Why visit Montreal
Cuisine
Montreal’s food scene continues to entice visitors. From decadent dishes to more creative fare, this Canadian metropolis prides itself on its world-class food and drink. Here are some must-have Montreal meals.
Poutine
Smothered in cheese curds and a pile of steaming gravy, this plate of fries is Montreal’s go-to comfort food. This savory dish is so delicious, you’ll see poutine on virtually every restaurant’s menu. Definitely plan to try some while you’re here.
Smoked Meat
For a savory, perfectly charred repast, try a variety of smoked Canadian meat. In many Jewish delis, beef brisket is cured then smoked with a variety of spices and served alongside mustard on rye bread. Salty, yet satisfying, the smoked meat is worth a bite.
Pouding Chômeur
Directly translated to “poor man’s pudding,” this delicious cake-style dessert was created by female factory workers during Quebec’s Depression. Luckily, the Depression is over, but this sweet dish remains on many menus around Montreal. Make sure you save room for this tempting treat.
Bagels
Montreal prides itself on these doughy breakfast breads. We suggest asking your guide for their favorite local spot for this classic breakfast favorite. Montrealer’s usually have a hard stance on which bagels are the best, so try a few and cast your vote.
Festivals
Continue on in your merriment of eating and drinking and enjoy one of Montreal’s many festivals. Celebrating international film, comedy, or music, the city becomes even more lively when one of these headline events take place. Here are some highlights we think you may enjoy.
Les FrancoFolies
One of Montreal’s most iconic festivals is the popular Les FrancoFolies. Hear some of the best French music from Quebec alongside close to one million other attendees. If you’re in Montreal in June, you should consider checking out this huge festival.
Montreal Jazz Festival
Our guests who love jazz will be in their glory if they visit Montreal during the Jazz Festival. Featuring international jazz acts from all genres, this is one of the world’s largest festivals and continues to be the concert to attend in the summer season. The best part is that many of the shows are free of charge. Be sure to ask your local guide for details about where to go and when.
Just for Laughs
Another major event for the city is its comedy festival. From newcomers to famous comedians like Jon Stewart, Tim Allen, and Dave Chapelle, there will be plenty of laughs during this festival.
World Film Festival
Catch some notable films produced in Canada and beyond at this international film festival. Focused on presenting truly independent cinema, this festival is the oldest in the country and often attracts a few high-profile guests. This event is another major artistic event in Montreal.
Attractions
Montreal is a great North American getaway. Easily accessible and fun to take a stroll around, the sites in this Francophone metropolis are a beautiful blend of old and new. Visit this Canadian hub and take in some of its stunning attractions.
Mount Royal
Rising above the city you’ll find the resplendent Mount Royal. Explore this lush park on one of your free days from touring; find the summit where you’ll see a magnificent panorama of the Island of Montreal and the St. Lawrence. For a tranquil day outdoors, we recommend visiting the Mount.
Old Montreal
Walk back in time through this Parisian-esque district and see some of Montreal’s most iconic landmarks. Head to the open-air square of Place Jacques-Cartier and get a deeper understanding of Montreal’s history.
Notre-Dame Basilica
Visit the oldest and most revered church in Montreal, the Notre-Dame Basilica. A beautiful example of neo-Gothic architecture, this holy site is a grand example of Montreal’s strong faith. If you are strolling through the city at night, stop by the church to see a fascinating light and sound show that tells the founding story of Montreal.
St. Joseph’s Oratory
A mecca for religious pilgrims, St. Joseph’s Oratory is a massive domed cathedral and significant landmark in Montreal. Take a walk through this Renaissance-style building and learn about the patron Saint of Canada, the site’s namesake. Hear of miraculous acts that occurred here before ascending the cloister behind the church to access the Mount Royal Park.