Old Montreal

As first time visitors to Quebec’s most popular destination, Montreal, you might be wondering what to see, where to eat, and what to do. Well, we’ve created a list of local-approved activities and destinations for you to get the authentic Montreal experience. Why not brush up on your french while exploring the old city and inhaling french fries drenched in gravy and cheese curds? Check out the list below for some of the best views, foods, and architecture in the French Canadian city.  

Visit Mont- Royal

Take a stunning walk up Mont-Royal for beautiful views of downtown Montreal. It’s a great place to catch the sunrise, sunset, and have a photo shoot. Don’t be surprised to find a wedding shoot or hordes of teenagers dressed for prom posing for pictures at the Belvedere Observatory. You won’t find better views of the south bank of Montreal from any other spot in the city.

Eat Classic Montreal Foods

Montreal boasts an impressive number of restaurants. In fact, the French Canadian city is home to more restaurants per capita than NYC. Check out Patiti Patata on 4177 St-Laurent Boulevard for some of the best poutine the city has to offer. Shwartz’s is just a stone’s throw away at 3895 St-Laurent Boulevard and is a go-to for smoked deli meats.  Before your visit is over make sure to pop into one of the many bakeries, like Dizz’s Bagels at 6160 Chemin de la Cote-Saint-Luc, for some classic Montreal bagels, the crème de la crème of the city’s cuisine.

Visit Old-Montreal

The architecture and cobble stone roads on Saint-Paul Street is often said to transport people to the European streets of France. The buzzing atmosphere among restaurants, art galleries, and pubs is a great way to enjoy Montreal for a fair price.  However, the old city is known to draw in large crowds, so keep that in mind if you’re planning on dinning at a restaurant nearby.

Tour the Basilique Notre-Dame

This Gothic chapel from the 1830s is absolutely breathtaking and most definitely worth putting on your itinerary. The massive church features colorful stained glass that stand out as true works of art. The tour of the chapel located at 110 Notre-Dame Street West won’t take too much time out of your day and will leave you with a potent memory and a couple photos to return home with as free souvenirs.

Visit the Urban Beach

Montreal’s first urban beach is located at the Old Port. This small escape from the city bustle is the perfect summer destination. Take the day off to sunbathe, catch a bite to eat, or stroll down the boardwalk. Although swimming is not permitted, there is a misting station to cool down from the sun’s heat.