Montreal is a vibrant city located in the province of Quebec, in Canada. Whether you are visiting for a few days or doing a road trip of the province of Quebec, you can find many unique things to do in Montreal. Having lived in Montreal for over 15 years, I have narrowed down the hundreds of things to do in Montreal into a list that can actually fit your itinerary and that are some of the all-time best things to do in Montreal, with activities that are more touristy and others that are more “local.”
Table of Contents
- 1. Hike up Mount Royal
- 2. Go to Cathcart on a Thursday for their 5@7
- 3. Visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
- 4. Spend the evening at the Casino de Montréal
- 5. Discover some cafés in the city
- 6. Go to a music festival
- 7. Get some groceries at a market
- 8. Walk around the Old Port without an end goal
- 9. Have brunch or lunch on a terrace
- 10. Go thrifting
- 11. Have a picnic along the Lachine Canal
- 12. Go to the Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal for sunset
- 13. Try the famous Poutine
- 14. Attend an immersive exhibition
1. Hike up Mount Royal
Mount Royal is a mountain in the city of Montreal. With an elevation of 233 meters, Mount Royal is a popular destination for outdoor lovers. There are many ways to hike up Mount Royal, the most popular way being from “Rue Peel Steps” on Google Maps, which would be your starting point. From there, there are clear stairs that bring you up Mount Royal, and you will directly reach the famous Kondiaronk Belvedere, a terrace on Mount Royal.
Other than the Kondiaronk Belvedere, there are many other things you can do around. During the summer time, you can bring a picnic and sit in the various green areas on Mount Royal. I also recommend going to Beaver Lake, which is only a few minute walk from the Kondiaronk Belvedere. In the summer, you will find people rowing canoes whereas in the winter, many people go skating on the lake.
Hiking up Mount Royal is honestly one of my favourite forms of exercise to do in the city (other than going on a run on the Lachine canal). I highly recommend it!
2. Go to Cathcart on a Thursday for their 5@7
Every Thursday, at Cathcart, there is a 5@7. In Canadian culture, a “5@7” refers to a social gathering or event that typically takes place between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM. It is similar to what is commonly known as a “happy hour” in other parts of the world. The term “5@7” originates from the French language, where “5 à 7” translates to “five to seven.” Cathcart is a place that does their 5@7 very well.
Other than Cathcart, many bars, pubs, and restaurants in Canada offer special deals on drinks and appetizers during the 5@7 timeframe to attract patrons looking for a laid-back social experience after a day of work or activities. It’s a cherished tradition in Canadian social life, fostering camaraderie and a sense of community among participants.
3. Visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA) stands as a beacon of art and culture in the heart of Montreal, Quebec. One of the highlights of the MMFA is its extensive collection spanning various periods, styles, and cultures. Art enthusiasts can admire works by renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Picasso, Monet, and Van Gogh, as well as Canadian artists like Emily Carr and Jean-Paul Riopelle. The museum’s collection includes paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, photography, and more, offering a comprehensive overview of artistic expression throughout history.
In addition to its permanent collection, the MMFA hosts rotating exhibitions that showcase diverse themes, genres, and artistic movements. These temporary exhibits bring fresh perspectives and introduce visitors to contemporary artists, emerging trends, and global art scenes. From ancient civilizations to cutting-edge contemporary art, there’s always something new and exciting to discover at the MMFA.
I have been to the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts countless times, and each time, there was something unique to see and learn. I highly recommend stopping by during your next visit in Montreal!
4. Spend the evening at the Casino de Montréal
As the largest casino in Canada and one of the largest in the world, the Casino de Montréal is a premier destination for travelers looking to indulge in excitement and sophistication. To get there, you can take the subway and a bus, and the process is very simple! There is a specific casino bus that brings you right to its doorstep.
The casino’s interior is equally impressive, with expansive gaming floors hosting many games to suit every taste and preference. From classic table games like blackjack, roulette, and poker to a vast selection of slot machines and electronic gaming options, there’s no shortage of excitement and opportunities to test your luck.
I by no means am trying to promote gambling, but if you are looking for something unique to do, you can visit the Casino de Montréal. When I visited, I gave us a small budget of 30$, and we used it to play some fun games. It really does not need to break the bank!
In addition to its gaming offerings, the Casino de Montréal boasts a diverse range of dining options. The casino also hosts a variety of shows, concerts, and performances throughout the year. From live music and comedy acts to theatrical productions and special events, there’s always something happening at the Casino de Montréal. Moreover, the casino’s location on Île Notre-Dame provides breathtaking views of the Montreal skyline and the St. Lawrence River, adding to the ambiance and allure of the experience.
5. Discover some cafés in the city
Something that I love to do and that other people living in the city love to do is to explore new coffee shops. We love trying new places (there are hundreds of different coffee shops in Montreal!) and it is also a great place to get some work or studying done. There are so so many unique cafés. Here are some that I recommend:
- Le Petit Dep
- Kréma Café
- Café Myriade
- Leaves House Café
If you are interested in a more exhaustive list of cafés that I recommend in Montreal, click here.
6. Go to a music festival
Montreal has so many music festivals. Although not present year-round, there are still so many that occur throughout the year, so keep on eye out on music festivals during your visit. Some very popular ones are:
- Osheaga. It is the biggest music festival in Montreal, welcoming so many different types of artists. I have been 3 times and loved every time.
- Île Soniq. It is a music festival focus on EDM music. I have been twice.
- Lasso. It is a country music festival. I have never been.
- Festival de Jazz International de Montréal.
- Igloofest. It is a winter music festival with electronic music. I have been once.
- Piknik Électronik. It is mainly focused on house music. I have been 1 time.
Montreal also hosts other types of festivals and not just music festivals. Some examples are the Just for Laughs Comedy Festival, the International Fireworks Competition, Lumifest, and much more!
7. Get some groceries at a market
Something I LOVE to do during the summer is to get my fruits and veggies at a market. Montreal does its markets very well is the summer. Some that I recommend are the following:
- Marché Jean-Talon
- Atwater Market
- Jean-Brillant Neighbourhood Market
When travelling, I often neglect my fruits and vegetables intake, so if you have the time, make sure to stop at a market to stock up on some fibers!
8. Walk around the Old Port without an end goal
The Old Port of Montreal is a historic and picturesque district along the St. Lawrence River. As one of Montreal’s most beloved landmarks, the Old Port attracts tourists and locals alike with its timeless beauty and vibrant atmosphere.
I recommend simply strolling around and discovering the pretty streets of Old Montreal. I love coming to the Old Port on a free day and simply walking around without an end destination. I get to discover corners of Old Montreal that I had never seen before.
If you would like to have a general idea of things that you can see in Old Montreal, here are some famous attractions that you will see while walking around:
- Montreal Science Centre
- Pointe-à-Callière Museum
- Clock Tower
- Jacques-Cartier Square
- Old Port Beach
- Notre-Dame Basilica
- La Grande Roue
- And much more!
9. Have brunch or lunch on a terrace
Montreal has many amazing brunch spots. During the summer, restaurants open their outdoor terrace, where many locals can enjoy their meal outside and on rooftops.
There are honestly so many amazing brunch spots to choose from. Here are some of my personal favourites that I have been to and that I recommend:
- Café Saint-Barth
- Arthur’s Nosh Bar
- Maggie Oakes
- Pigeon Café & Bar
- Café Holt
10. Go thrifting
Montreal has many amazing thrift stores. Having gone to a few in the city, I can say that we do have some great selections! However, I would very much not consider myself an expert on thrifting, so I definitely have not gone to a lot in Montreal. Nevertheless, here are some that I have been to that I loved and that I highly recommend for you to visit:
- Marché Floh
- Eva B
- RE UP MTL
- Valley Village
- Le Ninety
11. Have a picnic along the Lachine Canal
The Lachine Canal is a historic waterway in the city of Montreal. Originally constructed in the 19th century to bypass the treacherous Lachine Rapids on the St. Lawrence River, the canal now serves as a picturesque recreational corridor that weaves through urban landscapes and lush greenery. You will find many locals going for a walk or a run along the canal of a typical day.
To get your food, you can stop by the Atwater Market, which is located right next to the Lachine Canal. Bring a comfortable blanket for you to sit and either other travellers or a book with you, and you got yourself an amazing afternoon.
Also, if ever you need to go to the restroom in the area, you can find public ones located between the Atwater Market and the Lachine Canal, where there is a small wooden building.
12. Go to the Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal for sunset
The Saint Joseph’s Oratory is one of the largest shrines dedicated to Saint Joseph in the world. It holds immense religious significance and attracts pilgrims, tourists, and believers alike with its breathtaking architecture, serene ambiance, and profound spiritual atmosphere.
Outside the Oratory, you will find many people sitting on its staircase during the summer to see the sunset. When I went, I honestly did not except many other people to also be there, but it seems to be a popular activity in Montreal. I really enjoyed it because you get a different view of Montreal than from the Kondiaronk Belvedere.
If you are looking to get food around the Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal, you can try out Gibeau Orange Julep. When we went, we stopped by Gibeau Orange Julep to try out their hotdog and famous orange juice before going to the Saint Joseph’s Oratory for sunset, and it was honestly a great combination of activities to put together, so I highly recommend!
13. Try the famous Poutine
Poutine, a beloved Canadian dish that has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of people around the world, is a combination of crispy fries, rich gravy, and creamy cheese curds. Originating in Quebec, particularly in the late-night diners and food stands of Montreal, poutine has evolved from a humble comfort food into a culinary sensation celebrated for its indulgent flavors and satisfying texture.
I have tried many different poutine places in Montreal, and here are some of my favourites:
- La Banquise
- Chez Claudette
- Costco’s poutine (I know this one is weird, but I swear their poutine is so good)
14. Attend an immersive exhibition
Montreal has many immersive exhibitions. An immersive exhibition is a type of interactive and sensory-rich experience that fully engages visitors in a specific theme, story, or artistic concept. Unlike traditional exhibitions where visitors passively observe displays or artworks, immersive exhibitions aim to transport participants into a different world or narrative through the use of technology, design elements, audiovisual effects, and interactive elements. Frequently changing, they have various ones at the Palais des Congrès de Montréal, the PHI center, the Montreal Science Centre, and much more.
I have been to OASIS Immersion at the Palais des Congrès de Montréal and to an exhibition at the PHI center. Although I loved my experience more at the Palais des Congrès de Montréal, your experience will depend on the type of exhibition you choose.
Jessie Across the World 