Montreal - Discovering Canada

Travelling to Montreal

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Montreal, a pretty good destination in Canada (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Montreal and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Montreal, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Canada, here's everything to know about Montreal for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Montreal

Montreal is a city located in the province of Quebec, in Canada. It is the second-largest city in Canada after Toronto and has a population of approximately 1.7 million people. The official languages spoken in Montreal are French and English, but French is the predominant language.
Montreal is known for its rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its architecture, music, and cuisine. It is also a major center for commerce, technology, and education, with several top-ranked universities located in the city.
Some of the popular attractions in Montreal include the historic Old Montreal district, the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, Mount Royal Park, the Notre-Dame Basilica, and the vibrant Saint-Laurent Boulevard. The city is also known for its festivals, including the Montreal Jazz Festival, the Montreal Just for Laughs Festival, and the Montreal International Fireworks Festival.

What to visit in Montreal

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Montreal, Canada, along with some information about them: 1. Old Montreal: Known as the historic district of Montreal, it is a charming neighborhood where you can take a stroll down the cobblestone streets and admire the beautiful architecture of the old buildings, including the Notre-Dame Basilica.
2. Mount Royal: A hill located in the middle of the city, which offers a beautiful view of Montreal. On the top of the hill, there are several activities to do such as hike, bike or cross-country ski.
3. St. Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal: A large Roman Catholic church located on the slopes of Mount Royal, it is a must-visit for those interested in religious history.
4. Montreal Botanical Garden: This garden is located close to Olympic Stadium and is home to a vast collection of plants from around the world. Visitors can stroll through the many gardens and greenhouses, which include a Japanese garden and a Chinese garden.
5. Montreal Museum of Fine Arts: One of Canada's most prominent art museums, it features a vast collection of work from various artists dating back to the 19th century, including art pieces from Canada's first peoples.
6. Jean-Talon Market: This public market is a favorite destination for foodies. It features a wide range of fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and more. It is located in Little Italy which is close to the metro station.
7. Biosphere Environmental Museum: located on Île Sainte-Hélène, it is a unique museum featuring interactive exhibits and displays about the environment and ecological awareness.
8. Pointe-à-Callière Museum: It is the city’s archeological museum, where visitors can learn about the history of Montreal from the Indigenous period to the present-day.
9. La Ronde: An amusement park that is home to a wide range of rides and attractions, including roller coasters and water rides. It is located on Île Sainte-Hélène, and it is a great place to go with family and friends.
These are just some of the many tourist attractions that Montreal has to offer. There is so much to see and do in the city, and it is always worth exploring!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Canada, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Montreal.

When to go on holiday to Montreal

The best time to visit Montreal depends on your preferences and what you want to experience during your trip. The summer season (June to August) is the most popular time to visit Montreal. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and there are plenty of outdoor festivals and events to enjoy, including the Montreal International Jazz Festival, Just For Laughs Comedy Festival, and the Montreal International Fireworks Competition.
If you prefer cooler weather, you may enjoy visiting Montreal in the fall (September to November). During this time, the leaves change color, and the city is full of cozy cafes, restaurants, and bars to explore.
For winter sports enthusiasts, visiting Montreal during the winter months (December to February) offers opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. The city's Winter Festival and Montreal en Lumière (Montreal in Lights) are also popular events during this time.
Finally, spring (March to May) is another great time to visit Montreal if you enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. The city is full of blooming flowers and outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnics in the park.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Montreal

There are several ways to get to Montreal (Canada), depending on your starting location and budget: 1. By plane: If you are coming from another country, the best way to get to Montreal is by plane. Fortunately, Montreal has a large international airport, Montreal–Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport, which serves numerous airlines flying in from all over the world.
2. By train: Via Rail Canada operates frequent trains between Montreal and other Canadian cities, as well as select US destinations like New York City.
3. By bus: Numerous bus companies operate to and from Montreal, including Greyhound, Megabus, and Coach Canada. 4. By car: If you are already in Canada or the northeastern United States, you can drive to Montreal using the highway network.
Keep in mind that travel restrictions and regulations vary by region and country, so be sure to check the latest guidelines before planning your trip.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Montreal, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Montreal

Sure, here are some typical foods of Montreal, Canada: 1. Poutine - A dish made of French fries, cheese curds, and gravy. It is often considered the ultimate Canadian comfort food.
2. Smoked meat sandwich - A sandwich made with smoked and spiced cured beef brisket, typically served on rye bread with mustard.
3. Bagels - Montreal-style bagels are smaller, sweeter, and denser than their New York-style counterparts. They are often coated in sesame or poppy seeds.
4. Tourtière - A meat pie traditionally made with pork and spices and served during the holiday season in Quebec.
5. Montreal-style steak seasoning - A seasoning blend made of garlic, onion, salt, black pepper, and other spices commonly used to season steak.
6. Maple syrup - Canada is famous for its maple syrup, which is used as a sweetener in many dishes and treats.
7. Montreal-style smoked salmon - Cold-smoked salmon that has been brined and seasoned with herbs and spices, and is often served on bagels or crackers. 8. Baked beans - A traditional Quebecois dish of baked beans in a tomato and molasses sauce, sometimes served with pork.
9. Sugar pie - A classic Quebec dessert made with maple syrup, brown sugar, cream, and flour baked in a pie crust.
10. Gnocchi poutine - A twist on the classic poutine, this dish replaces the French fries with soft, pillowy gnocchi, and is topped with cheese curds and gravy.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any more questions.
You can find general info about typical foods in Canada here.

Is Montreal an expensive destination for tourists?

Montreal can be considered relatively expensive compared to other cities in Canada. However, the cost of your trip will depend on several factors such as the time of year you visit, the type of accommodation you choose, the activities you plan to do, and your overall spending habits. In general, high season (summer) and peak holiday periods will be more expensive. Nevertheless, there are still many ways to plan an affordable trip to Montreal, including finding good deals on accommodation, using public transportation, and researching free or low-cost activities to do in the city.

Where to find accomodation in Montreal

The best areas to find accommodation when visiting Montreal, Canada include: 1. Downtown: It's a central and vibrant neighborhood with a variety of hotels, restaurants, shopping, and nightlife.
2. Old Montreal: This historic neighborhood is home to charming cobblestone streets, boutique hotels, and iconic landmarks like Notre-Dame Basilica.
3. Plateau Mont-Royal: This hip neighborhood is known for its trendy shops, cafes, and artisanal eateries, as well as its street art and unique architecture.
4. Mile End: Another trendy area, Mile End is particularly famous for its bagel shops and indie music scene.
5. Griffintown: This rapidly growing district boasts a mix of modern condos, restaurants, and nightlife, as well as easy access to the Lachine Canal and Old Montreal.
You can check hotel prices at Montreal here:
Booking.com

Is Montreal a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Montreal is generally considered a safe place for tourists. It has a low crime rate compared to other North American cities, and most areas of the city are safe to explore during the day and at night. However, like any city, there are certain areas that are more prone to crime or may have more safety concerns, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions while traveling. Additionally, it's always a good idea to research the specific neighborhoods you plan to visit and avoid any areas with a high crime rate.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Canada here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Montreal.

What type of travelers will enjoy Montreal the most?

Montreal is a great destination for couples, young people, and families alike. It offers a diverse range of attractions and activities that can cater to the interests of different types of travelers. Couples may enjoy the city's romantic atmosphere and scenic spots, such as Mount Royal Park, Old Montreal, and the Lachine Canal. There are also plenty of cozy cafes, gastronomic restaurants, and nightlife options that can enhance their romantic getaway.
Young people can find plenty of entertainment and fun in Montreal, especially during the summer festival season. The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, music, and food scene. Some of the popular summer festivals include the Montreal International Jazz Festival and Just for Laughs.
Families can also have a great time in Montreal with their children. The city offers numerous family-friendly attractions, such as the Biodome, Botanical Garden, and the Montreal Science Center. There are also plenty of outdoor activities available, such as biking, paddling, and hiking in the nearby parks. Overall, Montreal is a city that offers something for everyone, making it a great destination for all types of travelers.

How to get around Montreal

In Montreal, you can move around using the metro, buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft. The metro system is extensive and covers most areas of the city, making it an affordable and convenient option. Buses cover some areas that the metro doesn't, and taxis and ride-sharing services can be more expensive but also more convenient for shorter trips or when traveling in larger groups. Additionally, there are bike-sharing programs available in Montreal, as well as rental cars if that is more your preference.

What to see around Montreal

Certainly! Here are a few nice places for a day trip from Montreal: 1. Mont-Tremblant: A beautiful ski resort area with lots of outdoor activities and stunning nature.
2. Quebec City: A historic city with charming streets, old buildings, and amazing architecture.
3. Ottawa: Canada's capital city, where you'll find museums, galleries, and plenty of heritage sites.
4. Laurentian Mountains: A scenic area filled with lakes, forests, and hiking trails. Perfect for nature lovers.
5. Eastern Townships: A picturesque region with charming towns, rolling hills, and lots of vineyards.
6. Thousand Islands: A group of islands on the St. Lawrence River with scenic tours, cruises, and lots of fun activities.
7. Vaudreuil-Dorion: A charming suburb with great dining options, outdoor activities, and historic sites.
For every travel information about Canada you can click here.

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