{"id":161046,"date":"2026-05-14T19:30:56","date_gmt":"2026-05-14T17:30:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/?p=161046"},"modified":"2026-05-15T13:28:42","modified_gmt":"2026-05-15T11:28:42","slug":"montreal-canada-things-to-do","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/","title":{"rendered":"Montreal, Canada: 15 Best Things to See and Do"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>I&#8217;ll admit it \u2014 Montreal had me the moment we landed. We stepped off the plane, headed to passport control, and the border officer greeted us with &#8220;Bonjour! Hi!&#8221; \u2014 as if he wasn&#8217;t quite sure which language we were living in. And that&#8217;s exactly what Montreal is like. A city that&#8217;s half French, half North American, and one hundred percent its own thing. It&#8217;s like being transported to Paris, but with wider pavements, better food, and people who actually smile at you. \ud83d\ude0a<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Wandering the cobblestone lanes of Old Montreal, we felt like we were in Europe. On the Plateau, we discovered little caf\u00e9s we&#8217;d happily visit every single day. And at Schwartz&#8217;s, we queued for a smoked meat sandwich that made us swear we&#8217;d fly back just for another bite. If you&#8217;re looking for the best <strong>Montreal Canada things to do<\/strong>, you&#8217;re in the right place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, you&#8217;ll find <strong>15 best things to see and do in Montreal<\/strong> \u2014 from historic landmarks and hipster neighbourhoods to street art and food you&#8217;ll be dreaming about for months after you get home. I&#8217;ll also share the best time to visit, where to stay, how much it all costs, and what to watch out for so nothing catches you off guard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-bazilika-sv-josefa.jpg\" alt=\"Traveller in front of Saint Joseph&#039;s Oratory on Mont Royal hill\" class=\"wp-image-160747\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-bazilika-sv-josefa.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-bazilika-sv-josefa-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-bazilika-sv-josefa-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-bazilika-sv-josefa-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-bazilika-sv-josefa-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_83 ez-toc-wrap-left counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#TLDR\" >TL;DR<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#When_to_visit_Montreal_and_how_to_get_there\" >When to visit Montreal and how to get there<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Best_time_to_visit\" >Best time to visit<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#How_to_get_to_Montreal\" >How to get to Montreal<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Getting_around_the_city\" >Getting around the city<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Where_to_stay_in_Montreal_and_how_much_it_costs\" >Where to stay in Montreal and how much it costs<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Old_Montreal_%E2%80%94_for_romantics_and_history_lovers\" >Old Montreal \u2014 for romantics and history lovers<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Plateau_Mont-Royal_%E2%80%94_best_value_for_money\" >Plateau Mont-Royal \u2014 best value for money<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Budget_tip\" >Budget tip<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Approximate_budget_for_5_days_for_two\" >Approximate budget for 5 days for two<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#15_best_things_to_see_and_do_in_Montreal\" >15 best things to see and do in Montreal<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#1_Old_Montreal_Vieux-Montreal_%E2%80%94_the_heart_of_the_city_where_it_all_began\" >1. Old Montreal (Vieux-Montr\u00e9al) \u2014 the heart of the city where it all began<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#2_Notre-Dame_Basilica_%E2%80%94_a_jaw-dropping_interior\" >2. Notre-Dame Basilica \u2014 a jaw-dropping interior<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#3_Mont_Royal_%E2%80%94_the_best_city_views\" >3. Mont Royal \u2014 the best city views<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#4_Plateau_Mont-Royal_and_Mile_End_%E2%80%94_a_hipster_paradise_youll_want_to_move_to\" >4. Plateau Mont-Royal and Mile End \u2014 a hipster paradise you&#8217;ll want to move to<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#5_Jean-Talon_Market_%E2%80%94_a_real_Montreal_market_where_the_locals_shop\" >5. Jean-Talon Market \u2014 a real Montreal market where the locals shop<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#6_Biodome_%E2%80%94_four_ecosystems_under_one_roof\" >6. Biod\u00f4me \u2014 four ecosystems under one roof<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#7_Montreal_Botanical_Garden_%E2%80%94_one_of_the_worlds_finest\" >7. Montreal Botanical Garden \u2014 one of the world&#8217;s finest<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#8_Old_Port_%E2%80%94_the_waterfront_where_everything_happens\" >8. Old Port \u2014 the waterfront where everything happens<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#9_Pointe-a-Calliere_%E2%80%94_where_Montreal_was_founded\" >9. Pointe-\u00e0-Calli\u00e8re \u2014 where Montreal was founded<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#10_Underground_City_RESO_%E2%80%94_33_km_of_underground_tunnels\" >10. Underground City (R\u00c9SO) \u2014 33 km of underground tunnels<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#11_Musee_des_beaux-arts_de_Montreal_%E2%80%94_for_art_lovers\" >11. Mus\u00e9e des beaux-arts de Montr\u00e9al \u2014 for art lovers<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#12_Gay_Village_%E2%80%94_one_of_Montreals_liveliest_neighbourhoods\" >12. Gay Village \u2014 one of Montreal&#8217;s liveliest neighbourhoods<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#13_Street_art_and_murals_%E2%80%94_Montreal_as_an_open-air_gallery\" >13. Street art and murals \u2014 Montreal as an open-air gallery<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#14_Day_trip_to_Ile_Sainte-Helene_and_La_Ronde\" >14. Day trip to \u00cele Sainte-H\u00e9l\u00e8ne and La Ronde<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#15_Lachine_Canal_%E2%80%94_walks_cycling_and_brewery_trails\" >15. Lachine Canal \u2014 walks, cycling, and brewery trails<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#What_to_eat_and_drink_in_Montreal_a_foodies_guide\" >What to eat and drink in Montreal: a foodie&#8217;s guide<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Smoked_meat_at_Schwartzs\" >Smoked meat at Schwartz&#8217;s<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Bagels_%E2%80%94_St-Viateur_vs_Fairmount\" >Bagels \u2014 St-Viateur vs. Fairmount<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Poutine_at_La_Banquise\" >Poutine at La Banquise<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#BeaverTails_and_maple_syrup\" >BeaverTails and maple syrup<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Where_to_go_for_a_great_dinner_and_coffee\" >Where to go for a great dinner and coffee<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-33\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Festivals_worth_visiting\" >Festivals worth visiting<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-34\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Montreal_International_Jazz_Festival_June%E2%80%93July\" >Montreal International Jazz Festival (June\u2013July)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-35\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Just_for_Laughs_Juste_pour_rire_July\" >Just for Laughs \/ Juste pour rire (July)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-36\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Igloofest_January%E2%80%93February\" >Igloofest (January\u2013February)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-37\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Nuit_Blanche_FebruaryMarch\" >Nuit Blanche (February\/March)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-38\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Practical_tips_and_advice\" >Practical tips and advice<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-39\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Language_%E2%80%94_%E2%80%9CBonjourHi%E2%80%9D\" >Language \u2014 &#8220;Bonjour\/Hi&#8221;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-40\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Safety\" >Safety<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-41\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Tipping\" >Tipping<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-42\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Plug_adapter\" >Plug adapter<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-43\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Travel_insurance\" >Travel insurance<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-44\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#What_to_pack\" >What to pack<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-45\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Where_to_find_flights\" >Where to find flights<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-46\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Car_hire\" >Car hire<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-47\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Booking_accommodation\" >Booking accommodation<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-48\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Mobile_data_and_eSIM\" >Mobile data and eSIM<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-49\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#FAQ_%E2%80%94_7_most_common_questions_about_Montreal\" >FAQ \u2014 7 most common questions about Montreal<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-50\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#How_many_days_do_I_need_for_Montreal\" >How many days do I need for Montreal?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-51\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Is_Montreal_expensive\" >Is Montreal expensive?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-52\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Do_people_speak_English_in_Montreal\" >Do people speak English in Montreal?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-53\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#When_is_the_best_time_to_visit_Montreal\" >When is the best time to visit Montreal?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-54\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Do_I_need_a_visa_for_Canada\" >Do I need a visa for Canada?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-55\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#How_do_I_get_from_the_airport_to_downtown_Montreal\" >How do I get from the airport to downtown Montreal?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-56\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/montreal-canada-things-to-do\/#Is_Montreal_safe\" >Is Montreal safe?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"TLDR\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"TL_DR\"><\/span>TL;DR<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Old Montreal<\/strong> is an absolute must \u2014 cobblestone streets, Place Jacques-Cartier, and Notre-Dame Basilica with its breathtaking blue-and-gold interior.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Mont Royal<\/strong> offers the best views of the city. The climb takes about 30 minutes, and on Sundays you can experience the legendary Tam-Tams drum circle.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Plateau Mont-Royal and Mile End<\/strong> are the most interesting neighbourhoods for local atmosphere \u2014 caf\u00e9s, street art, vintage shops.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Schwartz&#8217;s Deli, St-Viateur Bagel, and La Banquise<\/strong> \u2014 three essential food stops. You haven&#8217;t truly been to Montreal without them.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The best time to visit is <strong>June to October<\/strong> \u2014 summer for the festivals, September and October for the stunning autumn colours.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>UK citizens need an eTA<\/strong> (Electronic Travel Authorization, 7 CAD \/ around \u00a34) to enter Canada.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Allow <strong>at least 3\u20134 days<\/strong> for Montreal, ideally 5.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Budget roughly <strong>\u20ac1,300\u20131,800 for 5 days for two<\/strong> (excluding flights).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Public transport is excellent<\/strong> \u2014 metro + buses, and in summer we highly recommend BIXI bikes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You&#8217;ll get by in Montreal with <strong>both English and French<\/strong> \u2014 but locals really appreciate it when you at least say &#8220;bonjour.&#8221; \u263a\ufe0f<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_to_visit_Montreal_and_how_to_get_there\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_to_visit_Montreal_and_how_to_get_there\"><\/span>When to visit Montreal and how to get there<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Montreal is a city that transforms dramatically with the seasons \u2014 and trust me, timing your visit can make or break the whole experience. In summer, it&#8217;s a buzzing metropolis packed with festivals, street music, and outdoor terraces. Come January, temperatures plunge to -20 \u00b0C and the city retreats underground. Literally \u2014 into the underground city called R\u00c9SO. Let&#8217;s walk through the best time to go, how much flights cost, and how to get around once you&#8217;re there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Best_time_to_visit\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Best_time_to_visit\"><\/span>Best time to visit<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Summer (June\u2013September)<\/strong> is hands down the best time. Temperatures hover around a pleasant 20\u201328 \u00b0C, the city is alive with festivals (Jazz Festival, Just for Laughs), the streets are buzzing, restaurant patios are packed, and Montreal in summer is nothing short of magical. Peak season is July and August \u2014 expect higher accommodation prices and more tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Indian summer (September\u2013October)<\/strong> is our personal favourite. We visited right at the turn of September and October and it was perfect. The trees on Mont Royal were glowing in every shade of orange, red, and gold, there were far fewer tourists, and temperatures around 12\u201318 \u00b0C were ideal for walking. Honestly \u2014 those colours need to be seen in person; photos don&#8217;t do them justice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Winter (December\u2013March) isn&#8217;t one I&#8217;d recommend<\/strong> unless you&#8217;re properly hardy. Temperatures regularly drop to -15 to -25 \u00b0C, arctic winds blow through the streets, and being outside for more than 20 minutes is a genuine ordeal. The one exception is Igloofest in January\/February \u2014 if you&#8217;re into electronic music and don&#8217;t mind dancing in a snowsuit, it&#8217;s quite the experience. Otherwise? Give winter a miss. \ud83d\ude05<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_get_to_Montreal\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_get_to_Montreal\"><\/span>How to get to Montreal<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There are direct flights from London to Montreal with <strong>Air Canada and British Airways<\/strong>, typically taking around 7\u20138 hours. You can also find competitive fares with connecting flights via <strong>Paris, Frankfurt, or Amsterdam<\/strong>. Return flights from London usually start around <strong>\u00a3350\u2013500 per person<\/strong> depending on the season \u2014 use a comparison site like Skyscanner or Google Flights and set up a price alert to grab the best deals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Don&#8217;t forget the eTA<\/strong> (Electronic Travel Authorization) \u2014 UK citizens don&#8217;t need a full visa for Canada, but an eTA is mandatory. You can sort it online in minutes, it costs <strong>7 CAD (around \u00a34)<\/strong>, and it&#8217;s valid for 5 years. Without it, you won&#8217;t be allowed to board.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From <strong>Montr\u00e9al-Trudeau Airport<\/strong>, you can get into the city centre by the <strong>747 Express bus<\/strong> for about <strong>11 CAD (around \u20ac7.50)<\/strong>, which takes 45\u201360 minutes depending on traffic. A taxi or Uber will cost <strong>40\u201355 CAD (\u20ac27\u201337)<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Getting_around_the_city\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Getting_around_the_city\"><\/span>Getting around the city<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The <strong>STM Metro<\/strong> is fast, reliable, and covers most of the city. A single ride costs <strong>3.75 CAD (around \u20ac2.50)<\/strong>, but it&#8217;s worth buying a <strong>day pass for 11 CAD (\u20ac7.50)<\/strong> or a <strong>three-day pass for 22.25 CAD (\u20ac15)<\/strong>. We walked most days and only hopped on the metro a handful of times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In summer, I&#8217;d highly recommend <strong>BIXI bikes<\/strong> \u2014 the city&#8217;s bike-sharing system, which works brilliantly. A single ride costs <strong>1 CAD to unlock + 0.10 CAD\/minute<\/strong>, or you can grab a <strong>day pass for 7 CAD (around \u20ac5)<\/strong>. Montreal is very bike-friendly, cycle paths are everywhere, and it&#8217;s probably the most enjoyable way to explore the Plateau and Lachine Canal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re planning day trips outside the city (say to the Laurentians or Quebec City), renting a car is a good idea. We&#8217;ve had consistently good experiences with <strong><a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"RentalCars.com\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/doporucujeme\/rentalcars-com\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">RentalCars<\/a><\/strong>, where you can compare prices from multiple agencies in one place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_in_Montreal_and_how_much_it_costs\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_in_Montreal_and_how_much_it_costs\"><\/span>Where to stay in Montreal and how much it costs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Montreal has accommodation for every budget, from luxury hotels in the old town to cosy Airbnbs in residential neighbourhoods. Prices are lower than Toronto or Vancouver, but it&#8217;s still Canada \u2014 don&#8217;t expect European rates. As a general rule, <strong>a night in a good hotel runs around \u20ac130\u2013220 for two<\/strong>, while hostels cost about <strong>\u20ac35\u201355 per person<\/strong>. Let&#8217;s run through the best neighbourhoods to base yourself in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Old_Montreal_%E2%80%94_for_romantics_and_history_lovers\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Old_Montreal_for_romantics_and_history_lovers\"><\/span>Old Montreal \u2014 for romantics and history lovers<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Staying right in Old Montreal is magical \u2014 you wake up, step onto the cobblestone streets, and feel like you&#8217;re in France. It is, however, the <strong>most expensive area<\/strong> in the city. Our recommendations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&amp;campaign=loudavymkrokemcz&amp;campaign=post-128935&amp;hotelname=Hotel%20Nelligan&amp;address=Montreal%2C%20Kanada\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Hotel Nelligan<\/a><\/strong> \u2014 a stunning boutique hotel in a 19th-century stone building, from around <strong>\u20ac185\u2013260\/night<\/strong>. The rooftop terrace overlooking Notre-Dame Basilica is superb for a sunset drink.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&amp;campaign=loudavymkrokemcz&amp;campaign=post-128935&amp;hotelname=Le%20Petit%20Hotel&amp;address=Montreal%2C%20Kanada\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Le Petit Hotel<\/a><\/strong> \u2014 smaller, cosier, and slightly more affordable, from around <strong>\u20ac150\/night<\/strong>. Rooms are modern, clean, and the location is perfect.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Plateau_Mont-Royal_%E2%80%94_best_value_for_money\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Plateau_Mont-Royal_best_value_for_money\"><\/span>Plateau Mont-Royal \u2014 best value for money<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This is our recommended neighbourhood for staying. The <strong>Plateau<\/strong> is full of local life \u2014 caf\u00e9s, restaurants, parks \u2014 and you&#8217;re just 10 minutes by metro from Old Montreal. Prices are <strong>30\u201340% lower<\/strong> than in the old town and the atmosphere feels more authentic. Search on <strong><a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Booking.com\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/doporucujeme\/booking-com-2\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">Booking.com<\/a><\/strong>, where we found plenty of lovely apartments with kitchenettes from <strong>\u20ac95\u2013130\/night<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Budget_tip\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Budget_tip\"><\/span>Budget tip<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&amp;campaign=loudavymkrokemcz&amp;campaign=post-128935&amp;hotelname=HI%20Montreal&amp;address=Montreal%2C%20Kanada\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">HI Montreal<\/a><\/strong> \u2014 one of the best hostels in North America (and we&#8217;re not usually hostel people, but this one is genuinely brilliant). A dorm bed from around <strong>\u20ac37\/night<\/strong>, a private room from <strong>\u20ac75<\/strong>. It has a shared kitchen, a bar, and a fantastic location near Old Montreal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Approximate_budget_for_5_days_for_two\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Approximate_budget_for_5_days_for_two\"><\/span>Approximate budget for 5 days for two<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Accommodation (5 nights, mid-range):<\/strong> \u20ac650\u2013930<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Food and drink (restaurants + groceries):<\/strong> \u20ac370\u2013560<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Public transport and BIXI bikes:<\/strong> \u20ac75<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Entrance fees and activities:<\/strong> \u20ac110\u2013185<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Total (excluding flights):<\/strong> \u20ac1,200\u20131,750<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Tipping in Canada is <strong>essentially mandatory<\/strong> \u2014 expect to add <strong>15\u201320% on top<\/strong> of every restaurant bill. It&#8217;s easy to forget about and it can really add up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"15_best_things_to_see_and_do_in_Montreal\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"15_best_things_to_see_and_do_in_Montreal\"><\/span>15 best things to see and do in Montreal<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Let&#8217;s get to the main event \u2014 <strong>15 best things to see and do in Montreal<\/strong>. The city is surprisingly compact, you can reach most attractions on foot or by bike, and every neighbourhood has a completely different character. From historic Old Montreal to the bohemian Plateau and the peaceful Lachine Canal \u2014 here&#8217;s our pick of the places you simply can&#8217;t miss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Old_Montreal_Vieux-Montreal_%E2%80%94_the_heart_of_the_city_where_it_all_began\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Old_Montreal_Vieux-Montreal_the_heart_of_the_city_where_it_all_began\"><\/span>1. Old Montreal (Vieux-Montr\u00e9al) \u2014 the heart of the city where it all began<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-0-dlazdena-ulice-rue-saint-paul-ve-starem-montrealu-vieux-mont.jpg\" alt=\"Cobblestone Rue Saint-Paul in Old Montreal (Vieux-Montreal)\" class=\"wp-image-160763\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-0-dlazdena-ulice-rue-saint-paul-ve-starem-montrealu-vieux-mont.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-0-dlazdena-ulice-rue-saint-paul-ve-starem-montrealu-vieux-mont-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-0-dlazdena-ulice-rue-saint-paul-ve-starem-montrealu-vieux-mont-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-0-dlazdena-ulice-rue-saint-paul-ve-starem-montrealu-vieux-mont-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-0-dlazdena-ulice-rue-saint-paul-ve-starem-montrealu-vieux-mont-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Ken Lund from Reno, Nevada, USA \/ CC BY-SA 2.0 \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Old Montreal is the kind of place that makes you fall in love. Narrow cobblestone lanes, stone buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries, old lanterns, small galleries, street performers \u2014 honestly, there were moments when we forgot we were in North America.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Start at <strong>Place Jacques-Cartier<\/strong> \u2014 the main square that transforms into one big terrace of restaurants and street artists in summer. From there, stroll over to <strong>Place d&#8217;Armes<\/strong>, home to the iconic Notre-Dame Basilica (more on that in a moment) and a beautiful fountain. Make sure to duck into the side streets too \u2014 <strong>Rue Saint-Paul<\/strong> is the oldest street in the city and is lined with small galleries, local art shops, and cosy little bistros.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tip:<\/strong> Come here early in the morning (around 8\u20139 am) when the streets are empty and you can photograph the city without the crowds. In the evening, the atmosphere is gorgeous too thanks to the beautifully lit buildings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bear in mind that the restaurants right on Place Jacques-Cartier are <strong>overpriced and mediocre<\/strong> \u2014 a classic tourist trap. Head a few streets away for your meals instead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Notre-Dame_Basilica_%E2%80%94_a_jaw-dropping_interior\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Notre-Dame_Basilica_a_jaw-dropping_interior\"><\/span>2. Notre-Dame Basilica \u2014 a jaw-dropping interior<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-bazilika-notre-dame.jpg\" alt=\"Neo-Gothic Notre-Dame Basilica in Montreal at Place d&#039;Armes\" class=\"wp-image-160748\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-bazilika-notre-dame.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-bazilika-notre-dame-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-bazilika-notre-dame-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-bazilika-notre-dame-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-bazilika-notre-dame-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>I&#8217;m not sure a more beautiful church interior exists. Seriously. When we walked in, we both just stood there with our mouths open. While the outside looks relatively understated, the interior is an explosion of <strong>cobalt blue, gold, and turquoise<\/strong> \u2014 from the vaulted ceiling all the way to the altar. It&#8217;s like stepping inside a jewellery box.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Admission is <strong>18 CAD (around \u20ac12)<\/strong> for a standard visit. If you get the chance, definitely book the evening <strong>AURA light show<\/strong> for <strong>26 CAD (\u20ac17)<\/strong> \u2014 it&#8217;s a 45-minute immersive projection inside the basilica set to music, and it&#8217;s an absolutely extraordinary experience. We went to the last show of the evening and walked out covered in goosebumps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Practical tip:<\/strong> Buy AURA tickets in advance online, especially in summer when shows sell out fast. For the regular visit, no reservation is needed \u2014 queues aren&#8217;t too bad if you arrive in the morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Mont_Royal_%E2%80%94_the_best_city_views\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Mont_Royal_the_best_city_views\"><\/span>3. Mont Royal \u2014 the best city views<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-mont-royal-park.jpg\" alt=\"People relaxing on the lawn at Mont Royal Park with the city panorama\" class=\"wp-image-160749\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-mont-royal-park.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-mont-royal-park-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-mont-royal-park-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-mont-royal-park-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-mont-royal-park-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Mont Royal (233 m) is the green heart of Montreal \u2014 in fact, the city is named after it. The walk up to <strong>Kondiaronk Belvedere<\/strong> takes a leisurely half hour from Peel Street and is absolutely worth it. Your reward is a panoramic view of the entire city, the St. Lawrence River, and on a clear day you can see all the way to the Adirondack Mountains in New York State.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We went up in the early evening and caught the sunset over the city \u2014 one of those places where you just sit quietly, take it all in, and don&#8217;t say a word. \ud83d\ude0a<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re in Montreal <strong>on a Sunday in summer<\/strong>, you absolutely have to come here for <strong>Tam-Tams<\/strong>. It&#8217;s a spontaneous gathering of drummers and musicians that takes place at the foot of the mountain every Sunday afternoon. Hundreds of people sit on the grass, playing music, dancing, picnicking \u2014 it&#8217;s a completely unique Montreal tradition and it&#8217;s free. This is the kind of thing you won&#8217;t find in most guidebooks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tip for the less energetic:<\/strong> Bus number 11 runs to the top. Same views, no sweat. \ud83d\ude05<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Plateau_Mont-Royal_and_Mile_End_%E2%80%94_a_hipster_paradise_youll_want_to_move_to\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Plateau_Mont-Royal_and_Mile_End_a_hipster_paradise\"><\/span>4. Plateau Mont-Royal and Mile End \u2014 a hipster paradise you&#8217;ll want to move to<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-plateau-festival.jpg\" alt=\"Music festival on Boulevard Saint-Laurent in the Plateau neighbourhood\" class=\"wp-image-160750\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-plateau-festival.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-plateau-festival-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-plateau-festival-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-plateau-festival-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-plateau-festival-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re anything like us and get to know cities through their caf\u00e9s, street art, and local markets, then <strong>Plateau Mont-Royal<\/strong> is your neighbourhood. Colourful row houses with their signature <strong>wrought-iron outdoor staircases<\/strong> (quintessentially Montreal architecture!), indie shops, vintage boutiques, and restaurants where you&#8217;ll hear more French than English.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Right next to the Plateau lies <strong>Mile End<\/strong> \u2014 even more bohemian, even more hipster. This is where the world&#8217;s best bagel is baked (more on that in the food section), where you&#8217;ll find independent bookshops, microbreweries, and loads of artist studios. Boulevard Saint-Laurent, connecting the two neighbourhoods, is an open-air street art gallery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We spent an entire afternoon here simply wandering, stopping at murals, sipping a flat white at <strong>Caf\u00e9 Olimpico<\/strong> (a local legend since 1970 \u2014 no hipster pretensions, just excellent coffee and old men playing cards), and browsing vinyl records in the shops along Saint-Laurent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Don&#8217;t miss:<\/strong> <strong>Avenue Fairmount<\/strong> and <strong>Rue Bernard<\/strong> \u2014 packed with brilliant restaurants and shops, miles away from the tourist crowds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Jean-Talon_Market_%E2%80%94_a_real_Montreal_market_where_the_locals_shop\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Jean-Talon_Market_a_real_Montreal_market_where_the_locals_shop\"><\/span>5. Jean-Talon Market \u2014 a real Montreal market where the locals shop<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-1-budova-trznice-marche-jean-talon-v-montrealu.jpg\" alt=\"The Marche Jean-Talon market building in Montreal\" class=\"wp-image-160764\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-1-budova-trznice-marche-jean-talon-v-montrealu.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-1-budova-trznice-marche-jean-talon-v-montrealu-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-1-budova-trznice-marche-jean-talon-v-montrealu-700x525.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-1-budova-trznice-marche-jean-talon-v-montrealu-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-1-budova-trznice-marche-jean-talon-v-montrealu-80x60.jpg 80w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-1-budova-trznice-marche-jean-talon-v-montrealu-160x120.jpg 160w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-1-budova-trznice-marche-jean-talon-v-montrealu-696x522.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Jeangagnon \/ CC BY-SA 3.0 \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marchespublics-mtl.com\/en\/markets\/jean-talon-market\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Jean-Talon Market<\/a> is one of the <strong>largest farmers&#8217; markets in all of North America<\/strong>, and it&#8217;s a place that will tell you more about Montreal than any museum. Under its open roof you&#8217;ll find stalls bursting with local fruit and vegetables (Qu\u00e9bec strawberries in summer are divine), <strong>dozens of varieties of Qu\u00e9bec cheese<\/strong>, fresh herbs, maple syrup straight from the farm, and plenty of small bistros where you can grab lunch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We picked up a baguette, a couple of cheeses, some strawberries, and a bottle of Qu\u00e9bec cider and turned it into a picnic in the park. Best lunch for 15 CAD (around \u20ac10) we had in the whole city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tip:<\/strong> Come on a Saturday morning for the biggest selection, but be prepared for crowds. If you prefer a quieter experience, try a weekday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There&#8217;s also the smaller but equally lovely <strong>Atwater Market<\/strong> on the other side of town \u2014 if you&#8217;re staying closer to the Lachine Canal, it&#8217;s a great alternative.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Biodome_%E2%80%94_four_ecosystems_under_one_roof\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Biodome_four_ecosystems_under_one_roof\"><\/span>6. Biod\u00f4me \u2014 four ecosystems under one roof<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-biodome-vez.jpg\" alt=\"The inclined tower of the Olympic Stadium at the Biodome complex in Montreal\" class=\"wp-image-160751\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-biodome-vez.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-biodome-vez-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-biodome-vez-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-biodome-vez-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-biodome-vez-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/espacepourlavie.ca\/en\/biodome\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Biod\u00f4me<\/a> is housed in a building that originally served as the velodrome for the <strong>1976 Olympic Games<\/strong> \u2014 which is pretty cool in itself. Today it contains four realistically recreated ecosystems of the Americas: a tropical rainforest, a Canadian forest, the St. Lawrence coast, and sub-Antarctic islands complete with penguins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Honestly \u2014 if you&#8217;re travelling without children, the Biod\u00f4me is pleasant but not a must-see. We spent about an hour and a half there and mostly enjoyed the penguins and the rainforest section. But if you&#8217;re <strong>travelling with kids<\/strong>, it&#8217;s an absolute winner \u2014 little ones love it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Admission is <strong>25.75 CAD (around \u20ac17)<\/strong> for adults. There&#8217;s a <strong>combined ticket<\/strong> covering the Botanical Garden, Insectarium, and Planetarium for <strong>41.25 CAD (\u20ac28)<\/strong>, which is definitely worth it if you&#8217;re planning to visit more than one of these attractions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Montreal_Botanical_Garden_%E2%80%94_one_of_the_worlds_finest\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Montreal_Botanical_Garden_one_of_the_worlds_finest\"><\/span>7. Montreal Botanical Garden \u2014 one of the world&#8217;s finest<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-2-vodni-zahrada-v-botanicke-zahrade-montrealu.jpg\" alt=\"Water garden at the Montreal Botanical Garden\" class=\"wp-image-160765\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-2-vodni-zahrada-v-botanicke-zahrade-montrealu.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-2-vodni-zahrada-v-botanicke-zahrade-montrealu-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-2-vodni-zahrada-v-botanicke-zahrade-montrealu-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-2-vodni-zahrada-v-botanicke-zahrade-montrealu-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-2-vodni-zahrada-v-botanicke-zahrade-montrealu-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Thomas1313 \/ CC BY-SA 4.0 \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Here&#8217;s a surprise \u2014 Montreal&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/espacepourlavie.ca\/en\/botanical-garden\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Jardin botanique<\/a> is the third-largest botanical garden in the world (after London&#8217;s Kew Gardens and Berlin&#8217;s) and it is absolutely stunning. Across 75 hectares you&#8217;ll find over 22,000 plant species, a <strong>Chinese garden<\/strong> with pavilions and ponds, a <strong>Japanese garden<\/strong> with a meditative atmosphere, and so much more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re visiting Montreal <strong>in autumn (September\u2013October)<\/strong>, don&#8217;t miss the <strong>Gardens of Light<\/strong> festival \u2014 after dark, the garden is illuminated with hundreds of lanterns and light installations, and it&#8217;s one of the most beautiful autumn experiences we&#8217;ve ever had. We visited around eight in the evening and practically had the place to ourselves \u2014 most tourists don&#8217;t seem to know about it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Admission to the garden is <strong>23 CAD (around \u20ac15)<\/strong>, for Gardens of Light <strong>27 CAD (\u20ac18)<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tip:<\/strong> You can see the garden in 2\u20133 hours, but if you&#8217;re a keen gardener, you could easily spend an entire day here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_Old_Port_%E2%80%94_the_waterfront_where_everything_happens\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_Old_Port_the_waterfront_where_everything_happens\"><\/span>8. Old Port \u2014 the waterfront where everything happens<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-old-port-silo.jpg\" alt=\"Historic grain silo and steamship at the Old Port of Montreal\" class=\"wp-image-160752\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-old-port-silo.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-old-port-silo-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-old-port-silo-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-old-port-silo-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-old-port-silo-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.oldportofmontreal.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Old Port<\/a> is a natural extension of Old Montreal towards the river, and in summer it&#8217;s arguably the liveliest part of the city. Along the waterfront you&#8217;ll find the <strong>Grande Roue de Montr\u00e9al<\/strong> \u2014 a giant observation wheel (inspired by the London Eye, but smaller), the <strong>Centre des sciences<\/strong> science museum, an open-air summer cinema, and loads of food trucks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The waterfront is gorgeous for an evening stroll \u2014 with views of the St. Lawrence River on one side and the illuminated buildings of Old Montreal on the other. One evening we ended up here with cr\u00eapes and wine on a bench and it was absolutely perfect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In winter an outdoor ice rink opens here, and in summer the area hosts various festivals and concerts. Access to the waterfront is free \u2014 you only pay for specific attractions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <strong>Grande Roue<\/strong> costs <strong>28 CAD (around \u20ac19)<\/strong> and the ride lasts about 20 minutes. Honestly \u2014 the view from Mont Royal is better and it&#8217;s free. But if you&#8217;d rather skip the uphill walk, it&#8217;s a pleasant alternative. \ud83d\ude09<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_Pointe-a-Calliere_%E2%80%94_where_Montreal_was_founded\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_Pointe-a-Calliere_where_Montreal_was_founded\"><\/span>9. Pointe-\u00e0-Calli\u00e8re \u2014 where Montreal was founded<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-3-moderni-budova-muzea-pointe-a-calliere-ve-starem-montrealu.jpg\" alt=\"Modern building of the Pointe-a-Calliere museum in Old Montreal\" class=\"wp-image-160766\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-3-moderni-budova-muzea-pointe-a-calliere-ve-starem-montrealu.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-3-moderni-budova-muzea-pointe-a-calliere-ve-starem-montrealu-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-3-moderni-budova-muzea-pointe-a-calliere-ve-starem-montrealu-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-3-moderni-budova-muzea-pointe-a-calliere-ve-starem-montrealu-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-3-moderni-budova-muzea-pointe-a-calliere-ve-starem-montrealu-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Antony-22 \/ CC BY-SA 4.0 \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>For me, this is the <strong>most fascinating museum in all of Montreal<\/strong>. <a href=\"https:\/\/pacmusee.qc.ca\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Pointe-\u00e0-Calli\u00e8re<\/a> stands on the exact spot where Montreal was founded in 1642, and underground you can see <strong>real archaeological excavations<\/strong> \u2014 foundations of the original buildings, old sewers, Indigenous artefacts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The visit starts with a multimedia show (in English or French) that draws you into the story of how the city came to be, then you walk through underground spaces filled with original finds. It&#8217;s not a dry museum \u2014 it&#8217;s genuinely well done and takes about 2 hours to get through.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Admission is <strong>26 CAD (around \u20ac17)<\/strong>. Children under 12 get in free (yet another reason Montreal is brilliant for families).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_Underground_City_RESO_%E2%80%94_33_km_of_underground_tunnels\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_Underground_City_RESO_33_km_of_underground_tunnels\"><\/span>10. Underground City (R\u00c9SO) \u2014 33 km of underground tunnels<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-4-podzemni-mesto-reso-s-obchody-v-montrealu.jpg\" alt=\"Underground city RESO with shops in Montreal\" class=\"wp-image-160767\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-4-podzemni-mesto-reso-s-obchody-v-montrealu.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-4-podzemni-mesto-reso-s-obchody-v-montrealu-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-4-podzemni-mesto-reso-s-obchody-v-montrealu-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-4-podzemni-mesto-reso-s-obchody-v-montrealu-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-4-podzemni-mesto-reso-s-obchody-v-montrealu-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Deror_avi \/ CC BY-SA 4.0 \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This is probably the most unique thing about Montreal. Beneath the city runs <strong>33 kilometres of underground tunnels<\/strong> connecting metro stations, shopping centres, office buildings, hotels, cinemas, and restaurants. The entire system is called R\u00c9SO and it was built as a response to Montreal&#8217;s brutal winters \u2014 so people could move around the city without ever stepping outside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To be honest \u2014 don&#8217;t expect anything visually spectacular. These aren&#8217;t underground palaces; they&#8217;re more like connected shopping malls and corridors. But it&#8217;s a <strong>fascinating piece of urban planning<\/strong>, and if you&#8217;re into quirky city infrastructure, it&#8217;s well worth exploring. We wandered around for about an hour, promptly got lost (as nearly everyone does \ud83d\ude05), and emerged somewhere entirely different from where we&#8217;d intended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tip:<\/strong> If you&#8217;re curious, start at <strong>McGill<\/strong> or <strong>Bonaventure<\/strong> metro station and walk towards <strong>Place Ville-Marie<\/strong>. Entry is free \u2014 it&#8217;s simply part of the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"11_Musee_des_beaux-arts_de_Montreal_%E2%80%94_for_art_lovers\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"11_Musee_des_beaux-arts_de_Montreal_for_art_lovers\"><\/span>11. Mus\u00e9e des beaux-arts de Montr\u00e9al \u2014 for art lovers<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-5-sloupove-pruceli-muzea-krasnych-umeni-v-montrealu.jpg\" alt=\"Columned facade of the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts\" class=\"wp-image-160768\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-5-sloupove-pruceli-muzea-krasnych-umeni-v-montrealu.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-5-sloupove-pruceli-muzea-krasnych-umeni-v-montrealu-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-5-sloupove-pruceli-muzea-krasnych-umeni-v-montrealu-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-5-sloupove-pruceli-muzea-krasnych-umeni-v-montrealu-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-5-sloupove-pruceli-muzea-krasnych-umeni-v-montrealu-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Thomas1313 \/ CC BY-SA 4.0 \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Montreal&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mbam.qc.ca\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Museum of Fine Arts<\/a> is the largest art museum in Canada, spanning five buildings. The collections range from ancient art through Canadian painters to contemporary art and design. The permanent collection is <strong>free<\/strong> (you only pay for temporary exhibitions), which is quite exceptional for a museum of this calibre.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We spent about two hours here and were most drawn to the Canadian art and design section \u2014 it&#8217;s fascinating to see how Canada defines its artistic identity relative to both the US and Europe. Even if art isn&#8217;t your main passion, it&#8217;s worth popping in for an hour \u2014 especially when entry is free.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The museum is on <strong>Rue Sherbrooke<\/strong>, Montreal&#8217;s main boulevard, so you can easily combine it with a city stroll.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"12_Gay_Village_%E2%80%94_one_of_Montreals_liveliest_neighbourhoods\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"12_Gay_Village_one_of_Montreals_liveliest_neighbourhoods\"><\/span>12. Gay Village \u2014 one of Montreal&#8217;s liveliest neighbourhoods<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-6-ruzove-kuglove-instalace-les-boules-roses-nad-gay-village-v-.jpg\" alt=\"Pink ball installations Les Boules Roses above Gay Village in Montreal\" class=\"wp-image-160769\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-6-ruzove-kuglove-instalace-les-boules-roses-nad-gay-village-v-.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-6-ruzove-kuglove-instalace-les-boules-roses-nad-gay-village-v--300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-6-ruzove-kuglove-instalace-les-boules-roses-nad-gay-village-v--700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-6-ruzove-kuglove-instalace-les-boules-roses-nad-gay-village-v--768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-6-ruzove-kuglove-instalace-les-boules-roses-nad-gay-village-v--696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Tony Webster from Portland, Oregon, United States \/ CC BY 2.0 \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Montreal&#8217;s <strong>Gay Village<\/strong> (locals simply call it &#8220;The Village&#8221;) is one of the largest and liveliest LGBTQ+ neighbourhoods in North America. In summer, the main street <strong>Rue Sainte-Catherine Est<\/strong> is transformed into a <strong>pedestrian zone<\/strong> packed with bars, restaurants, terraces, and regular cultural events.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even if you&#8217;re not part of the LGBTQ+ community, the Village is well worth a visit for the atmosphere alone \u2014 it&#8217;s livelier than anywhere else in the city, people are friendly, and there are some fantastic restaurants and bars. In autumn, there&#8217;s a beautiful installation of <strong>pink balls<\/strong> hanging above the entire street, creating a gorgeous colourful tunnel overhead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"13_Street_art_and_murals_%E2%80%94_Montreal_as_an_open-air_gallery\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"13_Street_art_and_murals_Montreal_as_an_open-air_gallery\"><\/span>13. Street art and murals \u2014 Montreal as an open-air gallery<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-street-art.jpg\" alt=\"Large colourful street art mural on a brick wall in Montreal\" class=\"wp-image-160753\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-street-art.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-street-art-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-street-art-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-street-art-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-street-art-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Montreal is one of the <strong>best cities in the world for street art<\/strong> \u2014 and that&#8217;s no exaggeration. The city actively encourages public art, and in some neighbourhoods you&#8217;ll find enormous murals covering entire building walls. Key hotspots:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Mile End and the Plateau<\/strong> \u2014 practically on every corner<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Boulevard Saint-Laurent<\/strong> \u2014 the main artery of street art<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Festival MURAL<\/strong> (every June) \u2014 one of the biggest street art festivals in North America, where artists create new works live on the street<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>We made our own street art walk through Mile End \u2014 just followed our feet and stopped every 50 metres at another mural. You don&#8217;t need a guide, just open eyes. But if you want context and the stories behind the works, there are <strong>guided street art tours<\/strong> available on <a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"GetYourGuide\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/doporucujeme\/getyourguide\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">GetYourGuide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-cgb-block-gyg-wp-plugin\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"14_Day_trip_to_Ile_Sainte-Helene_and_La_Ronde\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"14_Day_trip_to_Ile_Sainte-Helene_and_La_Ronde\"><\/span>14. Day trip to \u00cele Sainte-H\u00e9l\u00e8ne and La Ronde<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-ile-sainte-helene.jpg\" alt=\"View of the Montreal skyline from Ile Sainte-Helene across the river\" class=\"wp-image-160754\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-ile-sainte-helene.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-ile-sainte-helene-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-ile-sainte-helene-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-ile-sainte-helene-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-ile-sainte-helene-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>\u00cele Sainte-H\u00e9l\u00e8ne is an island in the middle of the St. Lawrence River, just a short hop from downtown Montreal. Here you&#8217;ll find:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/espacepourlavie.ca\/en\/biosphere\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Biosph\u00e8re<\/a><\/strong> \u2014 the iconic geodesic dome (originally the American pavilion from Expo 67), now an environmental museum. Admission <strong>15.75 CAD (around \u20ac10)<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.parcjeandrapeau.com\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Parc Jean-Drapeau<\/a><\/strong> \u2014 a beautiful park for picnics and strolls with views of the Montreal skyline.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.laronde.com\/en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">La Ronde<\/a><\/strong> \u2014 a Six Flags theme park. If you love roller coasters, it makes for a fun afternoon. Admission from around <strong>55 CAD (\u20ac37)<\/strong>, but online advance tickets are usually discounted.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>You can reach the island by metro (<strong>Jean-Drapeau<\/strong> station, yellow line) in just a few minutes. It&#8217;s a pleasant escape from the city, especially on a hot summer day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Honest take:<\/strong> The Biosph\u00e8re is visually stunning (that dome!), but the exhibition inside is a bit disappointing \u2014 it&#8217;s aimed more at kids and students. If you&#8217;re short on time, skip it and head to Mont Royal instead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"15_Lachine_Canal_%E2%80%94_walks_cycling_and_brewery_trails\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"15_Lachine_Canal_walks_cycling_and_brewery_trails\"><\/span>15. Lachine Canal \u2014 walks, cycling, and brewery trails<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-7-lachinsky-kanal-s-byvalymi-tovarnami-v-montrealu-na-podzim.jpg\" alt=\"Lachine Canal with former factories in Montreal during autumn\" class=\"wp-image-160770\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-7-lachinsky-kanal-s-byvalymi-tovarnami-v-montrealu-na-podzim.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-7-lachinsky-kanal-s-byvalymi-tovarnami-v-montrealu-na-podzim-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-7-lachinsky-kanal-s-byvalymi-tovarnami-v-montrealu-na-podzim-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-7-lachinsky-kanal-s-byvalymi-tovarnami-v-montrealu-na-podzim-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/128935-7-lachinsky-kanal-s-byvalymi-tovarnami-v-montrealu-na-podzim-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Guilhem Vellut from Annecy, France \/ CC BY 2.0 \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Lachine Canal is an <strong>8.5 km waterway<\/strong> running southwest from the Old Port, lined with one of Montreal&#8217;s most beautiful cycle paths. Once an industrial zone, it&#8217;s now a gorgeous green oasis dotted with caf\u00e9s, galleries, and \u2014 most importantly \u2014 <strong>microbreweries<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We rented <strong>BIXI bikes<\/strong> and cycled the whole canal there and back in an afternoon. Along the way we stopped at the <strong>Atwater Cocktail Club<\/strong> (okay, it&#8217;s a bar not a brewery, but it&#8217;s excellent \ud83d\ude05) and at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.marchespublics-mtl.com\/en\/markets\/atwater-market\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Atwater Market<\/a>, where we refuelled with cheese and cider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tip:<\/strong> The entire route along the canal is flat and easy \u2014 perfect even if you&#8217;re not the sporty type. By bike it takes about an hour, on foot 2\u20133 hours. In summer you can also go paddleboarding and kayaking here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_eat_and_drink_in_Montreal_a_foodies_guide\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_eat_and_drink_in_Montreal_a_foodies_guide\"><\/span>What to eat and drink in Montreal: a foodie&#8217;s guide<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Montreal is a gastronomic paradise. Full stop. A city where French culinary tradition meets North American generosity in portion sizes, with added influence from immigrants from around the globe \u2014 the result is food you&#8217;ll be reminiscing about long after you get home. Here are the essential stops:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Smoked_meat_at_Schwartzs\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Smoked_meat_at_Schwartzs\"><\/span>Smoked meat at Schwartz&#8217;s<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.schwartzsdeli.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Schwartz&#8217;s Deli<\/a> has been going since 1928 and is the most famous deli in all of Canada. Their smoked meat sandwich (cured meat on rye bread with mustard) is a work of art. The meat is marinated for 10 days, then smoked and finally steamed \u2014 and the result is so tender and juicy that I ordered a second one. \ud83d\ude01<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Expect a queue<\/strong> \u2014 we waited about 25 minutes, but it moves quickly. A sandwich costs around <strong>14 CAD (about \u20ac9)<\/strong> and it&#8217;s worth every minute of waiting. Inside it&#8217;s tiny, cramped, they&#8217;ll seat you at a table with strangers, and the service is brusque \u2014 but that&#8217;s exactly how it should be. No fuss, no frills, just legendary food.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Alternative:<\/strong> If you&#8217;d rather skip the queue, <strong>Main Deli<\/strong> a few streets away is nearly as good and much quieter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Bagels_%E2%80%94_St-Viateur_vs_Fairmount\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Bagels_St-Viateur_vs_Fairmount\"><\/span>Bagels \u2014 St-Viateur vs. Fairmount<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Montreal bagels are <strong>completely different from New York ones<\/strong> \u2014 smaller, sweeter, denser, and baked in a <strong>wood-fired oven<\/strong>. And in Montreal, a fierce rivalry has raged for decades: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.stviateurbagel.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">St-Viateur Bagel<\/a> vs. <a href=\"https:\/\/fairmountbagel.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Fairmount Bagel<\/a>. Both bake 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and both claim to be the best.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We tried both (obviously \u2014 what else would you expect? \ud83d\ude05) and our verdict? <strong>St-Viateur<\/strong> edges it for the sesame bagel, while <strong>Fairmount<\/strong> wins with the all-dressed variety. But honestly \u2014 both are fantastic, and a bagel for <strong>1.25 CAD (less than \u00a31)<\/strong> is probably the cheapest gastronomic experience in the entire city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tip:<\/strong> Buy them fresh and warm, straight from the oven. No spread, no filling \u2014 just the bagel on its own. You&#8217;ll understand what all the fuss is about.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Poutine_at_La_Banquise\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Poutine_at_La_Banquise\"><\/span>Poutine at La Banquise<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Poutine \u2014 chips smothered in brown gravy and topped with squeaky cheese curds \u2014 is the unofficial national dish of Quebec. And <a href=\"https:\/\/labanquise.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">La Banquise<\/a> on the Plateau is its temple. They serve over <strong>30 varieties of poutine<\/strong>, from the classic to wild combinations with pulled pork, Mexican style, or merguez sausage. And they&#8217;re open <strong>24 hours a day, 7 days a week<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We turned up around eleven at night (as you do) and ordered the classic and one with pulled pork. The portions are <strong>enormous<\/strong> \u2014 one poutine for <strong>12\u201316 CAD (\u20ac8\u201311)<\/strong> can easily feed two people. This isn&#8217;t haute cuisine; it&#8217;s comfort food at its finest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"BeaverTails_and_maple_syrup\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"BeaverTails_and_maple_syrup\"><\/span>BeaverTails and maple syrup<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>BeaverTails<\/strong> (Queues de Castor) are flat fried dough stretched into the shape of a beaver&#8217;s tail and topped with sugar, cinnamon, Nutella, or maple syrup. You&#8217;ll find a kiosk at the Old Port and it&#8217;s the perfect <strong>street food<\/strong> snack at around <strong>7 CAD (about \u20ac5)<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And while we&#8217;re at it \u2014 buy your <strong>maple syrup<\/strong> at Jean-Talon Market directly from the farmers, not in the tourist souvenir shops. The quality is incomparably better and the price is lower too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_go_for_a_great_dinner_and_coffee\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_go_for_a_great_dinner_and_coffee\"><\/span>Where to go for a great dinner and coffee<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.joebeef.ca\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Joe Beef<\/a><\/strong> \u2014 a legendary Montreal restaurant if you want to treat yourself (mains from 40\u201370 CAD \/ \u20ac27\u201347). Book weeks in advance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>L&#8217;Entre-Pots<\/strong> \u2014 a cosy French bistro on the Plateau with excellent value for money.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Mon Lapin<\/strong> \u2014 natural wines and shared plates; hipster vibe, but the food is fantastic.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/crewcollectivecafe.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Crew Collective &amp; Caf\u00e9<\/a><\/strong> \u2014 coffee in a <strong>former bank<\/strong> with marble columns and 20-metre ceilings. One of the most beautiful caf\u00e9 spaces in the world, no exaggeration. The coffee is average, but you go for the setting. \ud83d\ude0a<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Caf\u00e9 Olimpico<\/strong> \u2014 a local legend in Mile End. No Wi-Fi, no tourists, just excellent espresso and authentic atmosphere since 1970.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Festivals_worth_visiting\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Festivals_worth_visiting\"><\/span>Festivals worth visiting<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Montreal is <strong>the number one festival city in North America<\/strong> \u2014 and that&#8217;s not hyperbole. If you can time your visit to coincide with one of the major festivals, the experience is amplified tenfold.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Montreal_International_Jazz_Festival_June%E2%80%93July\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Montreal_International_Jazz_Festival_June-July\"><\/span>Montreal International Jazz Festival (June\u2013July)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The biggest jazz festival in the world. Yes, the entire world. Over <strong>two million visitors<\/strong>, hundreds of concerts, and \u2014 here&#8217;s the best part \u2014 <strong>most outdoor concerts are free<\/strong>. The entire city centre turns into one massive music venue for 10 days. Even if you&#8217;re not a jazz fan, the atmosphere will sweep you up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Just_for_Laughs_Juste_pour_rire_July\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Just_for_Laughs_Juste_pour_rire_July\"><\/span>Just for Laughs \/ Juste pour rire (July)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The biggest comedy festival in the world. Street performances, stand-up comedy, improv \u2014 and again, loads of free entertainment on the streets. In July the city is literally filled with laughter on every corner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Igloofest_January%E2%80%93February\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Igloofest_January-February\"><\/span>Igloofest (January\u2013February)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re a bit mad (like me) and fancy visiting Montreal in winter, <a href=\"https:\/\/igloofest.ca\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Igloofest<\/a> is your reason. An outdoor electronic music festival at -15 \u00b0C where people dance in snowsuits and ridiculous outfits. It&#8217;s absurd, bonkers, and utterly unforgettable. \ud83d\ude05<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Nuit_Blanche_FebruaryMarch\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Nuit_Blanche_February_March\"><\/span>Nuit Blanche (February\/March)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>An all-night festival of art and culture \u2014 galleries, museums, and cultural spaces stay open through the night while dozens of art installations and performances pop up across the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Practical_tips_and_advice\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Practical_tips_and_advice\"><\/span>Practical tips and advice<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>To wrap up, here are some practical tips that&#8217;ll come in handy when planning your trip to Montreal. Everything from language and safety to where to find the cheapest flights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Language_%E2%80%94_%E2%80%9CBonjourHi%E2%80%9D\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Language_Bonjour_Hi\"><\/span>Language \u2014 &#8220;Bonjour\/Hi&#8221;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Montreal is officially a French-speaking city, but in practice it&#8217;s <strong>bilingual<\/strong>. In the centre and tourist areas you&#8217;ll get by perfectly in English. Locals in shops and restaurants will typically greet you with &#8220;Bonjour! Hi!&#8221; and you choose the language. But \u2014 and this is important \u2014 Montrealers <strong>really appreciate it when you at least try a bit of French<\/strong>. A simple &#8220;bonjour,&#8221; &#8220;merci,&#8221; or &#8220;s&#8217;il vous pla\u00eet&#8221; will make faces light up. \ud83d\ude0a<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Safety\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Safety\"><\/span>Safety<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Montreal is a <strong>very safe city<\/strong>. Use common sense of course (don&#8217;t leave belongings unattended, watch for pickpockets on the metro), but generally you can walk around late at night without worry. We walked back from La Banquise around midnight through the Plateau and felt completely at ease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Tipping\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Tipping\"><\/span>Tipping<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Tipping in Canada is <strong>essentially mandatory<\/strong>. In restaurants, <strong>15\u201320%<\/strong> is expected; in bars, <strong>1\u20132 CAD per drink<\/strong>; for taxi drivers, <strong>10\u201315%<\/strong>. Leave less than 15% and the server will assume something went wrong. Yes, it adds up significantly \u2014 factor it into your budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Plug_adapter\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Plug_adapter\"><\/span>Plug adapter<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Canada uses <strong>North American plugs<\/strong> (Type A\/B) \u2014 if you&#8217;re travelling from the UK, you&#8217;ll need an adapter. Buy one before you go; they cost three times as much at the airport.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Travel_insurance\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Travel_insurance\"><\/span>Travel insurance<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Definitely travel to Canada <strong>with insurance<\/strong>. Healthcare for foreigners in Canada is astronomically expensive \u2014 even a simple trip to A&#038;E can cost thousands of pounds. Have a look at our <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/safetywing-travel-insurance-review\/\">travel insurance review<\/a> where we compare different options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_pack\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_pack\"><\/span>What to pack<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>It depends on the season. In summer, light clothing is fine, but always throw in a <strong>lightweight jacket or hoodie<\/strong> \u2014 the air conditioning in buildings is fierce, and evenings by the river can be chilly. In autumn, layer up \u2014 mornings can be 5 \u00b0C and afternoons 18 \u00b0C. Comfortable <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/how-choose-hiking-boots\/\">walking shoes<\/a> are essential as you&#8217;ll be on your feet a lot. And if you&#8217;re not sure what to bring, check out our guide on <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/carry-on-packing-tips\/\">how to pack carry-on only<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_find_flights\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_find_flights\"><\/span>Where to find flights<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For cheap flights to Montreal, search on <strong>Skyscanner or Google Flights<\/strong> \u2014 set up price alerts and keep an eye out for deals. Direct flights from London Heathrow to Montreal run year-round with Air Canada and British Airways. You can sometimes find bargains on connecting flights too \u2014 routes via Reykjav\u00edk with Icelandair or via Dublin with Aer Lingus can be surprisingly good value.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Car_hire\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Car_hire\"><\/span>Car hire<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re planning day trips out of Montreal (the Laurentians, Quebec City, the Eastern Townships), a car is very handy. We regularly use <strong><a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"RentalCars.com\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/doporucujeme\/rentalcars-com\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">RentalCars<\/a>.com<\/strong>, where you can compare prices from all the major agencies at once. By the way, if you&#8217;re planning a <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/western-canada-road-trip-itinerary\/\">road trip across Canada<\/a>, a rental car is absolutely essential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Booking_accommodation\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Booking_accommodation\"><\/span>Booking accommodation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Booking.com\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/doporucujeme\/booking-com-2\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">Booking.com<\/a><\/strong> is our go-to for finding hotels \u2014 it&#8217;s clear, reliable, and most properties offer free cancellation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mobile_data_and_eSIM\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mobile_data_and_eSIM\"><\/span>Mobile data and eSIM<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>To stay connected in Canada without any hassle, we recommend getting an <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/holafly-esim-review-travel\/\">eSIM from Holafly<\/a>. You activate it before you fly and the moment you land, you have data \u2014 no hunting for a local SIM card.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And if you&#8217;re thinking of extending your trip with a visit to <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/niagara-falls-canada-tips\/\">Niagara Falls<\/a>, it&#8217;s definitely worth it \u2014 it&#8217;s a fair distance from Montreal, but you can easily combine it with a stopover in Toronto.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQ_%E2%80%94_7_most_common_questions_about_Montreal\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQ_7_most_common_questions_about_Montreal\"><\/span>FAQ \u2014 7 most common questions about Montreal<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>To finish, here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions from readers planning a trip to Montreal.<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1739712000001\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_many_days_do_I_need_for_Montreal\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_many_days_do_I_need_for_Montreal\"><\/span>How many days do I need for Montreal?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Three days is the minimum, but ideally 4\u20135. In three days you can cover Old Montreal, Mont Royal, the Plateau, and the main food stops. With five days you can take things at a slower pace, visit \u00cele Sainte-H\u00e9l\u00e8ne, cycle the Lachine Canal, and really explore the city in depth. If you&#8217;re planning day trips out of the city (Quebec City is 2.5 hours by car and absolutely worth it), add another 2\u20133 days.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1739712000002\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_Montreal_expensive\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_Montreal_expensive\"><\/span>Is Montreal expensive?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Montreal is cheaper than Toronto, Vancouver, or New York, but still pricier than most European cities. Lunch at a restaurant costs 15\u201325 CAD (\u20ac10\u201317) plus tip, dinner 25\u201350 CAD (\u20ac17\u201334). Accommodation from around \u20ac95\/night (mid-range). Where you can save: admission to the Mus\u00e9e des beaux-arts is free, many outdoor festivals are free, and food at the markets is significantly cheaper than in restaurants.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1739712000003\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_people_speak_English_in_Montreal\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_people_speak_English_in_Montreal\"><\/span>Do people speak English in Montreal?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes, in the centre and tourist areas you&#8217;ll get by in English without any problems. Montreal is essentially a bilingual city. Some restaurants on the Plateau or in Mile End may have French-only menus, but the staff will always switch to English. Locals appreciate it if you at least try a few words of French.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1739712000004\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_is_the_best_time_to_visit_Montreal\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_is_the_best_time_to_visit_Montreal\"><\/span>When is the best time to visit Montreal?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>June to October. Summer (June\u2013August) is peak season with festivals and the best weather. September and October (Indian summer) are even more beautiful \u2014 fewer tourists, stunning autumn colours, pleasant temperatures. Avoid January to March unless you thrive in freezing cold.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1739712000005\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_I_need_a_visa_for_Canada\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_I_need_a_visa_for_Canada\"><\/span>Do I need a visa for Canada?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>UK citizens don&#8217;t need a visa, but you must obtain an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) in advance for 7 CAD (around \u00a34). You can apply online in minutes at the official Canadian government website (canada.ca). Beware of third-party sites that charge inflated fees.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1739712000006\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_do_I_get_from_the_airport_to_downtown_Montreal\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_do_I_get_from_the_airport_to_downtown_Montreal\"><\/span>How do I get from the airport to downtown Montreal?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>The cheapest option is the 747 Express bus, which runs from Trudeau Airport directly to downtown (stops at Lionel-Groulx and Berri-UQAM metro stations). The journey takes 45\u201360 minutes, costs 11 CAD (around \u20ac7.50), and includes unlimited public transport rides for 24 hours. A taxi or Uber costs 40\u201355 CAD (\u20ac27\u201337) and takes 20\u201340 minutes depending on traffic.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1739712000007\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_Montreal_safe\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_Montreal_safe\"><\/span>Is Montreal safe?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes, Montreal is one of the safest major cities in North America. Violent crime is low, public transport is safe even in the evening, and you can walk through most neighbourhoods without worry. As anywhere \u2014 keep an eye on your valuables on the metro and in touristy areas, but otherwise you&#8217;ll feel completely safe.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<!-- LKM_GYG_CARD start q=\"kanada\" lang=\"en\" rendered=\"2026-05-15T06:06:15+00:00\" v=\"1\" -->\n\n<!-- LKM_GYG_CARD end -->\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>French charm, English energy, and street culture on every corner \u2014 Montreal is the most European city in North America. A guide with 15 tips: from the cobblestone lanes of Old Montreal and the views from Mont Royal to the best bagels and poutine.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":160746,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","rank_math_title":"","rank_math_description":"","rank_math_focus_keyword":"","rank_math_seo_score":""},"categories":[391,374,320],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-161046","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-canada","8":"category-north-america","9":"category-travel"},"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/montreal-panorama-reka.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"Lucie Kone\u010dn\u00e1","author_link":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/author\/lucie-konecna\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/161046","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=161046"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/161046\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":162055,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/161046\/revisions\/162055"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/160746"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=161046"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=161046"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=161046"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}