30 Things to Do in Montreal
Montreal offers a captivating fusion of North American dynamism and European flair, a city where French and English mingle effortlessly on cobblestone streets and modern skyscrapers rise alongside historic churches. Its unique cultural blend creates an exciting atmosphere, with countless discoveries awaiting around every corner, including many delightful free things to do in Montreal like wandering through charming neighborhoods or relaxing in scenic parks. This bilingual metropolis is known for its festivals, food scene, and joie de vivre.
This guide maps out 30 distinct experiences to help you navigate the best of Montreal. From exploring the historic heart of Old Montreal and scaling its namesake mountain to indulging in local delicacies and soaking up artistic expressions, prepare to be charmed by the city’s diverse attractions. Get ready to embrace the unique spirit of this Canadian gem.
Historic Old Montreal Charm
Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal: Step inside this stunning Gothic Revival basilica in Old Montreal to witness its incredibly ornate interior, famed for its deep blue vaulted ceilings and intricate woodwork. Attending the AURA light show offers a modern, immersive experience within the historic space.
Stroll Through Place Jacques-Cartier: Experience the lively atmosphere of this historic square in Old Montreal, bustling with street artists, performers, and outdoor cafes during warmer months. Admire the view towards City Hall and Nelson’s Column while soaking up the vibrant energy.
Explore the Old Port (Vieux-Port): Walk along the picturesque waterfront of the Old Port, offering recreational activities, boat tours, the Montreal Science Centre, and the Grande Roue de Montréal observation wheel. It’s a beautiful area for a stroll with views of the St. Lawrence River.
Pointe-à-Callière, Montréal Archaeology and History Complex: Discover the birthplace of Montreal through fascinating archaeological remains and multimedia exhibits located directly on an authentic national historic site. It provides a deep dive into the city’s origins and evolution.
Bonsecours Market (Marché Bonsecours): Admire the beautiful neoclassical architecture of this historic public market building in Old Montreal, now housing Quebec artisan boutiques and restaurants. It’s a lovely spot to browse local crafts and design.
Majestic Views & Green Spaces
Mount Royal Park: Ascend Frederick Law Olmsted-designed Mount Royal Park for breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline from the Kondiaronk Belvedere lookout. Enjoy walking trails, Beaver Lake (Lac aux Castors), and winter activities in this urban oasis.
Montreal Tower at Olympic Park: Ride the funicular up the world’s tallest inclined tower, part of the complex built for the 1976 Summer Olympics. The observation deck provides spectacular views reaching up to 80 kilometers on clear days.
Lachine Canal National Historic Site: Walk, bike, or kayak along this historic canal path stretching through southwestern Montreal. Enjoy green spaces, recreational activities, and see remnants of the city’s industrial past.
Parc Jean-Drapeau: Explore this park spread across two islands (Île Sainte-Hélène and Île Notre-Dame) in the St. Lawrence River, accessible by metro. It hosts major events, the Biosphere, La Ronde amusement park, and offers lovely city views.
Montreal Botanical Garden (Jardin Botanique): Wander through one of the world’s largest botanical gardens, featuring diverse themed gardens, greenhouses, and the Insectarium. The Chinese and Japanese gardens are particularly stunning highlights.
World-Class Museums & Art
Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des beaux-arts): Discover an extensive collection of international art, Canadian art, and decorative arts housed across several pavilions. The museum frequently hosts major temporary exhibitions, offering a rich cultural experience.
McCord Stewart Museum: Explore Montreal’s social history through fascinating exhibitions focusing on Indigenous cultures, historical photography, costumes, and decorative arts. It provides insight into the city’s past and people.
Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal (MAC): Engage with contemporary art from Quebecois, Canadian, and international artists through thought-provoking exhibitions. Located at Place des Arts, it’s the heart of Montreal’s modern art scene.
Montreal Science Centre: Enjoy interactive exhibits exploring science and technology in an engaging way, perfect for families. Located in the Old Port, it makes learning fun and hands-on.
Montreal Biodome: Journey through five distinct ecosystems of the Americas—from tropical rainforest to subpolar regions—all housed under one roof within the former Olympic Velodrome. Observe diverse plants and animals in their simulated natural habitats.
Exploring Diverse Neighborhoods
Plateau Mont-Royal: Wander the charming streets of the Plateau, known for its colorful houses with distinctive spiral staircases, independent boutiques, and cafes. It offers a quintessential Montreal vibe.
Mile End: Explore this trendy neighborhood known for its artistic community, indie music venues, vintage shops, and iconic bagel bakeries. It’s a hub for creative energy and local flavor.
The Village (Le Village): Stroll through Montreal’s vibrant LGBTQ+ district along Sainte-Catherine Street East, especially known for its pedestrian-only zone decorated with pink balls in summer. Discover its many bars, restaurants, and lively atmosphere.
Little Italy: Experience the Italian community’s heart near the Jean-Talon Market, enjoying authentic trattorias, cafes, and specialty food shops. It’s a great place for delicious food and neighborhood charm.
Chinatown: Explore the compact but vibrant Chinatown near Old Montreal, marked by its traditional gate (paifang). Discover Asian restaurants, grocery stores, and unique shops offering a taste of East Asian culture.
A Taste of Montreal Flavors
Eat Montreal Bagels: Try the city’s distinct style of bagel – smaller, denser, and sweeter than New York style – boiled in honey water and baked in a wood-fired oven. Visit iconic spots like St-Viateur Bagel or Fairmount Bagel for a fresh taste.
Devour Montreal Smoked Meat: Indulge in a famous Montreal smoked meat sandwich, typically piled high on rye bread with mustard. Schwartz’s Deli is legendary, but other delis offer their own delicious versions.
Sample Poutine: Taste Quebec’s iconic dish of french fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. Find classic versions or gourmet variations at restaurants all across the city.
Jean-Talon Market: Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of one North America’s largest open-air markets in Little Italy. Browse fresh Quebec produce, cheeses, meats, maple products, and flowers for a feast for the senses.
Atwater Market: Visit this beautiful Art Deco market building near the Lachine Canal, known for its butchers, cheese shops, and fresh produce. It offers a charming market experience with excellent quality goods.
Unique City Experiences
Underground City (RESO): Explore Montreal’s vast network of interconnected tunnels linking shopping malls, metro stations, hotels, and office buildings beneath the downtown core. It provides a climate-controlled way to navigate the city, especially in winter.
La Ronde Amusement Park: Enjoy thrilling rides and entertainment at this Six Flags amusement park located on Île Sainte-Hélène. It’s home to the Montreal International Fireworks Competition during the summer.
Attend a Festival: Depending on the season, experience one of Montreal’s world-renowned festivals, such as the Montreal International Jazz Festival, Just for Laughs comedy festival, or Osheaga music festival. Check the city’s calendar for major cultural events.
Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal: Visit this massive basilica with its huge copper dome, a national shrine and major pilgrimage site located on Mount Royal’s Westmount Summit. Explore the chapels, gardens, and enjoy impressive views.
Biosphere Environment Museum: Explore the exhibits focused on environmental issues housed within the striking geodesic dome designed by Buckminster Fuller for Expo 67. Located on Île Sainte-Hélène, it offers engaging ecological education.
