Montreal is a vibrant and lively city with plenty of things to see and do. Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience or something more adventurous, Montreal has it all. From beautiful parks and gardens to historic landmarks, this bustling Canadian city has something for everyone. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top 10 things to see and do in Montreal – from iconic attractions to hidden gems. So if you’re planning an upcoming trip to Montreal, be sure to give this article a read and learn about things to see and do in Montreal!
Vieux-Montreal – Old Montreal
Vieux-Montreal is the historic district of Montreal, dating back to the city’s founding in 1642. Today, Vieux-Montreal is a thriving cultural hub, home to dozens of museums, art galleries, and historical landmarks. Visitors can explore the narrow cobblestone streets, browse the boutique shops, and dine in one of the many excellent restaurants. A few of the must-see sights in Vieux-Montreal include Notre-Dame Basilica, Place Jacques Cartier, and The Old Port.
Contrasts abound in Old Montréal. In addition to the imposing beauty of the Notre Dame Basilica and the glittering dome of the Bonsecours Market, visitors will find an abundance of cutting-edge design boutiques and innovative eateries. The riverfront paths, which are frequented by cyclists and joggers during the day, see an influx of couples out for evening strolls once the sun goes down.
The modern Grande Roue de Montréal Ferris wheel provides breathtaking views over the city, and each night the area’s gorgeous structures are transformed into blazing beacons by creative lighting effects.
Griffintown
Located in southwest Montreal, Griffintown is a vibrant neighborhood with a rich history. Once home to Irish immigrants, the area has been transformed into an exciting cultural district. Visitors can explore the boutiques, galleries, and restaurants that line the streets of Griffintown.
A few of the must-see sites include Lachine Canal, Place des Vosges, and Pointe-Saint-Charles. Every year, thousands of people flock to Griffintown for its lively festivals and events.
The Montreal Botanical Garden
The Montreal Botanical Garden is one of the largest and most diverse botanical gardens in the world. With over 22,000 plants and flowers, it is a true oasis in the heart of the city. The garden is open year-round and offers something for everyone, from beautiful gardens to interactive exhibits.
In the summer, the Garden is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The Chinese Garden is especially stunning, with its pagodas, bridges, and koi ponds. The Japanese Garden is also lovely, with its tranquil waterfall and serene setting. If you’re looking for something more active, there are plenty of hiking trails to explore.
In the winter, the Montreal Botanical Garden transforms into a magical winter wonderland. The grounds are covered in snow and twinkling lights, making it a truly magical place to visit. There are also a variety of events and activities held throughout the season, from ice skating to sledding.
No matter what time of year you visit Montreal, the Botanical Garden is sure to impress. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting the city!
Notre-Dame Basilica
Notre-Dame Basilica is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Montreal. The basilica is located in Old Montreal and is a National Historic Site of Canada. The basilica was built in 1824 and its interior is decorated with intricate stained glass windows and walls. The basilica also has a grand organ that is one of the largest in North America.
The interior of the basilica was designed by the Québec artist Jean-Baptiste Lagacé and is a pleasure to behold with its blue hues, glittering gold-leaf embellishments, complex woodwork, religious paintings, and vivid stained-glass windows reflecting almost 350 years of parish history. The interior decoration was finished in 1880 under the guidance of Montréal architect Victor Bourgeau. The 7,000-pipe Casavant organ and stunning architecture make for an unforgettable experience.
Self-guided tours of the Basilica will take you to 24 different locations, each of which will educate you about a different aspect of the building. Stay for AURA, a mind-blowing light and sound extravaganza, after your tour is over.
Place Jacques Cartier
Place Jacques Cartier is a popular public square located in Old Montreal. It was named after French explorer Jacques Cartier, who was the first European to explore Canada. The square is lined with charming cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the city. During summer months, there are often street performers entertaining visitors with music and artistry. Place Jacques Cartier is also home to many festivals throughout the year, such as the International Fireworks Competition.
The Old Port
The Old Port of Montreal is one of the city’s most popular areas. Located along the St-Lawrence River, it’s been a bustling hub since 1611 when settlers first arrived in Montreal. Today, visitors can explore over five kilometers of boardwalks that line both sides of the river. The port offers stunning views of downtown Montreal as well as plenty of activities for all ages. You can take a boat tour to view some of Montreal’s iconic landmarks.
The Montréal Science Centre, home to an IMAX Theatre, and the Montreal Clock Tower are just two of the many attractions available to locals and tourists alike in the Old Port district. Rentals of bicycles, in-line skates, quadracycles, pedal boats, and Segways are available, as is access to the riverbank for these activities.
It also marks the eastern terminus of the Lachine Canal, a popular spot for recreational activities including cycling, rollerblading, and pleasure boating since its substantial renovation. Festivals like the Matsuri Japon and the Festival Montréal en lumière celebrate the city’s cultural diversity.
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is one of the largest museums in North America, and it’s definitely worth a visit. With over 45,000 works of art, you’re sure to find something that interests you. The museum has an extensive collection of Canadian art, as well as European, African, and Asian art. There are also temporary exhibitions that rotate throughout the year.
If you’re interested in learning more about the arts, the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts offers a variety of educational programs. There are classes for both adults and children, as well as lectures and workshops. The museum also has a library with over 30,000 books and periodicals.
The Biodome
The Biodome is one of the top tourist attractions in Montreal. This large indoor rainforest is home to over 4,000 animals and plants. Visitors can learn about the different ecosystems of the Amazon, marine life of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the Laurentian forest, and the polar worlds. There are also many interactive exhibits and a butterfly garden.
The Biodome was originally built for the 1976 Summer Olympic games. It was constructed as an indoor stadium, but after the games, it was turned into the Biodome. In addition to its various animals and plants, it also houses educational exhibits about the environment and ecosystems of different regions around the world.
The Montreal Insectarium
The Montreal Insectarium is one of the top tourist attractions in the city. It is home to over 250,000 live insects from all over the world. The Insectarium also has an educational center where you can learn about the life cycles and habits of insects.
Visitors can explore the Insectarium’s vast collection of live specimens and displays, watch presentations by experts, and participate in interactive activities. There are also special insect-related events, including lectures, workshops, and even night-time parties.
The Montreal Insectarium is an ideal destination for families who want to learn more about these fascinating creatures. Kids will love exploring the museum’s many exhibits and activities. Plus, the Insectarium is a great place to see some of Canada’s amazing wildlife up close!
Saint Joseph’s Oratory
Saint Joseph’s Oratory is a Roman Catholic minor basilica and national shrine located on Mount Royal in Montreal, Quebec. The Oratory is the largest church in Canada, with one of the largest domes in the world. The Basilica has been visited by over 10 million people and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Montreal.
The Oratory was founded in 1904 by Brother André Bessette, a member of the Congregation of Holy Cross. Brother André was a humble man with a great faith in Saint Joseph. He believed that Saint Joseph could perform miracles and heal the sick. Brother André’s vision for the Oratory was to build a shrine where all could come to pray to Saint Joseph.
The first church on the site was a small wooden chapel built in 1918. The current church, designed by architect Victor Bourgeau, was completed in 1967. It can accommodate 3,000 people and features one of the largest domes in the world at 96 metres (315 feet) high.
The Oratory is open daily from 6:00 am to 9:00 pm and offers free admission. Guided tours are available for a fee. Mass is celebrated daily at various times, and confession is available upon request.
The Montreal Tower Observatory
The Montreal Tower Observatory is the tallest inclined tower in the world, standing at 176 metres (577 feet). Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the tower for 360-degree views of Montreal and beyond. On a clear day, you can see up to 80 kilometres (50 miles) away. The tower is also home to several interactive exhibits about the city.
The Observatory also has two restaurants, including a revolving restaurant at the top. The rotating floor offers panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. There is also a coffee shop and souvenir shop.
The tower is open year-round, although opening hours vary based on the season. Admission fees apply for adults and children.
The McCord Museum
Founded in 1921, the McCord Museum is a must-visit for history buffs and anyone interested in Canadian culture. Housed in an elegant 19th-century mansion, the museum boasts an impressive collection of artifacts tracing the country’s history from its earliest days to the present. Highlights include First Nations artwork, early maps and documents of European settlement, and fashion and photography exhibits chronicling the changing face of Montreal over the years.
The McCord Museum is a great place to explore the history of Canada and gain insight into Montreal’s unique culture. Visitors can take a guided tour or explore on their own, while those looking for more hands-on activities can participate in workshops and family programs.
The Lachine Canal
The Lachine Canal is a must-see for any visitor to Montreal. The canal was built in the early 19th century to allow ships to bypass the treacherous Lachine Rapids on the St. Lawrence River. Today, it is a popular spot for walking, biking, and picnicking. There are also boat tours available that offer a unique perspective of the city.
The canal is lined with a series of locks, some of which are still functional today. The lock system allows ships to move between different water levels depending on their size and needs.
The Lachine Canal is also home to multiple parks and green spaces, including the Parc des Rapides, which offers stunning views of the city. There are also several historical monuments and interpretive centers scattered along the canal’s banks. In addition to its recreational offerings, the Lachine Canal is a key component of Montreal’s ongoing economic revitalization efforts.
Conclusion
Montreal is an amazing city that is full of interesting and exciting things to do. From the historical attractions like Old Montreal and Mount Royal Park, to the modern offerings such as Les Botaniques de Montréal and Le Cirque du Soleil, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. No matter how long you spend here, you will definitely find plenty of activities worth exploring. So why not plan your next trip to Montreal today?