Montréal is filled with fun things to do, including scenic natural parks, excellent museums and exciting attractions. But if you're wondering how to make the most of your time in the city without breaking the bank, have no fear. There are plenty of free things to do in Montréal that double as some of the city’s best tourist experiences.
Check Out the Art Scene
Every city has its creatives, and you don’t want to miss Montréal’s museums, artists, and performers. Whether you prefer classic painters or modern dance, there’s something for everyone.
1. Get Inspired at the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts
With five pavilions featuring Québec and Canadian art, ancient and modern international art, decorative arts and design and more, the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts is a must for art lovers visiting the city. If your trip includes the first Sunday of the month, you're in luck—admission is free, and it's always free for kids up to age 20. Admission is half-price on Wednesdays after 5 p.m. for the museum's major exhibition.
2. Enjoy Murals on St. Laurent Boulevard
Graffiti is celebrated as an art form in Montréal — in fact, the city holds an annual MURAL festival in June that brings artists from around the world to create murals at intersections along St. Laurent Boulevard. This is the city’s main drag, dividing east and west, and it’s lined with shops and restaurants that are fun to check out as you look for the giant, colorful works of art between Sherbrooke and Mont-Royal avenues.
3. See Contemporary Art at the Belgo Building
The Belgo Building downtown is Montréal’s go-to stop for contemporary art. It’s currently home to 13 galleries and the city's largest center for visual arts. Visit to discover new artists, plan a trip to an art show, or attend an artist workshop for a hands-on art experience.
4. Join the Circus
Montréal is the circus capital of North America. Home to the National Circus School, Cirque du Soleil, and several independent circus companies, Montréal offers high-flying performances year-round. Many are paid, but there are chances to catch free shows at events and special showings.
Enjoy Some Fresh Air
The city has plenty to see inside and outside all year round. You’re likely visiting during the warmer months when Montréal is most active. So rent a bike, lace up your tennis shoes, and enjoy the great outdoors.
Of course, there are beautiful seasonal fall colors and plenty of winter activities to keep you warm in the snow. So don’t hesitate to explore all Montréal offers.
5. Take in the City From Parc du Mont-Royal (Mount Royal Park)
Escape into nature along miles of scenic trails that wind throughout Parc du Mont-Royal Park (Mount Royal Park) and lead up to lookouts offering spectacular views of the surrounding city. A welcome center on the ground level of Smith House offers information about the park as well as an exhibit about the mountain’s history.
If you're not up for a hike to the summit, take advantage of one of several bus routes that travel to the welcome center throughout the day.
6. See the Sights in Downtown Montréal
Visit Saint Catherine Street to experience all downtown has to offer. There’s plenty of window shopping and restaurants, and the busy street often features street performers and musicians. This nine-mile stretch weaves through multiple iconic neighbors and has several metro stops, so you can easily travel to your next destination.
7. Play In the Parks As a Family
Local parks and green spaces are a great way to relax outside of your hotel room and let the kids have some fun. Montréal has acres of parks and miles of trails to explore in every corner of the city.
Parc La Fontaine is an excellent stop between shopping trips in Saint-Denis. The park has plenty of activities to keep you entertained, including an ice skating rink in the winter.
Are you more interested in blooming gardens? Try Parc Maisonneuve, which features multiple gardens and even sheep grazing on the north side. Plus, the park is conveniently situated next to the Montréal Botanical Garden.
Take in the History
Montréal was established over 300 years ago, in 1642, so there’s plenty for the history buffs to enjoy. Take in stunning architecture, visit the city’s top history museums, and learn something new before you head home.
8. Travel Through Old Montréal
Strolling along the cobblestone streets of Old Montréal is an essential experience during a trip to this destination. It's filled with historical buildings, museums, cozy restaurants and quaint shops—some dating back to the 17th century.
Pro tip: Don't drive here—parking is scarce. Take the metro and be sure to stop by the tourism office for a map of a self-guiding tour so you don't miss any key attractions. Free guided tours are available from Free Montréal Tours; phone (514) 613-1940.
9. Learn at the Redpath Museum
The Redpath Museum is a fascinating natural history museum on the McGill University campus. The unique Greek Revival building houses one of the oldest museums in Canada and displays a vast collection ranging from dinosaur skeletons and ancient sea creatures to Egyptian mummies. Admission is by voluntary donation, and children and students are admitted free.
10. See Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal
Said to be the largest shrine in the world dedicated to St. Joseph, this Catholic sanctuary sits atop Mont-Royal and offers spectacular panoramas from its front steps.
The grounds feature the Garden of the Road of the Cross and a forest preserve. Inside, you'll find a votive chapel with thousands of candles. For a $4 admission fee, you can visit a museum featuring nativity scenes from around the world as well as works reflecting the religious heritage of Québec. This is a must-see destination for our three-day Montréal tour.
Free Events Year Round
Montréal loves a good festival, so there are plenty of annual events to catch if you’re in town — especially if you’re visiting during the popular summer months.
11. Dance at Montréal En Lumières
This winter festival kicks off in February and features a variety of local and traveling musicians, from folk to symphonic. New restaurant pop-ups keep visitors fed while creative light installations dazzle the senses. This is just one of the amazing things to do in Montreal that both kids and adults can enjoy.
12. Open Up to Opera
Montreal’s Little Italy shuts down the neighborhood for one week every August to celebrate live opera. Free performances outdoors near the Notre-Dame-de-la-Défense Church are the main attraction, but there’s also plenty of food and shopping.
13. Walk the Summer Street Fairs
Local markets and fairs feel like hidden gems — these are excellent ways to get a sense of a city and its culture. Montréal isn’t an exception, with multiple streets closing to traffic to host artists, makers, and market stalls of every variety. Buy your souvenirs, enjoy local art, and connect with the locals all in one stop.