The essential guide to discovering Montréal

How to get there

Montreal is served by Pierre-Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL), by train with the VIA Rail Central Station, and by bus via the gare d’autocars de Montréal. The city is also easy to reach by car from Quebec and Ottawa, in roughly two hours.

Getting around in Montreal

Thanks to the STM’s network of city buses and 4 different metro (subway) lines, moving around Montreal is a cinch. Purchase a 1-day, 3-day or unlimited weekend transit pass to get from A to B hassle-free. For a handy way to zip around while discovering the city, the Bixi bike-sharing system is ideal, particularly given Montreal’s impressive network of bike paths. Finally, the curious will enjoy traversing the city core via the underground network. 

The best time to visit Montreal

Much like the rest of Canada, the weather in Montreal changes with the seasons; but it’s beautiful at any time of the year. For a spring or summer visit, make sure to pack clothing that’s appropriate for rainy and hot days; then plan on warmer garments for fall and winter. Ultimately, layers are always the wisest choice!

Day 1

Morning: Breakfast or brunch is an art that can be enjoyed in countless ways in Montreal. If you can’t wait to start exploring the city, from Alt Hotel Griffintown, opt for a quick latte and sinfully delicious pastry from Bête à pain. But if you’d like to take things a little slower, head to Le Richmond to savour their decadent Saturday and Sunday brunch menu. From Hotel Le Germain Montréal, head to Universel Déjeuners et Grillades for a gourmet lunch plate.

Let your feet guide you to Old Montreal. Notre-Dame Basilica, Marché Bonsecours, Place Jacques-Cartier, Saint-Paul Street… in the space of a few hours you’ll have captured all the icons of the old town in photographs. Don’t leave the area without stopping by The Pepin Shop—as much for their secret alley as for their boutique filled with home decor treasures!

Grab a bite at La Catrina, a Mexican restaurant; or if the weather’s fine, enjoy the menu and the tranquil patio of Jardin Nelson.

Afternoon

For museum lovers, head to Arsenal Contemporary Art to take in the current exhibition. If you’re feeling like a more leisurely afternoon, Bota-Bota spa-sur-l’eau offers you a dose of relaxation and a larger-than-life view.

Insider tip: Take advantage of the sun’s last rays by enjoying a cocktail at floating café-bar Canal Lounge, a small boat with a few seats that’s docked on the Atwater Canal next to the eponymous market.

Evening

When the sun goes down, Montreal springs to life! The Corona Theatre is one of several venues in Montreal where you can take in musical performances of every genre (consult the schedules: M Telus, Olympia, St-Denis and Place des Arts host every type of spectacle). A few steps away, dine at the famous Joe Beef (if you’re fortunate enough to snag a reservation!), or the fabulous Vin Papillon, one of the many wine bars catering to your tasting pleasure. The first is an institution for bon vivants in search of decadent cuisine for generous appetites. The second, by the same owners, are masters at crafting small plates where seasonal vegetables take top billing.

Insider tip: Top off the evening at Milky Way Cocktail Bar, a speakeasy with an original concept in Pointe-Saint-Charles.

Day 2

Morning

Start the day off on the right foot in Mile-End, which has loads more to offer beyond the headquarters of video game giants (including the best known of all, Ubisoft). Don’t leave Montreal without having tasted the famous bagels of St-Viateur Bagel. Stop by Fairmount Bagel, a few steps away, and bring some of each back to your hotel to answer the question that has been the hot debate of Montrealers for decades: which of these institutions makes the best bagels! You can also stock up on quirky accessories and unique clothing at Annex Vintage. In fact, the area is brimming with so many destinations like these, you could easily spend a full day here.

Insider tip: You’ll have a fit perusing the largest collection of jeans of every style at Jeans Jeans Jeans. While the warehouse-like space doesn’t exude a ton of charm, the colourful and memorable customer service staff practically guarantee you'll leave with the denim of your dreams!

Afternoon

The Plateau Mont-Royal is one of those neighbourhoods that give big cities their unique identity and charm. Beyond its thoroughfares, charming cafes and local boutiques, the streets explode with colour, the row houses lending the area a kind of magical aura. Sink your teeth into a grilled cheese at Lapin Pressé, unless you’re craving a classic poutine… then head for La Banquise. If you’re in the mood to take your feast to go, stroll along Laurier Street and Mont-Royal Avenue and savour the renowned gravy-covered delicacy in Laurier or Lafontaine Park (but don't linger too long, otherwise the cheese curds will have melted and won’t squeak between your teeth—an essential part of the experience!)

Evening

Gradually make your way back to your hotel, making a stop at Quartier des Spectacles. A magnet for Montreal’s biggest festivals, it’s also where you can shriek with laughter at The Comedy Nest, feel a stir of emotion at the Théâtre du Nouveau Monde, or immerse yourself in the sweet sounds of the Orchestre Métropolitain at La Maison Symphonique. Enjoy ice cream covered in decadent chocolate from Chocolat Favoris while you watch the water fountains dance in the night.

Insider tip: In summer, fall under the spell of parc Hydro-Québec: a refreshing little oasis under the trees, between St-Urbain and Clarke streets.

If you’re staying a little longer:

Sports enthusiasts can learn to surf a few minutes from the city centre or rent a board and ride the Vague à Guy. And since Montreal is a winter destination, you can cross-country ski almost anywhere. Why not rent some gear and explore the city differently? Runners in search of a challenge or a training partner can join the groups at MAA. One of the oldest sports clubs in the city, it offers outings to Mount Royal and track practice at McGill University. Finally, there’s something for those cyclists who don’t go anywhere without their wheels: in addition to the city’s hundreds of kilometres of trails and bike lanes, you can take a spin on the Gilles-Villeneuve circuit or challenge yourself on the Camilien-Houde ascent, which is part of the route of the Grand Prix Cycliste de Montréal.

The city exudes a cultural diversity that translates marvellously onto the plate; foodies will be thrilled with the range of gourmet delicacies available. Take the metro (subway) to the Jean-Talon station and explore the eponymous market. Discover what local growers have on offer and feast your way through a smorgasbord of food counters. In the surrounding streets and throughout the Parc Extension borough, you’ll find Mexican, Pakistani, Indian, Greek and other restaurants all competing for your appetite. The hardest part will be choosing! The Montréal en Lumière festival is also an opportunity to travel to Montreal to discover some of the city’s best restaurants, while immersing yourself in the northern atmosphere through the outdoor activities that are offered.

When it comes to culture, Montreal's festivals alone are a good enough reason to visit. The Jazz Festival, Francofolies, Osheaga, FTA and other large-scale events make the city hum virtually year-round. The streets are packed with people, the energy is palpable; and whether you’re a resident or just visiting, you get the sense that you’re part of a tremendous collective celebration.

Finally, those in search of a unique urban experience can venture into the neighbourhoods of Rosemont, Verdun or Pointe Saint-Charles, which are all in the midst of vibrant revivals. That’s due in large part to a new generation of families moving in, and augmented by restaurants, shops, bookstores and other businesses frequented mainly by locals.