What to see in Montreal

The Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal stands as a magnificent testament to faith and a beacon of tranquility, drawing millions of visitors annually to Montreal. Perched majestically on the slopes of Mount Royal, this Roman Catholic basilica is not only Canada's largest church but also one of the world's most important pilgrimage sites. Its construction began in 1904, spearheaded by Brother André Bessette, a humble doorkeeper of the Collège Notre-Dame who possessed a profound devotion to Saint Joseph and was renowned for his healing touch. Many attributed miraculous cures to his intercession, leading to the rapid growth of the Oratory from a small chapel to the grand edifice you see today. The Oratory's impressive dome, the second largest of its kind in the world after St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, dominates the city's skyline, offering a striking visual landmark. Exploring its vast interior, you'll discover numerous chapels, a museum dedicated to Brother André, and a crypt church, each space inviting quiet contemplation. The Oratory is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Montreal, offering a unique blend of spiritual significance, architectural grandeur, and panoramic city views.

Beyond its spiritual core, the Oratory's history is deeply intertwined with the life of Brother André. Born Alfred Bessette in 1845, he joined the Congregation of Holy Cross in 1870 and dedicated his life to serving others. His simple, unwavering faith and compassion touched countless lives, making him a beloved figure. He was canonized as Saint André of Montreal in 2010, becoming Canada's first male saint. The Oratory houses his tomb, a place of profound reverence for pilgrims. As you ascend the 283 steps to the basilica, you'll often see pilgrims climbing on their knees, a powerful display of devotion. The beautiful gardens surrounding the Oratory provide a serene escape, perfect for a leisurely stroll, especially during warmer months. From the observation deck, you are treated to breathtaking vistas of Montreal and beyond, making it an ideal spot for photography. For a delightful culinary break after your visit, consider stopping by Pâtisserie Rhubarbe, a charming bakery known for its exquisite pastries and coffee, located just a short drive away on Laurier Avenue West, offering a taste of local Montreal flavors.

The architectural style of the Oratory is predominantly Renaissance Revival, with elements of Art Deco, reflecting the various phases of its construction which spanned several decades. The basilica's main organ, built by Casavant Frères, is one of the largest in Canada, and its majestic sound often fills the vast space during services and concerts. The Oratory also hosts a carillon with 56 bells, offering a beautiful auditory experience. Visiting the Oratory provides insight into Montreal's rich religious heritage and the enduring legacy of Brother André. Whether you are seeking spiritual solace, admiring architectural marvels, or simply enjoying the panoramic views, the Oratory offers a memorable experience.

The Mount Royal Park stands as Montreal's verdant heart, a magnificent urban oasis designed by the renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, who also famously co-designed New York City's Central Park. Opened to the public in 1876, this sprawling park encompasses the highest point in the city, Mount Royal itself, which is an intrusive igneous rock formation and part of the Monteregian Hills. It offers a vital escape from the urban bustle, inviting you to connect with nature right in the city's core.

As one of the best places to visit in Montreal, Mount Royal Park provides breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline, the majestic St. Lawrence River, and even the distant Eastern Townships from the Kondiaronk Belvedere at the Mount Royal Chalet. Throughout the year, the park transforms, offering a diverse array of activities. In warmer months, stroll along its winding paths, cycle the dedicated lanes, or simply relax by Beaver Lake. Sundays are particularly vibrant with the Tam-Tams, an informal drum circle gathering near the George-Étienne Cartier Monument, creating a unique, rhythmic atmosphere that draws locals and visitors alike. When winter arrives, the park becomes a snowy playground, perfect for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating on Beaver Lake.

Beyond its recreational appeal, the park holds significant cultural importance. Dominating the summit is the Mount Royal Cross, a large, illuminated steel cross first erected in 1924, which serves as a beacon visible from across the city, especially at night. This iconic landmark symbolizes Montreal's rich heritage. Take your time to explore the various trails, discover hidden nooks, and observe the local wildlife, from playful squirrels to diverse bird species.

The Lachine Canal National Historic Site offers a captivating journey through Montreal's industrial past and vibrant present. Once a vital artery that fueled the city's economic boom, this historic waterway, stretching 14.5 kilometers from the Old Port of Montreal to Lac Saint-Louis, played a pivotal role in transforming Montreal into Canada's leading industrial center. Opened in 1825, the canal was a groundbreaking engineering feat, allowing ships to bypass the treacherous Lachine Rapids on the St. Lawrence River. Its construction and subsequent deepenings, notably under the vision of figures like Sir John A. Macdonald in the mid-19th century, spurred the growth of factories, mills, and a bustling port, making the surrounding neighborhoods like Griffintown and Saint-Henri industrial powerhouses. You'll discover remnants of this rich heritage along its banks, from old factories repurposed into modern lofts to the historic locks that once facilitated the passage of countless vessels.

Today, the Lachine Canal has been beautifully revitalized, offering a serene escape and a myriad of things to do in Montreal. It's a beloved urban park where you can cycle or stroll along its picturesque pathways, enjoying stunning views of the city skyline and the tranquil water. Rent a kayak, paddleboard, or even an electric boat to explore the canal from a different perspective, gliding past historic bridges and lush green spaces. The canal's transformation from an industrial corridor to a recreational haven is a testament to Montreal's ability to reinvent itself while preserving its history. As you explore, consider stopping by the nearby Atwater Market, a vibrant public market just a short detour from the canal, where you can savor local produce, artisanal cheeses, and freshly baked goods, perfect for a picnic by the water.

This historic site provides a unique blend of nature, history, and urban charm. Whether you're a history buff keen to understand Montreal's industrial roots or simply looking for a peaceful spot to unwind, the Lachine Canal National Historic Site delivers. Its accessible paths make it ideal for families, runners, and cyclists alike, inviting you to connect with the city's past while enjoying its dynamic present.

The Montreal Botanical Garden stands as a sprawling urban oasis, recognized as one of the world's most significant botanical gardens. Spanning 75 hectares, this remarkable institution invites you to explore a breathtaking diversity of plant life from across the globe, meticulously arranged into 20 themed gardens and 10 exhibition greenhouses. It's a place where horticulture meets art and science, offering a tranquil escape and an educational journey right in the heart of the city. As you wander through its meticulously curated landscapes, you'll discover why it's a cornerstone of Montreal's cultural and natural heritage.

Among the many wonders to see in Montreal, the Botanical Garden offers an unparalleled experience for nature lovers and curious minds alike. Its origins trace back to the vision of Brother Marie-Victorin, a renowned botanist and educator, who championed its creation during the Great Depression, with its official opening in 1931. His dedication to botanical science and public education laid the groundwork for what is now a National Historic Site of Canada. You can immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Japanese Garden, complete with its traditional tea house and koi ponds, or marvel at the intricate artistry of the Chinese Garden, which hosts the popular Gardens of Light festival in autumn. The First Nations Garden provides insight into the deep connection between Indigenous peoples and the plant world, showcasing traditional uses of native flora. Don't miss the vast Arboretum, home to thousands of trees and shrubs, offering stunning seasonal displays. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the garden is a vital center for plant research, conservation, and education, playing a crucial role in preserving biodiversity.

Visiting the Montreal Botanical Garden is an enriching experience that can easily fill an entire day. You'll find yourself captivated by the sheer variety, from the vibrant colors of the Rose Garden to the exotic species housed in the tropical greenhouses. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, a family outing, or a quiet moment of reflection amidst nature. The garden is conveniently located adjacent to the Olympic Park, allowing you to combine your visit with other iconic Montreal attractions like the Biodome or the Planetarium. While there isn't a specific high-fashion store or famous bakery immediately within the garden, the surrounding Hochelaga-Maisonneuve neighborhood offers charming local cafes and eateries where you can grab a bite after your botanical adventure.

The Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal stands as a magnificent testament to Neo-Gothic architecture in the heart of Old Montreal, captivating visitors with its dramatic and richly decorated interior. Conceived by the Irish-American Protestant architect James O'Donnell, a surprising choice for such a prominent Catholic edifice, its construction began in 1824, with the exterior completed by 1829. However, the intricate interior, a true masterpiece of craftsmanship, took much longer to realize, evolving into the breathtaking space you see today. This basilica replaced an earlier, smaller church built in 1672, reflecting the growing needs of Montreal's burgeoning Catholic population. Its sheer scale and the meticulous detail of its design make it a cornerstone of what to see in Montreal, offering a profound glimpse into the city's religious and architectural heritage.

Step inside, and you are immediately enveloped by a symphony of deep blues, vibrant golds, and rich reds, a stark contrast to the more subdued exteriors of many European cathedrals. The intricate carvings, the soaring vaulted ceilings, and the stunning stained-glass windows, which uniquely depict scenes from Montreal's religious history rather than biblical narratives, invite you to linger and absorb the artistry. Don't miss the impressive Casavant Frères Grand Organ, boasting nearly 7,000 pipes, whose majestic sound fills the nave during services and concerts. Behind the main altar, the Sacred Heart Chapel (Chapelle du Sacré-Cœur), rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1978, presents a striking modern design in wood and bronze, offering a contemporary counterpoint to the basilica's historical grandeur. This basilica has also been the setting for significant public events, including the state funerals of former Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau and René Angélil, as well as the high-profile wedding of Celine Dion, further cementing its place in Canadian cultural history.

To truly appreciate its splendor, consider attending the "AURA" light and sound show, which transforms the interior into an immersive artistic experience, highlighting its architectural features with stunning projections. After your visit, take a moment to explore Place d'Armes directly in front of the basilica, a historic square surrounded by significant buildings like the old Bank of Montreal Head Office. The surrounding streets of Old Montreal are perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering a wealth of charming cafes, art galleries, and boutiques. For a unique coffee experience, the nearby Crew Collective & Café, housed in a magnificent former bank building, provides an inspiring setting to reflect on the basilica's beauty.

The Old Montreal district, known as Vieux-Montréal in French, invites you to step back in time and explore the very foundations of this vibrant city. Established in 1642 as Ville-Marie by French settlers led by Paul de Chomedey de Maisonneuve and Jeanne Mance, this historic area served as a crucial fur trading post and a religious mission. As you wander its narrow, cobblestone streets, you'll encounter a captivating blend of 17th, 18th, and 19th-century architecture, reflecting centuries of French and British influence. The district's remarkably preserved buildings, many now housing art galleries, boutiques, and charming cafes, tell tales of early colonial life, grand merchants, and the city's evolution from a small settlement to a bustling port. It's a place where every corner reveals a piece of Montreal's rich heritage, making it an essential starting point for any visit.

Among the best places to visit in Montreal, Old Montreal truly stands out for its immersive historical experience and vibrant contemporary scene. Don't miss the awe-inspiring Notre-Dame Basilica, a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture where you can admire its intricate stained glass and the stunning Aura light show. Stroll through Place Jacques-Cartier, a lively public square often filled with street performers and flower vendors, leading down to the Old Port. Here, you can enjoy waterfront activities, take a ride on the La Grande Roue de Montréal (Ferris wheel), or simply soak in the views of the Saint Lawrence River. For a deeper dive into the city's past, the Pointe-à-Callière Archaeology and History Complex is a must-visit, built directly over Montreal's original settlement, offering fascinating insights into its archaeological layers and the lives of its earliest inhabitants. You'll also find the historic Bonsecours Market, once a public market and now home to artisan boutiques and exhibitions, a testament to the area's enduring commercial spirit.

Beyond its major landmarks, Old Montreal offers a delightful array of experiences. Take your time to explore the numerous independent boutiques offering unique fashion and local crafts, or discover a hidden gem among the many art galleries. The district is also a culinary haven, with an abundance of excellent restaurants ranging from cozy bistros to upscale dining, many housed in beautifully restored historic buildings. You'll find charming bakeries and cafes perfect for a morning pastry and coffee, or a leisurely afternoon break. Consider stopping by a local favorite like Olive et Gourmando for a renowned sandwich or pastry, or exploring the unique offerings at the various shops along Rue Saint-Paul.

The Jean-Talon Market is a bustling public market nestled in Montreal's vibrant Little Italy neighborhood, offering a sensory feast for visitors. Since its opening in 1933, this market has been a cornerstone of the city's culinary landscape, named in honor of Jean Talon, the first intendant of New France, who championed agricultural development in the colony. You'll discover a lively atmosphere where local farmers and artisans proudly display their freshest produce, from vibrant fruits and vegetables to artisanal cheeses, freshly baked goods, and fragrant flowers. It’s a place where the community gathers, and you can truly feel the pulse of Montreal's food culture.

As one of the largest public markets in North America, the Jean-Talon Market stands out as one of the best places to visit in Montreal for anyone eager to experience authentic local life and taste the bounty of Quebec. Stroll through the aisles, and you'll be captivated by the sheer variety and quality of goods available. During the summer months, the market overflows with seasonal delights like sweet Quebec strawberries and blueberries, while autumn brings an abundance of crisp apples and pumpkins. Even in winter, the market remains a vibrant hub, with indoor sections providing warmth and a continued selection of local products. This year-round accessibility ensures that no matter when you visit, there's always something fresh and exciting to discover.

Beyond the produce, the market is a fantastic spot to find specialty items, including local maple products, Quebec wines, and unique gourmet treats. You can engage directly with the producers, learning about their farming practices and the stories behind their products, which adds a personal touch to your shopping experience. After exploring the market's offerings, consider venturing into the surrounding Little Italy area. Just steps away, you'll find charming cafes like Café Larue & Fils, perfect for a coffee break, or bakeries such as Boulangerie Première Moisson, where you can pick up a freshly baked baguette or pastry.

The Montreal Biodome offers a truly immersive journey through some of the Americas' most diverse ecosystems, all housed within a single, remarkable building. Originally constructed as the velodrome for the 1976 Montreal Olympics, this architectural marvel was ingeniously transformed in 1992 into a living museum, allowing you to explore five distinct natural environments under one roof. It stands as a testament to innovative repurposing and a commitment to environmental education, making it one of the best places to visit in Montreal for nature enthusiasts and curious minds alike. As part of Space for Life (Espace pour la Vie), Montreal's largest natural science museum complex, the Biodome shares its mission with the nearby Botanical Garden, Insectarium, and Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium, creating a hub for discovery and conservation in the city's east end.

Step inside, and you'll immediately feel transported as you wander through meticulously recreated habitats. Begin your adventure in the Tropical Rainforest, a lush, humid world teeming with exotic birds, playful monkeys, and even a sloth or two. Continue to the Laurentian Forest, where you can observe beavers, lynx, and otters in a temperate environment that mirrors Quebec's own wilderness, complete with seasonal changes. Dive deeper into the Saint Lawrence Marine Ecosystem, an impressive aquarium showcasing the diverse aquatic life of the mighty Saint Lawrence River, including various fish species and even seals. Your journey then takes you to the rugged Labrador Coast, home to charming puffins and auks, before culminating in the chilly Sub-Antarctic Islands, where a colony of penguins waddles and dives in their icy habitat. Each ecosystem is designed to replicate its natural counterpart as closely as possible, providing a unique opportunity to observe wildlife in settings that mimic their native homes.

Beyond the captivating animal encounters, the Montreal Biodome is a leader in conservation and research, actively participating in breeding programs for endangered species and educating visitors on the importance of biodiversity. The building itself, designed by French architect Roger Taillibert for its original Olympic purpose, is a fascinating structure, with its distinctive curved roof now sheltering a vibrant array of life. After your visit, consider exploring the surrounding Olympic Park, which offers additional attractions and green spaces. For a local culinary experience, the Marché Maisonneuve, a charming public market with various food stalls and bakeries, is just a short walk away, perfect for grabbing a snack or a coffee.

The McCord Stewart Museum, nestled in the heart of downtown Montreal on Sherbrooke Street West, invites you to delve into the rich tapestry of Canadian social history. This esteemed institution, formed from the merger of the McCord Museum and the Stewart Museum, offers a compelling journey through the lives and experiences of Canadians, from the earliest Indigenous communities to contemporary society. Its origins trace back to the visionary collection of David Ross McCord, a Montreal lawyer who, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, meticulously amassed artifacts reflecting the country's material culture and heritage. Today, the museum houses an extraordinary collection of over 2.5 million objects, including significant holdings of costumes and textiles, Indigenous artifacts, photographs, decorative arts, and archives. You'll find yourself captivated by the stories told through everyday objects, grand garments, and poignant images, offering a unique lens into the evolution of Canadian identity and societal changes over centuries.

As you explore what to see in Montreal, the McCord Stewart Museum stands out for its commitment to presenting diverse narratives and fostering a deeper understanding of the nation's past. The museum's exhibitions frequently highlight themes such as fashion history, the impact of industrialization, the lives of ordinary citizens, and the profound contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. For instance, you might encounter a stunning display of historical Canadian fashion, showcasing how styles evolved from the 18th century to the present day, or an insightful exhibit on the history of Montreal itself, revealing its transformation from a fur trading post to a vibrant metropolis. The extensive photographic archives, including the works of renowned photographers like William Notman, provide an unparalleled visual record of Canadian life, capturing moments both grand and intimate. This focus on social history makes the museum incredibly relatable, allowing you to connect with the human stories behind the artifacts.

After immersing yourself in Canada's past, consider a stroll along Sherbrooke Street West, a boulevard renowned for its cultural institutions and elegant architecture. Just a short walk from the museum, you'll find Holt Renfrew Ogilvy, a landmark luxury department store that also houses Café Holt, a chic spot perfect for a coffee or light meal.

The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA) stands as a cornerstone of Montreal's vibrant cultural scene, inviting you to explore a vast and diverse collection that spans centuries and continents. Established in 1860, it holds the distinction of being Canada's oldest art institution, evolving from a modest art association into a world-class museum. Its journey reflects Montreal's own growth as a cosmopolitan hub, with significant expansions over the years, including the addition of the Jean-Noël Desmarais Pavilion in 1991 and the Michal and Renata Hornstein Pavilion for Peace in 2016. These architectural marvels are seamlessly connected by underground passages, creating an expansive and engaging visitor experience. As one of the premier Montreal attractions, the MMFA offers an unparalleled opportunity to delve into art history, from ancient artifacts and European masters to contemporary installations and a rich collection of Canadian and Québécois art. You'll discover works by renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Picasso, and Monet, alongside significant pieces by Tom Thomson and the Group of Seven, providing a comprehensive overview of artistic expression.

Beyond its permanent collections, the MMFA is celebrated for its ambitious temporary exhibitions, which frequently bring international blockbusters and unique thematic shows to Montreal, making each visit a fresh discovery. The museum also boasts an impressive collection of decorative arts and design, showcasing everything from furniture and textiles to glass and ceramics, offering insights into the evolution of craftsmanship and aesthetics. A unique aspect of the MMFA is its commitment to art therapy and community engagement, exemplified by its innovative programs that use art to promote well-being. This dedication to accessibility and social impact sets it apart. After immersing yourself in art, consider a stroll down Sherbrooke Street, where the museum is located. You'll find yourself in a prestigious neighborhood, home to luxury boutiques and fine dining. For a delightful culinary experience, the renowned Maison Boulud at the nearby Ritz-Carlton Montreal offers an exquisite menu, perfect for reflecting on the artistic treasures you've just encountered.

The Montreal Underground City, officially known as RESO (from Réseau souterrain or underground network), is a sprawling subterranean pedestrian network that truly defines urban life in Montreal. This unique labyrinth offers a fascinating way to navigate the city, especially during the colder months, providing a comfortable and sheltered environment to explore a significant portion of downtown. It's an essential part of the Montreal experience, allowing you to seamlessly transition between various attractions and activities without ever stepping outside.

As you consider things to do in Montreal, exploring RESO should be high on your list. This extensive network connects over 32 kilometers (20 miles) of tunnels, linking metro stations, shopping malls, universities, museums, concert halls, and even the Bell Centre, home of the Montreal Canadiens. Conceived in the 1960s with the construction of the Montreal Metro and the Place Ville Marie complex, RESO has grown organically over decades, becoming a vital artery for daily commuters and curious visitors alike. You'll discover a vibrant ecosystem beneath the streets, filled with a diverse array of shops, from international brands to local boutiques, and countless dining options ranging from quick bites in bustling food courts to more refined restaurant experiences. For instance, you can easily access the upscale shops within Complexe Desjardins or grab a coffee at one of the many cafes near McGill University without facing the elements.

Beyond its practical utility, RESO offers a unique perspective on Montreal's urban planning and resilience. It's more than just a series of tunnels; it's a living, breathing part of the city's infrastructure, designed to enhance the quality of life for its residents and visitors. You can spend hours wandering through its interconnected passages, discovering hidden gems, public art installations, and unexpected pathways that lead to major cultural institutions like Place des Arts, where you might catch a show, or the Montreal Museum of Contemporary Art. This subterranean world provides a comfortable escape from winter's chill or summer's heat, making it an ideal way to explore the city year-round.

The Olympic Park Montreal stands as a monumental testament to the city's hosting of the 1976 Summer Olympics, an architectural marvel designed by French architect Roger Taillibert. This iconic site, dominated by the distinctive Olympic Stadium and its towering inclined mast, invites you to step back in time and explore a significant piece of Montreal's modern history. The stadium, affectionately known as the "Big O" (or sometimes, due to its construction costs, the "Big Owe"), was a groundbreaking feat of engineering, intended to feature a retractable roof, a vision that proved challenging to fully realize. Despite the initial complexities and controversies surrounding its construction, the park has evolved into a vibrant urban space, continuously adapting to host a variety of events, from sports competitions to concerts and trade shows, making it a dynamic hub for both locals and visitors.

When you visit the Olympic Park Montreal, you're not just seeing a stadium; you're experiencing a unique architectural landscape. Ascend the Montreal Tower, the world's tallest inclined structure, for breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the St. Lawrence River, and the surrounding regions. This vantage point offers an unparalleled perspective on Montreal's urban sprawl and natural beauty. Beyond the stadium itself, the park is a gateway to some of Montreal's most cherished Montreal attractions, forming part of the Space for Life complex. Here, you can immerse yourself in the wonders of the Biodome, a unique ecosystem museum, wander through the serene landscapes of the Montreal Botanical Garden, discover the fascinating world of insects at the Insectarium, or journey through the cosmos at the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium. These institutions provide a rich complement to the park's Olympic legacy, offering educational and entertaining experiences for all ages.

The legacy of the Olympic Park Montreal is rich with stories and innovation. The Olympic Stadium itself, with its distinctive design, remains a subject of architectural fascination. The original vision for its retractable roof, while ambitious, faced numerous hurdles, leading to its eventual permanent installation. This history adds a layer of intrigue to your visit, as you consider the immense effort and ingenuity involved in creating such a grand structure. The Montreal Tower, leaning at a 45-degree angle, is a marvel of engineering, offering not just views but also a sense of awe at human architectural ambition. While the immediate vicinity is primarily focused on the Space for Life complex, you'll find various cafes and eateries within the park grounds and the adjacent institutions, perfect for a quick bite or a relaxing coffee break after exploring this monumental site.