Kondiaronk Belvedere, Mount Royal
The iconic downtown view from Mount Royal Park, best at sunset.
Best things to do in Montreal
Montreal’s essentials, from the Mount Royal lookouts to the Old Port: our pick of the experiences you shouldn’t miss, neighbourhood by neighbourhood.
What to see & do
Old Montreal and the Old Port
Cobblestone streets, waterfront terraces and the riverside observation wheel.
in Old Montreal →Notre-Dame Basilica
A neo-Gothic masterpiece in the heart of Old Montreal.
in Old Montreal →Jean-Talon Market
One of North America’s largest public markets, in Little Italy.
in Villeray →Space for Life and the Botanical Garden
Botanical Garden, Biodôme, Insectarium and Planetarium clustered near the Olympic Stadium.
in Hochelaga →Mile End
Cafés, St-Viateur and Fairmount bagels, and murals in the city’s most creative neighbourhood.
in Mile End →Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
The city’s largest art collection, on Sherbrooke Street.
in Downtown Montreal →Lachine Canal
A waterside cycling and walking path from the Old Port to Atwater Market.
in Griffintown →Neighbourhoods to explore
Where to eat & explore
Places to check out
Café Saint-Viateur
Independent roaster and third-wave café in the heart of Mile End. Espresso, slow-pour filter and house pastries.
521 reviews →
Brasserie Sainte-Catherine
Lively downtown brasserie: grills, seafood and a strong cocktail list. Weekend brunch.
421 reviews →
La Table du Plateau
Neighbourhood bistro known for its market-driven cuisine and private-import wine list. Warm room on Mont-Royal Avenue.
312 reviews →
Festivals & events
- Montreal International Jazz Festival
- Just for Laughs
- Osheaga
- MURAL Festival
Dates change each year — check each festival’s official website.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Montreal?
Summer (June–September) for festivals and terraces, autumn for the foliage, and winter for skating and Igloofest.
How many days do you need in Montreal?
Three to four days covers the essentials; a week lets you explore the neighbourhoods in depth.
Is Montreal walkable?
Yes — downtown, Old Montreal and the Plateau are walkable, and the Metro connects the rest.