Panoramic view of Montreal

Montreal, Where Europe Meets North America

Discover Montreal through the charm of Old Montreal, the beauty of Mount Royal, its vibrant neighbourhoods and its unique culinary scene.

Old Montreal β€’ Mount Royal β€’ Festivals β€’ Poutine β€’ St. Lawrence River

πŸ›οΈ Old Montreal

Stroll through cobbled streets, admire Notre-Dame Basilica and relax on historic terraces.

🌳 Mount Royal

Enjoy Montreal's most spectacular viewpoint, perfect for a walk or watching the sunset.

🍁 Quebec Flavours

Poutine, bagels, smoked meat and local specialties are all part of Montreal's culinary identity.

πŸš‡ Metro & Neighbourhoods

Easily explore the Plateau, Mile End, Griffintown and Downtown using the city's efficient metro.

🍁 Montreal at a Glance

Montreal is the largest city in Quebec and one of North America's most vibrant destinations. Blending French heritage, North American culture and artistic creativity, the city stands out for its unique identity and welcoming atmosphere.

From Old Montreal and Mount Royal to the Plateau-Mont-Royal, Mile End and Downtown, each neighbourhood has its own personality, combining historic streets, colourful murals, trendy cafΓ©s and beautiful green spaces.

With world-famous festivals, authentic Quebec cuisine, walks along the St. Lawrence River, fascinating museums, rooftop bars and a lively nightlife, Montreal offers an unforgettable experience in every season.

πŸ—ΊοΈ Get to Know Montreal

Map of Montreal

View the Interactive Montreal Map

Old Montreal, Mount Royal, the Plateau, Mile End, Old Port and the city's must-see attractions.

Explore the Map β†’

✨ Experiences That Make Montreal Unforgettable

Beyond Old Montreal and Mount Royal, these experiences reveal a city that is more creative, more flavourful and often far more surprising than the classic sightseeing highlights.

AURA immersive light show inside Notre-Dame Basilica in Montreal

πŸ’œ AURA at Notre-Dame Basilica β€” Vidolta's Favourite

Step inside one of Montreal's most beautiful landmarks for an unforgettable immersive show combining light projections, music and breathtaking architecture.

Discover the Experience β†’
Jet boat adventure through the Lachine Rapids in Montreal

🌊 Conquer the Lachine Rapids

Feel the adrenaline on a thrilling jet boat ride along the St. Lawrence River as you tackle the famous Lachine Rapids.

Book the Experience β†’
Food tour and local specialties in Montreal

πŸ₯― Taste the Flavours of Montreal

Join No Diet Club on a delicious food tour featuring local specialties, hidden gems and some of the city's most iconic neighbourhoods.

Discover the Food Tour β†’
Montreal's underground city RESO in Downtown Montreal

πŸ™οΈ Explore Montreal's Underground City (RΓ‰SO)

Beneath Downtown lies a vast underground network connecting metro stations, shopping centres, hotels and office buildings. A true Montreal experience, especially during winter.

Explore RÉSO →
Electric boat cruise on the St. Lawrence River in Montreal

⚑ Cruise the St. Lawrence River by Electric Boat

Discover the Old Port and Montreal's waterfront aboard a silent, eco-friendly electric boat while enjoying unique views of the city.

Book the Cruise β†’
Guided walking tour through the historic streets of Old Montreal

πŸ›οΈ Discover the Secrets of Old Montreal

Explore the cobbled streets, historic buildings and iconic squares where Montreal's fascinating history first began.

Explore Old Montreal β†’
Montreal Observation Wheel in the Old Port

🎑 Take in the Views from La Grande Roue

Rise above the Old Port for spectacular panoramic views of Downtown, the St. Lawrence River and the surrounding landscape, especially at sunset.

Book Your Ticket β†’
Street art murals along Saint-Laurent Boulevard in Montreal

🎨 Explore Montreal's Street Art

Discover giant murals, talented local artists and the vibrant urban culture that transforms Saint-Laurent Boulevard and the Plateau into an open-air gallery.

Explore the Murals β†’

πŸš‡ Getting Around Montreal with Ease

Whether you choose the metro, the REM, a BIXI bike or a private airport transfer, getting around Montreal is easy and lets you make the most of your stay.

🎫 OPUS Card & Unlimited Passes

The Smart Choice

Choose a 24-hour, 3-day or weekend pass for unlimited travel on the metro, buses and REM. A convenient and budget-friendly way to explore the city.

View Available Passes β†’

πŸš† Travel Faster with the REM

Fast & Scenic

Montreal's automated light rail network connects Downtown with several parts of Greater Montreal. Modern, efficient and comfortable, it's a great way to explore the city.

Explore the Network β†’

🚲 Explore Montreal by BIXI Bike

The City in the Open Air

Rent a self-service bike and ride along the Lachine Canal, the Old Port or the Plateau's cycling paths. One of the most enjoyable ways to experience Montreal like a local.

Rent a Bike β†’

✈️ Reach Your Hotel Stress-Free

YUL Airport β†’ Downtown

Skip the queues and complicated connections after your flight with a private transfer directly from MontrΓ©al–Trudeau Airport to your hotel.

Book Your Transfer β†’

🏨 Where to Stay in Montreal?

πŸ›οΈ Old Montreal

The historic heart of the city. Wander through cobbled streets, visit Notre-Dame Basilica, explore the Old Port and relax on charming terraces in an atmosphere reminiscent of Europe's most beautiful cities.

πŸŒ† Downtown

The perfect area for staying in the heart of the action. Skyscrapers, shopping, museums, restaurants and direct metro access make it an excellent base for exploring Montreal.

🌿 Plateau-Mont-Royal

Montreal's iconic neighbourhood, famous for its colourful exterior staircases, trendy cafΓ©s, lively terraces and unique artistic atmosphere.

🎨 Mile End

A favourite among artists and food lovers alike. Murals, independent cafΓ©s, unique boutiques and Montreal's famous bagels give this neighbourhood its unmistakably creative vibe.

🌊 Griffintown

Once an industrial district, Griffintown has become one of Montreal's trendiest neighbourhoods, known for its modern hotels, restaurants, rooftop bars and scenic walks along the Lachine Canal.

Compare hotels in Montreal's best neighbourhoods.

🏨 Book a Hotel in Montreal β†’

🍁 Taste Montreal Like a Local

Smoked meat, wood-fired bagels, poutine, iconic cafΓ©s and Quebec specialties: Montreal offers a rich culinary identity deeply connected to its neighbourhoods and local traditions.

Montreal restaurants and local food

The Flavours That Define Montreal

Smoked meat, bagels, poutine, iconic cafΓ©s, food markets and authentic Quebec specialties.

πŸ₯© Schwartz's Deli

Since 1928, this legendary Saint-Laurent Boulevard institution has been serving its world-famous smoked meat piled high on rye bread with mustard.

Visit the Restaurant β†’

πŸ₯― St-Viateur Bagel

No trip to Montreal is complete without tasting its famous wood-fired bagels. Fresh from the oven, they're one of the city's most iconic specialties.

Taste Montreal's Famous Bagels β†’

🍟 La Banquise

Open almost around the clock, this legendary restaurant is one of the best places to enjoy one of Quebec's most famous poutines.

Try a Poutine β†’

β˜• CafΓ© Olimpico

Located in Mile End, this iconic Italian cafΓ© has long been a favourite gathering place for locals looking to enjoy an authentic espresso.

Enjoy a Coffee Break β†’

πŸ›οΈ Crew Collective & CafΓ©

Set inside a former bank, this spectacular cafΓ© is as famous for its breathtaking architecture as it is for its unique atmosphere.

Discover This Unique CafΓ© β†’

🍎 Jean-Talon Market

One of North America's largest public markets, where local producers, artisans and Quebec specialties can be discovered throughout the year.

Explore the Market β†’

🍴 Food Experiences in Montreal

Discover Montreal through guided food tours led by passionate locals and sample the specialties that have made the city famous.

πŸ₯― Mile End Food Tour (7 Tastings)

Explore Montreal's most creative neighbourhood while enjoying bagels, pastries and local specialties in a friendly atmosphere.

Taste the Flavours of Mile End β†’

🍎 Jean-Talon Market & Little Italy (8 Tastings)

Meet local producers, sample Quebec specialties and enjoy a delicious culinary journey through Montreal's vibrant Little Italy.

Explore Jean-Talon & Little Italy β†’

🍁 Maple Syrup Tasting Experience

Learn the fascinating story behind Quebec's iconic maple syrup, discover how it is produced and taste the different grades during a guided experience.

Taste Quebec Maple Syrup β†’

πŸ˜‹ No Diet Club: The Best of Montreal

A modern food tour bringing together Montreal's most iconic dishes while discovering some of the city's favourite local addresses.

Join the Food Tour β†’

✨ Montreal's Must-See Attractions

From panoramic viewpoints and green spaces to world-class museums, iconic neighbourhoods and cultural experiences, Montreal offers something for every traveller, whether you're on a budget or planning to experience the very best of the city.

MTL Passport

🎟️ MTL Passport

The MTL Passport gives you access to five attractions from a wide selection, including the Biodôme, Pointe-à-Callière Museum, La Grande Roue, the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, the Biosphere and many more, while helping you save money.

Discover the MTL Passport β†’
Mount Royal Lookout

🌿 Mount Royal Lookout

The Kondiaronk Belvedere offers one of Montreal's most spectacular views. A must for taking in the skyline, the St. Lawrence River and unforgettable sunsets.

πŸ’° Free
Lachine Canal

🚴 Lachine Canal

Walk or cycle along the Lachine Canal, passing green spaces, converted industrial buildings, waterfront terraces and scenic views. One of Montrealers' favourite outdoor escapes.

πŸ’° Free
Jean-Drapeau Park

🌳 Jean-Drapeau Park

Located on two islands in the St. Lawrence River, this vast park combines green spaces, beaches, cycling paths, public art and fantastic views of Downtown Montreal.

πŸ’° Free
Quartier des Spectacles

🎭 Quartier des Spectacles

Montreal's cultural heart hosts festivals, concerts, exhibitions and immersive light installations throughout the year. It's especially vibrant after sunset.

πŸ’° Free
Montreal Biodome

πŸ¦‹ Montreal Biodome

Journey through several ecosystems of the Americas and encounter penguins, lynx, beavers, tropical birds and many other species in one of Montreal's most popular attractions.

Book Your Ticket β†’
Montreal Botanical Garden

🌺 Montreal Botanical Garden

Recognised as one of the world's finest botanical gardens, it features thousands of plant species, themed gardens and beautiful greenhouses.

Book Your Ticket β†’
Tam-Tams at Mount Royal

πŸ₯ Mount Royal Tam-Tams

Every Sunday during summer, hundreds of locals gather at the foot of Mount Royal to enjoy drumming, dancing and picnics in one of Montreal's most iconic traditions.

β˜€οΈ Summer β€’ Free

🏟️ Experience Sports in Montreal

Montreal comes alive through hockey, soccer and major sporting events. Discover the games scheduled during your stay and experience the unique atmosphere of the city's stadiums and arenas.

Montreal Canadiens game at the Bell Centre

πŸ’ Montreal Canadiens

Attend a Montreal Canadiens game at the Bell Centre and experience one of the most iconic atmospheres in North American hockey.

CF Montreal game at Stade Saputo

⚽ CF Montreal

Watch CF Montreal play at Stade Saputo and immerse yourself in the passionate atmosphere of Major League Soccer.

Major sporting events held in Montreal

πŸ† Major Sporting Events

The Canadian Grand Prix, international tennis tournaments and major competitions bring excitement to Montreal throughout the year. Browse the events available during your travel dates.

Games, events and ticket availability vary depending on the season and the dates of your stay.

🎟️ Explore Montreal's Sporting Events β†’

🌲 Beyond Montreal

Montreal is an excellent starting point for exploring some of Quebec and Eastern Canada's most beautiful destinations. From historic cities and mountain landscapes to natural wonders and national capitals, these excursions let you extend your journey far beyond the city.

The best day trips and excursions from Montreal

The Best Excursions from Montreal

From Niagara Falls and Mont-Tremblant National Park to Quebec City and Ottawa, Montreal is ideally located for exploring some of Canada's most remarkable destinations.

🏰 Quebec City & Montmorency Falls

Explore UNESCO-listed Old Quebec before admiring the spectacular Montmorency Falls, which are taller than Niagara Falls. An unforgettable day trip into the historic heart of Quebec.

Explore Quebec β†’

πŸ₯Ύ Mont-Tremblant National Park

Journey into one of Quebec's oldest national parks. Surrounded by forests, lakes, mountains and panoramic trails, this day trip is perfect for experiencing Canadian nature and spectacular scenery.

Visit the Park β†’

πŸ’¦ Toronto, Niagara Falls & Thousand Islands

Set off on a two-day adventure across Ontario to experience the world-famous Niagara Falls, the vibrant city of Toronto and the beautiful Thousand Islands region. One of Canada's most memorable travel experiences.

Explore Ontario β†’

πŸ‡¨πŸ‡¦ Ottawa

Spend a day exploring Canada's capital. Visit Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, national museums and elegant neighbourhoods in this charming city located only a few hours from Montreal.

Visit Ottawa β†’

✈️ Before You Go to Montreal

πŸ—£οΈ Language

French is the official language of Quebec and the main language spoken in Montreal. English is also widely used in hotels, restaurants, shops and major tourist attractions.

πŸ’΅ Currency

The Canadian dollar (CAD) is used in Montreal. Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, although carrying a small amount of cash can be useful for markets and independent shops.

πŸš‡ Getting Around

The STM metro and bus network makes it easy to reach Downtown, Old Montreal, the Plateau, Mile End and the city's main neighbourhoods. Walking and cycling are also enjoyable during the warmer months.

πŸ“… Ideal Length of Stay

Four to five days are enough to explore the main neighbourhoods, museums, the Old Port and Mount Royal. A full week gives you more time to visit Quebec City, the Laurentians or the Eastern Townships.

🌀️ Best Time to Visit

From May to October, temperatures are generally pleasant and the city hosts many festivals. Winter offers a completely different atmosphere, with snow, ice skating and seasonal activities.

πŸ’° Average Budget

Plan to spend around 140 to 320 Canadian dollars per person per day, depending on your accommodation, dining choices and booked activities.

⚠️ Mistakes to Avoid in Montreal

A few common mistakes can make a trip to Montreal less enjoyable, especially because of the city's size, changing weather and local customs.

πŸ—ΊοΈ Underestimating the Distance Between Neighbourhoods

Montreal is easy to explore, but the Old Port, the Plateau, Mile End, Jean-Drapeau Park and Mount Royal are not all within walking distance of one another. Group your visits by area to avoid unnecessary travel.

🌑️ Not Checking the Weather Before Going Out

Temperatures can change quickly, especially in spring, autumn and winter. Wear suitable clothing and bring several light layers that are easy to remove.

πŸ’³ Forgetting About Taxes and Tips

Prices displayed in shops and restaurants usually do not include sales tax. In table-service restaurants, leaving a tip is also customary.

πŸš— Using a Car for Every Journey

Traffic and parking can be difficult in Downtown and Old Montreal. The metro, buses, cycling and walking are often more convenient.

🎟️ Waiting Until the Last Minute to Book

Popular experiences such as AURA, Lachine Rapids excursions, food tours and major events can sell out during weekends and peak travel periods.

πŸ™οΈ Staying Only in Old Montreal

The historic district is essential, but Montreal is also best experienced through the Plateau, Mile End, Saint-Laurent Boulevard, Jean-Talon Market and its many residential neighbourhoods.

❓ Montreal FAQ

πŸ“… How Many Days Do You Need in Montreal?

Four days are enough to discover the city's main neighbourhoods and attractions. Five to seven days are better for exploring at a more relaxed pace and adding a day trip beyond Montreal.

🏨 Which Neighbourhood Is Best for a First Visit to Montreal?

Downtown and Old Montreal are especially convenient for a first stay. Plateau-Mont-Royal and Mile End are better suited to travellers looking for a more local, creative and lively atmosphere.

πŸ—£οΈ Can You Visit Montreal Without Speaking French?

Yes. English is widely understood in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants and shops. However, using a few words of French is always appreciated.

πŸš‡ Can You Visit Montreal Without a Car?

Yes. The metro and bus network serves the city's main neighbourhoods efficiently. Downtown, Old Montreal, the Plateau and Mile End can also be explored on foot or by bike.

🍽️ What Food Should You Try in Montreal?

Poutine, Montreal-style bagels, smoked meat, maple syrup specialties and the city's many international cuisines are among the essential culinary experiences.

❄️ Is Montreal Worth Visiting in Winter?

Yes. The city has a unique atmosphere in winter, with snow, ice rinks, festive lights and seasonal activities. Very warm clothing and suitable footwear are essential.

Montreal skyline panorama

When Montreal Lights Up, North America Feels Different

From rooftop bars and the city skyline to winter lights and its unique cultural energy, Montreal has a truly fascinating identity.

Explore More Destinations β†’