Top 10 Things to Do in Montreal
- mila
- August 2, 2023
- Lifestyle, Travel
- best things to do in montreal, things to do in montreal, Top 10 Things to Do in Montreal
- 0 Comments
Welcome to the vibrant city of Montreal, where history meets modernity and culture thrives around every corner! Whether you’re a local looking for new adventures or a curious traveller planning your visit, we have covered you with our expertly curated list of the top 10 things to do in this bustling Canadian metropolis. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, foodie havens to artistic treasures, prepare yourself for an unforgettable journey through Montreal’s rich tapestry of experiences. So grab your map, and let’s dive into this captivating city that never fails to leave its visitors spellbound!
Top 10 Things to Do in Montreal?
1. Old Montreal
If you love history and architecture, Montreal is the city for you! Old Montreal’s so much to see that it can easily fill a day. Start your exploration at the square of Old Montreal, which features a beautiful Gothic cathedral and several museums. Then wander through intriguing streets lined with heritage buildings like the Hôtel-Dieu and the Château Frontenac. If shopping is your thing, make a beeline for boutique shops like Les Deux Magots or Pharmacie Polonaise. Or head to one of Montreal’s many lively festivals for some delicious Quebec fare and lively music. You will have a blast no matter what you choose to do in this vibrant city!
2. Mount Royal
Mount Royal is the highest mountain in Montreal and offers stunning city views. It’s a popular spot for hikes, picnics, and just taking in the natural beauty of Quebec’s highest peak. If you have time, take the cable car up to the top! Plenty of hiking trails are available, as well as beautiful Lac des Sources (mountain lake). Check out Le Palais des Congres in the summertime – it offers spectacular views of the downtown Montreal skyline from its top terrace. For a more relaxed day trip, head to Jardin Botanique de Montréal for a hike around its winding paths and lush gardens.
3. Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
Montreal Museum of Fine Arts boasts a world-class collection of more than two million works of art from across all centuries and regions. In addition to its main galleries, the museum has several specialized museums, including the Canadian War Museum, the Planetarium, and the Jeu de Paume. One of the most popular attractions at the museum is The Montreal Canadiens Hall of Fame. It features displays about every player in franchise history and an interactive game room where kids can try their hand at hockey skills. The museum is also home to Canada’s largest private art collection, with pieces by Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, and Georges Braque featured prominently. Admission to the museum is free for everyone 25 years and older.
4. Jean-Talon Market
If you’re visiting Montreal and want to take in some of the city’s top sights, check out the Jean-Talon Market. This lively market is a great place to buy fresh produce, meats, and artisanal items and find unique fashion and gift options. Food stalls selling traditional Quebecois dishes like poutine and Québécoise pies can also be found. If you’re looking for something more active, visit the Notre Dame Basilica or ski at Mont Tremblant nearby.
5. Notre-Dame Basilica
Notre Dame Basilica is the most iconic and well-known church in Montreal. It is a place of worship, a historical landmark, and an architectural masterpiece. The building was originally designed by legendary French architect Viollet-le-Duc and was built between 1846 and 1856. Today, the basilica is a popular tourist destination, with visitors coming from all over the world to admire its impressive architecture and beautiful stained glass windows. There are plenty of things to do at Notre-Dame Basilica, whether you want to explore the building extensively or just take in some of its beauty from afar.
6. Montreal Botanical Garden
Montreal is the perfect destination if you’re looking for a botanical garden with plenty of natural beauty and interesting flora. The Gardens are located in the city’s west end and feature over 25 hectares of land filled with over 1,000 species of plants. Enjoy a peaceful walk through the Garden’s many gardens or take a guided tour to learn more about each site. Admission is free for all visitors, so it’s the perfect spot to spend a morning or afternoon MAGNIFYING your senses!
7. Montreal Biodome
The Montreal Biodome is a world-class environment that showcases the city’s magnificent flora and fauna. It houses more than 2,000 species of plants, 20 million insects, 12,000 birds, four mammals (including two rare shrew species) and two amphibians. The neoclassical buildings on the site date back to the 1800s and were once used as a hospital. The complex is divided into three zones: the Aquarium (home to sharks, rays, and other aquatic creatures), the Butterfly Garden (featuring more than 1,000 butterflies from around the world), and the Forest (which features 300 different types of trees). The Biodome is open every day of the year except for Christmas Day. Admission is free.
8. Plateau-Mont-Royal
Montreal is one of the most dynamic and fastest growing cities in Canada. It has something for everyone from its neo-gothic architecture to its lively nightlife. If you want to explore Montreal’s neighbourhoods more than just the downtown core, check out Plateau Mont-Royal. You’ll find quaint winding streets, world-renowned museums, and a stellar restaurant scene here. Plateau Mont-Royal gives visitors a taste of what makes Montreal so special. The district is home to some of Montreal’s most iconic landmarks, like the Basilica of Notre Dame de Montréal and the Jacques Cartier Bridge. Plateau Mont-Royal also features several world-renowned museums, such as the Musee d’art contemporain de Montréal and Musée du Quai Branly. Plus, there are plenty of cafés and best restaurants for tourists looking for a bite or a glass of wine. Looking for entertainment? No problem! You’ll find some of Montreal’s most popular nightclubs and bars in Plateau Mont-Royal. Whether you’re looking for a late-night snack or an all-night party destination, Plateau Mont-Royal has it all!
9. Saint Joseph’s Oratory
Looking for a stop on your Montreal itinerary that is both religious and fun? Look no further than Saint Joseph’s Oratory. The oratory in the historic Notre Dame district is home to some of the city’s most spectacular artworks. Walk through the colourful stained glass windows and admire the intricate religious sculptures. There’s also an interesting treasury exhibit where you can see rare artefacts from Catholic devotion worldwide. While in Montreal, don’t miss Saint Joseph’s Oratory!
10. Montreal’s Underground City
Montreal’s underground city is a fascinating place to explore, full of history and mystery. The city was once the centre of a vast Underground Railroad network, and remnants of this history can be found throughout the city.
Some of Montreal’s most iconic attractions are located below ground. The Montreal Metro provides easy access to some of the city’s most popular tourist destinations, including downtown and Old Quebec. The Bonsecours Market, Chinatown, and La Fontaine Maisonneuve are all within walking distance from the Metro station.
For more adventurous travellers, there are several Underground City tours available. These tours take you on a unique exploration of the city’s tunnels and caverns, revealing secret passages and hidden courtyards. Some of the most popular tours include the Mine Tour and the Ghost Tour.
Conclusion
Top 10 Things to Do in Montrealull of history, culture, and delicious food. Whether you’re looking to explore on your own or take in some amazing experiences with friends, there are plenty of things to do in Montreal. Here are our top 10 picks for the best things to do in Montreal this summer!