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Montreal, the pulsating heart of Quebec, Canada, is a city that blends its European feel with a modern twist. From many things to do in Montreal, amble along cobblestone streets in Old Montreal and experience its rich history in 17th-century architecture, timeless landmarks, and bustling public squares. Beyond its historical charm, it boasts a thriving cultural scene that includes museums and galleries of contemporary art coexisting with events like Just for Laughs and the Montreal International Jazz Festival. Exploring the sprawling Underground City, Montreal promises a mix of history, adventure, and unique experiences that make it a standout destination.
10 Best Things To Do In Montreal
There are many things to see in Montreal for a fulfilling experience. Explore the following places and enjoy your trip.
1. Go To Old Montreal
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal) is like stepping into a living museum. This picturesquely located locality has exclusively cobblestone streets and rich historical landmarks, which gets to the heart of how Montreal started as a French colony. Old Montreal was established in 1642, and it has preserved its architectural heritage of incredible structures, including the Notre Dame Basilica, which retains much of its Gothic Revival style. You can stroll and contemplate celebrated landmarks like Place Jacques-Cartier.
Location: Old Montreal, Montreal
Top Experience: Sightseeing, cultural tours, photography
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: None
2. Visit Mount Royal Park
Photo: Andre Carrotflower / Wikimedia Commons
Mount Royal Park is one of Montreal’s greatest tourist attractions. It’s an all-beauty masterpiece by Frederick Law Olmsted. It is equipped with views, history, and outdoor diversity. Its top attraction is the Kondiaronk Belvedere, a lookout that offers panoramic views into downtown Montreal and along the St. Lawrence River. Besides the view masters, there is a hiking and biking trail, and during snowfalls, the park remains open for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Cultural and community events such as Sunday tam-tams reunite locals and visitors with music, dance, and picnics against the backdrop of the Sir George-Étienne Cartier Monument.
Location: 1260 Remembrance Road, Montreal
Top Experience: Hiking, picnicking, city views
Timings: 6 AM – 12 AM
Entry Fee: None
3. Walk through Jean-Talon Market
Photo: Gene.arboit / Wikimedia Commons
This food heaven and cultural place lies in the vibrant district called Little Italy and is one of the must-visit things to do in Montreal. The Jean-Talon Market distinguishes itself as one of the largest public markets in North America, housing the authentic taste of Quebec’s culinary diversity. People come here because of its splash of colours laden with fresh produce, handmade cheeses, locally produced preserves, and freshly baked products. The atmosphere is alive with street performances, community activities, and the full market setting. From the freshness of oysters to handmade chocolates on the spot, every gourmand can find their delight.
Location: 7070 Henri-Julien Ave, Montreal
Top Experience: Food tasting, local shopping, photography
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: None
4. Explore The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
Photo: Daderot / Wikimedia Commons
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is a haven for artists with a rich tapestry of worldwide and local artistic traditions. These distinct themes are decorative arts, Canadian heritage, and modern masterpieces, accessible through five architecturally stunning pavilions. With more than 43,000 objects in its permanent collection, the MMFA features everything from Inuit sculptures to Renaissance paintings and installations. It has the most interesting exhibitions, including the Claire and Marc Bourgie Pavilion, with over 600 works celebrating Quebec and Canadian art through revolutionary layouts. The museum is also famous for perfect temporary exhibitions. Apart from art, the MMFA also offers a bistro, boutique, and interactive educational programs that add to the richness of a visitor’s experience.
Location: 1380 Sherbrooke St W, Montreal
Top Experience: Art appreciation, cultural immersion
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
5. Under City Of RÉSO
Photo: Martin Cígler / Wikimedia Commons
Montgomery’s Underground City, commonly referred to as RÉSO or Réseau, is a 33 km like tunnel network underneath the city. It connects shopping malls, hotels, metro stations, cultural hubs, and residential areas. The major shopping centres in RÉSO are Complexe Desjardins, Place Montreal Trust, and Les Cours Mont-Royal. While it serves a taste for luxury boutiques, it still caters to everyday needs, fulfilling the vast tastes of its visitors. For the food enthusiast, this underground home offers unique spots like Le Cathcart Restaurants et Biergarten and Time Out Market Montreal, featuring local cuisines with a lively atmosphere.
Location: Downtown Montreal, QC
Top Experience: Shopping, dining, exploring art installations
Timings: 6 AM – 10 PM
6. Walking Tour Of the Botanical Garden
Photo: Rikimedia / Wikimedia Commons
A silent oasis with many special gardens for every taste and interest is the Montreal Botanical Garden. One of the main outstanding features is the Japanese Garden, whose traditional landscaping includes Japanese plants, koi ponds, and solemn walking paths. The garden is open throughout the year. Seasonal highlights include the Peace Ceremony in August to remember the Hiroshima bombing. A more cultural experience is provided by designing the Chinese Garden to resemble the tranquillity and beauty of a garden from the Ming Dynasty. Authentic design includes symbolic structures such as cranes and mythical creatures. All these are imported from China.
Location: 4101 Sherbrooke St E, Montreal
Top Experience: Nature walks, seasonal events, family activities
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
7. Night Life Of Crescent Street
Photo: Serouj / Wikimedia Commons
Crescent Street runs right through the heart of downtown Montreal, bursting with nighttime energy, always abuzz with nocturnal activities, and attracting many locals and tourists searching for something incredible. It’s a three-block street that houses the city’s greatest collection of trendy bars, pubs, and nightclubs. It’s popular among university students and young professionals because of the vibrant and energetic atmosphere. Some such places, like Club Vatican, are heavy-people clubs with a crowded dance floor and huge lines, especially on the weekends. Clubs and bars have live music, DJ sets, and themed parties, making it one of the most happening places.
Location: Crescent Street, Montreal
Top Experience: Bar-hopping, live music, nightlife
Timings: Evening to late night
Entry Fee: Varies by venue
8. Take A Cruise On The St. Lawrence River
Photo: Fabian Roudra Baroi / Wikimedia Commons
Among the popular things to do in Montreal is a cruise along the St. Lawrence River, which is one way of viewing the beautiful city from different avenues. The cruise happens during the day, especially excursions for sightseeing purposes, while dinner cruises are lovely evening trips along the city. One of the most wonderful things about these cruises is seeing the famous structures of Montreal and a close-up view of the Jacques-Cartier Bridge and the Montreal Clock Tower from the water. Many offer guided tours in which you learn much about the city’s maritime history, landmarks, and the simply marvellous beauty of the St. Lawrence River.
Location: Old Port of Montreal
Top Experience: Sightseeing, photography, dining
9. Plateau Mont-Royal Discover The Neighborhood
Photo: Chicoutimi / Wikimedia Commons
The lively Mont-Royal neighbourhood is an artsy hub of Montreal where any visitor can find a delightful blend of creativity and local culture. The district is known for its colourful murals, quaint boutiques, and cosy cafés. This neighbourhood’s most significant feature is how its architecture, which includes spiral staircases, colours, and a sensible fusion of modern urban designs with old-world charm, reflects its history. Walk through the Plateau, and you can find a good handful of cultural attractions, from vintage stores with neat discoveries to independent bookselling stores and local cafes that serve some of the best coffee in town.
Location: Plateau Mont-Royal, Montreal
Top Experience: Street art tours, boutique shopping, café hopping
Timings: 24*7
10. Discover At The Pointe-à-Callière Museum
Photo: Gribeco / Wikimedia Commons
The Pointe-à-Callière Museum in Montreal offers a riveting plunge into the historical past of the city from the exact location where the birth of Montreal took place. Founded in 1992, it is built on the archaeological site at which the town was founded and articulates a powerful combination of archaeology and history. A visit can show the extent of remnants within Fort Ville-Marie through its archaeological excavations, which can be seen through impressive glass floors. “Where Montréal Began,” a museum exhibition, commemorates the early founders and their patrons, such as Paul de Chomedey de Maisonneuve and Jeanne Mance. Traditional storytelling combined with modern technology makes it an all-age experience.
Location: 350 Place Royale, Montreal
Top Experience: Historical exhibits, archaeological tours
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Montreal is a city that weaves its historic roots with a dynamic, modern vibe, creating a timeless and innovative destination. Strolling through the enchanting streets of Old Montreal, you can uncover tales of its French colonial past while the towering skyline hints at its cosmopolitan spirit. Things to do in Montreal promise a holiday and a collection of unforgettable moments forged by its unique charm. Finalise your visit with TripXL and begin your journey.
Cover Photo: Marc-Olivier Jodoin / Wikimedia Commons
