Written by Alexander Kopp, Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans
30/07/2025
Eva Bronzini, Pexels
Montreal offers a distinctive blend of European charm and North American urbanity, making it a cultural capital with a rich history. The city is known for its vibrant arts scene, diverse culinary experiences, and a packed calendar of festivals throughout the year.
To socialize in Montreal, the historic cobblestone streets of Old Montreal provide a lively atmosphere with numerous bars, restaurants, and cafes. For those seeking nightlife, both The Village, known for its LGBTQ+-friendly scene, and Rue Saint-Laurent (The Main) offer a variety of bars and clubs. Le Plateau-Mont-Royal and Mile End are also popular, offering artistic and indie vibes with trendy spots. Parks, particularly Mount Royal, serve as natural gathering spaces, hosting informal drum and dance sessions on Sundays, and are ideal for picnics and enjoying the outdoors. Hostels like M Montreal and Saintlo Montreal are particularly social hubs for travelers, often organizing activities such as pub crawls and city tours. Beyond specific districts, Montrealers frequently gather in pubs, microbreweries, and wine bars, and the city's numerous festivals provide ample opportunities for meeting others.
Top 6 Things to do in Montreal
Visitors to Montreal can explore historical sites, immerse themselves in art and culture, enjoy scenic outdoor spaces, and discover vibrant culinary experiences.
1. Explore Old Montreal and Old Port
Wandering through the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal feels like stepping back in time, with its charming architecture, quaint boutiques, and inviting cafes. The Old Port area offers a lively waterfront experience. One can stroll along the promenade, admire street performers, or even experience a thrill with a zipline ride over the water.
Cost: Exploring the streets is free. Activities like La Grande Roue (Ferris wheel) or Tyrolienne MTL Zipline have separate costs. A hop-on hop-off bus tour covering Old Montreal typically costs between $50-$60 for a 2-day pass.
Transport: Old Montreal is highly walkable and a central hub. It is also a key stop on various hop-on hop-off bus tours.
2. Visit Notre-Dame Basilica
Stepping into the Notre-Dame Basilica reveals a breathtaking interior of intricate Gothic Revival architecture, stunning stained-glass windows, and a ceiling studded with gold stars. Consider staying for the AURA light and sound show in the evenings for an immersive experience that highlights the basilica's beauty.
Cost: As of June 2025, general admission for a self-guided tour is $16 for adults. The AURA light show costs $40 for adults.
Transport: Located within Old Montreal, the basilica is easily accessible by foot from most central areas. It is also a stop on hop-on hop-off bus tours.
3. Hike Mount Royal Park
Ascending Mount Royal offers a refreshing escape and rewards with panoramic views of the city skyline from Kondiaronk Lookout. Various trails cater to different fitness levels, and Beaver Lake provides a tranquil spot for relaxation. It is a popular place for locals and visitors to enjoy the outdoors.
Cost: Access to the park is free.
Transport: While walkable from some downtown areas, public transit, such as a bus, can take you closer to the park's main access points.
4. Discover Pointe-à-Callière, Montreal Archaeology and History Complex
This museum, built over the city's birthplace, offers a fascinating journey through Montreal's history. Interactive multimedia exhibits bring to life archaeological remains, including parts of centuries-old fortifications. It provides a deep understanding of the city's origins and its evolution.
Cost: Adult admission (ages 31-64) is $29. Seniors (65+) pay $26, young adults (18-30) $19, teenagers (13-17) $15, and children (5-12) $10. A family ticket (one adult and three children or two adults and two children) costs $55.
Transport: Located in Old Montreal, it is easily accessible by foot. Public buses, such as line 55, can take you to the museum for approximately $2.
5. Experience Jean-Talon Market
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Jean-Talon Market, one of Montreal's oldest and most beloved public markets. Here, you can find a wide array of fresh local produce, artisanal products, and Quebecois specialties like local cheeses and smoked meat. It is an excellent place to sample authentic flavors and observe daily life.
Cost: Entry and browsing are free. Costs vary depending on purchases.
Transport: The market is accessible by metro; take the Orange or Blue line to Jean-Talon station.
6. Explore the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA)
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, one of North America's most visited museums, offers a vast collection of art spanning various periods and cultures. Beyond its encyclopedic permanent collection, the museum frequently hosts engaging temporary exhibitions, ensuring there is always something new to discover.
Cost: Admission to the permanent collections is free for Quebec residents, with reservations required. For non-residents, there is an admission fee for temporary exhibitions, which can vary. Online ticket purchases often include a $2 discount.
Transport: Located downtown, the museum is accessible by public transport. A bus route like line 144 takes approximately 4 minutes from central Montreal and costs $4. A taxi ride is about 4 minutes and costs between $9-12.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
