Montreal is one of those cities that I always love coming back to since it never fails to impress.
From its vibrant arts scene to its incredible food culture, there’s always something new and exciting to enjoy.
I’ve had the pleasure of visiting Montreal since I was a kid (my parents had a house about a 2-hour drive from the city) and over the years, I’ve come to know this city ALMOST as well as my hometown of NYC.
Today, I’m here to share my recommendations when it comes to the best things to do in Montreal.
You’ll find everything from coffee shops to epic museums on this mega epic, expert guide to the always awesome city of Montreal.
I also LOVE that Montreal has a very European feel since everyone speaks French. Additionally, it is a fairly compact city that you could easily visit in either three or four days.
So, whether you’re into history, art, food, or just walking through the Old Town, Montreal is sure to have something that will make your trip unforgettable!
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1. Explore Marche Jean-Talon
Opened in May 1933, Jean-Talon Market is located in the heart of Little Italy and is one of Montreal’s oldest public markets.
It is also among the largest open-air markets in North America. However, we were there in the winter, so the market definitely wasn’t open-air.
It also wasn’t super huge and took us maybe 30 or 40 minutes to walk around. But, it is a great place to try amazing food produced by local, family-owned businesses.
I know we got some awesome maple butter as well as delicious maple syrup to take home with us. I also had the BEST homemade mushroom ravioli during my visit.
As a result, this spot is a must-visit for anyone in the city who loves food, especially since it’s got massive amounts of old-world charm too.
Added bonus? It’s a great place to pick up fresh groceries since you’ll find local farmers, butchers, bakers, fishmongers, cheesemongers, and restaurant owners selling nothing but the freshest foods.
2. Walk Through McGill University Campus
McGill is known for being Canada’s top research university. It also sits in a prime location with scenic views of Mount Royal and the downtown area.
So, whether you’re visiting for a lecture or just passing through, take some time to wander through the campus and enjoy the many picturesque, historic buildings here.
As you approach the main entrance from the front gates, you’ll be greeted by the striking view of the Arts Building’s cupola framed by Mount Royal in the background.
To your left are museums and libraries, while on the right, you’ll find grand Gothic revival classroom buildings.
Guided tours are available and depart from the Welcome Center on rue McTavish. Just be sure to sign up in advance online since group sizes are limited.
The last time we were here we just kind of wandered around and enjoyed the quaint beauty of charm of this epic campus.
3. See Space for Life
I am hardcore obsessed with Space for Life. See, it’s located in the old Olympic Park (such an awesome use for the space) and is the single largest natural sciences museum complex in Canada.
Can I get a whoop, whoop? Anyway, it’s home to a wide array of incredible attractions, including the Biodome, Insectarium, Botanical Garden, and the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium.
Each spot features a unique experience that is well worth your time. I mean, at the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium, you can explore “EXO, Our Search for Life in the Universe.”
Meanwhile, The Insectarium, showcases an astounding 230 different species of animals, along with 750 plant species and around 250,000 insect specimens.
Then there is the gorgeous 185-acre Botanical Garden which is home to stunning themed gardens and ten incredible greenhouses.
Finally, the Biodome lets you walk through replicas of four distinct ecosystems that are found across the Americas.
I also like that each museum hosts permanent and temporary exhibitions, along with a variety of unique events, so that you never get bored.
4. Enjoy La Grande Roue de Montréal
Who doesn’t love a Ferris Wheel? Unless, of course, you’re scared of heights like my mom was back in the day.
Anyway, she was the exception and not the rule. So, I feel like most people will love La Grande Roue de Montréal
Located along the St. Lawrence River, just steps from Old Montreal, Canada’s largest observation wheel soars nearly 200 feet into the air, offering visitors stunning panoramic views of the city.
Sure, it’s touristy AF. But, who cares? The views from the top are great and I think you should embrace your inner tourist while in Montreal.
Overall, the ride gives you enough time to take in the scenery and get a feel for the city’s layout, without getting super bored.
And if you want a little extra excitement in your life, upgrade to the “VIP Package” offered inside gondola number 42. It includes a glass floor and plush Italian leather seats for the ultimate opulent experience.
5. Stroll Through Old Montreal
If you only have time to do one thing in Montreal, then take a walk through Old Montreal.
It is easily the most beautiful part of the city since it is filled with old stone buildings and quaint cobblestone streets. It’s also not super huge and can easily be visited in a day.
Founded in 1642 by Paul Chomedey de Maisonneuve and Jeanne Mance, this picturesque area overlooks the river and is filled with quaint cobblestone streets/old stone buildings.
It is also home to Notre Dame Cathedral, the bell tower, City Hall, Notre Dame de Bon Secours Chapel, abd Chateau Ramezay.
All of these spots are well worth exploring before shopping for souvenirs at Marche Bonsecours. This place is HUGE and my partner got an awesome poutine shirt while we were here.
Oh, and if you’re feeling a bit hungry, be sure to visit Le Petit Dep. The decor inside is super charming and we had the best almond croissant and carrot walnut muffin. 10/10 recommend this spot.
6. Explore Mount Royal Park
Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the same epic mastermind who brought us Central Park, Mount Royal Park was officially opened in 1876.
Spanning 692 acres just north of the downtown area, this oasis of greenery has long been the heart of outdoor life in Montreal.
If you’re feeling energetic, head to one of the various lookouts at the summit to take in breathtaking views of the city.
Other notable landmarks include the iconic Mount Royal Cross (first erected in 1643), the Mount Royal Chalet, and Beaver Lake.
Finally, on sunny Sunday afternoons in the summer, the area around the Sir George Etienne Cartier Monument comes alive with drum circles, where hundreds of drummers gather to create some epic music.
Locals also like to take full advantage of the park year-round—whether it’s jogging, enjoying family picnics in the warmer months, or skiing and tobogganing when the snow falls.
I know when we were here in the winter, we saw a lot of people cross-country skiing. Overall, it’s an epic place to hang out and one of the top attractions in Montreal.
Just don’t feel like you’ll be able to see it all since this park is HUGE.
7. See the Oasis Immersion
Montreal has a rich history and a strong passion for design and technology. So, run – don’t walk – to this STUNNING immersive exhibit at the Palais des Congrès.
It is the largest of its kind in Canada, with a dazzling array of natural landscapes, live art performances, poetry, and eclectic designs.
I also love that this show appeals to both adults and kids alike, making it a perfect family activity.
Additionally, tickets must be booked in advance. Therefore, the exhibit never feels overcrowded and is easy to walk around.
Overall, you’ll be blown away by the quality of the production, and the awe-inspiring visuals and sounds that you’ll discover inside.
8. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral
Located in the Old Town, Montreal’s iconic Notre-Dame Basilica is a prime example of 19th-century Gothic Revival architecture.
It is renowned for its stunning craftsmanship and has a series of beautiful stained glass windows on the Western side that depict key events related to the founding of Montreal.
It’s a striking blend of intricately carved wood, vibrant paintings, gilded sculptures, and exquisite stained-glass windows.
All in all, we loved the interior and thought it was stunningly beautiful. Yes, you have to pay like 16 CAD to enter.
But, I thought it was worth it since the church is large and there are lots of signs to explain what you are looking at and the history fo the building.
So, I’d definitely stop by if you have time during your trip to Montreal. I would also expect to spend between 30 minutes and an hour here.
9. Grab Some Poutine from La Banquise
No visit to Montreal would be complete without indulging in at least one plate of poutine. It’s an iconic Canadian dish that includes french fries topped with brown gravy and cheese curds.
My partner had never had Poutine, so I wanted him to try it while we were in Montreal. We decided to stop by La Banquise since they have been in business since 1968 and serve 30+ varities of poutine.
We visited on a Saturday afternoon (around 2:00 pm) and there was a line out the door. However, this place is worth the wait since the Classic is amazing.
The gravy is super delicious, the fries are fried to perfection, and you get tons of fresh cheese curds on top.
TBH, we loved this place so much that we visited twice and devoured a large plate between the two of us.
We tried other poutine in the city, but this fast food hotspot is the best and is a great place to stop after you visit Mount Royal.
I would also try and visit on a weekday afternoon. We stopped by on a Monday at 3:00 pm and walked right in.
10. Enjoy the Montreal Science Centre
Opened in 2000, this awesome science center does a great job of fostering curiosity, creativity, and discovery in the minds of adults and kids alike.
With mind-blowing interactive exhibitions, along with fun 3D films shown in the IMAX theatre, this museum gives visitors the chance to explore a wide range of science and technology topics.
The exhibits are designed to be both educational and entertaining, using interactive features in a cutting-edge environment that makes science accessible to everyone.
11. Grab Some Grub at Time Out Market
I LOVE Time Out Market in Montreal. Not only do you get to try food from fifteen of the best restaurants in the city, but the layout of the market is awesome.
We stopped by on a Saturday night and easily found seating. I also thought the 40,000-square-foot space was well-decorated and well-located inside the Centre Eaton de Montreal.
While my partner’s caprese sandwich kind of sucked, I loved my vegetarian sushi.
It was packed with veggies and had this awesome tempura inside. I also thought the prices here were very reasonable.
12. Enjoy a Bagel at St-Viateur Bagel
The one thing I heard about over and over again was how amazing the bagels were in Montreal. So, I had to order one while I was in the city.
I asked around and everyone referred me to St-Viateur Bagel because they have been in business since 1957 and now have multiple locations across the city.
Started by Myer Lewkowicz, a Holocaust survivor who learned how to make epic bagels at Montreal Bagel Bakery, this is THE place to go for bagels in Montreal.
Full disclosure, I am a huge bagel snob since I was born and raised in NYC. However, I visited with an open mind and ordered a sesame bagel with cream cheese.
Overall, I prefer New York bagels since they are thicker and doughier. But, I definitely finished my bagel and think my partner really enjoyed it.
Just be sure to have cash or a debit card handy since they did not accept credit cards the last time we were here.
13. Enjoy the Montreal Clock Tower
Montreal’s beautiful white clock tower overlooks the river and was first built in 1922. It stands as a tribute to the bravery of the Merchant Fleet men who perished during World War I.
At its base lies the Clock Tower Beach. You can’t go swimming here but you can make use of on-site umbrellas, misting stations, a boardwalk, and various snack stansa.
Sadly, the tower itself is not open to visitors. But, you can definitely enjoy awesome views of the river from the base.
14. Visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
We LOVED LOVED LOVED our visit to this incredible museum. Not only are there tons of cool things to see – spread out across four gorgeous floors – but the museum features a wide variety of art.
Therefore, you’ll 100% be able to find something you love since they showcase Baroque art, Renaissance art, Contemporary art, and everything in between.
You’ll also see pieces from world-famous artists like Picasso, Degas, Monet, Dali, etc.
And that makes sense since this museum was founded in 1860 and has grown into one of North America’s most iconic cultural destinations.
People from around the world flock here to explore a massive permanent collection that includes upwards of 43,000 works.
The museum also hosts major seasonal exhibitions. So, there’s always something new to see. Don’t miss the stunning Napoleon collection—it’s a true highlight.
While the museum’s vast complex might seem a bit intimidating at first, it’s designed to be easy to navigate, with plenty of benches and sofas for a quick rest.
There is also a great kid-friendly area beneath the first floor. Just plan to spend at least two to three hours here since this place is HUGE.
15. Upstairs Jazz Bar and Grill
Upstairs Jazz Bar and Grill is one of the best live music venues in Montreal, attracting top-notch musicians from around the country.
Located in a cozy downtown space, the intimate setting means every seat offers a great view, though the bar seats are my fave.
If you visit, expect to see local jazz icons like drummer Jim Doxas, blues legend Dawn Tyler Watson, and vocalist Ranee Lee.
They also host international artists and was the first off-site jazz club to be part of the Montreal International Jazz Festival
Oh, and if you’re feeling a bit peckish, do order the steak. It is delicious.
16. Get a Coffee at Cafe Olimpico
Easily one of the best cafes in Montreal, Café Olimpico has been around since 1970. It has become so popular that they now have locations all across the city.
We stopped by the location in Centre-Ville and loved our lattes. The staff is also super friendly and I was delighted that they had oat milk on offer.
The menu is also refreshingly minimalistic and reflects Founder Rocco Furfaro’s commitment to the traditional Italian coffee (and recipes) that has been served here since they first opened.
If you’re here in the summer, be sure to try their smooth and flavorful caffe latte freddo (iced latte).
I am also dying to try some of their authentic Italian delights like the cannolis, the bombolonis (Italian doughnuts), and tiramisu.
FYI, the coffee here is VERY strong. So, if you’re not into strong Italian coffee then go to Leaves House (McGill) instead. I found the coffee there to be much smoother.
17. Bota Bota, spa-sur-l’eau
At Bota Bota, a floating spa docked in Montreal’s Old Port, there are two levels of conversation: “quiet” and “silence.”
Since opening in 2010, it’s become a favorite destination for both locals and tourists, offering a wide range of services (facials, massages, etc.) and access to a cool hydrotherapy circuit.
So, get ready to unwind in a mineral-rich hot tub while taking in panoramic views of the city.
While the spa is generally reserved for guests 18 and older, it’s recently brought back its popular “Pirates Layover,” a program that allows children from 12-17 to experience the benefits of hydrotherapy.
If you can, try to visit on a weekday before 11:00 am, like we did. The place was empty and we saved a ton of money. The staff is also lovely and it is a great place to escape the city’s harsh winter.
18. Attend the MURAL Festival
From Mile-End to Griffintown, Montreal is overflowing with amazing street art murals. That’s because public art is an integral part of the city’s cultural identity.
Each summer, the MURAL Festival brings this art form to life for ten glorious days, featuring live painting sessions, workshops, and musical performances to celebrate the city’s street artists.
They are beyond awesome and help transform this city (which can be a bit grey and cold for most of the year) into a vibrant work of art.
However, if you can’t make it to Montreal during the festival, head to Boulevard Saint-Laurent to see some of the city’s most amazing street art.
19. Enjoy the Beauty of Saint Joseph’s Oratory
The magnificent Saint Joseph’s Oratory on Mount Royal is one of the world’s most iconic Catholic basilicas.
It was founded by Brother André in 1904, who was later canonized since thousands of miraculous healings were attributed to him.
So, if you visit the interior, you can see abandoned crutches lining the walls. They were left there after people were healed by Brother Andre and no longer needed them.
As a result, over 2 million people visit the Basilica annually since its massive dome ranks as the third largest in the world.
Undoubtedly, this site stands as one of Montreal’s most awe-inspiring architectural treasures. It’s also so large that you need to take three sets of escalators to get to the top.
Therefore, it’s a great place to enjoy epic views of the city. However, I did find the architecture of the main basilica to be a little underwhelming and a bit modern/plain.
20. Walk Along Lachine Canal
Lachine Canal is located a bit outside the city center and is a beautiful place to go for a walk in the summer/fall.
It winds its way from Old Montreal, through Griffintown, and into the vibrant, artsy neighborhood of St. Henri, before meandering into Angrignon and Lasalle.
If you’ve got some extra time, try kayaking, paddle boarding, or canoeing with awesome local companies like Adventures H2O.
This company is located at Atwater Market, which is a great place to grab a snack before you head out onto the water.
21. Visit Pointe-à-Callière
Pointe-à-Callière Museum of Archeology and History is located in Old Montreal and is the city’s largest/ most visited museum.
This location is also rich with history since this building was constructed on the exact spot where Montreal was founded in 1642.
In addition to its permanent exhibits, the museum hosts three to four temporary exhibitions annually, covering a wide range of topics from Easter Island to the Royal Queens of Ancient Egypt.
To fully enjoy everything that the museum has to offer, plan to spend at least an hour and a half here.
For an even more incredible experience, head to the rooftop L’Arrivage Bistro, where you can enjoy lunch with stunning city views in the background.
22. Catch a Hockey Game at the Bell Centre
Hockey fans from all over Canada make their way to the Bell Centre to pay homage to one of the world’s largest and most iconic hockey arenas.
Known as the home of the Montreal Canadiens (or “Habs” if you want to sound like a local), this venue is a true landmark in Montreal and in the world of hockey.
But the Bell Centre isn’t just about hockey—it’s also a go-to spot for major non-sporting events. In fact, some of my friends actually saw Madonna here and loved the show.
This arena is also massive and can accommodate an astounding 21,000 people, all while maintaining an intimate feel.
23. Explore the Quartier des Spectacles
This neighborhood sits right next door to Golden Square Mile and has been home to many vibrant cafes and cabarets for well over a century.
More recently, this exciting neighborhood has become the center of the city’s epic art and culture scene.
So, stop by and visit one of the area’s many world-class museums, galleries, events, and festivals.
You can also explore iconic streets like Boulevard René-Lévesque, rue Saint-Catherine, and Boulevard Saint-Laurent.
24. Stand in Awe of Cite Mémoire
Believe it or not, Montreal is home to the world’s largest outdoor video projection installation.
Known locally as Cité Mémoire, this beautiful outdoor exhibition showcases 25 different images projected onto the walls of alleys, trees, and landmarks throughout Old Montréal, all of which are accompanied by narration and music.
So, get ready to learn about the life of Marguerite Bourgeoys, the French founder of the Congregation of Notre Dame of Montreal, as well as sports legends like Jackie Robinson and Maurice Richard.
Other exhibits detail powerful historical moments, like the Jewish Children’s Transport train (orphans who survived concentration camps were welcomed by locals), and the 1849 burning of Parliament.
25. Enjoy a Show at Cabaret Mado
Like most of Montreal’s Gay Village, Cabaret Mado is a place that is equal parts gritty and glamorous.
Today, this venue is an icon of Montreal’s LGBTQ+ scene since they have been holding amazong performances for 30+ years.
So, stop by and enjoy an exciting drag show any night of the week. I also like that this place has a cozy feel to it, with no bad seat in the house.
Just know that if you choose to sit in the front row then you might become a part of the show. You can also expect to see Mado open the show before steeping into the DJ booth.
Map of the Best Things to do in Montreal
Conclusion
Montreal is a city that effortlessly blends rich history with modern flair, offering a little something for everyone.
Whether you’re exploring the vibrant neighborhoods, indulging in world-class food, or immersing yourself in the city’s unique festivals and cultural experiences, Montreal never fails to impress.
With its welcoming vibe and diverse offerings, it’s no wonder that this Canadian city remains a top destination for locals and visitors alike.
So pack your bags, and get ready to discover all the magic that the best attractions in Montreal have to offer!
Finally, please consider buying me a coffee. It’s a great way to say “thank you” for all the free content you receive. No amount is too small and anything you can give will be greatly appreciated.
