A blend of French and English lifestyles, Montreal is renowned for its food, festivities and an innate appreciation for the arts. This large metropolitan area offers architectural wonders interwoven with modern hotspots and irresistible tourist attractions.

Things to do

If you’re looking for shopping and dining, Le Plateau is the place to go. Boutique shops are sprinkled throughout the residential region and many commercial areas, highlighted by the main Boulevard St-Laurent. A blend of upscale shops is scattered alongside vinyl record stores and hipster’s joints, making for an eclectic retail haven.

Old Montreal serves as the hub for historical homes and museums, including the Montreal Museum of Archeology and History and the Montréal Science Centre, a modern location that offers interactive science exhibits and IMAX movies. The Marguerite-Bourgeoys Museum and Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel is the oldest stone church in Montreal holds a collection of rare artefacts.

The Notre-Dame Basilica is a must-see, best known for its vibrant display of Gothic Revival architecture. If you’re looking for a good photograph, head up to the Observation Deck Au Sommet Place Ville Marie, which offers exquisite views of the downtown area sprawling out below you.

The Museum of Fine Arts is a final noteworthy attraction, renowned for its comprehensive collection of paintings, prints and photographs. A perfect exploration for history buffs, enjoy viewing the displays of aboriginal artefacts and vintage Victorian chests.

Getting around

Located just 20 minutes from the Montréal–Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport, Montreal is home to an efficient transit system. There are also plenty of taxi services available, but the public subway system is well-designed and easy to use. Getting around on foot or by bicycle is the quickest form of transit.