Montreal is unlike any other city in North America. A blend of European charm and modern cosmopolitan energy, it offers stunning architecture, rich French heritage, a world-class arts scene, and one of the most exciting food cultures in North America. Whether you visit in the summer for its legendary festivals or in the winter for its cozy, snow-covered charm, Montreal is a city that captivates year-round.
Things to Do & See in Montreal
Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal) – Walk along the cobblestone streets of this historic district, lined with 17th-century buildings, charming cafés, and art galleries. Don’t miss:
- Notre-Dame Basilica – A Gothic Revival masterpiece with breathtaking stained glass.
- Place Jacques-Cartier – A lively square with street performers, restaurants, and markets.
Mont Royal Park – Designed by the same landscape architect as New York’s Central Park, this lush urban escape offers stunning city views from the Mount Royal Lookout—especially beautiful at sunset.
The Arts & Music Scene – Montreal is a city overflowing with creativity. Explore:
- The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts – Home to a vast collection of Canadian and international works.
- The Quartier des Spectacles – The city’s cultural heart, hosting events like the Montreal Jazz Festival, Just for Laughs Comedy Festival, and MURAL Festival (street art).
Formula 1 Grand Prix du Canada – Every June, Montreal comes alive for F1 weekend, drawing a global jet-set crowd to the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve and the city’s lively nightlife.
Catch a Canadiens Game – If you’re visiting in the winter, don’t miss the chance to see the Montreal Canadiens, one of the most legendary hockey teams in the NHL, play at the Bell Centre.
Montreal, Quebec: A Vibrant Blend of History, Culture, and Culinary Delights
Montreal is unlike any other city in North America. A blend of European charm and modern cosmopolitan energy, it offers stunning architecture, rich French heritage, a world-class arts scene, and one of the most exciting food cultures in Canada. Whether you visit in the summer for its legendary festivals or in the winter for its cozy, snow-covered charm, Montreal is a city that captivates year-round.
Things to Do & See in Montreal 🇨🇦🎭🏙
🏰 Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal) – Walk along the cobblestone streets of this historic district, lined with 17th-century buildings, charming cafés, and art galleries. Don’t miss:
- Notre-Dame Basilica – A Gothic Revival masterpiece with breathtaking stained glass.
- Place Jacques-Cartier – A lively square with street performers, restaurants, and markets.
⛰ Mont Royal Park – Designed by the same landscape architect as New York’s Central Park, this lush urban escape offers stunning city views from the Mount Royal Lookout—especially beautiful at sunset.
🎨 The Arts & Music Scene – Montreal is a city overflowing with creativity. Explore:
- The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts – Home to a vast collection of Canadian and international works.
- The Quartier des Spectacles – The city’s cultural heart, hosting events like the Montreal Jazz Festival, Just for Laughs Comedy Festival, and MURAL Festival (street art).
🏎 Formula 1 Grand Prix du Canada – Every June, Montreal comes alive for F1 weekend, drawing a global jet-set crowd to the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve and the city’s lively nightlife.
🏒 Catch a Canadiens Game – If you’re visiting in the winter, don’t miss the chance to see the Montreal Canadiens, one of the most legendary hockey teams in the NHL, play at the Bell Centre.
Where & What to Eat: Montreal’s Culinary Scene 🍽🍷🥖
Montreal is a food lover’s dream, boasting an incredible mix of French, Jewish, and global influences, plus some of the best restaurants and chefs in Canada.
🥯 Montreal-Style Bagels – Thinner, sweeter, and wood-fired, these are a must-try. Head to St-Viateur Bagel or Fairmount Bagel for the best.
Smoked Meat Sandwich – A Montreal institution, this spiced, smoked beef brisket is best enjoyed at Schwartz’s Deli, the city’s most famous deli.
Poutine – This quintessential Quebec dish of fries, cheese curds, and gravy is done best at La Banquise, which offers over 30 variations.
French Bistros & Fine Dining – Montreal is home to some of Canada’s best chefs. Try:
- Joe Beef – An iconic Montreal restaurant, known for indulgent meats, seafood, and a killer wine list.
- Toqué! – A Michelin-star-worthy experience, serving elegant Quebecois cuisine.
- L’Express – A classic Parisian-style bistro that feels straight out of France.
Natural Wine Bars & Cocktails – Montreal has a buzzing nightlife scene with some of the best wine bars in North America. Pullman, Buvette Chez Simone, and Vin Mon Lapin are all worth visiting.
Top Luxury Hotels in Montreal
The Ritz-Carlton Montreal – This historic 5-star hotel is the epitome of elegance and luxury, featuring one of the best brunches in the city at Maison Boulud.
Four Seasons Hotel Montreal – A sleek and modern option in the heart of downtown, with a lavish spa and rooftop terrace.
Hotel Nelligan – Located in Old Montreal, this boutique hotel blends historic charm with contemporary design and offers incredible city views from its rooftop bar.
Hotel William Gray – A trendy, design-forward hotel in Old Montreal with artful interiors and a fantastic restaurant, Maggie Oakes.
Why Montreal is a Must-Visit Destination
From its rich history and European atmosphere to its world-class events, thriving arts scene, and unparalleled food culture, Montreal is a city that never stops inspiring. Whether you come for the Grand Prix, the festivals, the bagels, or the legendary poutine, you’ll find yourself falling in love with its unique energy and charm.
*If you want to get into the food scene, I highly recommend watching the Anthony Bourdain episode in Québec, which includes many of the top chefs from both Montreal and Québec City
Carrie x
