernmost point of Montreal’s Plateau, Mile End is known for its array of independent shops, cafés, and underground music venues. The vibrant neighborhood, a cultural hub since the 1980s, is teeming with highly-rated restaurants and historical landmarks, from classic bagelries to scenes from the novels of Mordecai Richler.

Mile End

Situated at the northernmost point of Montreal’s Plateau, Mile End is known for its array of independent shops, cafés, and underground music venues. The vibrant neighborhood, a cultural hub since the 1980s, is teeming with highly-rated restaurants and historical landmarks, from classic bagelries to scenes from the novels of Mordecai Richler.Mile End walking tours are often centered around food, as the neighborhood boasts a diverse range of cuisines and specialties. As a longtime hub for Montreal’s Jewish population, walking tours that highlight Jewish history, culture, and heritage are also popular, and often include stops at decades-old restaurants and Mordecai Richler’s old haunts. Bike tours offer a more active experience and enable you to see more than might be possible on foot.<ul><li>Mile End is a must-do for foodies, thrifters, and history buffs.</li><li>Don’t forget comfortable shoes, as the best way to explore the neighborhood is on foot.</li><li>Visit popular restaurants after the lunch rush to avoid notoriously long lines.</li><li>Street signs, including parking and traffic signs, are written in French.</li></ul>Mile End is situated northeast of Mont Royal Park and is easily accessible via Montreal’s comprehensive public transit system. The nearest stops are Saint Laurent and Saint Viateur on bus 55, Avenue du Parc and Fairmount on bus 80, and Laurier metro station on the orange 2 line. Alternatively, a BIXI bike-share dock is located on the southeast corner of Avenue du Parc and Avenue du Mont-Royal Ouest. Metered street parking is available, but often limited.Mile End is busiest on weekends—especially during brunch. Beat the crowds by heading to restaurants and cafés before 11am. For a quieter experience, stroll through the neighborhood on a weekday morning. In addition to POP Montreal’s International Film Festival each September, Mile End also hosts the annual summer Marché des Possibles, a public market that features live music, art, films, and pop-up restaurants.Mile End is home to Montreal’s two legendary bagel shops: St. Viateur and Fairmount, located only a few blocks apart. Montrealers are born and bred to have an unwavering loyalty to one or the other, creating a city-wide bagel debate that has been written about and reported on for decades. Try a fresh bagel at each shop and decide for yourself—both are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Designed by architect Buckminster Fuller to serve as the US pavilion for the 1967 World’s Fair, the Montreal Biosphere (la Biosphère) is one of the city’s most instantly recognizable landmarks. Inside, it houses a range of exhibitions focusing on eco-technologies, sustainable development, and climate change. It's a must-see for all visitors to Montreal.

Montreal Biosphere (la Biosphère)

Designed by architect Buckminster Fuller to serve as the US pavilion for the 1967 World’s Fair, the Montreal Biosphere (la Biosphère) is one of the city’s most instantly recognizable landmarks. Inside, it houses a range of exhibitions focusing on eco-technologies, sustainable development, and climate change. It's a must-see for all visitors to Montreal.The Montreal Biosphere is a popular city landmark, with its striking lattice-shelled sphere visible from many parts of Montreal. See the structure up close while exploring Jean-Drapeau Park (Parc Jean-Drapeau) on foot or by bike or by following snowshoe and cross-country trails through the park in winter.Some Montreal sightseeing passes include access to the biosphere’s exhibitions, which focus on environmental issues. Permanent exhibits inside the museum include “+1°C What Difference Does it Make?,” which looks at the effects of global warming, and “Renewable Energy: Time to Decide,” which explores alternative energy sources.<ul><li>The Montreal Biosphere is a must for architecture enthusiasts and anyone with an interest in environmental sustainability.</li><li>Drinking fountains and picnic areas can be found in the surrounding Jean-Drapeau Park.</li><li>The biosphere is wheelchair accessible.</li></ul>Montreal Biosphere in Jean-Drapeau Park spans two islands—St. Helen's Island and Notre Dame Island—in the middle of the St. Lawrence River. To get there, ride the Yellow Line Metro to Jean-Drapeau station. From there, it’s just a 2-minute walk to the biosphere.The biosphere is open year-round, though opening days vary according to season, and the museum typically closes for a few weeks during the Christmas and New Year’s period. The best time to visit is summer as warm weather allows visitors to enjoy all that Jean-Drapeau Park has to offer.Originally designed for Expo 67, the biosphere was first covered by a clear acrylic coating but this was destroyed during a major fire in 1976. The biosphere remained closed from that time until the opening of the museum in 1995. For sci-fi fans, the structure may be familiar, having appeared inBattlestar Galactica and Robert Altman’s 1979 film,Quintet.

See creatures, from poison dart frogs to penguins, in their native habitats in the Montreal Biodome (Biodome de Montreal). It's among the top family-friendly Montreal activities. It’s not just a zoo: The biodome recreates the plant and animal life of five ecosystems of the Americas, including the sub-Antarctic islands, tropical rainforest, Laurentian maple forest, and maritime Gulf of Saint Lawrence.

Montreal Biodome (Biodome de Montreal)

See creatures, from poison dart frogs to penguins, in their native habitats in the Montreal Biodome (Biodome de Montreal). It's among the top family-friendly Montreal activities. It’s not just a zoo: The biodome recreates the plant and animal life of five ecosystems of the Americas, including the sub-Antarctic islands, tropical rainforest, Laurentian maple forest, and maritime Gulf of Saint Lawrence.The Montreal Biodome is for exploring the natural world in an enclosed space that’s comfortable no matter the weather. Most visitors spend between 60 and 90 minutes at the Montreal Biodome, but there’s a lot to do in the surrounding area, too. It’s part of the larger Space for Life complex that also includes the Montreal Biosphere (la Biosphère), Montreal Insectarium (Insectarium de Montréal), Planetarium, and the Montreal Botanical Garden (Jardin Botanique de Montréal).Buying tickets online is a good idea, as entries are timed, and popular slots tend to sell out.
A mobile app guides visitors through exhibits; download it in advance or use the biodome’s free Wi-Fi.
The Biodome is an accessible destination. Strollers and wheelchairs are available at the front desk, and special tours are designed for visitors with reduced mobility.
Designated rooms for breastfeeding have microwaves for warming bottles.
While food is not allowed in the biodome, an on-site cafeteria has tables for enjoying packed lunches (there’s a vegetarian restaurant, too).The Montreal Biodome is on Avenue Pierre-De Coubertin between Boulevard Pie-IX and Rue Viau. Paid outdoor parking is at 3000 Rue Viau, with vouchers that can be used at other Space for Life lots. The Viau metro station on the Green Line (Line 1) is a 5-minute walk away; nearby bus stops are served by the Nos. 34, 125, and 136 routes. BIXI bike stations are on the corner of Pierre-De Coubertin and Bennett Street.This popular Montreal destination bustles throughout the week: School groups come on weekdays, while local families tend to arrive on weekends. Time entry means it’s never too crowded, however. While the ecosystems are enclosed, they change throughout the year. The Laurentian maple forest is beautiful from late September through October, when the leaves turn a brilliant red.Winter is a glorious time to visit Montreal with kids as the city turns into a wonderland of skating rinks, ski trails, and snowy streets. When you need to warm up, you have plenty of options. Sample local treats at the indoor Jean-Talon Market (Marché Jean-Talon), then play with hands-on, kid-friendly archeological exhibits at the Pointe-à-Callière museum. Or, head to the waterfront Montreal Science Centre (Centre des Sciences de Montréal) for interactive learning and IMAX movies.

Built in the 1870s and rebuilt after a 1922 fire, Montreal City Hall (Hôtel de Ville de Montréal) has long found itself at the center of Quebec history. In 1967, the building hosted one of the most significant political moments in the province’s recent past, when then–French President Charles de Gaulle gave a rousing speech from the balcony—one that spurred Quebec’s separatist movement.

Montreal City Hall (Hotel de Ville de Montréal)

Built in the 1870s and rebuilt after a 1922 fire, Montreal City Hall (Hôtel de Ville de Montréal) has long found itself at the center of Quebec history. In 1967, the building hosted one of the most significant political moments in the province’s recent past, when then–French President Charles de Gaulle gave a rousing speech from the balcony—one that spurred Quebec’s separatist movement.Montreal City Hall is one of many landmark historic buildings in Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal). Walking tours of this part of the city often take participants to Montreal City Hall, as well as to Notre-Dame Basilica, Bonsecours Market, Place d’Armes, and Place Jacques-Cartier. Guided tours of Montreal City Hall are available on a walk-in basis at select times throughout the year, and include access to the council chamber, the terrace, and the mayor’s gallery. Visitors can also explore parts of the building, including the Hall of Honor, independently.<ul><li>Montreal City Hall is a must for politicos and anyone with an interest in Quebec history.</li><li>Access to some parts of the building, such as the council chamber, can be restricted depending on the government’s schedule of events.</li><li>Montreal City Hall can be accessed by wheelchair via the Gosford Street entrance.</li></ul>Montreal City Hall is in Old Montreal, near the north end of Place Jacques-Cartier. The closest Metro station is Champ-de-Mars, which is served by the Orange Line.If you want to do a tour, come on a weekday in summer, when tours run most frequently. In winter, tours take place only once a week. If you’re in the area at night, consider passing by the building just to see it from the outside—it’s beautifully illuminated after dark.Built in French Second Empire style, Montreal City Hall is rich with ornate architectural and decorative details, from turrets and mansard roofs to chandeliers and stained-glass windows. City Hall also holds a collection of about 150 artworks, including portraits of former Montreal mayors, paintings, sculptures, tapestries, and photographs by contemporary Quebec artists.

Saint Paul Street (Rue Saint-Paul), located in Montreal’s Old Port, is an historic stretch of cafes, boutiques, galleries, and souvenir shops. Constructed in 1672, Saint Paul is the oldest street in the city and home to a few of its top landmarks, including Bonsecours Market and Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel.

Saint Paul Street (Rue Saint-Paul)

Saint Paul Street (Rue Saint-Paul), located in Montreal’s Old Port, is an historic stretch of cafes, boutiques, galleries, and souvenir shops. Constructed in 1672, Saint Paul is the oldest street in the city and home to a few of its top landmarks, including Bonsecours Market and Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel.As a main thoroughfare in Montreal’s historic district, Saint Paul Street is a highlight on most Old Port walking tours, which also often include Place Jacques-Cartier, Notre-Dame Basilica, and the St. Lawrence riverfront. Private tours offer a more flexible alternative, allowing visitors to add a stroll or bite to eat on Saint Paul Street a customized itinerary.<ul><li>Saint Paul Street is a must for boutique shoppers and history buffs.</li><li>Don’t forget comfortable, flat walking shoes, as the best way to explore the neighborhood—which is partially paved with cobblestones—is on foot.</li><li>Street signs, including parking and traffic signs, are written in French.</li><li>Visit popular restaurants after the lunch rush to avoid notoriously long lines.</li></ul>Saint Paul Street is located in the Old Port neighborhood and is easily accessible using Montreal’s public transit system. The nearest Metro stations are Square-Victoria and Place-d’Armes, or take bus 61 to McGill and Saint Paul, bus 55 to Notre Dame and Saint Sulpice, or bus 68 to Nazareth and William. A BIXI bike share docks is located on the corner of McGill Street and d’Youville Place.As one of the Old Port’s main attractions, Saint Paul Street is busiest on weekends. Go on a weekday morning for a quieter stroll. From late May to mid September, Saint Paul Street is pedestrian-only between St. Laurent Street and Bonsecours Market.Nowhere is Montreal’s European atmosphere more evident than at Place Jacques-Cartier, a public square flanked to the south by Saint Paul Street. With its cobblestone streets, artists and buskers, and outdoor eateries, Place Jacques-Cartier is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike. During the summer, the square is pedestrian-only.

Montreal's Place d’Armes, meaning parade square, is a major public venue in Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal). The picturesque plaza is bordered by some of Montreal’s most notable architectural landmarks, including the 17th-century Saint-Sulpice Seminary, the Gothic Revival-style Notre-Dame Basilica, and the art deco Aldred Building.

Montreal Place d'Armes

Montreal's Place d’Armes, meaning parade square, is a major public venue in Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal). The picturesque plaza is bordered by some of Montreal’s most notable architectural landmarks, including the 17th-century Saint-Sulpice Seminary, the Gothic Revival-style Notre-Dame Basilica, and the art deco Aldred Building.Many Montreal walking, biking, and sightseeing coach tours come to Place d’Armes so visitors can see the historic structures that surround the square. Most walking tours of Old Montreal follow routes that incorporate Place d’Armes and other historic attractions in the area, such as the Old Port, Place Jacques-Cartier, Ramezay Castle (Chateau Ramezay), and Bonsecours Market.<ul><li>Place d’Armes is a must-visit for architecture fans, with many landmark buildings from different eras lining the square.</li><li>Bring a camera: The square offers some of the finest views of Montreal’s Notre-Dame Basilica.</li><li>Wheelchair users can access the square via the Place-d’Armes Metro station. The square’s main attraction, Notre-Dame Basilica, is also wheelchair accessible.</li></ul>To get to Place d’Armes, take the Metro Orange Line to the Place-d’Armes station. The square is just a 5-minute walk from the waterfront Old Port.Visit in summer or fall, when it’s warm enough to linger and take some time to admire the surrounding sights. The square is also appealing at night when the facade of the basilica is strategically lit, highlighting its exterior architectural features. On select nights, the basilica hosts an interior light show, which use lighting design and sound to showcase the beauty of the basilica’s artwork and interior decoration.Next to the basilica is the Saint-Sulpice Seminary. Built in 1687 by Catholic Sulpicians, Saint-Sulpice Seminary is the second-oldest building in Montreal. On another side of the square sits the red sandstone 8-story New York Life Insurance Building—built in the late 1880s and considered to be Montreal’s first skyscraper—and the Aldred Building, a 23-story 1931 art deco gem that bears a strong resemblance to the Empire State Building in New York.

Pointe-à-Callière traces the history of Montreal, from First Nations’ settlements to the arrival of the Europeans and beyond. As well as immersive and interactive exhibits, the museum also displays authentic archaeological and architectural remains including parts of centuries-old fortifications and a 17th-century cemetery.

Pointe-à-Callière

Pointe-à-Callière traces the history of Montreal, from First Nations’ settlements to the arrival of the Europeans and beyond. As well as immersive and interactive exhibits, the museum also displays authentic archaeological and architectural remains including parts of centuries-old fortifications and a 17th-century cemetery.The museum hosts several permanent exhibitions, which together provide a fascinating and comprehensive take on the city’s history. Wander through a 19th-century sewer, which was once used to collect rainwater and wastewater; learn about the history of the city at the “Where Montreal Began” exhibit, which includes parts of the original 17th-century Fort Ville-Marie fortress; and learn about key moments during British and French rule in the archaeological crypt. Children can unearth treasures at the Archaeo-Adventure workshop and relive sea battles at the “Pirates or Privateers?” exhibition.Guided tours of specific exhibits, family tours, activities, and introductory talks take place daily and are available on a walk-in basis. Given in English and French, tours are included in the price of admission.<ul><li>Pointe-à-Callière is a must for history buffs and families.</li><li>Most of the museum is wheelchair accessible, with the exception of some parts of the archaeological crypt.</li><li>The museum has an eating and rest area in the Old Custom Building, as well as a self-service coat room with lockers for rent and a restaurant.</li></ul>Pointe-à-Callière is located in Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal). The nearest metro station is Place-d’Armes, which is serviced by the Orange Line. Alternatively, take bus 715 from the Berri-UQAM or Peel metro station.The museum is closed on Monday and busiest on weekend afternoons, particularly during the summer tourist season. Come early in the morning to avoid the crowds.For history buffs with an interest in Montreal’s past, Musée McCord makes an interesting complementary attraction to visit alongside Pointe-à-Callière. While Pointe-à-Callière showcases archaeological finds and key historic moments, Musée McCord hones in on Montreal’s social history through exhibits of clothing, photography, prints, drawings, and decorative arts, including First Nations’ artworks, crafts, and textiles.

Situated on the banks of the St. Lawrence River, the Montreal Science Centre (Centre des Sciences de Montréal) is a museum committed to educating the public about science and technology through hands-on learning. Its IMAX theater, daily programs, and interactive exhibits help make the Science Centre a popular attraction for both visiting and local families.

Montreal Science Centre (Centre des Sciences de Montréal)

Situated on the banks of the St. Lawrence River, the Montreal Science Centre (Centre des Sciences de Montréal) is a museum committed to educating the public about science and technology through hands-on learning. Its IMAX theater, daily programs, and interactive exhibits help make the Science Centre a popular attraction for both visiting and local families.Geared toward children and adolescents, the Montreal Science Centre’s permanent exhibits include Fabrik, which invites visitors to figure out how to engineer items such as derby cars and parachutes; Clic!, a space where children ages 4 to 7 can build with shapes and colors; and Human, an interactive exploration of human evolution. Special events are offered throughout the year and range from gaming nights for women to Rubik’s Cube competitions. Find a schedule for these events, as well as temporary exhibitions and IMAX movies, on the museum’s website.The Montreal Science Centre is a stop on most hop-on hop-off bus tours, and Bateau-Mouche sightseeing cruises pass by.<ul><li>The Montreal Science Centre is a must for families with children.</li><li>Purchase admission tickets online in advance to skip long lines.</li><li>Self-serve lockers cost $1 (cash only).</li><li>The food court offers a number of options, including poutine, tacos, and a standard takeout café.</li><li>The museum can get chilly and requires a moderate amount of walking, so wear layers and comfortable shoes.</li><li>The Science Centre is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, and wheelchairs are available to use free of charge.</li></ul>Located 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) from downtown in the Old Port, the Montreal Science Centre is easily accessible on foot or by public transit. Take bus 55 to Notre Dame and Saint Sulpice, bus 715 to Saint Laurent and Rue de la Commune, or the 2 metro to Place d’Armes. Hop-on hop-off bus tours offer hassle-free transportation and stop just outside the museum at Old Montreal: Pointe-à-Callière. Paid parking is available in the adjacent King Edward Quay parking lot.The Montreal Science Centre is open from 10am to 5pm daily. It is busiest on weekend afternoons (weekdays offer a quieter visit), yet a wide range of activities and exhibits means it doesn’t often feel overly crowded.Every June, the Montreal Science Centre partners with Eureka! to organize a science and technology festival for visitors of all ages. With over 100 free activities, lectures, and hands-on experiments, the festival is the largest of its kind in Quebec. Daily programs include talks by scientific experts, hands-on learning geared toward children, science-based theater performances, and workshops on endangered species. Check Eureka!’s website for a full calendar of events.

Crescent Street (Rue Crescent), situated in the heart of Montreal’s bustling downtown, is the epicenter of the city's nightlife and home of the Grand Prix Festival, a celebration of the annual Formula One race. Lined with row houses, galleries, restaurants, and highly rated nightclubs, the street is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike.

Crescent Street (Rue Crescent)

Crescent Street (Rue Crescent), situated in the heart of Montreal’s bustling downtown, is the epicenter of the city's nightlife and home of the Grand Prix Festival, a celebration of the annual Formula One race. Lined with row houses, galleries, restaurants, and highly rated nightclubs, the street is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike.Located just steps from the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, Crescent Street is a stop on most hop-on hop-off bus tours, a convenient way to explore without the hassle of navigating. Independent bike rentals offer a more active way to sightsee, while private tours offer the flexibility for visitors to tack a Crescent Street stroll or pub crawl onto a customized itinerary.<ul><li>The Crescent Street bar scene is a must for spontaneous travelers.</li><li>Don’t forget comfortable shoes, as the best way to explore the neighborhood is on foot.</li><li>Street signs, including parking and traffic signs, are written in French.</li></ul>Crescent Street is easily accessible using Montreal’s comprehensive public transit system. The nearest stops are Sherbrooke and Rue de la Montagne on bus 24, René-Lévesque and de la Montagne on bus 150, and Lucien-L’Allier metro station on the orange 2 line. Alternatively, a BIXI bike share docks is conveniently located on the south end of Crescent Street.As a hub for Montreal nightlife, Crescent Street is busiest during the evenings and on weekends. Go during the day for a quieter stroll. The street is best known for its annual Grand Prix Festival in June, a Formula One championship celebration known for its race car displays, autograph sessions, and live entertainment.While Crescent Street was established in the 1860s, its reputation for nightlife only began in 1967 when the Sir Winston Churchill Pub Complex opened. Today, the Winston Churchill boasts three levels, each with a distinct atmosphere—from a candlelight club lounge to an airy outdoor terrace. With plenty of food and drink options, the pub is often filled with visitors and locals from across the city.

Since its completion in 1892, Dorchester Square (Le Square Dorchester) has been a cultural and political focal point for protests, social gatherings, and pedestrian traffic in Downtown Montreal. Adjacent to the Dominion Square Building and Place du Canada, the public park is home to four historic monuments, including a Robert Burns statue and the Boer War memorial.

Dorchester Square (Le Square Dorchester)

Since its completion in 1892, Dorchester Square (Le Square Dorchester) has been a cultural and political focal point for protests, social gatherings, and pedestrian traffic in Downtown Montreal. Adjacent to the Dominion Square Building and Place du Canada, the public park is home to four historic monuments, including a Robert Burns statue and the Boer War memorial.The centrally located Dorchester Square is a stop on most hop-on hop-off bus tours, a convenient way for visitors to sightsee without the hassle of navigating. Downtown walking tours often include Dorchester Square in conjunction with other nearby landmarks, such as Mary Queen of the World Cathedral, St. Catherine Street, and parts of Montreal’s Underground City. Opt for a private tour and you can tack on a stroll through Dorchester Square to any customized itinerary.<ul><li>Dorchester Square is a must-visit for history buffs and nature lovers.</li><li>Street signs, including parking and traffic signs, are written in French.</li><li>Don’t forget comfortable shoes—the best way to explore the neighborhood is on foot.</li><li>Food trucks are often parked along the square, but Downtown Montreal offers a variety of cafés and restaurants.</li></ul>Dorchester Square’s central downtown location makes it easily accessible using Montreal’s comprehensive public transit system. Buses 107, 150, 430, and 747 all stop directly in front of the square, and the nearest metro stations are Bonaventure on the red 2 line and Peel on the green 2 line. Alternatively, a BIXI bike share dock is located on the square’s northeast corner.Dorchester Square is open to the public 24 hours a day. Like most outdoor spaces in Montreal, the square is busiest from May to September; seating areas, shady trees, and wide walkways make it an easy place to spend an afternoon.Before 1854, Dorchester Square was the burial site of victims of a 1851 cholera epidemic that caused more deaths worldwide than any other 19th-century pandemic. Because the cemetery was built quickly and without much foresight, the government exhumed the bodies later that year and moved them to Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Cemetery atop Mount Royal. As you walk through Dorchester Square, you’ll spot the crosses engraved in the pathways—a small reminder of this land’s solemn beginnings.

The action in Montreal's Latin Quarter (Quartier Latin) centers on Saint-Denis, a street lined with funky shops and bistros. The area really comes into its own in summer when it hosts festivals. Locals, tourists, and French-speaking students from University of Quebec at Montreal pack the neighborhood’s many cafes, bars, theaters, and live music venues.

Montreal Latin Quarter (Quartier Latin)

The action in Montreal's Latin Quarter (Quartier Latin) centers on Saint-Denis, a street lined with funky shops and bistros. The area really comes into its own in summer when it hosts festivals. Locals, tourists, and French-speaking students from University of Quebec at Montreal pack the neighborhood’s many cafes, bars, theaters, and live music venues.The Latin Quarter is one of Montreal’s most vibrant and buzzy neighborhoods, with locals and tourists drawn to its eclectic mix of independent boutiques, microbreweries, coffee shops, and in-demand restaurants. Explore the Latin Quarter by day as part of bike, scooter, or food and drink tour of the city, or come after dark to experience the energetic nightlife.<ul><li>The Latin Quarter is a must for first-time visitors to Montreal.</li><li>In warm weather, many restaurants, bars, and cafes set up open-air terraces overlooking the street.</li><li>The Latin Quarter is mostly wheelchair accessible with lots of curb cuts. Access can be challenging in winter, when snow and ice may obstruct sidewalks.</li></ul>To get to the Latin Quarter by public transportation, take the metro to Berri-UQAM (Green, Orange, and Yellow lines). The no. 30 bus, which travels down Saint-Hubert and Saint-Denis, also stops in the neighborhood. There are parking garages if you plan to drive; note that street parking can be tight.The best time to visit is on summer weekends, when several festivals take place, and the streets are animated with people. One of the more popular is the Just for Laughs Festival in July, which sees live comedy performances hosted in venues across the Latin Quarter. If you can, stick around until nightfall to soak up the infectious energy.Opened in 2005, this 355,209-square-foot (33,000-square-meter) library building is one of the architectural highlights of the Latin Quarter. It’s home to millions of books (including a copy of every book published in the province of Quebec since 1968), magazines, and other multimedia, including films. The library also features exhibition spaces and an auditorium where talks and performances are staged.

The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux-Arts), located in the heart of the Golden Square Mile neighborhood, is one of Canada’s most prominent cultural institutions. Home to over 44,000 works of art, from European masterpieces to Inuit sculpture, the museum also hosts classical concerts, public programs, and lecture series.

Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux-Arts)

The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux-Arts), located in the heart of the Golden Square Mile neighborhood, is one of Canada’s most prominent cultural institutions. Home to over 44,000 works of art, from European masterpieces to Inuit sculpture, the museum also hosts classical concerts, public programs, and lecture series.As one of the city’s top landmarks, the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is included on most Montreal attractions passes, which grant access to a bundle of sites with a one-time payment. Attractions passes typically also include the Montreal Biodôme, Saint Joseph’s Oratory, and the McCord Museum.The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts houses seven permanent collections, including Archaeology and World Cultures, Quebec and Canadian Art, and International Contemporary Art. The museum offers free daily tours of select temporary and permanent exhibitions. A calendar of tours, workshops, and events is available online.<ul><li>The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is a must for art lovers and history buffs.</li><li>All of the museum’s pavilions are wheelchair accessible; wheelchairs are available at coat check, free of charge.</li><li>Download the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts mobile app for a map, free audio guides, and information about tours and activities. The museum offers free Wi-Fi.</li><li>Purchase tickets in advance online to avoid long lines.</li><li>Street signs, including parking and traffic signs, are written in French. Metered street parking is available, but it’s often limited.</li></ul>Centrally located in the Golden Square Mile, the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is easily accessible using Montreal’s comprehensive public transit system. Bus 24 stops at the museum’s entrance on Sherbrooke Street, and the Peel metro station is a short 7–minute walk away. A BIXI bike share dock is located on the corner of Rue Crescent and Boulevard de Maisonneuve.The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is busiest on weekend afternoons; even then, though, the wide range of exhibitions means that it doesn’t often feel overly crowded. Go on a weekday for a quieter visit. The museum is open daily from 10am to 5pm. On Wednesdays, reduced admission is offered from 5 to 9pm, and free admission is offered on the first Sunday of each month.Salle Bourgie, acquired and restored by the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, is a 462-seat concert hall that’s located in a converted church and renowned for its 20 Tiffany stained glass windows. A popular haunt for local music lovers, the hall offers around 150 concerts every year, ranging from contemporary jazz to classical chamber music. Purchase tickets online in advance to reserve your seat, as concerts sell out quickly.

Montreal’s La Ronde amusement park (operated by Six Flags) is one of the largest in Canada, and the largest in the country’s east. It offers everything from toddler-friendly rides and a huge Ferris wheel to 10 roller coasters and even a thrilling human catapult. With more than 40 rides, there should be something for everyone at this seasonal favorite.

La Ronde

Montreal’s La Ronde amusement park (operated by Six Flags) is one of the largest in Canada, and the largest in the country’s east. It offers everything from toddler-friendly rides and a huge Ferris wheel to 10 roller coasters and even a thrilling human catapult. With more than 40 rides, there should be something for everyone at this seasonal favorite.Originally built in the 1960s for Expo ’67, La Ronde remains a popular seasonal attraction in Montreal. Its central-city location means it’s easy to reach, whether you’re going with kids or friends. Travelers typically visit independently to enjoy the rides at a leisurely pace. There are shops and plenty of places to eat, too. As it’s located on St. Helen’s Island in the St. Lawrence River, you can combine a few hours here with a stroll around Parc Jean-Drapeau, which is on the same island.<ul><li>Tickets can only be purchased online, so make sure to do this in advance.</li><li>Some minimum height restrictions apply, which vary by ride.</li><li>Most rides are included in the entry ticket, but some have an extra fee, such as the Catapulte.</li><li>La Ronde aims to make rides accessible to travelers with disabilities. Disabled visitors pay the regular ticket price, but an accompanying attendant receives free entry.</li></ul>La Ronde is on St. Helen’s Island in the St. Lawrence River. There is parking on the island, but this may be limited, so taking public transportation is recommended. The nearest subway stations are Jean-Drapeau, south of La Ronde on St. Helen’s Island, as well as Papineau and Longueuil–Université-de-Sherbrooke, on the western and eastern banks of the river, respectively. Shuttles run to La Ronde from the Jean-Drapeau and Papineau subway stations.La Ronde is only open between May and October, when the weather is most pleasant in Montreal. Check the calendar, as its schedule may change with the seasons, and be sure to purchase tickets in advance. Various food, entertainment, and holiday events and festivals are held during open season, particularly in the summer, including L'International des Feux Loto-Québec, an annual fireworks festival through July.Just south of La Ronde on St. Helen’s Island you’ll find Parc Jean-Drapeau, another family-friendly place with many things to see and do. It’s also a good alternative if you’re visiting Montreal during La Ronde’s off-season. The Biosphere is a highlight, both for the stunning steel dome of the exterior and for its Environment Museum inside.

Montreal has one of the largest Italian communities in Canada, and nowhere is the community’s huge influence on the city more obvious than in leafy, park-filled Little Italy. As in Italy itself, food is an integral part of Little Italy’s appeal, and foodies flock to crowded pizzerias, old-school delis, and the vast Jean-Talon Market.

Montreal Little Italy

Montreal has one of the largest Italian communities in Canada, and nowhere is the community’s huge influence on the city more obvious than in leafy, park-filled Little Italy. As in Italy itself, food is an integral part of Little Italy’s appeal, and foodies flock to crowded pizzerias, old-school delis, and the vast Jean-Talon Market.Little Italy, one of the city’s hottest neighborhoods, is heaven for anyone with a soft spot for Italian food, or just good food in general. Montreal’s biggest and best food market, Jean-Talon Market, is a common stop on Montreal food tours, which often include interactions with market vendors and tastings of farm-fresh produce, as well as visits to nearby brewpubs and independent coffee shops. During summer and fall, bike tours are a great way to explore Little Italy as well as surrounding neighborhoods such as the Plateau, Mile-Ex, and Mile End.<ul><li>Little Italy—and Montreal as a whole—has an excellent and extensive bike path network, making cycling an easy and pleasant way to explore.</li><li>Go with an empty stomach so you can sample the food on offer.</li></ul>Little Italy is delineated by Rue Jean-Talon, Rue St-Denis, Rue de Bellechasse, and Boulevard St-Laurent. To get there, take the metro (orange line) to Jean-Talon, Rosemont, or Beaubien. The 55 bus, which travels north up Boulevard St-Laurent from downtown Montreal, also passes through Little Italy.Little Italy shines during summer, when cafés and restaurants set up temporary outdoor terraces, neighborhood parks are packed with picnickers, and the streets around Jean Talon Market fill with stalls and buskers. Come during the week or early on weekend mornings and listen for locals chatting in Italian over their morning espresso.Though Italians have been in Quebec since as far back as the 17th century, Montreal’s Little Italy really came into its own with two later waves of Italian migrants: the first at the turn of the 20th century, and the second during the aftermath of World War II. Though many people of Italian descent have since moved to the suburbs, Little Italy remains at the center of Italian life in the city. The district is home to the most important Italian Catholic church in the city, the Church of the Madonna della Difesa, and hosts the annual Italian Week festival in August.

The forested peaks, serene lakes, and quaint villages of the Laurentian Mountains (Les Laurentides) are where Montrealers go to escape the city. In winter, resorts such as Mont-Tremblant and Mont-Sainte-Anne (Beaupré) cater to snow sports enthusiasts, while in summer, the region is a playground for hikers, climbers, paddlers, and white-water rafters.

Laurentian Mountains (Les Laurentides)

The forested peaks, serene lakes, and quaint villages of the Laurentian Mountains (Les Laurentides) are where Montrealers go to escape the city. In winter, resorts such as Mont-Tremblant and Mont-Sainte-Anne (Beaupré) cater to snow sports enthusiasts, while in summer, the region is a playground for hikers, climbers, paddlers, and white-water rafters.The Laurentian Mountains are the setting for a wide range of seasonal outdoor activities. In winter, spend the day skiing the slopes of Mont-Tremblant or soaking in a hot tub at a relaxing spa. In summer, try high-thrill activities, such as ziplining, rock climbing, cliff rappelling, and white-water rafting. Tours from Montreal offer the chance to swap the city for the countryside for the day, stopping at rural towns and villages in the region. Some day tours also incorporate lake cruises.<ul><li>The Laurentian Mountains are a must for scenery seekers and active travelers.</li><li>Bring sunscreen and a sun hat in summer. In winter, the Laurentians are cold and snowy, so wrap up warm.</li><li>Many shops, hotels, and restaurants in the Mont-Tremblant area of the Laurentians are wheelchair accessible. Most hiking trails, however, are not.</li></ul>The Laurentian Mountains are about a 90-minute drive north of Montreal and are accessible via Autoroute 1. Skyport shuttle buses run between Montreal Airport and Mont-Tremblant throughout the winter season, while Galland buses run from Montreal’s bus terminal to Mont-Tremblant year-round.December through March is the best time for skiing and snowboarding. June through August is best for hiking. In late September and early October, the mountains are popular among leaf peepers. March is typically the best time to visit the Laurentians’ sugar shacks, which serve up maple-soaked feasts during the annual syrup harvest.Running for 125 miles (200 kilometers) along a disused railway track, this bike path cuts through some of the Laurentians’ most scenic landscapes. Despite the mountainous terrain, the path itself is relatively flat, making it accessible to cyclists of all fitness levels. The trail begins in Saint-Jérôme, just north of Montreal. It can be completed in one day, but for most cyclists, it’s more enjoyable to break up the journey with stops and do the full route over two or even three days.

Built in the 1960s by Montreal mayor Jean Drapeau, Place des Arts is Canada’s largest cultural complex. In addition to housing the Contemporary Art Museum and outdoor art installations, the performing arts center boasts six concert halls where guests attend a range of cultural and musical performances, including ballet, opera, and theater.

Place des Arts

Built in the 1960s by Montreal mayor Jean Drapeau, Place des Arts is Canada’s largest cultural complex. In addition to housing the Contemporary Art Museum and outdoor art installations, the performing arts center boasts six concert halls where guests attend a range of cultural and musical performances, including ballet, opera, and theater.Walking tours of Old Montreal often include Place des Arts, one of the area’s most popular attractions. Some visitors opt for private day tours of the city, tacking a walk through the Entertainment District (Quartier des Spectacles) and Place des Arts onto the day’s customized itinerary. A private guide provides context and details about the center’s history and architecture that visitors often miss when exploring alone. For a wholly immersive experience, attend a performance—but reserve tickets in advance, as they often sell out quickly.<ul><li>Place des Arts is a must-see for music lovers.</li><li>Subscribe to the Place des Arts newsletter for exclusive access to ticket presales.</li><li>Download the Place des Arts mobile app for a full performance calendar and interactive map.</li><li>A curated selection of food and drink options are available, including a takeout café and wine bar.</li><li>Place des Arts is accessible to wheelchairs; ramps are located at the center’s two main entrances. You can request accessible seats when purchasing tickets.</li></ul>Centrally located in the Entertainment District, Place des Arts is easily accessible via Montreal’s comprehensive public transit system. The nearest metro station is the green line’s Place des Arts, which exits into the arts center through an underground tunnel. Buses 15, 55, 80, 125, 129, and 435 Express also stop here. Alternatively, bike racks are located outside the Maison Symphonique entrance.Place des Arts is open to the public from 12pm to 6pm every day but Sunday. As a cultural hub for both locals and visitors, the center is most crowded on Friday and Saturday evenings. Place des Arts is at its busiest during the summer: Each July it hosts the Montreal International Jazz Festival and the Just for Laughs comedy festival—both the largest of their kind in the world.Montreal winters are notoriously frigid. To keep residents and visitors out of the cold, the city’s 20 miles (33 kilometers) of underground tunnels connect metro stations, buildings, shopping malls, performance spaces, and universities. Place des Arts is part of this underground city, affording visitors with easy access to the metro, Complexe Desjardins shopping center, Université de Québec à Montréal, and the Contemporary Art Museum.

A rare pocket of green in a built-up part of downtown Montreal, Champ de Mars served as a military parade ground and city parking lot before it was converted into a park in the 1980s. During the conversion, workers unearthed remains from Montreal’s old fortifications, and parts of the restored city walls were incorporated into the site.

Montreal Champ de Mars

A rare pocket of green in a built-up part of downtown Montreal, Champ de Mars served as a military parade ground and city parking lot before it was converted into a park in the 1980s. During the conversion, workers unearthed remains from Montreal’s old fortifications, and parts of the restored city walls were incorporated into the site.While many travelers explore the park independently, viewing the restored city walls and unwinding on the grassy lawns, guided walking tours of Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal) offer greater historical insight. These tours typically bring participants to Champ de Mars, as well as other key sights in the vicinity such as Notre-Dame Basilica, Place Jacques-Cartier, and Bonsecours Market.<ul><li>Champ de Mars is an ideal place to take a break from sightseeing, with benches allowing visitors to rest their legs.</li><li>Bring along a picnic to enjoy on the grass.</li><li>The Champ-de-Mars metro station is wheelchair accessible, as is the park itself, though snow and slush can hamper access in winter.</li></ul>Champ de Mars is situated in Old Montreal, about a 5-minute walk from the Old Port of Montreal. Take the Orange Line metro to the Champ-de-Mars stop.The best time to visit is summer, when the park’s green lawn makes an inviting place to sit down and relax. For much of winter and early spring (usually between December and April), the park is covered in snow.Champ de Mars is near several well-known city attractions. Important municipal institutions including Montreal City Hall and the Palais de Justice courthouse border the park. Just a short stroll away, you’ll find Place Jacques-Cartier, a historic city square bordered by bistros and cafés and a common stomping ground for street performers and caricature drawers. Ramezay Castle (Chateau Ramezay), the 18th-century home of French governors and now a history museum, is also within easy walking distance of the park.

The aptly named Outremont (French for “beyond the mountain”) is situated northwest of Mount Royal. Since its establishment in the 1800s, Outremont has remained one of Montreal’s most upscale Francophone areas and a hub for the city’s Hasidic population. Today, the neighborhood features parks, historic homes, and hidden gem bars.

Outremont

The aptly named Outremont (French for “beyond the mountain”) is situated northwest of Mount Royal. Since its establishment in the 1800s, Outremont has remained one of Montreal’s most upscale Francophone areas and a hub for the city’s Hasidic population. Today, the neighborhood features parks, historic homes, and hidden gem bars.As an historic hub for Montreal’s Hasidic Jewish community, Outremont is often added to walking tours centered around food or Jewish history, which typically include stops at Mile End eateries, synagogues, and historic Outremont homes. Like many Montreal neighborhoods, Outremont is best explored at a leisurely pace. Alternatively, private tours afford visitors the added benefit of inside tips and recommendations from a guide.<ul><li>Outremont is a must-do for history buffs.</li><li>Don’t forget comfortable shoes, as the best way to explore the neighborhood and discover hidden gems is on foot.</li><li>Street signs, including parking and traffic signs, are written in French. Metered street parking is available, but often limited.</li></ul>Outremont is a situated just north of Mount Royal and is easily accessible using Montreal’s public transit system. To reach Outremont, take bus 51 or bus 129 to Cote-Sainte-Catherine and Les Hautvilliers, or the 5 metro to Outremont station. Alternatively, use Montreal’s BIXI bike-share program to enjoy a scenic ride from downtown.Because Outremont is not often on the tourist radar, the neighborhood is rarely crowded. Go on a weekend to get a feel for the area’s atmosphere, or a weekday for a quieter visit to the neighborhood’s hidden gem cafes, boutiques, and parks.Located in Outremont on the north slope of Mount Royal is Mount Royal Cemetery, an historic landmark that affords visitors with panoramic views of the cityscape away from the crowds. At 165 acres (67 hectares), the cemetery offers plenty of quiet space to think, walk, picnic, and pay respects to those buried within its gates, including famed former prime ministers, writers, and hockey players.

La Fontaine Park (Parc La Fontaine), located just north of Montreal’s Gay Village, is an 84-acre green space where locals come to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Built in 1845 on what was once farmland, the park now boasts walking and bike paths, picnic areas, ponds, a dog park, tennis and pétanque courts, and outdoor swimming pools.

La Fontaine Park (Parc La Fontaine)

La Fontaine Park (Parc La Fontaine), located just north of Montreal’s Gay Village, is an 84-acre green space where locals come to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Built in 1845 on what was once farmland, the park now boasts walking and bike paths, picnic areas, ponds, a dog park, tennis and pétanque courts, and outdoor swimming pools.A short 15-minute ride from Downtown Montreal, La Fontaine Park is often a feature on summer bike tours, which typically also include a stop or two for a bite to eat. Alternatively, a private tour offers the flexibility to tack La Fontaine Park onto a customized itinerary. As an ideal spot to relax, picnic, or play sports, exploring the park at a leisurely pace will really let you get to know its ambience.<ul><li>La Fontaine Park is a must for families with children, nature lovers, and dog owners.</li><li>Espace La Fontaine offers sit-down and takeaway options, but the neighborhood has plenty of other cafes and eateries, including the famed poutine joint La Banquise.</li><li>Bathrooms are located in the swimming pool and ice skating pavilions.</li><li>Street signs, including parking and traffic signs, are written in French. Metered street parking is available, but it’s often limited.</li></ul>La Fontaine Park is easily accessible using Montreal’s comprehensive public transit system. Bus routes 24, 29, and 45 have stops in front of the park. In addition to bicycle racks within the park, a BIXI bike share dock is located two blocks west on the corner of St André and Duluth.La Fontaine Park is at its busiest in spring and summer, but at 84 acres, it rarely feels overly crowded. Visit during the warm-weather months for activities such as picnics, outdoor theater, swimming, and tennis. In winter, the ponds are transformed into ice rinks with an adjacent skate-rental pavilion.Every winter from December to March, the ponds in La Fontaine Park are transformed into a natural ice skating space, free of charge to the public. Unlike the crowded ice rinks in Downtown or the Old Port, La Fontaine is tucked away from tourist hubs and rarely feels overly crowded. Skates are available to rent for $10.45 at the pavilion, and you can take skating lessons, too.

Housed inside a 1930s building topped with an art deco clock tower, Atwater Market (Marché Atwater) is one of the city’s top foodie hot spots. Food sellers hawk local artisanal produce including Canadian ice wine, maple syrup, Quebec cheeses, charcuterie, fresh-from-the-oven pastries, and all kinds of farm-grown fruit and vegetables.

Atwater Market (Marché Atwater)

Housed inside a 1930s building topped with an art deco clock tower, Atwater Market (Marché Atwater) is one of the city’s top foodie hot spots. Food sellers hawk local artisanal produce including Canadian ice wine, maple syrup, Quebec cheeses, charcuterie, fresh-from-the-oven pastries, and all kinds of farm-grown fruit and vegetables.Together with Jean-Talon Market in Little Italy, Atwater Market is among Montreal’s most popular markets. Visitors can explore the site independently, enjoying samples of the various gourmet goodies for sale then sitting down for some people-watching. Organized bike tours of Montreal often make stops at Atwater Market, as well as riding by other waterfront sites such as the Old Port and the Lachine Canal.<ul><li>Atwater Market is a must-see for foodies.</li><li>The market is partially wheelchair-accessible.</li><li>Bring a reusable shopping bag and cash, as not all vendors accept foreign cards.</li></ul>Atwater Market is located in Little Burgundy (Petite Bourgogne), near the Lachine Canal. Ride the green or orange metro line to Lionel-Groulx; the market is just a 5-minute walk from there. Alternatively, grab a bicycle from Montreal’s BIXI bike-share system and follow the canalside cycle path to the market.Open daily, Atwater Market is at its biggest and best in summer, when additional vendors set up shop in the exterior sections of the market. During the warmer months, buskers often perform in the surrounding streets. Arrive early and enjoy breakfast courtesy of a local bakery, and watch as the crowds begin to stream in.No matter what time of the year you visit, you’ll find tasty treats on offer at Atwater. The Poissonnerie du Marché Atwater is the place to go for fish fresh from the waters off Canada’s east coast. Boucherie de Tours sells pork, poultry, beef, and game, and Fromagerie Hamel serves up cheeses from throughout Quebec. Maple products are also commonly sold at the market, with everything from maple taffy and maple butter to the classic syrup on offer, while Première Moisson promises bread, cakes, and pastries.

The Lachine Canal (Canal de Lachine), which runs 9 miles (14.5 kilometers) from Montreal’s Old Port to Lake St. Louis, was built in 1824 to allow ships to bypass the dangerous Lachine Rapids. Today, the canal is lined with parks, bike paths, public art, and bustling residential neighborhoods, as well as the Fur Trade National Historic Site.

Lachine Canal (Canal de Lachine)

The Lachine Canal (Canal de Lachine), which runs 9 miles (14.5 kilometers) from Montreal’s Old Port to Lake St. Louis, was built in 1824 to allow ships to bypass the dangerous Lachine Rapids. Today, the canal is lined with parks, bike paths, public art, and bustling residential neighborhoods, as well as the Fur Trade National Historic Site.Old Montreal walking tours often include views of the Lachine Canal and adjacent St. Lawrence River. Guided boat tours provide guests with background on the canal’s little-known history, while paddleboat, kayak, and canoe rentals are a popular choice for those who want a closer look at its natural landscape.The Lachine Canal bike path runs the entire length of the waterway and is one of its most popular features. Bicycle tours that highlight Old Montreal often include the path, as well as Atwater Market and the Old Port. Visitors and locals can also explore the bike path using Montreal’s BIXI bike-share program.<ul><li>The Lachine Canal is a must for active travelers and nature lovers.</li><li>Wear comfortable shoes, as neighborhoods and paths along the canal are best explored on foot or by bicycle.</li><li>Boat tours typically run from May to September due to frozen river conditions during the winter months.</li><li>Public restrooms are available in Atwater Market and René Lévesque Park, at either end of the canal’s bike path.</li></ul>Since Lachine Canal runs 9 miles (14.5 kilometers) along Montreal’s shoreline, there are a number of landmarks that provide easy access points, including Montreal’s Old Port and Atwater Market. If traveling to the Fur Trade National Historic Site by car, take Route 720 to Route 20 and exit towards Rue Richmond. Buses 191, 195, and 496 from downtown Montreal stop in Lachine, a 10-minute walk from the National Historic Site.Lachine Canal is busiest during the warm-weather months, from May to September. Go in the early morning for a quiet ride or walk along the bike path. Boating, canoeing, and other water activities are off-limits during winter when the water is frozen over. Lachine Canal hosts a range of events throughout the spring and summer, including the Montreal Folk Fest and Lachine Half Marathon. A full calendar is available on the Parcs Canada website.The Fur Trade National Historic Site, one of Montreal’s hidden gems, is located at the westernmost point of Lachine Canal. While the historic stone warehouse was built in 1803, fur traders first began launching their boats and canoes from this site in the 17th century. Now a museum, the stone warehouse is located in a tranquil park on the banks of the Lachine Canal and is open daily.

Bordeaux’s main shopping street stretches 1.2 km (0.7 miles through the city center and is one of the longest pedestrianized shopping streets in Europe. Rue Sainte-Catherine is book-ended by the Place de la Comédie in the north, which is home to the city’s Neo-Classical Grand Theater, and the Place de la Victoire to the south.

Rue Sainte-Catherine

Bordeaux’s main shopping street stretches 1.2 km (0.7 miles through the city center and is one of the longest pedestrianized shopping streets in Europe. Rue Sainte-Catherine is book-ended by the Place de la Comédie in the north, which is home to the city’s Neo-Classical Grand Theater, and the Place de la Victoire to the south.Narrow and lined with majestic four-story townhouses, Rue Sainte-Catherine is home to high street brands such as Zara and H&amp;M, but the biggest draw is the branch of Paris’s glamorous Galleries Lafayette, which sells everything from high-end designer fashion to gourmet olive oils. Don’t miss the elegant glass-roofed Galerie Bordelaise, with its chic cafés and small, independent boutiques. It’s best explored on foot, either independently or as part of a Bordeaux sightseeing tour.<ul><li>Rue Sainte-Catherine is a must-visit for shopping enthusiasts.</li><li>Some shops close on Sundays; check ahead to avoid disappointment.</li><li>The street is wheelchair accessible, though some shops may have small steps up.</li></ul>Rue Sainte-Catherine is located in the heart of Bordeaux, a few minutes’ walk from the main Saint-Andre Cathedral in the center of town. Tram line A stops here (at the aptly named Sainte-Catherine stop). The port at Quai Richelieu is about a five-minute walk away.Visiting during the annual sales (usually lasting through January and February) may well turn up some real bargains in the 250 stores along Rue Sainte-Catherine and the network of little streets that extend off it. It’s also great to visit at night throughout the year, when the street hums with the sound of happy diners enjoying late suppers in the many restaurants scattered along its length.While wine is the most obvious souvenir to bring back from Bordeaux, there’s plenty more to pick up here, from chic French fashion items to locally produced cheeses. If you have a sweet tooth, the regional pastry specialty here is the canelé, a small, eggy pastry flavored with rum and vanilla syrup.

Known for its sizable collection of artifacts from Canada’s First Peoples, the McCord Museum celebrates Canadian history and the lives of Montreal residents. With numerous rotating exhibitions, art objects from photographs to textiles, and an artist-in-residence program, the McCord is a must for museum lovers and history enthusiasts.

McCord Museum

Known for its sizable collection of artifacts from Canada’s First Peoples, the McCord Museum celebrates Canadian history and the lives of Montreal residents. With numerous rotating exhibitions, art objects from photographs to textiles, and an artist-in-residence program, the McCord is a must for museum lovers and history enthusiasts.The centrally located museum is an easy stop for travelers exploring downtown Montreal, and families visiting the McGill University campus. To save time at the entrance, purchase your admission ticket in advance. Sightseeing passes typically provide entry to the McCord Museum and other top attractions, and include unlimited public transit—a great value if you’ll be spending a few days in Montreal.<ul><li>On Wednesday, the McCord Museum is open later, and admission is free after 5pm.</li><li>The museum offers wheelchairs—ask at the admission desk.</li><li>Admission is free for children age 12 and under.</li><li>There’s an on-site café.</li></ul>The most convenient way to get to the McCord Museum is by metro. Take the green line to Peel station, then walk two short blocks to the museum, at 690 Sherbrooke Street West. Alternatively, take the 24 bus and get off at the Sherbrooke / Robert-Bourassa stop, steps from the museum.The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday: 10am to 6pm on weekdays (except Wednesday, when the museum is open until later), and 10am to 5pm on weekends. Weekends are busiest, particularly Sunday afternoons. To make the most of your visit, stop by between June and October, when the museum often hosts open-air exhibitions.Just across Sherbrooke Street from the McCord Museum sits Montreal’s prestigious McGill University. Enter through the stately Roddick Gates, and stroll along tree-lined walkways through the center of campus. You’ll spot historic buildings, students running to and from class, and the university’s Redpath Museum, featuring exhibits on natural history.

Running almost the length of the island, Notre-Dame Street (Rue Notre-Dame) is one of Montreal’s most prominent thoroughfares. The most interesting stretches are in Old Montreal (Vieux Montréal), where it’s lined by historic buildings, and in Griffintown, Little Burgundy, and St. Henri, where antique stores, cafés, and restaurants abound.

Notre-Dame Street (Rue Notre-Dame)

Running almost the length of the island, Notre-Dame Street (Rue Notre-Dame) is one of Montreal’s most prominent thoroughfares. The most interesting stretches are in Old Montreal (Vieux Montréal), where it’s lined by historic buildings, and in Griffintown, Little Burgundy, and St. Henri, where antique stores, cafés, and restaurants abound.Travelers exploring Old Montreal as part of walking tours will most likely find themselves strolling down Notre-Dame Street at some point. As you amble along, look for well-known historic landmarks, including Notre-Dame Basilica and Montreal City Hall.Follow Notre-Dame Street into Griffintown, Little Burgundy, and St. Henri. Here, the atmosphere is more neighborhoodlike, and lots of excellent restaurants, cafés, vintage stores, and antique shops can be found.<ul><li>Notre-Dame Street is a must for first-time visitors, foodies, and antique hunters.</li><li>Wear comfortable shoes as Notre-Dame Street is best explored on foot.</li><li>Tours of Old Montreal often pass along Notre-Dame Street.</li></ul>If you want to explore Notre-Dame Street in Old Montreal, ride the metro (Orange Line) to Place-d’Armes. Notre-Dame is less than five minutes from the station on foot. For Little Burgundy, ride the metro (Green or Orange line) to Lionel-Groulx and walk down Atwater Avenue until you reach Notre-Dame. Turning left will take you through Little Burgundy and Griffintown, while a right turn will take you to St. Henri.The street is best explored in summer when you can wander comfortably and stop for snacks and refreshments at outdoor terraces. If you do visit in winter, you’ll find plenty of heated stores, cafés, restaurants, and bars to duck into for warmth.Dating to 1672, Notre-Dame is one of Montreal’s oldest streets, and in the city’s historic core it is bordered by notable centuries-old structures. The Château Ramezay, an early 18th-century residence built for the French governors and now a museum, is situated on Notre-Dame, as is the Saint-Sulpice Seminary, which—having been completed in 1687—is Montreal’s oldest building.

Located in Montreal’s Eaton Centre, the Grevin Museum (Musée Grévin Montréal) features 120 lifelike wax figures with a focus on Hollywood stars, Canadian celebrities, and world icons, from Tom Hanks to Celine Dion. With eight themed rooms, plenty of photo opportunities, and an on-site café, the museum is a popular choice for families.

Grevin Museum (Musée Grévin Montréal)

Located in Montreal’s Eaton Centre, the Grevin Museum (Musée Grévin Montréal) features 120 lifelike wax figures with a focus on Hollywood stars, Canadian celebrities, and world icons, from Tom Hanks to Celine Dion. With eight themed rooms, plenty of photo opportunities, and an on-site café, the museum is a popular choice for families.Visits to the Grevin Museum Montreal are self-guided, which allows visitors to explore and take photos at their own pace. The museum has eight themed rooms, including Belmont Park, a 1920s-inspired room; The Ballroom, packed with former and current A-list celebrities; Sports Temple, a showcase of Canada’s most iconic hockey players; and Behind the Scenes, which offers an inside look at wax-figure construction. Audio tours are available for a small fee.If you plan on sightseeing in Montreal, you can save money with Tourisme Montréal’s attractions pass, which grants access to the wax museum in addition to a range of city highlights, including the Montreal Biodome and Saint Joseph’s Oratory.<ul><li>The Grevin Museum is a must for families.</li><li>Exhibit information is written in both English and French.</li><li>Buy an admission ticket online in advance to receive a discount and breeze past the ticket booth.</li><li>Café Grévin, located just outside the museum, offers drinks, pastries, and seasonal entrées.</li><li>The museum is wheelchair accessible and offers free Wi-Fi.</li><li>Check the museum’s website for maintenance and holiday closures.</li></ul>Located in Downtown Montreal on the fifth floor of the Eaton Centre, the museum is easily accessible via public transit. The nearest stops are McGill station on bus 125, bus 15, and the metro’s green line 1, or Robert-Bourassa and Saint Catherine on buses 61, 168, and 35. Metered street parking is available, but often limited. The Eaton Centre is accessible from McGill metro station through Montreal’s Underground City, a series of interconnected tunnels.While the Grevin Museum is busiest on weekends, its spacious exhibits don’t often feel overly crowded. Go on a weekday for a quieter experience; the museum is open daily. The museum often hosts events during Montreal’s annual Nuit Blanche, a city-wide celebration of winter that features performances, food, art, and workshops.While figures in the Grevin Museum are unique to Montreal, the museum has a predecessor situated in the heart of Paris’ second arrondissement. The idea for Grévin Paris was born in the late 1800s when newspaper owner Arthur Meyer asked Alfred Grévin, a caricaturist and costume designer, to create life-size figures of people featured in his newspaper. It was an instant hit. Over a hundred years later, the museum's first outpost opened in Montreal.

The Musée d'Art Contemporain de Montréal (MAC) houses a permanent collection of more than 8,000 works by Quebec, Canadian, and international artists. A diverse range of mediums are represented from digital, sound, and video works to photographs, installations, and sculptures, showcasing modern and avant-garde art dating from 1939 onward.

Musée d'Art Contemporain de Montréal (MAC)

The Musée d'Art Contemporain de Montréal (MAC) houses a permanent collection of more than 8,000 works by Quebec, Canadian, and international artists. A diverse range of mediums are represented from digital, sound, and video works to photographs, installations, and sculptures, showcasing modern and avant-garde art dating from 1939 onward.MAC displays homegrown Quebec talent, with works from local legends, including Les Automatistes, a group of dissident, Surrealist-inspired artists that emerged in the 1940s in Montreal. In addition to the permanent collections, the museum also hosts popular temporary exhibitions showcasing international and Canadian artists. Examples of previous temporary shows include an exhibition of the work of Icelandic artist Ragnar Kjartansson and another dedicated to the late Montreal native, Leonard Cohen.Visitors can either pay for admission at the door, or purchase a sightseeing pass, which grants free access to MAC and other top city attractions like the Montreal Tower Observatory, Montreal Biosphere, and McCord Museum.<ul><li>MAC is a must-visit for modern art fans and anyone with an interest in Quebec and Canadian art.</li><li>A restaurant is located on the museum’s first floor, while a museum shop can be found near the main entrance.</li><li>The museum is wheelchair accessible through the entrance at 185 Saint-Catherine, situated next to the main door.</li></ul>The museum is on Place des Arts in Downtown Montreal, just north of Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal). To get there, ride the Green Line Metro to the Place-des-Arts station. Local bus lines 15, 55, 80, 129, and 535 all stop nearby.MAC is busiest on weekends; come early to avoid the crowds. One of the best times to visit is during the Nocturnes at the MAC, a series of nighttime events that sees the museum open until well past midnight. During these events, visitors can take part in interactive tours, art workshops, and enjoy drinks and snacks from the bar as well as live music from a DJ.The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux-Arts) focuses on more traditional art, from paintings to furniture and decorative arts, and makes an excellent complement to a visit to MAC. Famous European artists, such as Rembrandt and Picasso, are represented alongside 20th-century Canadian greats like the Group of Seven and Jean-Paul Riopelle.

Ville-Marie is the core of Montreal, encompassing most of the downtown area, including Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal), the Quartier des Spectacles cultural quarter, the Gay Village, two islands on the St. Lawrence River, and most of Mount Royal Park (Parc du Mont-Royal). It’s jam-packed with museums, churches, shops, restaurants, and other top attractions.

Ville-Marie

Ville-Marie is the core of Montreal, encompassing most of the downtown area, including Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal), the Quartier des Spectacles cultural quarter, the Gay Village, two islands on the St. Lawrence River, and most of Mount Royal Park (Parc du Mont-Royal). It’s jam-packed with museums, churches, shops, restaurants, and other top attractions.Most visitors to Montreal spend time in Ville-Marie, as it’s home to many of the city’s biggest attractions, including the Old Port, Notre-Dame Basilica, the Underground City, and Place des Arts.Sightseeing tours by coach often follow routes leading through Ville-Marie, past neighborhoods including Chinatown and the Latin Quarter and sights such as Habitat 67, the Moshe Safdie–designed housing complex built for Expo 67. Walking tours in Ville-Marie typically center on Old Montreal, a picturesque district with historical squares and Old World architecture.<ul><li>Bring a camera as Ville-Marie is home to many of Montreal’s photo-worthy sights.</li><li>Wear appropriate shoes for cobblestone streets.</li><li>Much of Ville-Marie is wheelchair accessible with curb cuts on the sidewalks. Note that Old Montreal does have some cobblestone streets and that some of the sidewalks can be difficult to navigate after snowfall, which is common during Montreal’s winters.</li></ul>Ville-Marie is well connected by public transport. Numerous metro stations are situated within the boundaries of Ville-Marie, including Berri-UQAM, where the Green, Orange, and Yellow metro lines all intersect.Ville-Marie is arguably at its best during summer. In the warmer months, lots of festivals center on the borough, including the Les FrancoFolies de Montréal, which highlights music and other acts from the Francophone world; the Montreal International Jazz Festival; and the comedy-focused Just For Laughs festival.Old Montreal is the oldest part of the city, and its age shows with grand 18th-century buildings and historical sights at every turn. Wander here and you’ll find monument-studded public squares, such as Place d’Armes, Place Royale, and Place Jacques-Cartier, abuzz with people and photogenic streets such as Rue Saint-Paul, which is ideal for dining and shopping. Other highlights include the 18th-century Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel, one of the city’s oldest churches, and Bonsecours Market, which dates all the way back to 1847.

Les Cours Mont-Royal is an elegant shopping mall that occupies the premises of a swanky old hotel and contains upscale boutiques, a day spa, and a permanent exhibition devoted to Barbie dolls. Many original architectural and design features from the 1920s structure, including a grand curving marble staircase and a huge ceiling chandelier, remain in place.

Les Cours Mont-Royal

Les Cours Mont-Royal is an elegant shopping mall that occupies the premises of a swanky old hotel and contains upscale boutiques, a day spa, and a permanent exhibition devoted to Barbie dolls. Many original architectural and design features from the 1920s structure, including a grand curving marble staircase and a huge ceiling chandelier, remain in place.Entrance to Les Cours Mont-Royal is free, and even if you don’t plan on shopping, it’s well worth taking a peek inside if only to admire the grand features and fixtures, most notably that dazzling chandelier. In addition to fashion, accessories, and beauty boutiques, the mall also has restaurants, a salon, day spa, and the Barbie Expo, a museum fully devoted to the well-known doll.Les Cours Mont-Royal connects to Montreal’s Underground City—a sheltered system of interconnected malls, metro stations, theaters, museums, and other venues—and is often on included on guided tours of the labyrinthine network.<ul><li>Les Cours is a must for shopaholics and architecture enthusiasts alike.</li><li>Facilities include parking, bathrooms, and a food court.</li><li>Free Wi-Fi is available on the third level of the mall.</li><li>The mall is wheelchair accessible.</li></ul>Les Cours Mont-Royal is situated on Peel Street in Downtown Montreal; on the Metro, take the Green Line to the Peel station. Montreal’s central train station is about a 10-minute walk from the mall.The shopping mall is busiest on weekends, with most shoppers arriving between 12pm and 5pm. Come before noon to experience it at its quietest.The second level of the mall houses a museum dedicated to one of the world’s best-known dolls: Barbie. Displays include one-of-a-kind Barbies wearing creations designed by fashion-world VIPs such as Oscar de la Renta, Christian Dior, and Vera Wang. The collections also include Barbies modeled after famous figures, such as Beyonce and Marilyn Monroe, as well as Barbies fashioned to resemble characters from films such as Greece,Gone With the Wind, andThe Hunger Games.

Mount Royal Cemetery (Cimetière Mont-Royal), overlooking Montreal from the top of Mount Royal, is one of the oldest rural cemeteries in North America and often missed by visitors. At a sprawling 165 acres (67 hectares), the cemetery is the final resting place of historic figures, including Canadian writer Mordecai Richler.

Mount Royal Cemetery (Cimetière Mont-Royal)

Mount Royal Cemetery (Cimetière Mont-Royal), overlooking Montreal from the top of Mount Royal, is one of the oldest rural cemeteries in North America and often missed by visitors. At a sprawling 165 acres (67 hectares), the cemetery is the final resting place of historic figures, including Canadian writer Mordecai Richler.The gravestones, meadows, and walking paths of Mount Royal Cemetery are best explored at a leisurely pace. While city tours do not typically include Mount Royal Cemetery, cemetery staff offer guided walks that highlight the site’s history and the graves of prominent Canadian figures. Alternatively, private tours of Montreal offer the flexibility to add the cemetery to a customized itinerary. Or, visit independently to see more than 145 species of plants and birds.<ul><li>Mount Royal Cemetery is a must for nature lovers and history buffs.</li><li>Ample on-site parking is available.</li><li>Wear comfortable shoes and layers, as the cemetery is large and can get windy.</li><li>As a burial site, the cemetery is not recommended for visitors with young children.</li></ul>Mount Royal Cemetery is easily accessible using Montreal’s public transit system. Bus 11 stops in front of the entrance at Rue Remembrance and Chemin du Chalet. The cemetery is also a short walk from the Cote-Sainte-Catherine and Outremont stop on bus routes 51 and 129. For visitors arriving by car, ample parking is available in lots off Voie Camillien-Houde. Visitors can also hike up the Mount Royal walking paths.Far from the crowds of Downtown Montreal, Mount Royal Cemetery is rarely busy. While the winter offers a snowy perspective and unobstructed views, spring and summer are the best seasons to spot wildlife and observe the site’s many plant and animal species.With panoramic views of the city from the top of Mount Royal, the cemetery has been a desired final resting place for important figures in Canadian history. These figures include Booker Prize-winning-author Mordecai Richler, Prime Minister John Abbott, Hall of Fame hockey player Howie Morenz, magician who may have caused Harry Houdini’s death Jocelyn Whitehead, and Canadian Titanic victims.

Among Canada’s largest inland ports, the Port of Montreal (Port de Montréal) sits on the St. Lawrence River and is home to the Iberville Passenger Terminal, where cruises dock. Located in the francophone Quebec province, the port is the gateway to Montreal—the country’s second largest city—and offers easy access to Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal) and the wider downtown area.

Iberville Passenger Terminal (Port of Montreal)

Among Canada’s largest inland ports, the Port of Montreal (Port de Montréal) sits on the St. Lawrence River and is home to the Iberville Passenger Terminal, where cruises dock. Located in the francophone Quebec province, the port is the gateway to Montreal—the country’s second largest city—and offers easy access to Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal) and the wider downtown area.Travelers find the Iberville Passenger Terminal of the Port of Montreal on the edge of Old Montreal, the historic core of the city that is known for its European-style architecture, cobblestone streets, and sidewalk cafés. Passengers disembarking here can join guided walking tours of the historic old town, which cover top sights such as Place d’Armes, Notre-Dame Basilica, Place Jacques-Cartier, and Rue Saint-Paul.Sightseeing tours by hop-on hop-off bus or car allow visitors to explore beyond the old town area, stopping at destinations including Chinatown, Mount Royal Park (Parc du Mont-Royal), and St. Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal.<ul><li>Iberville Cruise Terminal offers cafés, an observation deck, restrooms, free Wi-Fi, and luggage storage facilities.</li><li>Most Montreal shore excursions include pickup and drop-off at the port.</li><li>The length of shore excursions range from short walking tours of Old Montreal to full-day excursions covering a wider swath of the city.</li><li>A hop-on hop-off bus tour is an easy way to travel between major attractions.</li><li>Choose a private tour to enjoy a customized sightseeing experience.</li></ul>The Iberville Passenger Terminal is situated on Alexandra Quay in the Old Port (Vieux-Port) area of the city. The port is centrally situated, leaving passengers within easy strolling distance of Old Montreal and all its historical attractions. Taxis are also available for those traveling farther afield.The terminal is well-equipped with visitor-friendly facilities. Though French is the official language of Montreal and the province of Quebec, English is widely spoken. The official currency is the Canadian dollar.

Black bears, arctic foxes, and lynx are just some of the species you’ll find at the Ecomuseum Zoo Montreal, an open-air wildlife park that houses rescued, orphaned, injured, and captive-born animals native to Quebec’s St. Lawrence Valley. In addition to outdoor enclosures, the zoo has an indoor space housing reptiles, amphibians, and nocturnal creatures.

Ecomuseum Zoo

Black bears, arctic foxes, and lynx are just some of the species you’ll find at the Ecomuseum Zoo Montreal, an open-air wildlife park that houses rescued, orphaned, injured, and captive-born animals native to Quebec’s St. Lawrence Valley. In addition to outdoor enclosures, the zoo has an indoor space housing reptiles, amphibians, and nocturnal creatures.Visitors can pre-purchase a zoo entrance ticket to gain speedy, skip-the-line access. Inside, you can explore independently; wander around the outdoor area, read informational panels, and see which animals you can spot.Visitors can also sign up for guided experiences. Join a docent-led tour focusing on the zoo’s larger mammals, learn about raptors during a birds-of-prey guided tour, or try your hand at being a zookeeper for a day by helping staff feed and care for the animals. Night tours and breakfast tours are also available; additionally, some Montreal sightseeing passes include free access to the zoo.<ul><li>The Ecomuseum Zoo is a must for families.</li><li>The zoo has a picnic area but no on-site restaurant, so bring your own food.</li><li>Sub-zero temperatures are normal between December and April and most of the zoo is outdoors; if you visit in winter, be sure to wear warm layers.</li><li>Most of the zoo, with the exception of the indoor “From Light to Dark” exhibit, is wheelchair accessible.</li></ul>The Ecomuseum Zoo is situated in Sainte-Anne-De-Bellevue on the western edge of the island of Montreal, about a 25-minute drive from downtown Montreal. The best way to get there is by car, as there is no direct bus link between downtown Montreal and the zoo. Free parking is available.Most of the zoo is outdoors, so the best time to visit is summer. The zoo does remain open in winter, and although some creatures go into hibernation, others, such as the arctic fox, thrive in colder temperatures.Wildlife lovers may want to visit some of Montreal’s other animal-themed attractions. Stop by the Biodome in the Olympic Park, where a series of recreated North American ecosystems play host to a range of birds and animals, from penguins to capybara. Nearby is the Montreal Insectarium, which contains many different species of creepy crawlies, including living specimens—it’s a big hit with children.

Originally intended for the 1976 Montreal Olympics, the Montreal Tower (La Tour de Montréal) is world’s tallest inclined tower, standing at an unprecedented 45-degree angle. A funicular cable ride to the observatory offers panoramic views of up to 50 miles (80 kilometers), from beyond the St. Lawrence River to Mount Royal.

Montreal Tower (La Tour de Montréal)

Originally intended for the 1976 Montreal Olympics, the Montreal Tower (La Tour de Montréal) is world’s tallest inclined tower, standing at an unprecedented 45-degree angle. A funicular cable ride to the observatory offers panoramic views of up to 50 miles (80 kilometers), from beyond the St. Lawrence River to Mount Royal.As one of the city’s top landmarks, the Montreal Tower Observatory is included on Tourisme Montreal’s attractions pass, which grants access to a bundle of attractions at a discounted rate. This pass includes a range of city highlights, from the Montreal Biodôme to Saint Joseph’s Oratory.Guided tours of Montreal’s Olympic Park are offered daily at various departure times, and typically include the Botanic Garden, Olympic Stadium, Planetarium, and Musée Dufresne-Nincheri. An option to upgrade includes an admission ticket to the Montreal Tower Observatory.<ul><li>Purchase your admission ticket online in advance to skip long entrance queues.</li><li>Don’t forget comfortable shoes and layers, as the Olympic Park is large and some highlights are outdoors.</li><li>Street signs, including parking and traffic signs, are written in French.</li><li>Café In Vivo and the Botanic Garden Restaurant offer plenty of refueling options.</li><li>The Montreal Tower and Observatory are wheelchair accessible.</li></ul>Located 4.2 miles (6.8 kilometers) from Downtown in Montreal’s Hochelaga-Maisonneuve neighborhood, the Montreal Tower is easily accessible using public transit. The nearest stops are Pie-IX and Viau metro stations on the green 2 line, located directly in front of Olympic Park. If traveling by car, Montreal Tower is accessible via Sherbrooke Street East. Olympic Park has eight parking lots available at a per diem rate.Each season offers a different view from the tower's observatory, which operates year-round. Winter provides panoramic views of the city under a blanket of snow; autumn rings in a fiery display of Mount Royal’s foliage. Every first Friday of the month from May to October, the Olympic Park hosts Québec’s biggest food truck festival. For a birds’-eye view of the gastronomic delights below, tack on a trip to the observatory.The Montreal Tower and Observatory were supposed to be finished before the opening ceremony of the 1976 Summer Olympics. Due to a long list of unforeseen issues—including brutal winter weather, an unusual architectural design, strikes, and escalating costs—the tower's construction was abandoned. After another series of setbacks, including a fire that set the tower ablaze, it officially opened in 1987—11 years after its intended completion.

First time rock climbers who want to experience the thrill of climbing without heading to the mountains should head to Escalade Clip 'n Climb Laval. Enjoy this reinvented climbing experience that has walls designed for climbers of all skill levels, automatic belay devices, and convenient, wait-free climbing.

Escalade Clip 'n Climb Laval

First time rock climbers who want to experience the thrill of climbing without heading to the mountains should head to Escalade Clip 'n Climb Laval. Enjoy this reinvented climbing experience that has walls designed for climbers of all skill levels, automatic belay devices, and convenient, wait-free climbing.Escalade Clip 'n Climb Laval offers a thrilling hour of climbing for visitors of all ages. Whether you're visiting Escalade Clip 'n Climb Laval for an event (like a kids’ birthday party) or an independent excursion, most travelers pre-book admission to this popular attraction. If you’re a fitness enthusiast, book one of the instructor-led exercise classes on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, which offer a low impact, full body exercise experience.<ul><li>Beginning climbers will enjoy Escalade Clip 'n Climb Laval, which has walls of varying difficulty levels.</li><li>Climbing sessions last about an hour and include a pre-climb safety briefing.</li><li>If you want more than an hour to climb, visit on weekdays after 4pm or weekends after 5pm for Clip ‘n Climb Hang Out sessions.</li></ul>The most convenient way to visit Escalade Clip 'n Climb—located on Boulevard Saint-Martin Ouest, in Laval—is to drive via Autoroute 15. You can also take public transit from downtown Montreal: Take the 2 metro line to the Montmorency stop, then transfer to the 70, 61, or 42 bus, all of which stop in front of Escalade Clip 'n Climb.Escalade Clip 'n Climb is open from Tuesday to Sunday. There are multiple time slots offered daily. To avoid the crowds, pre-book your preferred time slot, and visit around midday, when the facility is quietest.If you work up an appetite on the walls at Escalade Clip 'n Climb Laval, head to Centropolis, an outdoor shopping complex with numerous eateries. After your meal, catch a film at the movie theater, take the family for a round of miniature golf, or, if you’re visiting in the summer, enjoy a free outdoor show.

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