Montreal is one of the most beautiful cities you can go and visit in Canada. It's a super versatile place, with little markets, food stores, fancy restaurants and larger-than-life attractions happening in every neighbourhood of the city. If you want it, you can find it. It's a cosmopolitan city with over 1.95 million people. But even though it's got the fast-paced city life, there is also a sweet old town you can wander around whenever you feel like it. Although locals keep the city pumping, you can't deny that the tourists also play their role. Tourism is a big part of Montreal's economy. In 2024, the city reported that it had received over 11 million tourists for that year. This also plays a big role in the city's bottom line. Montreal's tourism revenue saw a significant rebound, reaching over $6 billion in 2024, a nearly 28% jump from 2023, with $6.01 billion in spending by domestic and international tourists, driven by strong festival seasons.

These big figures should show you just how prominent this city is. Feel like visiting? Excellent, then keep reading because you're about to learn more about the different things you can get up to and see around the city. The mistake that a lot of people make when visiting is getting overwhelmed by all their options and then not doing anything. Pick some of the things listed below and then go explore.

Getting Your Bearings in Montreal Doesn't Have to Be Too Tricky

Montreal is a large city but it’s surprisingly easy to navigate once you understand the layout. The island is divided into distinct neighborhoods, each with its own vibe. English is widely spoken but French is the primary language, so you’ll notice bilingual signs and conversations everywhere.

There are a few things to know before you arrive, such as that public transit is reliable and easy to use, so you don't have to rent a car if you don't want to or if you'd prefer to save that budget on other activities. Also, walking is often the best way to explore central areas. When it comes to restaurants, tipping customs are similar to the rest of Canada. Seasons matter a lot when planning activities. So, if you're going at a busy time, be aware of the fact that you'll likely be standing in some lines.

My Unfiltered Thoughts After Visiting Montreal Canada

Old Montreal is Where the City’s Story Begins

Old Montreal is the place where most visitors fall in love with the city. Cobblestone streets, historic buildings and views of the St. Lawrence River give this area a distinctly European feel. You’ll want to take your time here and explore slowly. Key spots to add to your list include:

Notre-Dame Basilica, known for its stunning interior
Place Jacques-Cartier, a lively square full of cafés and street performers
The Old Port, perfect for walking, cycling, or just relaxing by the water

This area is especially beautiful early in the morning or in the evening when the crowds thin out. It’s also one of the best places to take photos that truly capture Montreal’s character.

You Can't Miss Mount Royal With The Best View in the City

You can’t visit Montreal without spending time on Mount Royal. This large hill sits right near downtown and offers sweeping views of the city skyline. Getting to the top is part of the experience. You can walk, bike or take a short drive but the most popular route is a scenic walk through the park. At the top, you’ll find the Kondiaronk Belvedere, which offers one of the best views in Canada.

Things to do around Mount Royal include picnicking in warmer months, ice skating or snowshoeing in winter, visiting Beaver Lake for a quieter escape and watching the sunset over the city. You can simply sit down with a blanket and do whatever you want. You can read a book or take your phone out and play some online games. These could include free casino games on VegasSlotsOnline that you can play to your heart's content, while still being a tourist and soaking up the surrounding Mount Royal area.

Exploring Neighborhoods Beyond the Tourist Core

Montreal really shines when you explore its neighborhoods. Each area has its own personality and moving between them feels like traveling through different cities.

Some neighborhoods worth your time include:

Plateau Mont-Royal for colorful houses, cafés and independent shops
Mile End for bagels, bakeries and creative energy
Little Italy for food markets and relaxed street life
Griffintown for modern restaurants and canal-side walks

Food Experiences You Shouldn’t Skip

Montreal is one of Canada’s best food cities and eating well here is almost unavoidable. The city takes food seriously, but without the pretension you might expect. A few iconic experiences to check off your list include trying a Montreal-style bagel, preferably fresh from a wood-fired oven, enjoying poutine from a local favorite, visiting Jean-Talon Market to sample local produce and snacks and booking at least one sit-down meal at a French-inspired bistro.

Museums and Cultural Stops Worth Your Time

If you enjoy museums and cultural attractions, Montreal offers plenty without feeling overwhelming. You can easily balance sightseeing with relaxed exploration.

Go and visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts for diverse exhibitions, Pointe-à-Callière for history lovers, McCord Stewart Museum for insights into Canadian culture and other contemporary galleries scattered throughout the city. Just take a walk and see what tickles your fancy.

Festivals and Events That Define the City

The city of Montreal is famous for its festivals, and they shape the city’s energy throughout the year. Summer is especially packed with events, many of which are free and held outdoors.

Depending on when you visit, you might catch a music festival with performances across the city, a food-focused event celebrating local and international cuisine or even cultural festivals highlighting comedy, film or art.

Taking Montreal at Your Own Pace

Montreal isn’t a city you need to conquer. It is one you experience. The best trips often come from blending must-see sights with unplanned discoveries.

Montreal Travel Guide: The Must-See Experiences You’ll Want to Check Off Your List