1.Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal – Oratoire Saint-Joseph du Mont-Royal
This roman catholic basilica and national shrine is located on the Westmount Summit and you’ll have to climb 283 steps to reach the top. As Canada’s largest church it was designated a National Historic Site of Canada to celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2004. As a travel photography tip, it well worth taking some shots from a distant vantage point before getting up close.
Perched on the northern slope of Mount Royal, Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal is one of Montreal’s most magnificent and awe-inspiring landmarks. The basilica’s towering dome is one of the largest in the world, offering a striking silhouette against the Montreal skyline.
One of the highlights of visiting Saint Joseph’s Oratory is the panoramic view it offers of Montreal. The basilica is situated on Mount Royal, providing sweeping vistas of the city below. The view from the terrace is breathtaking, especially during sunset when the city is bathed in golden light. It’s a perfect spot for photography or simply taking in the beauty of Montreal from above.
Public transit options include taking the metro to Côte-des-Neiges station, followed by a short bus ride or walk to the Oratory.
Tips for Visitors
- Take a Guided Tour: Guided tours are available and highly recommended for gaining deeper insights into the history and significance of the Oratory. Tours often include access to areas not open to the general public.
- Explore the Gardens: Don’t miss the beautiful gardens surrounding the Oratory. They’re perfect for a peaceful walk and offer additional viewpoints of the basilica and the city.
- Attend a Service: If you’re interested, attending a mass or service can be a deeply moving experience, even if you’re not Catholic. It offers a unique perspective on the spiritual life of the Oratory.
2.Visit the Montreal Biodome – Biodôme de Montréal
The biodome is a popular family friendly attraction for those visiting Montreal with children. Stepping inside, allows you to walk through replicas of four ecosystems found in the Americas:
1) South America: Tropical Forest
2) North America: Laurentian Forest
3) Gulf of Saint Lawrence: Marine Eco-system
4) Arctic / Antarctic: Polar area
Originally constructed for the 1976 Summer Olympics, this facility has been transformed into an extraordinary space that allows you to explore the wonders of nature without leaving the city. The sheer scope of the Biodome is breathtaking. It is home to over 4,500 animals from 250 species and 500 plant species. From playful river otters and vibrant tropical birds to the mesmerizing jellyfish and waddling penguins.
Tips for Visitors
- Book Tickets in Advance: To avoid long lines, especially during peak tourist season, book your tickets online in advance.
- Plan Your Route: Spend some time reviewing the Biodome’s layout and exhibits beforehand. This way, you can prioritize the areas that interest you the most.
- Take Your Time: The Biodome offers so much to see and do. Don’t rush. Allow yourself plenty of time to fully explore each ecosystem and enjoy the exhibits.
3.Montreal’s Olympic Stadium ‘The Big O’ – Stade Olympique de Montréal
As a huge baseball fan, in the mid 90’s, I was fortunate enough to come watch the Montreal Expos play at Olympic Stadium prior to the team relocating to Washington DC and changing its name to the Nationals. This multi-purpose stadium, built specifically for the 1976 Summer Olympics, carries the nickname “The Big O’ in reference to its donut shape; however, also because of the outrageous costs of building it. Given that it is the largest stadium in Canada in terms of seating capacity, it is a great venue to take in a sporting event, concert or live musical performance. It has in recent times hosted the Fifa U-20 World Cup.
Tips for Visitors
- Book Tickets in Advance: To avoid long lines and ensure availability, especially during peak tourist season, book your tickets online in advance.
- Explore Olympic Park: Don’t just stop at the stadium. Olympic Park is home to several other attractions, including the Biodome, the Botanical Garden, and the Insectarium. Make a day of it and explore all the area has to offer.
- Enjoy the View: Take your time to enjoy the view from the Montreal Tower. The perspective it offers of the city is unparalleled, and it’s a great spot for photos.
4.Montreal Botanical Garden – Jardin botanique de Montréal
Because there was some landscaping work being done, we didn’t get to walk the extent of the gardens; however, there is plenty to see here. The 190 acres botanical gardens are home to Japanese Gardens, Chinese Gardens, the First Nations Gardens and even Alpine Gardens. As a designated National Historic Site of Canada, the gardens are considered as one of the most important in the world given its extensive collection.
The Montreal Botanical Garden is home to over 22,000 plant species and cultivars, spread across 30 thematic gardens and 10 exhibition greenhouses. In spring, the garden bursts into bloom with tulips and cherry blossoms. Summer brings the vibrant colors of roses, lilies, and dahlias. Fall showcases the rich hues of autumn foliage, while winter transforms the greenhouses into a tropical paradise.
The Montreal Botanical Garden is conveniently located near the Pie-IX metro station on the Green Line. If you prefer to drive, there is ample parking available on-site.
Tips for Visitors
- Plan Your Route: With so much to see, it’s helpful to plan your route in advance. The garden provides maps and suggested itineraries based on your interests and the time you have available.
- Join a Tour: Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the various gardens and exhibits. Tours are available in multiple languages and can be booked in advance.
- Pack a Picnic: The garden has several picnic areas where you can enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. It’s a lovely way to extend your visit and make the most of your time in this beautiful setting.
5.Watch a Habs game the Montreal Canadiens – Les Canadiens de Montréal (le Club de hockey Canadien)
Hockey is like a religion in Canada nowhere else in the country takes it make seriously than Montreal. Bell Centre is home to the NHL’s Montreal Canadiens, one of the most celebrated and historic franchises in the history of sports, where you can catch a regular season game from October until mid April. As the longest operating franchise in hockey history (1908) they’ve accumulated no shortage of team nicknames in both French and English:
Les Habitants, Le CH, Le Grand Club, Le Canadien, Les Canadiens, Le Bleu-Blanc-Rouge, La Sainte-Flanelle, Habs
No team has won more Stanley Cups than the Canadiens (24 in total); however, my favorite team the Chicago Blackhawks have had more success in recent years giving me bragging rights for the time being 😉
The energy in the Bell Centre is palpable. Habs fans are among the most passionate in the NHL. Their love for the team is evident in every cheer and every song. The crowd’s energy is contagious, and you can’t help but get swept up in the excitement. Even if you’re not a hockey fan attending a game is a must.
Tips for Visitors
- Arrive Early: Arriving early allows you to soak in the pre-game atmosphere, grab some merchandise, and avoid the rush.
- Explore the Arena: The Bell Centre has various amenities, including restaurants and bars, where you can enjoy a meal or a drink before the game.
- Public Transit: The arena is easily accessible by public transit. The Lucien-L’Allier metro station is just a short walk away, making it convenient to get to and from the game.
6.Eat Montreal smoked meat at Schwartz’s – viande fumée
You have to eat smoked meat (unless vegetarian or vegan) if you come all the way to Montreal and there’s not better place to do so than at Schwartz’s Deli. This restaurant is an institution and it’s worth lining up for. What exactly is Montreal smoked meat or Montreal-style smoked meat? It is a kind of kosher deli meat created by curing beef brisket with spices, cracker peppercorns and salt.
The processing takes over a week before it is finally hot smoked and then steamed to completion. It is kind of similar to pastrami and is best served on rybe read with generous layer of yellow mustard. When ordering you have a choice between several cuts:
Lean: the healthiest cut but less flavorful
Medium: most popular cut from the middle of the brisket
Fat: from the end of the brisket loaded with fat
I’ve tried them all and I prefer medium or ‘old fashioned’ which is a cut in between Medium and Fat 🙂
Schwartz’s Deli is located at 3895 Saint-Laurent Boulevard, right in the heart of Montreal.
Tips for Visitors
- Cash Only: Schwartz’s is a cash-only establishment, so be sure to bring enough for your meal.
- Takeout Option: If the wait is too long or if you prefer to enjoy your meal elsewhere, Schwartz’s also offers takeout. You can enjoy your smoked meat sandwich in one of Montreal’s beautiful parks or back at your accommodation.
- Souvenirs: Don’t forget to check out the Schwartz’s merchandise, including their spice blends and cookbooks, to bring a piece of the experience home with you.
7.Notre-Dame Basilica – Notre-Dame Basilica
One of the most iconic landmarks in the historic district of Old Montreal is the Notre-Dame Basilica. Step inside to marvel at blue ceilings and a gold adorned altar located at 110 Notre-Dame Street west just off of the corner of Saint Sulpice Street (nearby metro station – Place-d’Armes). Built in the Gothic Revival style you’ll have to pay $5.00 to enter as a visitor unless you’re attending mass.
From the moment you approach Notre-Dame Basilica, the grandeur of its twin towers and intricate facade captures your attention. Stepping inside, you’re greeted by a dazzling display of stained glass windows, intricate wood carvings, and a stunning blue ceiling adorned with golden stars.
Built in the early 19th century, Notre-Dame Basilica is steeped in history. It has witnessed countless significant events, from state funerals to major celebrations. The church’s organ, one of the largest in North America, and its historic bell, “Le Gros Bourdon,” add to its rich historical tapestry.
Notre-Dame Basilica is located in the heart of Old Montreal. Its central location means you can easily combine your visit with other nearby attractions, such as Place d’Armes or the Old Port.
Visitor Tips
- Respectful Attire: Remember that Notre-Dame Basilica is a place of worship. Dress modestly and be respectful of those who may be there to pray.
- Photography: While photography is allowed, it’s best to be mindful of other visitors and the sanctity of the space.
- Souvenirs: The basilica has a small gift shop where you can purchase mementos of your visit, from postcards to books on its history and architecture.
8.Cirque du Soleil ‘Circus of the sun’
World renowned Cirque du Soleil (Circus of the Sun) offers performances around the world; however having a chance to watch it in Montreal, Quebec Canada – where it originated – is a once in a lifetime opportunity. We watched on their latest shows ‘Curious’ and it was one of the most spectacular events I’ve ever witnessed.
Although the tickets aren’t cheap it is well worth the price of admission considering the phenomenal coordinated performances offering a mix of circus arts and street entertainment.
On a personal note, this performance meant a lot to us because a Khmer teenager – attending an underprivileged school in Battambang, Cambodia – we saw perform was accepted into their university scholarship program.
Visitor Tips
- Dress Comfortably: While there’s no strict dress code, wearing comfortable clothing will enhance your enjoyment, especially if you’re attending a longer show.
- Photography: Typically, photography is not allowed during the performances to avoid distracting the performers and other audience members. Be sure to check and respect the rules.
- Concessions and Souvenirs: Most venues offer snacks and drinks, as well as merchandise stands where you can purchase show-themed souvenirs to remember your experience.
9.Montreal street art and graffiti
If you enjoy checking out graffiti and street art I would highly recommend the area around Saint Catherine’s in the East end of the city. It is just so colorful. You can wander down the lanes with art to be fold all over the area. Another great section of the city for this type of art is around the Le Plateau neighborhood where we were staying for the week.
Montreal hosts several street art festivals, such as MURAL Festival, which attracts top-tier artists and thousands of visitors. These events turn entire neighborhoods into vibrant, open-air galleries, with live painting sessions, music, and food creating a festive atmosphere.
One of the best ways to explore Montreal’s street art is by taking a self-guided tour. Start in neighborhoods like Plateau Mont-Royal, Mile End, and Saint-Henri, where art is plentiful. Many online resources and maps highlight key murals and notable works, helping you plan your route.
Visitor Tips
- Comfortable Footwear: Exploring street art means a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes.
- Camera Ready: Have your camera or smartphone ready to capture the vibrant art.
- Respect the Art: While street art is public, it’s still important to respect the artworks and the spaces they inhabit. Avoid touching or defacing the art.
- Stay Informed: Follow local street art blogs and social media accounts to stay updated on new works and artist highlights.
10.Go shopping and people watching along Saint Catherine Street – Rue Sainte-Catherine
If you’re looking to go shopping or people watching one of your best bets in all of Montreal is St. Catherine street. Given its status as the main commercial artery of the city, you’ll find all kinds of different stores and boutiques running parallel with Montreal’s underground city. Annually in July (for one week) Saint Catherine Streets hosts Canada’s largest open-air sidewalk sale stretching an impressive 2 kilometers.
The street is also a cultural hub, home to several iconic landmarks such as the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and the Place des Arts. During festival seasons, Saint Catherine Street transforms into a lively venue for parades, performances, and public art displays, enhancing its appeal.
No matter the season, Saint Catherine Street has something to offer. In the summer, it’s alive with outdoor cafes and street festivals. In the winter, the street sparkles with festive lights and holiday markets. Its year-round appeal makes it a must-visit destination anytime you’re in Montreal.
Take advantage of Montreal’s public transportation to reach Saint Catherine Street. The Green Line of the metro runs along much of the street, with convenient stops at key locations.
Visitor Tips
- Comfortable Shoes: Wear comfortable walking shoes as you’ll be covering a lot of ground.
- Weather Preparedness: Montreal weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and carry an umbrella if necessary.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated, especially during the summer months.
- Cash and Cards: While most places accept credit and debit cards, it’s handy to have some cash for smaller vendors and street performers.
11.Go shopping or warm up under Montreal’s Underground City – RÉSO or La Ville Souterraine
Montreal has long, brutal winters and this is when the underground city plays an important role. Most of the downtown area is interconnected by underground paths and underground shopping areas so you don’t have to be out in the cold. As one of the largest underground complexes in the world you’ll be sharing this space with some 500,000 people (per day) if you visit the city during winter months.
Montreal’s Underground City, known as RÉSO or La Ville Souterraine, is an architectural marvel. This extensive network of underground complexes (33 kilometers of tunnels) connects shopping centers, hotels, office buildings, and metro stations, creating a city beneath the city. With numerous shopping centers like Complexe Desjardins, Eaton Centre, and Place Montreal Trust interconnected, it’s a shopper’s paradise.
The Montreal Metro is your best friend when navigating RÉSO. The Green and Orange lines are particularly useful as they pass through many of the key sections. Stations like McGill, Bonaventure, and Peel are great starting points.
Visitor Tips
- Peak Times: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds, especially during lunch breaks when office workers flood the area.
- Language: While Montreal is bilingual, knowing a few basic French phrases can enhance your experience.
- Safety: The Underground City is safe, but as with any urban environment, stay aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
Have you been to Montreal?
Let us know what you love about this city in the comments below.
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