Top 29 Activities to Experience in Montreal, Canada

Looking for things to do in Montreal? You’ve come to the right place. Montreal is one of Canada’s most romantic and beautiful cities. This remarkable urban center is home to the largest French-speaking community outside of France, creating a certain European vibe that can only be found in French Canada.

Whether you want to take in the historic architecture of Old Montreal or enjoy the views from Mont Royal, you will never be at a loss for fun things to do in this city. We’ve put together the ultimate list of Montreal travel tips to help you create the best Montreal vacation.

1. Explore the History of Old Montreal (Vieux Montreal)

Exploring Old Montreal is about taking your time and enjoying the moment. The city itself was founded in 1642, so there is a lot of historic significance to the area. Old Montreal is the perfect place to slow down and soak up the atmosphere. You will feel like you have stepped into a little slice of Europe as you enjoy your café au lait with a soft croissant.

With well-maintained cobblestone streets, Victorian architecture, and classic street lamps lining the walkways, it is easy to see why Old Montreal is such a popular attraction. Visit Place d’Arms – one of the oldest public squares in the city, where you can watch street performers and musicians as you enjoy a drink on the terrace of a fine café. Alternatively, check out the market and shop in one of the many boutiques or souvenir shops in the area.

If you are visiting Montreal in winter, make sure to strap on some skates and go ice skating at Natrel Skating Rink. The scenic setting as you glide past the Ferris wheel creates a unique ice skating experience.

Le Bateau Mouche Day Cruise – A fantastic way to experience Old Montreal from a different perspective. Le Bateau Mouche offers urban cruise experiences through day and evening tours, including dinner options.

2. Go Shopping on Saint Laurent Boulevard

Running through the center of Montreal, Saint Laurent Boulevard is the perfect place to shop. With a variety of stores ranging from brand-name clothing to retro choices, you can spend hours exploring all that is on offer.

Being centrally located, Saint Laurent Boulevard serves as a reference point for directions around the city. This street can be a great starting point for planning your adventures in Montreal.

Be sure to stop by local artisans selling their wares along the sidewalk, where you can take home a unique piece while supporting the local artist community.

3. Attend a Festival

Montreal is renowned as a city of festivals, particularly in summertime. The Montreal International Jazz Festival, Just for Laughs Festival, Fireworks Festival, Cirque Festival, and Mural Festival celebrate the city’s vibrant culture and art scene.

Many festivals take place in the Quartier des Spectacles, Montreal’s main culture and entertainment district, featuring outdoor events year-round. Similar to Paris, Montreal boasts a Quartier Latin filled with cinemas, theatres, restaurants, and bars.

Tour the Street Art of Montreal

Montreal is not just about festivals; it’s a city of art. One wonderful way to see the city’s street art is to participate in a walking tour. This Murals tour will guide you through the festival zone and open-air museum of St Laurent Boulevard, showcasing talented street artists.

4. Marvel at Notre Dame Basilica

Although it may not be as famous as the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, Notre Dame Basilica in Montreal is an impressive monument. Located in Old Montreal, this Gothic Revival basilica from the 1800s is one of the most beautiful churches in North America.

With over 11 million visitors annually, it is a popular attraction. Taking a 20-minute guided tour will provide insights into the church’s history. Admission costs approximately $4 CAD per adult, which is well worth the experience.

5. Hike up to Mont Royal Park

Mount Royal is a favorite destination for those looking for gorgeous city views. Hike up to Mount Royal Park to enjoy a picnic or explore on a bike. In winter, activities such as snowshoeing, ice skating, and cross-country skiing are available, with rental gear at Beaver Lake.

6. St Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal

While in the Mount Royal area, be sure to check out St. Joseph’s Oratory. This basilica is not just Canada’s largest church, but it also has one of the largest church domes in the world. The beautiful garden surrounding the site features 17 impressive sculptures, providing a peaceful escape in the city.

7. Eat a Fix Prix Meal

Enjoy a fantastic 5-course dinner at Apres Le Jour on Rue Rachel, where you can bring your own wine. Dine in Montreal’s vibrant food culture, where many restaurants offer a Fix Prix (set meal) allowing you to savor French cuisine without hassle.

8. Place Jacques Cartier

Gather at Place Jacques Cartier, a lively spot featuring outdoor terraces with views of the old port. Street performers and artists entertain visitors around the Nelson Monument, giving the area a vibrant atmosphere.

9. Explore Crescent Street

For dining and nightlife, Crescent Street is where the excitement happens. Known for its nightlife, it’s a popular hangout for locals and visitors alike, with a drinking age of just 18.

10. Take a Cruise on the Saint Lawrence

From the Old Port, hop on a riverboat to view Montreal from the Saint Lawrence River. Different companies offer sightseeing cruises, and for a thrilling experience, try the tour that takes you through the Lachine rapids.

11. Spend an Afternoon at the Waterfront

Enjoy the waterfront with pathways and parks. Rent a quadricycle, inline skates, or simply relax with a famous Montreal bagel, while catching a Cirque de Soleil performance or an IMAX film.

12. Rent a Bicycle

Montreal is very bike-friendly. Rent a bike easily and explore the city, especially along the Lachine Canal, a popular 14 km route for cycling and walking.

13. Visit Jean Talon Market

Shop at Jean Talon Market, one of the oldest markets in Montreal, where you can buy locally grown products and delicious Montreal specialties like smoked meats and regional cheeses.

14. Experience La Grande Roue

Hop aboard Canada’s largest observation wheel located in the Old Port, offering breathtaking views of the city. The climate-controlled gondolas are available year-round.

15. Visit Montreal’s Museums

• Château Ramezay – Explore 500 years of history through exhibits and artifacts.
• Pointe-à-Callière – A premier archaeology and history museum.
• Montreal Science Centre – An interactive hub for science and technology lovers.
• Musée d’art Contemporain de Montréal (MAC) – Canada’s first contemporary art museum.
• Montreal Museum of Fine Arts – The largest museum in Montreal showcasing a variety of cultures.

16. Explore Parc Jean Drapeau

Located just five minutes from downtown, Parc Jean Drapeau consists of two islands with attractions like Six Flags La Ronde Amusement Park and Montreal Casino.

17. Visit Olympic Park

Home to the 1976 Summer Olympics, Montreal’s Olympic Park features Olympic Stadium and the Biodome, which is part of Canada’s largest natural science museum complex.

18. Stroll through Montreal Botanical Garden

Among the top attractions, the Montreal Botanical Garden includes a stunning Chinese garden, beautiful landscapes, and educational features for visitors of all ages.

19. Enjoy Montreal’s Urban Spaces

Explore parks and quiet urban spots like Laurier Park, Parc Lafontaine, and the historic Lachine Canal for serene picnics or leisurely bike rides.

20. Explore the Underground City

Montreal boasts the world’s largest underground city, including over 32 km of tunnels featuring restaurants, bars, shopping malls, and more to explore year-round.

21. Join a Montreal Food Tour

Indulge in food through various Montreal Food Tours. These tours provide a great way to experience local cuisine, featuring favorites like Poutine and Montreal Bagels.

22. Visit Local Markets

Experience local delicacies at markets such as Jean Talon and Bonsecours Market, where you can find authentic Montreal foods.

Best Montreal Winter Activities

In winter, Montreal is bursting with outdoor activities, offering fun ways to enjoy the snowy landscape.

Best Day Trips from Montreal

Montreal features many convenient day trips to popular destinations including Mont Tremblant, Ottawa, Quebec City, and natural parks for outdoor adventures.

How to Get to Montreal

Montreal is accessible by a five-hour drive from Toronto and just three hours from Ottawa. The international airport connects to various destinations worldwide.

These experiences embody the best things to do in Montreal, Quebec. What are your favorite attractions in this vibrant city?