The Best Things to Do in Montreal, Canada

1Explore Old Montreal

The heart of the city and its most atmospheric quarter, Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal) is a maze of cobbled streets, 17th- and 18th-century stone buildings, grand squares like Place Jacques-Cartier, and the lively Old Port on the river. It’s made for wandering—boutiques, cafés and terrasses at every turn—and a guided walking tour is the best way to uncover the history and legends behind the façades before you strike out on your own.

Best for: The one unmissable area and the city’s history. Duration: 1.5–3 hours.

2Step Inside the Notre-Dame Basilica

Old Montreal’s crown jewel, the Notre-Dame Basilica (completed 1829) hides a breathtaking Gothic Revival interior behind its twin-towered façade—a symphony of deep cobalt blue and gold leaf, intricate wood carving, and a ceiling scattered with golden stars. Come by day to admire the detail, or book the evening AURA light-and-sound experience, which transforms the whole nave into an immersive show. It’s the single most jaw-dropping interior in the city.

Best for: Stunning architecture and the AURA show. Duration: 1 hour. Note: modest dress appreciated in the basilica.

3Climb Mount Royal for the Skyline View

The green mountain that gives the city its name, Mount Royal (Parc du Mont-Royal) was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted of Central Park fame. Walk, cycle or catch a shuttle up to the Kondiaronk Belvedere, the grand lookout beside the Chalet du Mont-Royal, for the classic postcard view over downtown and the St. Lawrence—especially magical at sunset. The wooded trails, Beaver Lake and autumn colours make it a local favourite year-round.

Best for: The best skyline view and a green escape. Duration: 1–2 hours. Free.

4Eat Your Way Through Montreal

Montreal is one of North America’s great food cities, and a guided food tour is the tastiest way in. You’ll work through the essentials—wood-fired Montreal bagels (St-Viateur and Fairmount are the icons), late-night poutine, and famous smoked-meat sandwiches at spots like Schwartz’s—plus Québec cheeses, maple treats and more, with a local guide sharing the stories behind each bite. For more, see our full Montreal food guide.

Best for: Foodies and first-timers. Duration: 2–3.5 hours.

5Cruise the St. Lawrence from the Old Port

Seeing Montreal from the water gives you a whole new angle on the skyline, Old Montreal’s spires and the islands of Parc Jean-Drapeau. A sightseeing cruise from the Old Port glides along the mighty St. Lawrence with commentary on the city’s history; thrill-seekers can opt instead for a jet-boat ride out to the roaring Lachine Rapids. Either way, it’s a refreshing break from pounding the pavement.

Best for: Skyline views and a change of pace. Duration: 1–1.5 hours.

6Graze the Jean-Talon & Atwater Markets

Montreal’s public markets are a feast for the senses. Jean-Talon Market in Little Italy is one of North America’s largest open-air markets—piled with Québec produce, cheeses, charcuterie, maple products and street food (it’s busiest and best on Saturdays). Atwater Market, in a handsome Art Deco hall by the Lachine Canal, is smaller but equally delicious and easy to pair with a canal-side walk or bike ride.

Best for: Foodies, self-caterers and local colour. Duration: 1–2 hours. Free to browse.

7See the City by Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

Short on time or want the highlights with minimal walking? The Montreal hop-on hop-off bus loops the major sights—Old Montreal, Mount Royal, downtown, the Old Port and beyond—so you can jump off wherever catches your eye and rejoin later. It’s a smart, relaxed way to orient yourself on day one, especially with kids or on a tight schedule. See our dedicated Montreal hop-on hop-off bus guide for routes and tips.

Best for: First-day orientation and families. Duration: flexible (day pass).

8Day Trip: Québec City & Montmorency Falls

If you have a spare day, the walled old city of Québec is one of the most beautiful places in North America—and it pairs perfectly with the thundering Montmorency Falls, taller than Niagara. A guided day trip handles the roughly three-hour drive each way and packs in the Old Town, the Château Frontenac and the falls, so you get the most out of a long but unforgettable day. More ideas in our Montreal day trips guide.

Best for: Seeing historic Québec City and a giant waterfall in one day. Duration: full day.

The Plateau-Mont-Royal & Mile End — Montreal’s most photogenic neighbourhoods, full of colourful spiral staircases, street murals, indie cafés and the original bagel bakeries.

St. Joseph’s Oratory — Canada’s largest church, a vast domed basilica on Mount Royal’s slopes with sweeping city views.

Space for Life (Botanical Garden, Biodôme & Insectarium) — World-class gardens and immersive nature attractions at the Olympic Park.

Pointe-à-Callière — Montreal’s excellent archaeology museum, built over the city’s original foundations.

The Underground City (RÉSO) — Over 30km of climate-controlled tunnels connecting malls, metro and downtown—a lifesaver in winter.