Top 10 things to do in Montreal

Notre-Dame Basilica in Montreal was consecrated in 1829, featuring a magnificent Gothic Revival style adorned with intricate wood carvings and vibrant stained glass windows. Inside, the majestic Casavant Frères pipe organ with over 7,000 pipes fills the sanctuary with rich acoustics, and the blue vaulted ceilings are reminiscent of a starry night. Evening light shows transform the interiors, making it ideal for those captivated by art and music.

Worth knowing. Check out the small garden behind Notre-Dame Basilica for a peaceful escape from the busy city vibes.

Monday to Friday 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM Saturday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Sunday 12:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Mount Royal Park, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, is a sprawling green oasis in the heart of Montreal featuring winding trails and breathtaking views of the city from the Kondiaronk Belvedere. This urban park spans over 200 hectares and offers a natural escape without leaving the city.

Worth knowing. For a quiet picnic spot, head to the less-traveled Southeast area of the park.

6:00 AM – 12:00 AM

Welcome to Jean-Talon Market, the ultimate foodie paradise in Montreal! Picture this: a vibrant marketplace bursting with fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and mouthwatering pastries that could make even your grandma jealous. As you stroll through the colorful stalls, you’ll be greeted by the sweet scent of ripe strawberries and the savory aroma of freshly baked bread. It’s a sensory overload, and honestly, it’s like stepping into a delicious Instagram feed. Grab a giant pickle on a stick (because why not?), sample some local maple syrup, or dive into a decadent poutine that’ll make your heart race and your taste buds dance. And let’s not forget the people-watching! You’ll see everyone from hipster foodies to families enjoying a sunny day out. So, whether you’re hunting for the perfect snack or just vibing with the local culture, Jean-Talon is a must-visit. Bring your appetite and your best food pics game—because trust me, your followers will thank you!

Worth knowing. Check out the vendors towards the back of the market for less crowded stalls and hidden gems.

Monday to Saturday 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Yo, if you’re in Montreal, you gotta check out Saint Joseph's Oratory. This place is like the ultimate chill spot for your soul, with views that’ll have your Instagram game on point. Picture this: a massive basilica that looks like it just rolled out of a fairytale, perched on a hill like it owns the place. The dome? It’s the biggest in the world, so yeah, you’ll definitely want a pic with it. And let’s not forget the steps—like, 280 of them. Think of it as a workout, but instead of sweating it out at the gym, you’re getting blessed by the vibes of Saint Joseph himself. Inside, the atmosphere is so peaceful you might just forget about your phone for a hot minute. And if you’re lucky, you might catch some live music or a quirky event. Plus, the gardens surrounding the oratory are perfect for a little zen moment or a spontaneous picnic. So grab your friends, your camera, and maybe a snack or two, and head up to Saint Joseph's. Trust me, your feed will thank you later.

Worth knowing. Pro tip: Check out the view of Montreal from the dome at Saint Joseph's Oratory for a killer Instagram shot.

Daily 6:30 AM – 9:00 PM

Spanning 185 acres, the Montreal Botanical Garden boasts over 22,000 plant species. Its themed gardens, like the tranquil Japanese Garden, are a haven for plant enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

Worth knowing. Check out the Garden of Light exhibit at Montreal Botanical Garden for a magical nighttime stroll among illuminated lanterns and sculptures.

Tuesday to Sunday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts holds over 41,000 pieces, blending historic works with cutting-edge contemporary installations. The Pavilion for Peace offers an immersive way to engage with art, beyond conventional museum walls.

Worth knowing. Check out the museum's outdoor sculpture garden for a peaceful break from the indoor exhibits.

Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Yo, if you’re looking for a wild adventure without leaving Montreal, you gotta check out the Biodome. It’s like stepping into a nature documentary, but way cooler because you’re actually in it. Picture this: you walk through different ecosystems, from a lush rainforest where you might just spot a sloth chillin’ in a tree, to a polar area where penguins waddle around like they own the place. And let’s not forget the aquarium vibes with all those colorful fish swimming around like they’re in a tropical party. It’s basically a mini-world tour without the jet lag. Perfect for those Insta pics, too! You can flex on your friends with shots of you surrounded by exotic plants or hanging out with the cutest animals. So grab your crew, put on your best ‘nature explorer’ outfit, and dive into the Biodome. It’s educational, it’s fun, and who knows? You might just find your new favorite animal. Spoiler alert: it’s probably the otters.

Worth knowing. Arrive early at the Montreal Biodome to beat the crowds and have the tropical rainforest all to yourself for a peaceful start to your visit.

Daily 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

The Montreal Casino on Île Notre-Dame offers a futuristic vibe, echoing its roots from the 1976 Olympic Games. Upon entering, visitors are met with a vibrant mix of gaming options, from a poker room to thousands of slot machines set amidst striking architectural design.

Worth knowing. Check out the outdoor terrasse at the Montreal Casino for a chill spot to take a break from the action and enjoy the city skyline views.

Sunday to Thursday 9:00 AM – 3:00 AM Friday and Saturday 9:00 AM – 5:00 AM

Atwater Market, opened in 1933 in Montreal, is a vibrant hub for local produce, gourmet foods, and artisanal products. Housed in an Art Deco building, the market is a feast of colors and flavors where locals and tourists alike gather for culinary delights.

Worth knowing. Check out the hidden rooftop garden at Atwater Market for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle below.

Monday to Friday 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Yo, if you’re in Montreal and not hitting up the Pointe-à-Callière Museum, what are you even doing? This place is a total time machine, taking you from the ancient vibes of the city’s founding to its modern-day hustle. Imagine stepping into a 17th-century archaeological site right in the heart of downtown—like, hello, history! You can explore super cool exhibits that dive into everything from Indigenous cultures to the wild stories of the French settlers. And trust me, the multimedia displays are so on point, you’ll feel like you’re in a video game. Don’t miss the underground ruins; it’s like a real-life treasure hunt. You might even find some artifacts that’ll make your friends jealous when you post them on the ‘gram. Plus, the museum has a rooftop terrace with killer views of the Old Port. Perfect for that aesthetic pic you’ve been dreaming of. So grab your squad, channel your inner history buff, and get ready for a day that’ll make you feel cultured without putting you to sleep. Pointe-à-Callière is where the past meets the present, and trust me, you’ll want to be part of it.

Worth knowing. Psst, if you want to skip the crowds at Pointe-à-Callière Museum, try visiting on a weekday morning when it's usually quieter!

Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM