Whether focused on the best things to do in Montréal or curious about the language and cuisine, you'll find activities and merrymaking for all ages in this French-speaking destination. From the grandeur of Notre-Dame Basilica to the eclectic streets of Plateau Mont-Royal, Montréal is an attraction in itself, a mix of historical and modern inspirations that form a distinct blend of culture and fun activities.
If you have time, wander through the city to get ideas. Walking the cobblestone streets is a must-do any time of year, but head off the beaten path in fall for seasonal colors.
Best Places to Go in Montréal
Montréal is a treasure trove for those with an appetite for sightseeing, boasting a storied past, eclectic architecture and a dynamic heritage. Downtown Montréal teems with life, its streets lined with modern skyscrapers, bustling metro stations and museums featuring art and culture as well as cutting-edge temporary exhibitions. And the Underground City, an expansive network of interconnected spaces beneath the city, can be easily accessed through various entry points in downtown, providing visitors a unique shopping and cultural experience away from the seasonal elements.
Meanwhile, Vieux-Montréal (Old Montreal) is where historic structures and quaint squares evoke a sense of yesteryear within the downtown core. Place Jacques-Cartier is a must-do plaza with shops and restaurants that's a main entrance to the vieux port (Old Port of Montreal); in summer it's car-free and great for al fresco dining.
Sainte-Catherine Street, Montréal's premier shopping destination, is long and runs through the city center and diverse neighborhoods, offering an extensive selection of retail options for every shopper.
The verdant expanses of Mont-Royal beckon to outdoor enthusiasts while Saint-Laurent Boulevard, attracting food lovers and pulsing with energetic nightlife, is near Mile End in Montréal. This iconic boulevard serves as a primary artery running through the city and directly intersects with Mile End, making it easily accessible for those exploring the area. Mile End is renowned for its vibrant scene, where you can explore a diverse range of art galleries and street art that reflects the area's dynamic cultural influence.
In short, Montréal seamlessly combines its rich history and modern vibes, offering a comprehensive experience from the shopping haven of Sainte-Catherine Street to the green retreat of Mont-Royal, and the cultural richness of Mile End. It's a city that invites exploration with every corner promising something unique, making it an essential destination for anyone seeking depth in their travels.
1. Admire Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal
Built from 1824 to 1829, this landmark in Gothic Revival style is symbolic of the city's profound religious and cultural heritage. Its breathtaking interior, enveloped in shades of blue with gold-leaf accents and elaborate woodwork, reveals the city’s flair for artistry.
Upon entering Notre-Dame Basilica, you'll notice an enchanting interplay between light and acoustics. That's the AURA Experience. a spectacular illumination event, casting its lavish interiors into vibrant hues matched with an engaging soundtrack.
Note: The basilica graces the historic Notre-Dame Street and is designated as partially accessible, according to certification by Kéroul. Although open to all, the AURA Experience contains laser visual effects not suggested for infants and brief light flashes that may be intense for young children and photosensitive individuals. Noise-reducing headphones are recommended, especially for toddlers.
2. Browse Old Montréal
As you meander through slender byways, it feels like you have traveled in time to New France, uncovering tales from more than 400 years of the city's rich history. Landmarks such as the Pointe-à-Callière mark where the city was established in 1642. The Old Port of Montréal is particularly illustrative of the city’s storied past.
There's also modern-day activity. Cité Mémoire’s grand outdoor video projections refresh historic buildings and structures, essentially transforming them into open-air art installations, dusk to midnight on select nights, that recount the saga of this historic city.
There are also fun activities nearby. Go shopping at exclusive stores on Saint-Paul Street, and don't miss the domed Bonsecours Market, full of fashion and souvenirs instead of vegetable growers these days.
For history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike, the experience garnered from strolling Old Montréal is a sensory delight. Old town is full of European charm with its cobblestone streets and small shopkeepers in the heart of the city. Enjoy theatrical productions at the Centaur Theatre or unwind atop a rooftop bar.
3. Cruise the Saint Lawrence River
Consider exploring the destination from a fresh angle by embarking on a picturesque journey on the Saint Lawrence River. This river, threading through the world’s largest system of freshwater lakes, provides an exceptional vantage point to observe the cityscape. Your cruise will afford breathtaking panoramas, including Jacques-Cartier Bridge, St. Helen’s Island and Old Montréal’s characteristic architectural splendor.
The voyage not only offers stunning scenery but also an immersion into the past. Narration from live guides and multilingual audio can enrich your understanding of historical events and cultural landmarks.
If you're looking for magic under the stars, an evening cruise is one of the best things to do for couples. Glide under the moonlight in warmer months, and see Montreal's skyline shimmer against the night sky — a picture-perfect scene for romance.
4. Find Hidden Gems in Plateau Mont-Royal
Embark on a journey of discovery through Le Plateau Mont-Royal district for an authentic local experience in Montréal. This neighborhood boasts eclectic restaurants and pulsating artistic venues. Take Casa del Popolo as an example. It’s a destination celebrated for its music and vegetarian menu offerings that locals adore. Meanwhile, Café Falco infuses the area’s cuisine with Japanese flair, presenting specialty coffee alongside traditional onigiri.
As you venture into the heart of the Plateau Mont-Royal, be prepared to encounter more than just exceptional food spots with smoked meat and fresh produce — it’s also a haven for unique shopping experiences and cultural enlightenment. Meander down Saint-Laurent Boulevard, where boutique stores proudly present Canadian-crafted women’s apparel at your fingertips.
For avid readers and graphic novel enthusiasts alike, Librairie Drawn & Quarterly awaits with shelves lined with everything from avant-garde poetry to modern prose fiction works worth exploring. Indeed, whether you’re drawn by gourmet delights or passionate about retail therapy or artsy pursuits — there’s something here for every taste including the bustling Jean Talon Market, which adds even more local color to this community.
5. Indulge at a Floating Spa
Experience R&R at Bota Bota, spa-sur-l'eau, aka a serene floating spa docked within the historic Old Port of Montréal. This sanctuary allows for a harmonious balance between exploration and relaxation. Expect an invigorating water circuit journey through stages of heat in saunas or steam rooms, followed by refreshing cold baths or showers, before unwinding on plush loungers designed for ultimate comfort.
Bota Bota offers more than traditional spa treatments, however, inviting you to try locally sourced seasonal produce from across Québec. Love the idea of a digital detox or unplugging? Enjoy pampering undisturbed each Thursday as a day dedicated to limited cellphone usage.
Whether you intend to slip away momentarily or book a daylong indulgence, Bota Bota provides an exceptional experience amid floating spas unique only to Montréal’s picturesque cityscape by the old port.
6. Savor Iconic Montréal Cuisine
Whether you favor downhome delights or fancy fare, the flavorsome cuisine of Montréal will undeniably beckon you back for seconds. The cuisine of Montréal is as eclectic as its cultural tapestry. The beloved poutine served at La Banquise and the Montréal-style bagels from St-Viateur Bagel Shop — two of five places to eat iconic Montreal foods — provide a culinary journey that promises to delight your palate.
Beyond these timeless favorites, the city’s menu offerings mirror its diverse ethnic makeup. Take for example Ma Poule Mouillée’s unique spin on poutine, which includes:
- crispy fries
- succulent chicken
- savory chouriço sausage
- bold and spicy piri piri sauce
Those in pursuit of a more fine dining experience can indulge in Au Pied de Cochon’s lavish interpretation of poutine adorned with foie gras, or check out the cafés in Little Italy and “Mile-Ex,” aka Marconi-Alexandra.
7. Experience Montréal Nightlife
As dusk falls, the city of Montréal blooms. The metropolis features a plethora of nightclubs, pubs and live music venues that create an exuberant after-dark scene. Discover the best nightlife scene with must-visit spots like Soubois (reservation needed) in downtown and Stereo (no reservation necessary) for an unforgettable evening of dance and music.
Yet beyond its pulsating clubs lies another facet of Montréal’s after-hours charm: its eclectic mixology and tavern culture. This includes gems like:
- LGBTQ+-friendly Bar Renard, offering a stylish, inclusive ambience in Montreal's gay village
- Le Mal Nécessaire in Chinatown, serving cocktails in a lush hideaway
- The Wiggle Room, a woman-owned establishment harking back to the 1920s with undercover allure complemented by thrilling Burlesque cabaret
Whether you want energetic revelry or mellow relaxation, Montréal is equipped to provide memorable nighttime activities for friends and couples.
Things to do with Kids in Montréal
Montréal is a family-friendly destination, offering a variety of attractions that cater to both educational interests and entertainment. Among the city’s most appealing spots for young visitors are:
- Experiencing the Montréal Biodôme, where various ecosystems have been meticulously recreated, in the Space for Life District, which also includes other attractions like the Biosphere, Insectarium, Jardin Botanique, Insectarium, and Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium
- Engaging in experiences at a sugar shack (also available, February to May, as a private day tour with lunch from Montréal)
- Exploring scientific marvels at the Montréal Science Centre (Centre des Sciences de Montréal)
- Delving into objets d'art at the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux-Arts)
- Spending an exhilarating day full of rides and games at La Ronde amusement park
The offerings within Montréal ensure an engaging experience whether you aim to indulge curiosity or simply stroll botanical gardens. So gear up for adventure and explore what makes Montréal with kids in tow so magical.
8. Journey to the Montréal Biodôme
Next to the planetarium and botanical gardens, the Biodome is ideal for educational field trips or family outings alike – an essential stop if you're looking for things to do with kids. It’s a place where children can explore the wonders of biodiversity and engage with various species.
Traditional information panels have been replaced with innovative mobile applications at this venue, enhancing visitors’ understanding of different habitats using augmented reality technology and ensuring an exceptional destination for families. The attraction includes an indoor zoo and aquarium experience that showcases four distinct ecosystems. Sights to see range from a tropical rainforest ecosystem to a “waddle” of penguins in the Sub-Antarctic Islands.
9. Plan a Sugar Shack Adventure
The period known as maple syrup season — from the end of February or the beginning of March until the end of April or the beginning of May — is sometimes called sugaring-off season. Depending on where you go, the period might be anywhere from eight to 10 weeks.
When in Montréal during the maple syrup season, you shouldn’t miss out on an authentic Québec sugar shack experience. These quaint huts are situated within woodlands close to Beaver Lake and provide a fascinating glimpse into how traditional maple syrup is crafted — from tapping trees to boiling down sap — all of which your children can participate in and observe firsthand.
The visit isn’t solely centered around syrup production. It’s equally about savoring a classic meal. Delight your taste buds with dishes like hearty pea soup, fresh crusty bread, savory smoked ham and warm baked beans, topped off with a selection of sweets laced with maple goodness. With additional attractions such as sleigh rides, train adventures and farm excursions available for enjoyment — your family’s trip to a sugar shack undoubtedly would fall under one of the best things to do in Montréal.
10. Ride La Grande Roue de Montréal
Consider a visit to La Grande Roue de Montréal in the Old Port of Montréal for an exciting family experience. Said to be one of the largest observation wheels in Canada, it presents an exceptional chance to enjoy sweeping vistas of the destination, weather permitting. See Montréal from 60 meters up (roughly 200 feet) — with views that are equally impressive during daylight or against the night sky — where you will also see illuminated landmarks, such as Jacques-Cartier Bridge and the Mount Royal cross).
Yet ascending to lofty heights is not all there is to see here. Attractions include:
- A VIP, ventilated gondola featuring transparent flooring and sumptuous leather seating for added indulgence year-round (and an accessible entrance for people with limited mobility)
- An adventurous pirate-themed climbing course
- The excitement of an aerial zipline
A spin on La Grande Roue de Montréal, a quintessential thing to experience here, promises a memorable outing whether you’re marking a milestone event or simply looking for some amusement with your loved ones.
See Montréal on a Budget
Looking for free and cheap things to do in Montréal? You're in luck. Montréal invites you to enjoy a wealth of attractions without breaking the bank. Delight in the natural beauty of Parc du Mont-Royal (Mount Royal Park) and dive into the city's bustling art scene — all for free.
Follow along for the best free experiences Montréal has to offer, ensuring your visit is both enriching and economical.
11. Discover Mont-Royal's Natural Beauty
With no cost to enjoy its trails — perfect for biking and hiking — along with cultural experiences like Tam Tams’ communal drum circles — Parc du Mont-Royal should be high on your list when visiting this dynamic city in Canada. The vast 200-hectare (nearly 500-acre) green space at the core of Mont Royal, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, welcomes a range of outdoor activities suitable for all ages and physical abilities, such as picnicking and boating. Beyond its function as a hub for leisure and exercise, the idyllic setting serves as a spectacular vantage point — providing sweeping views over Montréal and plenty of fresh air. Whether you’re admiring the cityscape from Kondiaronk Belvedere or lounging near Mount Royal Chalet (Chalet Du Mont Royal), numerous locations present memorable vistas and public spaces.
12. Learn about Montréal's Art Scene
Montréal boasts a rich tapestry of cultural expression that reflects the city’s diverse heritage. Enthusiasts can explore an extensive range of artistic encounters, from modern and street art to timeless classics without spending a dime, including performances by talented street performers. Each year, for example, St. Laurent Boulevard morphs into an al fresco gallery during the MURAL Festival, which honors the talents of urban artists and engulfs visitors in a captivating world of public art.
Devotees of cutting-edge art should note Centre Clark’s well-known celebrations that open new exhibitions. These events present rare opportunities for you to interact within the destination's dynamic arts milieu. Meanwhile, admirers of traditional fine arts are welcomed at the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts with complimentary admission every Wednesday evening as well as on each month’s first Sunday. Mile End is where to find artists and other creatives. For both serious connoisseurs and those simply browsing what this metropolis has to offer — immersing oneself in the destination's eclectic mix of free artistic experiences is highly recommended.
13. Attend a Cultural Festival or Event
The city of Montréal is renowned for its festivals. It proudly hosts the world’s largest International Jazz Festival, catering to jazz enthusiasts, as well as delights families with events like Piknic Électronik. Whatever your passion may be — music, gastronomy or the arts — Montréal has a festival that will capture your interest.
What’s more appealing? A multitude of these cultural gatherings provide free activities and showcases for everyone to enjoy. During June, the St-Ambroise Montréal Fringe Festival lights up Parc des Amériques with complimentary entertainment spanning several weeks. August brings concerts and other activities in honor of Saint Brother André, the patron saint of caretakers in Canada, at St. Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal, which is one of the top places to go. Quartier des Spectacles in Montréal becomes home to various music festivals, such as Pop Montréal, where you can revel in no-cost concerts and live performances in the fall. So don't miss out on experiencing the festive atmosphere that defines this city when they’re in town.
Visit Montréal with AAA
More than its attractions, it's the city's heritage — where indigenous traditions and old-world elegance meet modern vitality — that sets Montréal apart. Whether you're planning a long vacation or a day trip, let this guide inspire you to make Montréal a top destination on your bucket list.
AAA can help you visit Montréal in a way that's both efficient and exceptional. As you explore well-known landmarks, indulge in authentic cuisine or enjoy family-friendly entertainment, you'll find Montréal is full of experiences waiting to be uncovered. Go on a walking tour of hidden gems or speak with locals to get the inside scoop. Experience the best things to do with AAA's curated vacation and tour packages, featuring both guided and self-guided options, complete with accommodations and meals.
Need some extra support? For inspiration, check out Top AAA Vacations® in North America: Top Canada Excursions, specifically Eastern Canada, and reach out to a AAA Travel Agent to book your next trip and enjoy exclusive savings and benefits available only to AAA members.