Top 10 Things To Do In Montreal, Quebec

Montreal, located on an island in the St. Lawrence River, is the vibrant metropolis of Quebec, Canada’s largest province. The name of this vibrant city is derived from the iconic Mount Royal, a three-peaked hill in the center of the city. Its diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character, range from the historic, cobblestone streets of Vieux-Montreal, clustered around the impressive Notre-Dame Basilica, to the bohemian atmosphere of Plateau.

1. Old Montreal

People meander at the junction of Rue Saint-Paul and Rue Saint-Vincent in the Old Montreal section of Montreal.

Montreal’s oldest neighborhood, founded in 1642, combines old-world charm with youthful vibrancy. Cobblestone streets and historic sites alternate with modern boutiques, cafés and restaurants. The waterfront promenade of the Old Harbor is perfect for walks and boat trips during the day, while in the evening there is a lively restaurant and nightlife scene. Events such as Igloofest, an open-air music festival, make the city a hotspot all year round. Old Montreal is a captivating mix of history and modern thrills.

2.Notre-Dame Basilica

Built in the early 19th century and elevated to basilica status in 1982, Notre-Dame Church is a masterpiece of neo-Gothic architecture and a landmark of Montreal’s old town. The entrance fee of C$ 6 is worth it to admire its breathtaking beauty. Don’t miss the Aura sound and light show, which takes place Tuesdays to Saturdays at 6 and 8 pm and Sundays at 7 and 9 pm and emphasises the majestic atmosphere of the basilica.

3. Mount Royal

Montreal, Canada – 11 October 2022: Mont-Royal Mount from Mc Tavish Street in Autumn

The 233 meter high Mount Royal is a natural paradise in Montreal. It offers sights such as the Mount Royal Chalet, picturesque viewpoints, the famous Mount Royal Cross and much more. Café des Amis, a charming restaurant overlooking Beaver Lake, is an ideal place for a break or lunch.

4. Montreal Museum of Fine Arts

The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, one of Canada’s largest museums, is just a short walk from the Old City. It displays a wide range of art forms, from fashion to music, and houses both permanent and temporary exhibitions. The museum also houses a concert hall, and you can enjoy snacks and refreshments at the Beaux-Arts Bistro during your visit.

5. Sainte Catherine Street

Montreal, Canada – June 13, 2015: Pedestrians and traffic on the busy Saint Catherine Street, the main street in the city containing many retail stores, restaurants, bars and strip clubs.

Sainte Catherine Street in Montreal is the city’s shopping centre and offers a wide range of stores, from high-end designers to local boutiques and souvenir stores. It stretches nine miles from east to west through the city centre and offers a variety of experiences at every corner with numerous restaurants, bars and cafés. In summer, the terraces bring the street to life.

6. The Underground City

Montreal: Underground city shopping mall in downtown area at Niveau Metro in Quebec region

Montreal’s famous “underground city”,” the RÉSO, with 20 miles of tunnels connecting stores, subways and buildings. Accessible from hotels, subway stations and the street, it leads to 2,000 stores, 17 museums, an arena, a movie theatre and much more. Join the 500,000 daily visitors to escape the cold, shop and discover the city underground.

7. Jean-Talon Market

Montreal, Canada – August 23, 2014: Croweded entrance of the Jean-Talon Market in Montreal. This is the biggest open-air market in Montreal. Created in 1933, Jean-Talon Market is a four season market but the open-air area is only open from April to October.

Montreal’s lively Jean-Talon Market, a true Little Italy farmer’s market since 1933. Mingle with the locals and buy fresh produce, meat, fish, cheese and more. Enjoy homemade ice cream, wine, pizza and street food in cozy cafés and restaurants and immerse yourself in the daily life of the city.

8. Place des Festivals

Montreal, Province of Quebec, Canada – June 10, 2016: Crowd in front of the main stage in Francofolies music Festival

Discover the heart of downtown Montreal in the Quartier des spectacles, where the lively Place des Festivals is located. This lively public square hosts major festivals such as Just for Laughs and the Montreal Jazz Festival, with free shows and concerts throughout the year. Enjoy Canada’s largest interactive fountain, illuminated by four towering light structures, and dine in two glass-walled restaurants. No matter when you visit Montreal, the Place des Festivals always has something exciting to offer.

9. Montreal Botanical Garden

“Chinese Garden in the Botanical Garden of Montreal, Canada.See more images of Montreal:”

A 190-hectare oasis of natural beauty in the heart of the vibrant city of Montreal at the Botanical Gardens. Stroll through 10 expansive greenhouses, each with its own theme, where over 22,000 plant species grow. Find peace under the bonsai trees in the Japanese Garden or immerse yourself in the principles of yin and yang in the Chinese Garden, which features designs from the Ming Dynasty. Enjoy year-round relaxation in this urban oasis.

10. Saint Joseph’s Oratory

A mesmerizing shot of the St Joseph Oratory of Mount Royal in Montreal, Canada on sunny day under blue sky

The splendor of Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal, a magnificent Catholic basilica founded by Saint Brother André, known for countless miraculous healings. This pilgrimage site, which attracts more than 2 million religious and secular visitors every year, has the third largest dome in the world, surpassed only by the buildings in Côte d’Ivoire and Rome. The Saint Joseph Oratory is a true architectural jewel in Montreal that captivates all who see it.

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