17 Smart Ways to Explore Montréal on a Budget

Montréal has long been recognized as Canada’s most economical major city – residents typically prefer a leisurely lifestyle over the pursuit of more wealth and material possessions.

While this trend has begun to shift, particularly regarding accommodation and rental prices since the pandemic, there remain affordable options for budget-conscious travelers, accompanied by numerous free concerts and events. Here are the most effective ways to save money in Montréal.

Daily Costs

• Hostel room: $50–80

• Basic room for two: $150–350

• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): $130–350

• Public transport ticket: $3.75

• Coffee: $3–5

• Sandwich: $10–15

• Dinner for two: $40+

• Pint of beer at the bar: $8–10

1. Brave the Cold in Winter

Montréal experiences its peak influx of visitors and inflated prices in summer; however, for those who can withstand the cold, the city offers a unique charm during the winter months. From January to February, a blanket of snow adorns the city, ideal for cross-country skiing on Mont-Royal or in Parc Maisonneuve. Winter also invites you to enjoy cozy settings over coffee or rich hot chocolate. Emulate Maurice ‘Rocket’ Richard, the esteemed Montreal Canadiens player, by renting ice skates to glide gracefully at Lac-aux-Castors, or Esplanade Tranquille in the vibrant Quartier des Spectacles arts district.

2. Take the Airport Bus

Taking a taxi or Uber from the airport can be quite costly; in contrast, the nearest metro station is just a five-minute shuttle bus ride away, making the bus the more economical choice. The STM bus 747 connects the airport to Lionel-Groulx metro station and the main downtown bus station, Gare d’Autocars de Montréal. A single-fare ticket (a Zone A ticket is sufficient) allows for travel on both buses and metros.

3. Stroll Around the City

The most effective way to discover Montréal is by foot, which incurs no expense. Meander through the Le Plateau neighborhood and absorb the captivating scenery. Hidden behind Le Plateau’s delightful homes are ruelles vertes, pedestrian-friendly alleys adorned with lush greenery, serving as a charming, somewhat secretive means to navigate the city.

Additionally, there are several splendid neighborhoods worth exploring, such as the Old Port, Petite-Italie, St-Henri, and the pathways alongside the Lachine Canal. No trip to Montréal is truly complete without a trek up “the mountain” Mont-Royal, which offers the finest panoramic views over the city.

4. Ride a Bixi

Montréal is exceptionally bike-friendly in North America, and a ticket for the local bikeshare program Bixi is an economical way to move about the city. One-way trips are priced at $1.25 plus $0.15 per minute ($0.30 for a blue electric bike). A $20 monthly membership granting unlimited rides up to 45 minutes could be beneficial for those intending to stay for an extended period.

5. Take the Metro

The metro system in Montréal, operational since the 1960s, is regarded as Canada’s finest, with three lines servicing much of the island. A single fare ticket on Zone A is $3.75, but significant savings can be achieved by opting for a 10-ride pass. Unlimited 24-hour, 3-day, evening, weekend, and weekly passes are also available. Investing in a $6 Opus card simplifies transportation if you plan to add money to it, although it is not mandatory.

6. Attend Free Festivals

Montréal hosts an array of festivals throughout the summer and at various times during the year, many of which do not charge for entry. This may include free live performances at the Festival International de Jazz (previous performers include Aretha Franklin and Anderson Paak) or sensational circus acts at Montréal Complètement Cirque.

Throughout the summer, Village au Pied-du-Courant presents an enjoyable weekend festival on a man-made beach, highlighting diverse cultural music and cuisine.

7. Experience Shows in the Park

Every summer, the stunning, newly constructed Théâtre de Verdure features free concerts, film screenings, and performances such as orchestras and ballet, set against the backdrop of Parc La Fontaine. Local theater group Repercussion Theatre also presents Shakespeare in the Park at various parks across the city.

8. Participate in Free Walking Tours

As is common in numerous large cities, Montréal offers free walking tours where participants provide tips to the guides rather than purchase tickets in advance. Free Tours Montréal is a reputable choice.

9. Consider a Tourist or Museum Pass

Passeport Montréal enables you to select from five various attractions or tours for a single price. Alternatively, if you are a culture enthusiast, it may be worthwhile to obtain a three-day Carte Excursion pass from Musées de Montréal, granting access to all participating museums.

10. Avoid Eating and Staying in the Old Port

The historic Vieux-Port (Old Port) of Montréal, established over 400 years ago, is an essential visit. However, heritage comes with a price; accommodation and dining options in the Old Port tend to be expensive, often lacking quality. For budget-conscious visitors, consider exploring other areas for meals and lodging. Le Plateau, Mile End, and St-Henri offer reasonable alternatives, although accommodations may be limited in these neighborhoods. If opting for an Airbnb, verify that they possess a CITQ city registration number.

11. Dine for Less than $5

While prices in Montréal have increased recently, there remain affordable options for budget-minded travelers. Drogheria Fine in Mile End offers boxes of delicious gnocchi in tomato sauce for $5, while Patati Patata serves smaller portions of burgers and poutine that save you money. For those enjoying late-night revelry on Blvd St-Laurent, join local students in savoring $2 peanut butter-coated noodles at Chez Mein.

12. Procure Your Own Picnic

Minimize costs while enjoying delectable food by preparing a picnic from Montréal’s food markets, such as Marché Atwater and Marché Jean-Talon. Once your bags brim with fresh fruits, baguettes, cheeses, and a bottle of wine, join locals in one of Montréal’s picturesque parks. Please note that consuming alcohol in parks is permitted only if you are seated at a picnic table while eating a meal.

13. Shop Second-Hand

As you will undoubtedly notice, residents of Montréal possess a keen sense of style, yet this does not imply that they prefer high-priced designer apparel. Locals frequently savor the experience of rummaging through local thrift shops like Renaissance or Eva B. Engage in the same and discover a new outfit for your travels. Vintage shops may offer superior selections but at higher prices.

14. Look for a 5 à 7

Montréal’s equivalent to Happy Hour is referred to as 5 à 7, signifying after-work beverages between 5 PM and 7 PM. Seek out bars displaying promotions during this period, or enjoy beers at Helm‘s Bar de Courcelle or opt for $2 oysters at Le Majestique.

15. Learn About the City’s History on an App-Led Self-Guided Tour

One of the most intriguing ways to engage with Montréal is through the complimentary Cité Mémoire app. By scanning QR codes, projections narrating the city’s history will be displayed on various buildings and trees.

16. Stroll Around Parc Jean-Drapeau

Cross the St Lawrence River via metro or bike to Parc Jean-Drapeau, the site of the Expo 67 (1967) World Fair. These partially artificial islands offer the perfect setting for waterfront strolls, biking around the Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix racetrack, and enjoying a swim at the beach. The views of downtown from this perspective are genuinely breathtaking.

17. Take Your Wheels on a Road Trip

If you have access to a vehicle, consider embarking on a scenic drive to the Laurentians, a picturesque region characterized by rolling hills, numerous lakes, and waterways. Alternatively, embark east to the Eastern Townships for a delightful exploration of wineries, breweries, and gourmet food experiences.