Montreal is one of the most fantastic cities in Canada, with a mix of Canadian and European influences. You will love wandering the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal and historic buildings, such as Notre-Dame Basilica, and glimpses of Montreal’s rich past.
Spending two or three days in Montreal will allow you enough time to experience all its highlights and see why this city is so unique. I’ll share the main places to visit in this beautiful city. Before I start, here are some basic facts about Montreal:
- Location: Montreal is the largest city in the province of Quebec, in eastern Canada.
- Official Languages: It is a bilingual city with French and English as official languages. French is the primary language spoken, and many residents are bilingual.
- Population: The second largest city in Canada, with 1.7 million people.
- Cultural Diversity: Montreal is known for its cultural diversity, with a significant immigrant population worldwide contributing to its vibrant multicultural atmosphere.
- Education Hub: Montreal is a hub for higher education with prestigious universities such as McGill and Université de Montréal.
- Arts and Culture: The city has an arts and culture scene featuring numerous museums, theaters, and galleries, promoting creativity.
- Culinary Delights: Famous for its unique culinary, such as Montreal-style bagels, poutine, and diverse international cuisine.
- Historic Old Montreal: The Old Montreal district boasts well-preserved landmark architecture, including popular tourist destinations like Notre-Dame Basilica and the Old Port.
- Cycling City: Montreal is renowned for its bike-friendly infrastructure, including dedicated bike lanes and a public bike-sharing system called Bixi.
- Montreal’s Underground City: Montreal’s Underground City (La Ville Souterraine) is a vast network of shopping malls, offices, and more, providing shelter from the cold winters.
Places to visit in Montreal
1. Take in the Architecture of Notre-Dame Basilica
Notre-Dame Basilica is a true masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture and the ultimate cultural symbol of the city. Its exterior is adorned with intricate stone carvings, featuring a symphony of spires and flying buttresses, while its interior is a breathtaking display of craftsmanship; I loved those graceful arches and stunning details. The Church has a rich history and is not only a place of worship but also a cultural and architectural gem, attracting visitors from around the world who come to admire its splendor and learn about its historical significance. In the evening, you can immerse yourself in a captivating visual and musical universe with the Aura experience. You can do both activities on the same day or on different days.
2. Visit the Botanical Garden
Botanical gardens are more than just plant collections; It is also museum, educational center, and haven for peace and creativity.
When you enter, the aroma of blooming flowers and the subtle rustling of leaves will transport you into a different realm. You will be awestruck by the stunning visual display created by the colors of the flowers and the shapes of the foliage. There are different themed areas within the garden, each showcasing particular types of plants and gardening styles, such as Rose Garden, Japanese Garden, Herbs Garden, and so on.
Note : As a student, remember to bring your student ID to get a discount on tickets and save money. Check the website for ticket prices and timings.
3. Wander through Old Montreal
Old Montreal is the oldest area of the city, dating back to its founding in 1642. This charming and picturesque district is renowned for its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and rich architectural and cultural heritage. You can explore historic landmarks, visit museums, dine in fine restaurants and cafes, and immerse yourself in the city’s fascinating history.
The Montreal Old Port (Vieux-Port) is a historic port area near Old Montreal. It’s a specific area of the St. Lawrence River that is significant to the city’s development. There is a promenade, a marina, recreational activities, parks, and cultural attractions in the Old Port. It is a popular location for both locals and visitors, and it provides a different experience from the more historic and architectural focus of Old Montreal.
4. Explore China town
Montreal’s Chinatown is known for its diverse and delicious Chinese cuisine, vibrant markets, and unique shops. The neighborhood is home to festivals and celebrations, like the Chinese New Year. Chinatown is a must-visit destination that offers a unique blend of Chinese heritage and international influence, making it perfect for foodies, culture enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a taste of the Far East in Montreal.
5. Mount Royal lookout
The best view over the city is this lookout point! The only way to get up here is to walk up a million stairs, but it’s worth it. At sunrise, the view is peaceful, but it gets crowded with tourists during the day. Its better to go in evening for sunset view.
6. Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal
Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal is Canada’s largest Catholic shrine dedicated to Saint Joseph. It’s a stunning cathedral in Montreal and a National Historic Site. The location is far from the downtown area. Hence, I recommend taking public transport or Uber to get there. Due to time constraints, I couldn’t make it there, but I will go there next time.
