Discover Montreal: A City of History and Culture

Montreal, a vibrant city on the St. Lawrence River, has flourished as a center of trade and culture since Jacques Cartier claimed it for France in 1535. The city officially began with the founding of Ville Marie de Mont-Réal in 1642, and today, it stands as the world's second-largest French-speaking metropolis.

Despite its size, Montreal's tourist-friendly areas are quite concentrated. The Centre-Ville (downtown) is home to elegant Rue Sherbrooke and bustling Rue Ste-Cathérine, lined with shops and eateries. The historic heart, Vieux-Montreal, offers a glimpse into the city's past with its preserved architecture and waterfront promenade at the Vieux-Port (Old Port). Meanwhile, The Plateau is a slice of Paris in Canada, with its chic boutiques and diverse dining influenced by various immigrant communities.

For more on Montreal's top attractions, visit here. Also, check out accommodation options at Where to Stay in Montreal.

1. Wander through Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal)

Old Montreal is the city's historic core, with a rich collection of 17th to 19th-century buildings. It's an ideal base for sightseeing, with attractions like the Notre-Dame Basilica, Rue Saint-Paul, and Bonsecours Market. The area comes alive at night with its many dining options.

2. Explore the Old Port (Vieux-Port)

The Old Port is a hub of activity, offering a Ferris wheel, zipline, public art, and an IMAX theater. In summer, enjoy boat tours and a man-made beach, while winter brings ice-skating fun.

Excursions in Montreal

3. See the View from Mont-Royal

Mont-Royal Park offers stunning city views and a peaceful escape with its monuments, lake, and cemeteries reflecting Montreal's diverse heritage.

4. Jardin Botanique (Botanical Garden)

This imaginative garden showcases a variety of climates with themed gardens and greenhouses. Don't miss the Japanese and Chinese gardens, the Insectarium, and the arboretum.

Official site: http://espacepourlavie.ca/en/botanical-garden

5. Notre-Dame Basilica

Montreal's oldest church, Notre-Dame Basilica, features a lavish interior with a renowned organ and stained-glass windows depicting the city's history.

Official site: http://www.basiliquenotredame.ca/

6. Oratoire Saint-Joseph (St. Joseph's Oratory)

This pilgrimage site features a large basilica with a dome and offers panoramic views of Montreal.

Official site: http://www.saint-joseph.org/

7. Parc Jean Drapeau

Parc Jean Drapeau, site of Expo '67, now hosts attractions like the Biosphere museum and La Ronde Amusement Park.

Official site: http://www.parcjeandrapeau.com

8. Musée des Beaux Arts (Fine Arts Museum)

Canada's oldest museum, the Musée des Beaux Arts, boasts a vast collection spanning from the Dutch Golden Age to modern art.

Official site: https://www.mbam.qc.ca/en/

9. Pointe-à-Callière

This museum of archaeology and history lets you explore Montreal's past through underground remnants of the original city.

Official site: http://www.pacmusee.qc.ca/en/home

10. Place des Arts

Place des Arts is a cultural hub hosting the Montreal Symphony Orchestra, Les Grands Ballets Canadiens, and the Opéra de Montréal.

Official site: http://www.macm.org

11. Shop at Atwater and Jean Talon Markets

Atwater and Jean Talon Markets are bustling with vendors offering local specialties and fresh produce.

Official site: http://www.marchespublics-mtl.com/marches

12. St. Mary Queen of the World

This cathedral, modeled after St. Peter's in Rome, features impressive statues and artwork.

13. McCord Museum

The McCord Museum showcases Canada's social history, with a focus on native peoples and Montreal's fashion designers.

Official site: www.musee-mccord.qc.ca/en/

14. Square Saint-Louis and Rue Denis

Square Saint-Louis is surrounded by Victorian homes, while Rue St. Denis is a trendy shopping and dining street.

15. Lachine Canal National Historic Site

The Lachine Canal offers scenic paths for walking and biking, as well as boat cruises.

Official site: http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/lhn-nhs/qc/canallachine/index.aspx

16. Chinatown

Montreal's Chinatown is a lively district with a variety of Asian restaurants and shops.

17. Ride La Grande Rou de Montreal

La Grande Rou de Montreal offers stunning views of the city from its climate-controlled gondolas.

Official site: https://www.lagranderouedemontreal.com/en

18. Montreal Science Centre

The Montreal Science Centre features interactive exhibits for a fun family outing.

Official site: https://www.montrealsciencecentre.com/

Where to Stay in Montreal for Sightseeing

Old Montreal is the prime location for visitors, offering a range of accommodations from luxury to budget hotels.

Tips and Tours: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Montreal

• Sightseeing: Explore Old Montreal's history with a guided walking tour or a city sightseeing tour with live commentary.
• Day Trips: Visit Quebec City and Montmorency Falls or enjoy a St. Lawrence River Cruise.