Our favorite things to do In Montreal, Canada

Montreal is the largest city in the province of Quebec and the second largest in Canada. Located on an island in the Saint Lawrence River, Montreal is a city with a rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant energy.

Best things to do In Montreal, Canada

​Founded in 1642 as a small fur-trading post, Montreal has evolved into a cosmopolitan metropolis with a population of over 1.7 million people. It is a city known for its cultural diversity, with over 50% of the population speaking French as their first language, and many residents speaking English, Spanish, Arabic, and other languages.

One of the things that makes Montreal unique is its blend of Old World charm and modern innovation. The city is home to a number of historic landmarks, such as the Notre-Dame Basilica, the Old Port of Montreal, and the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. At the same time, it is also a hub for technology and innovation, with a thriving start-up scene and a number of world-class research institutions.

Montreal is also a city with a thriving arts and culture scene. It is home to a number of museums, galleries, and theaters, as well as a vibrant music and nightlife scene. The city is known for its festivals, including the Montreal International Jazz Festival, the Just for Laughs comedy festival, and the Montreal Fringe Festival.

One of the things that makes Montreal so special is its food. The city is known for its delicious poutine, a dish made of French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. It is also home to a number of world-class restaurants, serving everything from traditional Quebecois cuisine to international flavors.

Montreal is also a city with a rich sports history. It is home to a number of professional sports teams, including the Montreal Canadiens, the city's beloved hockey team. The city is also home to a number of major sporting events, including the Canadian Grand Prix and the Rogers Cup.

In addition to its many cultural and recreational attractions, Montreal is also a city with a strong economy. It is home to a number of major corporations and is a hub for finance, technology, and manufacturing. The city is also home to a number of world-class universities, including McGill University and the Université de Montréal, which attract students from around the world.

Overall, Montreal is a city with something for everyone. From its rich history and cultural attractions to its thriving arts scene and delicious food, there is no shortage of things to do and see in this vibrant city. Whether you're interested in history, culture, sports, or just soaking up the city's unique atmosphere, Montreal has something for you.

Our 7 favorites things to do in Montreal

​There are many great things to do in Montreal, here are a few suggestions:

1. Visit the Notre-Dame Basilica

The Notre-Dame Basilica is a 19th-century Roman Catholic basilica in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. It is located in the historic district of Old Montreal and is known for its stunning architecture and ornate interior.
The basilica was designed by architect James O'Donnell in the Gothic Revival style, and construction was completed in 1829. It was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1989.
The interior of the basilica is adorned with gold leaf, stained glass windows, and intricate wood carvings. The main altar, which is made of marble, is surrounded by frescoes depicting scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary. The basilica also features a grand organ, which is used for weekly concerts.
In addition to its religious significance, the Notre-Dame Basilica is a popular tourist attraction in Montreal. It is open to the public year-round and offers guided tours, as well as concerts and other events.
Overall, the Notre-Dame Basilica is a must-see for anyone visiting Montreal. Its beautiful architecture and ornate interior make it one of the city's most iconic landmarks.

2. Explore the Old Port of Montreal

​This historic area is home to a number of restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions, and is a great place to take a leisurely stroll. The Old Port is also home to the Montreal Science Centre, an interactive museum that is fun for kids and adults alike.​The Old Port of Montreal is a historic area located along the St. Lawrence River in Old Montreal, Quebec, Canada. It was the city's principal port from the late 19th century until the 1960s, when it was replaced by the Port of Montreal. The Old Port was originally created by the government of New France in the early 18th century and has played a significant role in the city's history. It has been a hub of trade and commerce, a major transportation hub, and a popular tourist destination. Today, the Old Port is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, with a wide range of recreational, cultural, and educational activities on offer. It is home to a number of historic buildings and landmarks, as well as a variety of restaurants, shops, and other amenities.

3. Check out the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts

This museum is home to over 40,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs. The museum is known for its collection of Canadian and Indigenous art, as well as its collection of European masterpieces.

4. Go to a festival

Montreal is known for its festivals, and there is always something going on in the city. Some popular festivals include the Montreal International Jazz Festival, the Just for Laughs comedy festival, and the Montreal Fringe Festival.

​5. Try some of the city's delicious food

​Montreal is known for its poutine, smoked meat sandwiches, and bagels, and there are many great places to try these dishes. The city is also home to a number of world-class restaurants, serving everything from traditional Quebecois cuisine to international flavors.

6. Catch a game at the Bell Centre

​Montreal is home to the Montreal Canadiens, one of the most successful hockey teams in the world. The Bell Centre is a great place to catch a game, and the atmosphere is electric when the Canadiens are playing.

7. Visit Mont Royal

This hill in the center of the city is a great place to go for a hike or a picnic. From the top, you'll have a great view of the city and the surrounding area.
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These are just a few suggestions, but there are many more great things to do in Montreal. Whatever your interests, you'll be sure to find something to enjoy in this vibrant city.

More things to know about Montreal

• Montreal is a city with a rich history. It was founded by French explorer Paul de Chomedey de Maisonneuve in 1642 and was named after the mountain that rises above the city, Mont Royal. Over the centuries, Montreal has been a hub for trade, industry, and culture, and has played a significant role in the history of Canada.
• Montreal is known for its cultural diversity. The city has a large French-speaking population, but it is also home to many people from other linguistic and cultural backgrounds. This diversity is reflected in the city's neighborhoods, which are often home to people from a range of cultures and backgrounds.
• Montreal is a city with a thriving arts and culture scene. In addition to its many museums and galleries, the city is home to a number of theaters, music venues, and festivals. The Montreal International Jazz Festival is one of the largest jazz festivals in the world, and the Just for Laughs comedy festival is another popular event.
• Montreal is a city with a rich culinary tradition. In addition to poutine, the city is known for its smoked meat sandwiches, bagels, and other delicious dishes. There are a number of world-class restaurants in Montreal, serving everything from traditional Quebecois cuisine to international flavors.
• Montreal is a city with a strong economy. It is a hub for finance, technology, and manufacturing, and is home to a number of major corporations. The city is also home to a number of world-class universities, including McGill University and the Université de Montréal, which attract students from around the world.
• Montreal is a city with a rich sports history. It is home to the Montreal Canadiens, one of the most successful hockey teams in the world. The city is also home to a number of major sporting events, including the Canadian Grand Prix and the Rogers Cup.
• Montreal is a city with a vibrant nightlife scene. It is home to a number of bars, clubs, and music venues, and is known for its lively atmosphere. Whether you're looking to dance the night away or just relax with a drink, there is no shortage of options in Montreal.

3 fun facts about Montreal

1. Montreal is home to the largest botanical garden in the world. The Montreal Botanical Garden covers an area of 75 hectares (185 acres) and is home to over 22,000 plant species from around the world.
2. The Montreal Biodome is a unique attraction that recreates the ecosystems of four different regions: the Tropical Forest, the Laurentian Maple Forest, the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and the Labrador Coast. You can walk through the different environments and see a variety of plants and animals, including monkeys, sloths, and penguins.
3. Montreal is home to the largest underground shopping complex in the world. The RESO, or Underground City, is a network of tunnels and corridors that connects over 2,000 shops, restaurants, and other businesses. It's a great place to go shopping or grab a bite to eat on a cold or rainy day.

Our 4 favorites luxury hotels in Montreal

1. ​The Ritz-Carlton Montreal: This iconic hotel is located in the heart of downtown Montreal and is known for its luxurious amenities and excellent service. The hotel features a spa, fitness center, and indoor pool, as well as a number of fine dining options.
2. Hotel Le Germain Montreal: This chic hotel is located in the heart of downtown Montreal and is known for its stylish decor and excellent service. The hotel features a spa, fitness center, and indoor pool, as well as a number of great dining options.
3. The W Montreal: This trendy hotel is located in the heart of the city and is known for its modern design and high-energy atmosphere. The hotel features a spa, fitness center, and indoor pool, as well as a number of stylish bars and restaurants.
4. The Four Seasons Hotel Montreal : This luxurious hotel is located in the heart of downtown Montreal and is known for its excellent service and lavish amenities. The hotel features a spa, fitness center, and indoor pool, as well as a number of fine dining options.

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These are just a few of the many luxury hotels in Montreal, but they are all excellent options for travelers looking for a high-end experience.

VISION Destinations | January 2023