Travel Montreal, Quebec!

How To Be a Tourist In My City

Ah, Montreal! Not only a vibrant and culturally rich city known for its tourism – part and parcel of its culinary scene as well as its array of various festivals scattered throughout the summer months – but also my home. Being a digital nomad stuck in my home-base for the past six years (due to both personal and global issues *ahem* covid *ahem*), I thought now would be a great time to give you the run-down how to go about experiencing all the cool things that my city has to offer.

Here’s my guide to being a tourist in Montreal!

Places to See:

Lets start with some of my favourite ‘quartiers‘ to visit in this flavourful city!

1. Old Montreal (Vieux-Montreal): Explore the cobblestone streets, historic buildings, art dealers and visit landmarks like Notre-Dame Basilica. Stop at one of many cafés (Café Olympico is renowned in Montreal, and one of their locations is in Old Mtl) or restaurants for a refreshment and walk along the boardwalk to take a picture with La Grande Roue (be prepared to pay close to $30CAD per person however if you wish to hop on for a ride!).
2. Chinatown: I don’t know about you, but I love every Chinatown that I visit! There’s always so much action and so much to see. I love going into all the little stores and checking out what goodies they’ve imported from Asia, such as skin care products, jade rollers and guasha, cool tech devices (portable electric fans come in extremely handy during our very hot and humid summers!), and fantastic stationary accessories! It’s also a great place to buy a nice cold Bubble Tea, slurp-up some soup dumplings or try some tasty sweet or savoury stuffed buns.
3. Mount Royal: If you want a city-break but don’t have a car to leave the city and drive-out to one of our national or regional parks, you can take a walk through Mount-Royal park and climb to the top for a panoramic view of the entire city; a great sight both day and night!
4. Plateau & Mile-End: If you want a European vibe, meander through the artistic neighbourhoods of Le Plateau and the Mile-End, known for their colourful houses, street art (mural festival), and boutique shops (if you love vintage, these are winning neighbourhoods!). You will also find some of the best bookstores, coffee, bakeries and restaurants tightly packed into these quartiers (think bagels, smoked meat, and European espresso!).
5. Jean-Talon Market: I have been going to this market ever since I was a child when my father would pick me and my siblings up on weekends and drive straight there to get all his groceries. The smells! 30 years later, and I still remember walking into the indoor section in the winter and being hit with all the glorious smells of fresh herbs like dill, basil and parsley, the fresh oranges that would be cut-open on display for tasting, and the bouquets and bouquets of flowers! I always felt like a weird little child for being so excited about going to a market! hahahaha! While you’re here, there’s a great little seafood vendor at the end of one aisle where you can order freshly cooked calamari, shrimp, clams and lobster to eat right there.
6. Little Italy: Just a hop away from the market is wonderful Little Italy (I won’t lie, I’m not impartial), where you can check out Milano’s supermarket for all kinds of ready-made Italian treats (panini, pizza, focaccia, seriously large olives, imported chocolates, HUNDREDS of bottles of olive oil), mosey on over to more cafés (I’m a fan of San Gennaro) and get yourself an affogato, scarpetta (oh God, so good! But It’s limited to one tray every morning!), and bombaloni. Little Italy is a day of eating and indulging, and if you’re there during the first two weeks of August, maybe we’ll run into each other at the Italian Festival! ?

Historical Landmarks to Visit:

Montreal is definitely not known for its landmarks, but the ones that we do have, are a must see!

1. Notre-Dame Basilica: A stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture, known for its intricate interior design and beautiful stained glass windows. Did you also know that this is where Céline Dion was married!?
2. Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History: Housing a diverse collection of artifacts and exhibits, this museum presents a diverse collection spanning ancient to modern times. Its dynamic exhibits and architectural blend of past and present offer a captivating exploration of Montreal’s rich cultural heritage and historical evolution.
3. Château Ramezay Museum: Beautiful interior with a quiet little garden in the back, this historic building showcases Quebec’s history and culture through exhibits, artifacts, and guided tours.
4. Saint Joseph’s Oratory: An iconic religious landmark and architectural masterpiece. Situated atop Mount Royal, it is the largest shrine in the world dedicated to Saint Joseph. The Oratory’s stunning dome and grand basilica attract pilgrims and visitors alike, offering a serene atmosphere for reflection and prayer. Inside, the Oratory houses a museum showcasing religious artifacts and exhibits. Its peaceful gardens and panoramic views of Montreal make it a must-visit destination for tourists and spiritual seekers alike.
5. Olympic Stadium: Host to the 1976 Summer Olympics, the Olympic Stadium (or known begrudgingly by Montrealers as the Big-Owe) is an architectural marvel known for its iconic inclined tower, retractable roof and seating for thousands of spectators. While initially built for sports, the stadium now hosts concerts, exhibitions, and other cultural activities. Its distinctive appearance and historical significance as an Olympic venue make it a prominent landmark in Montreal’s skyline.
6. Biôdome: An attraction that recreates four distinct ecosystems found in the Americas. Originally built as a velodrome for the 1976 Olympics, it was converted into an eco-museum in 1992, replicating a tropical rainforest, a Laurentian forest, a polar area, and a marine ecosystem.

Tastes to Experience:

Here’s where is it at, the food! Of course there are so many delectable delights to feast on in Montreal, however what you will find in the below list are the best of any other North American city (not to mention poutine was invented here in Quebec).

1. Poutine: Sample this iconic Quebec dish made of fries, cheese curds, and gravy at La Banquise or another local spot.
2. Bagels: Try Montreal-style bagels, known for their smaller size, sweet taste, and chewy texture. St-Viateur Bagel and Fairmount Bagel are famous spots.
3. Smoked Meat: Indulge in a classic Montreal smoked meat sandwich at Schwartz’s Deli or Lester’s Deli.
4. Maple Syrup Treats: Sample maple syrup goodies like maple taffy or maple syrup pie.
5. French Cuisine: Known for our many acclaimed restaurants and talented chefs, Anthony Bourdain himself expressed how much he loved the city, as he made multiple trips here throughout his career. Now is really your chance to indulge in our exceptional culinary scene with French-inspired dishes!
6. Baguettes & Croissants: Outside of Paris, I have never found a baguette or croissant as good as the ones that we have to offer here at a select few of our French bakeries. If you don’t have the budget to fly across the ocean, I definitely recommend that you stop buy Pain d’Épi (in St-Henri) or Le Bête à Pain (in Griffintown and a much larger selection than Pain d’Épi) to snag yourself a croissant so flaky and buttery and rich, that is practically dissolves in your mouth!

Restaurants to Visit:

1. Schwartz’s Deli: Famous for its Montreal smoked meat sandwiches, this deli has been a local institution since 1928.
2. La Banquise: A must-visit for poutine lovers, offering a wide variety of poutine options including vegetarian and vegan choices.
3. Le Club Chasse et Pêche (4.7): A cozy restaurant with a focus on game and seafood dishes, offering a unique dining experience.
4. Restaurant Le Carré (4.7): A distinguished and sophisticated dining destination, with a focus on modern French cuisine that celebrates seasonal ingredients and innovative flavours.
5. Le Boulevardier Restaurant (4.6): A chic and inviting dining establishment known for its contemporary French cuisine, it offers a menu that combines traditional French flavours with modern culinary techniques, using fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
6. L’Express (4.6): A nostalgic and delightful dining experience reminiscent of Parisian bistros, it offers a menu filled with traditional French cuisine, expertly prepared with high-quality ingredients.
7. Toqué! (4.6): A fine dining restaurant known for its innovative and upscale Quebecois cuisine, offering a tasting menu showcasing local ingredients.
8. Restaurant Jérôme Ferrer – Europea (4.6): Offers an exceptional fine dining experience led by acclaimed chef Jérôme Ferrer. Combining French and Mediterranean cuisines with innovation; a creative menu highlighting premium ingredients.
9. Place Carmin (4.6): known for its fusion of French and Mediterranean cuisines with innovative twists, its menu boasts a diverse selection of dishes crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced locally whenever possible.
10. Holder (4.5): A favourite among us locals, Holder is known for its exceptional French bistro cuisine and charming ambiance. Offering a menu that combines classic French dishes with modern twists, featuring high-quality ingredients and creative presentations.
11. Le Cartet Resto Boutique (4.5): Another local favourite, Le Cartet offers a menu featuring a fusion of French and international flavours, with an emphasis on fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Additionally, Le Cartet’s boutique aspect allows patrons to explore and purchase gourmet products and artisanal goods, adding an extra layer of charm to the dining experience.
12. Leméac (4.5): A refined dining experience for patrons seeking upscale French cuisine, it offers a menu that showcases classic French dishes with a modern twist, prepared using fresh, seasonal ingredients.
13. Restaurant Au Petit Extra (4.5): A charming and intimate dining spot reminiscent of a Parisian bistro, its menu features a delightful array of traditional French dishes, expertly prepared using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
14. Modavie (4.4): known for its lively atmosphere with live jazz music, and fusion of French and Mediterranean cuisines, it offers a menu that showcases a range of flavourful and innovative dishes.
15. Le Pois Penche (4.4): an elegant and sophisticated brasserie with a touch of Parisian flair, its menu features a selection of classic French dishes prepared with exquisite attention to detail and using high-quality ingredients.
16. Chez Leveque (4.3): A beloved Montreal institution known for its warm hospitality and traditional French cuisine, its menu offers an array of classic French dishes, prepared with care and using fresh, seasonal ingredients.
17. **La Classe (4.5): If you need a more affordable menu but don’t want to lose the experience, La Classe, located at LaSalle College’s International School of Hotel Management & Tourism Restaurant, maintains an upscale atmosphere with stylish decor, and features a curated selection of classic French dishes, prepared with meticulous attention to detail and using the finest ingredients.

These recommendations should give you a comprehensive experience of Montreal’s culinary delights, cultural events, and historical heritage during your visit!

Things to Do & Experiences to Enjoy:

Vibe like a local by checking out any-one of these activities

1. Take a Food Tour: Join a food tour to taste Montreal’s diverse culinary scene, from bagels to smoked meat sandwiches.
2. Go for Brunch: Us Montrealers LOVE our brunch! In fact, I don’t think there is any other meal more popular in our city than brunch! With so many brunch-specific restaurants to choose from, it’s not easy to decide, but make sure of one thing… that they have great potatoes to accompany whatever you decide to eat!
3. Lachine Canal: Hop on a Bixi bike and ride along the scenic Lachine Canal, stopping at cafes and parks along the way, or reserve a kayak rental across from the Atwater Market and drift down the canal instead!
4. Attend a Festival: Depending on the time of year, you might catch events like the Montreal Jazz Festival, Just for Laughs Comedy Festival, the Montreal International Fireworks Competition or Igloofest.
5. Explore Underground City (RESO): There are five seasons in Montreal; Summer, Autumn, Winter, Spring and RAIN! Forgot your umbrella, no problem! Wander through the underground network of shops, and restaurants during winter or on rainy days.
6. Montreal Botanical Garden: Relax in beautifully landscaped gardens and visit the greenhouse complex.
7. Segway Tour: Take a Segway tour to cover more ground and see popular sights.
8. Nightlife: Experience Montreal’s nightlife with live music, clubs, and bars Scattered throughout downtown, Old Mtl and the Latin Quarter. While you’re here, try to stop in at one of our jazz bars (Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill, House of Jazz, and Dieze Onze) for an authentic experience of why jazz became such a culturally significant part of Montreals history.

Festivals to Attend:

Lastly, if you’re anything like me and you love festivals but get anxiety at the idea of being trapped in a crowded indoor space, check-out the list of our many accessible outdoor festivals below!

1. Montreal Jazz Festival: One of the world’s largest jazz festivals, featuring performances by world renowned artists across various venues in the city, with free spectacular outdoor performance in Quartier des Spectacles (however, I do warn that the sheer size of the crowds can get crazy).
2. Just for Laughs Comedy Festival: A comedy festival showcasing stand-up, improv, and comedic performances from both established and emerging comedians from around the world.
3. Montreal International Fireworks Competition: A spectacular fireworks competition held annually in the summer, hosting teams that have travelled from countries across the globe, featuring dazzling displays synchronized with music.
4. Montreal World Film Festival: An international film festival showcasing a diverse selection of films from around the world.
5. Montreal Pride: A celebration of LGBTQ+ culture and diversity, featuring parades, parties, and cultural events.
6. Montreal Mural Festival: Montreal is renowned for its vibrant street art scene, including numerous wall murals scattered throughout the city. Here are some locations where you can find impressive wall murals in Montreal:
   • Boulevard Saint-Laurent (The Main):
     • This iconic street features numerous murals depicting diverse themes such as culture, history, and social issues.
   • Plateau-Mont-Royal:
     • Wander through the Plateau-Mont-Royal neighborhood to discover colorful murals adorning buildings and alleyways.
   • Saint-Laurent Metro Station:
     • The area around the Saint-Laurent metro station boasts several large-scale murals, adding artistic flair to the urban landscape.
   • Rue Saint-Denis:
     • Explore Rue Saint-Denis to find murals showcasing a mix of contemporary art styles and cultural expressions.
   • The Village (Gay Village):
     • The Village is home to vibrant murals celebrating LGBTQ+ pride and culture, enhancing the area’s lively atmosphere.
   • Mile End:
     • This artistic neighborhood features many murals reflecting the area’s creative spirit and diverse community.
   • Griffintown:
     • Discover murals in Griffintown that often highlight themes related to urban life, history, and social activism.
   • Mont-Royal Avenue:
     • Walk along Mont-Royal Avenue to encounter murals that contribute to the neighborhood’s bohemian ambiance.
   • Montreal’s Underground City (RESO):
     • Some sections of the underground city feature murals, adding artistic elements to the network of shops and passageways.
   • Plateau Muralfest:
     • During the Plateau Muralfest, various artists create new murals across the Plateau-Mont-Royal neighbourhood, providing an opportunity to witness the art in progress.
7. Igloofest: Spanning from the last two weeks of January into the first two weeks of February, even in the sub-zero temperatures, Montrealers will still find a way to party outside! If you’re into electronic music, put on your most outlandish costume and get ready to dance with a wave of people jumping to every beat high off the music! Renowned DJs from all over the world, to the likes of Tiesto, Above&Beyond, Diplo, Armin Van Buuren, Martin Garrix, Deadmau5, Carl Cox, etc, have graced the stages of Igloofest! If you can’t find anymore tickets for sale on the event website, people are ALWAYS selling their tickets on the events page on Facebook.
8. Piknic Electronik: Although this is not technically a festival, I definitely consider like one! From the same franchise as Igloofest, Piknic, promises the same experience, only it’s during every Saturday and Sunday from the month of May until the month of October. Piknic is where you will find many many young locals on a Sunday afternoon, soaking in the sun and enjoying the sweet beats. Like with Ighloofest, if you can’t find anymore tickets for sale on the event website, people are ALWAYS selling their tickets on the events page on Facebook.

Pedestrian friendly and extremely walkable, Montreal is full of surprises and familiar delights waiting for you to uncover. From the old-world charm of Old Montreal to the lively festivals and mouthwatering bites, every street holds a story of culture and adventure. Whether it’s wandering through iconic spots or simply enjoying a plate of poutine, Montreal has a way of making every moment feel like an era to be remembered.

Thanks for reading!

Jen