Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Montreal, Quebec

The economic and cultural capital of Quebec, Montreal is a cosmopolitan city that features an eclectic combination of old European charm and modernism. Often referred to as the ‘Paris of Canada’, it is easy to understand why. Recognized as one of the most vibrant cities in North America, Montreal boasts stunning architecture and serves as a haven for culinary enthusiasts, shoppers, and sports aficionados.

Montreal ranks among the most frequented cities in Canada, offering diverse attractions suitable for all visitors. The city is divided into 19 distinct boroughs; however, most tourists typically remain within Ville Marie. Nevertheless, numerous sights and activities await throughout this expansive urban landscape.

Let us delve into the top attractions in Montreal:

1. Make your way up Mont-Royal

This small hill is located to the west of Downtown Montreal, nestled between the Appalachian and Laurentian Mountains. Mont-Royal is part of Mount Royal Park, an exquisite park designed by the same individual who created New York City’s Central Park.

Visitors can hike or cycle along the winding paths leading to the hilltop for breathtaking views of the city, extending beyond city limits to the St. Lawrence River.

In winter, the opportunity to go tobogganing or tubing down the 233-meter-high hill is not to be missed. If visiting in summer, ensure to arrive on a Sunday to witness the ‘Tam Tam Jam’.

2. Wander around Old Montreal

As the oldest area of the city, Old Montreal is a captivating neighborhood that dates back to the 17th century and houses the largest concentration of historic structures in Montreal.

Stroll through the district to observe magnificent structures, such as the Gothic Revival Notre-Dame Basilica, positioned adjacent to Saint-Sulpice Seminary and facing Place d’Armes.

The cobblestone streets are lined with exceptional French restaurants, boutique shops, and numerous museums. Champ de Mars provides splendid views of the city center.

3. Listen to Jazz

Visit Montreal in July to experience the world’s largest and most renowned jazz festival. The Montreal International Jazz Festival features approximately 3,000 musicians from across the globe, attracting nearly 3 million attendees annually.

With around 650 concerts over a 10-day period, more than half of them are free! Guests can enjoy free jazz performances at one of the 10 outdoor stages or purchase tickets to see famous artists perform in indoor venues.

Notable performers in the festival’s history include Ray Charles, Diana Krall, the Liberation Music Orchestra, Miles Davis, Ella Fitzgerald, and Ahmad Jamal.

4. Visit a market

The open-air Jean-Talon Market, located in Montreal’s Little Italy district, is a vibrant marketplace stretching across two city streets and open daily starting at 7 am.

With over 300 vendors offering local fruits, vegetables, and meats sourced from nearby farms, most of the vendors are the farmers themselves.

This market is a wonderful venue for purchasing fresh food, cheese, spices, and bulk items. Even if one does not require these goods, it serves as a delightful place to wander and engage with locals.

5. Explore the Old Port

The Old Port (Vieux-Port in French) is a sprawling green space situated along the waterfront of Old Montreal. Established in 1830, it has since been transformed into a recreational area attracting over 6 million visitors each year.

In addition to its scenic beauty, the Old Port is home to attractions such as the Montréal Science Centre, the Montreal Clock Tower, and Plage de l’Horloge (Clock Beach). It also hosts numerous shows and events. Notably, every two years, Cirque du Soleil unveils a new performance at Jacques Cartier Quay.

During winter, visitors can enjoy ice skating at the outdoor Natrel skating rink, while summer offers opportunities to embark on boat rides along the St. Lawrence River.

6. Eat Poutine

Despite its unassuming appearance, this French Canadian dish is exceptionally delightful. Composed of fries topped with cheese curds and gravy, poutine is a well-loved comfort food.

This dish resembles traditional fries with cheese and gravy, but instead of shredded cheese, it features curds. The gravy used in poutine is a light brown blend made from meat stock comprising beef and chicken, along with vinegar.

Poutine can be found in diners and pubs throughout the city, as well as in food trucks and sports arenas.

7. Gaze at the city from above

Au Sommet Place Ville Marie stands as Montreal’s second tallest skyscraper. The observation tower offers visitors an extraordinary view of Downtown Montreal, Mont-Royal, the St. Lawrence River, and the Olympic Stadium from above.

By ascending to the 46th floor, guests can marvel at the city from a height of 185 meters. On sunny days, the terrace on the 44th floor opens, providing an excellent vantage point for observing the city’s annual festivals.

The 45th floor houses a museum featuring 55 videos and 500 images that document the city’s rich history and culture. Additionally, there are exhibits devoted to notable Montrealers, including choreographer Marie Chouinard, Olympic athlete Jennifer Abel, and restaurateur Martin Picard.

8. Get trendy on Mile End

Mile End is a bustling neighborhood filled with trendy boutiques, restaurants, and coffee shops. Additionally, it serves as an artistic hub featuring galleries, studios, and workshops.

Explore the neighborhood to shop, dine, and enjoy coffee. Make sure to visit St-Viateur Bagel or Fairmount Bagel, two of Montreal’s most renowned bagel establishments.

Search for second-hand books, thrifted clothing, or local designer offerings along Bernard Street and St-Viateur Street. Conclude your day at the Dieu du Ciel brewery or one of the excellent restaurants in the area.

9. Go underground

In Downtown Montreal, a network of underground malls, boutiques, and food courts exists. This extensive system not only facilitates convenient navigation through a bustling area but also provides refuge from inclement weather.

Connected passages link seven metro stations, with shops and dining experiences situated between them. Furthermore, it also links important downtown structures, including Central Station, Montreal Exchange, Place des Arts, McGill University, and Windsor Station.

Many of the downtown luxury hotels are connected to the Underground City (Montréal souterrain), enhancing accessibility for tourists. However, even if one is not staying at these upscale accommodations, the passageways present a great means of exploring the area.

10. Go back in time

Montreal is home to numerous superb museums, many of which focus on Canadian history and art. A visit to these cultural institutions enhances understanding of the city, its province, and the country.

Prominent museums located in the city center include the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, McCord Museum, and Musée d’art Contemporain de Montréal. Other notable museums around the city encompass Pointe-à-Callière Museum and Galerie de l’UQAM.

11. Try your luck at the casino

Open 24 hours a day, the Montreal Casino invites visitors to explore its offerings, even if just for a brief look. As the largest casino in the country, it comprises three interconnected buildings.

With over 3,000 slot machines, in addition to over 100 gaming tables, speed lotteries, virtual games, and Keno options, there is no shortage of entertainment. Additionally, the casino features four restaurants, three bars, and a cabaret.

Games available at the Montreal Casino include blackjack, roulette, baccarat, Caribbean stud poker, ultimate Texas hold’em, and craps, among many others.

12. Go on a few thrill rides

Visit La Ronde for exhilarating roller coasters, carousels, or thrilling swings. Experience headfirst plunges into water, defy gravity, or simulate skydiving.

Recognized as the second-largest amusement park in Canada, La Ronde is situated on Saint Helen’s Island, southeast of the Island of Montreal.

This park caters to visitors of all ages, offering not only thrilling rides but also family-friendly attractions and children’s rides. Onsite shopping and dining options are also available.

13. Go on ‘the Amazing Race’

For those who have dreamt of competing in the popular reality television show, the Amazing Race Montreal offers a self-guided tour incorporating clue-solving to navigate the city.

This experience stands out as one of the most unique opportunities in Montreal. It provides a fun and engaging way to explore prominent landmarks while becoming acquainted with the city.

Although it is not a competitive race like the show, it presents an enjoyable means to discover key attractions in the city. Additionally, themed tours are available for participants to choose from.

14. Walk through lovely gardens

The Montreal Botanical Garden spans 75 hectares and is located in the Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie borough. Designated as a National Historic Site of Canada, it is among the most significant botanical gardens globally.

A prominent feature of the garden is the extensive greenhouse complex, which showcases plants originating from various regions around the world. Additionally, numerous outdoor gardens, many themed, are featured throughout the area.

Stroll through the 2.5-hectare Chinese Garden to admire bonsai and penjing, feed koi in the Japanese Garden, or observe tiny alpine plants in the Alpine Garden. An exhibit dedicated to the preservation of indigenous plants, including medicinal plants of First Nations, is also present.

15. Dance the night away

Montreal has long been identified as a vibrant party destination, particularly due to its legal drinking age of 18. The city boasts a plethora of bars, lounges, and nightclubs, ranging from upscale venues to charming neighborhood spots.

Sainte-Catherine Street East is home to many of the city’s most frequented clubs, which remain open until dawn. In contrast, Crescent Street caters to those looking to socialize with the English-speaking local community.

For those who prefer pubs, an evening in the Plateau area presents numerous lively establishments bustling with patrons every night, especially along Boulevard St-Laurent.