15 Best Things to do in Montreal in Winter

Planning a winter trip to Montreal? You’re going to love it!

Montreal is a very charming city year-round, but winter adds an extra layer of magic. The historic streets look holiday card-worthy when they’re dusted with fresh snow, and the city’s hearty cuisine tastes even better when it’s cold outside. Winter is when Montreal really shows its personality, and it’s such a great time to explore neighborhoods and try seasonal treats.

If it’s your first visit, I’m a little jealous because you’re about to see one of Canada’s most exciting cities at its coziest and most magical. To help you plan, here are the 10 best things to do in Montreal in winter.

Montreal at a Glance

Montreal in winter is magical, but a little planning goes a long way! Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your trip and enjoy everything the city has to offer.

Important tip: Book popular activities ahead of time! Some tours and experiences fill up quickly, so reserve your must-dos in advance to avoid missing out.

Try to speak some French: French is the official language of Montreal, but most people are bilingual, so getting around as an English speaker is easy. However, starting out with “bonjour” will go a long way with locals!

Getting around the city: Montreal is a super walkable city, and walking was our main mode of transport. However, winter sidewalks can be snowy or icy, so pack warm layers and comfortable boots with good traction. You can also use the metro, which is a convenient and affordable way to get around when temperatures drop. BIXI bikes are popular in warmer months, but they’re not a reliable option for getting around during winter.

Dress in layers: Montreal winters can be seriously cold, especially when you’re exploring outdoors. Bring a warm coat, gloves, a hat, and comfortable boots with good traction. Layers are your best friend when you’re going between chilly streets and warm restaurants, cafés, and museums!

How We Would Spend 3 Days in Montreal in Winter

🏰 Day 1: City Highlights & Lumino
Start with a full-day sightseeing tour that covers Montreal’s top neighborhoods and landmarks, then spend the evening exploring Lumino before winding down with dinner at Jardin Nelson.

🥯 Day 2: Food Tour, Old Port & Helicopter Views
Taste your way through Mile End on a winter-friendly food tour, wander the Old Port, take a helicopter tour for city views, and finish with dinner and live jazz.

🚲 Day 3: Mount Royal or Underground City & Art
Choose between a fat-tire e-bike ride up Mount Royal or a guided tour of the underground city, visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, and end the day with dinner and a nightcap.

Things to do in Montreal in Winter

1. See Montreal’s top sights with a guide

Exploring Montreal on this full-day small-group tour is one of the easiest ways to get a real feel for the city in a short amount of time. It covers so many neighborhoods and viewpoints that you’d never be able to fit in on your own, and having a local guide with you makes the day flow smoothly. 

You’ll start with two of Montreal’s most iconic viewpoints: Saint Joseph’s Oratory and Mount Royal Park. Both places offer sweeping views of the snowy city and give you a sense of just how big Montreal really is. 

From there, the tour crosses the Jacques Cartier Bridge to Saint Helen’s Island, where you’ll explore Jean-Drapeau Park and learn a bit about its Expo history. This contrasts nicely with older parts of the city you’ll see later on, like Mile End, Little Italy, and Le Plateau.

But what sets this tour apart from other sightseeing options is that food is a big part of the experience! There’s a stop at Jean-Talon Market, which is one of the largest farmers’ markets in North America. You’ll also get to try a classic Montreal-style bagel along the way, which is denser and sweeter than the New York variety — and yummier, in my opinion! 

The pace is relaxed and never rushed, and hotel pickup and drop-off make everything simple. It’s an ideal winter activity because you get to experience Montreal’s beauty without spending long stretches outdoors. It’s a great introduction to the city and a fantastic way to see the top sights in a single day.

2. Taste your way around Mile End

Montreal’s food scene is legendary, but tracking down the best bites on your own—especially in winter—can be hit or miss. That’s why booking this walking food tour was a total game-changer. With a local guide leading the way, eating turned into exploring with stories, context, and stops we’d never have discovered ourselves.

We chose the Mile End route, which was perfect for a cozy visit, but there’s also a fantastic option that explores Jean-Talon Market and Little Italy. It’s an ideal choice if you’re into local cheeses, old-school delis, and market stops that make ducking inside feel like part of the fun.

On our tour, our guide, Dominique, made it feel like we were exploring the city with a friend who just happens to know all the best local spots—and exactly where to warm up along the way. From flaky Alsatian tarts to hand-rolled Montreal-style bagels still warm from the oven, every bite had a story and a reason it made the cut.

The tour easily moves through Mile End’s colorful streets and stops for Italian coffee, gnocchi, poutine, sweet brioche, and a decadent hand-piped cannoli. There’s even a “secret dish” saved for the end (no spoilers—but it was delicious). We left absolutely stuffed and full of local food knowledge we wouldn’t have picked up on our own.

Next time, we’ve got our eyes on the Jean Talon Market version. Next time, we’ve got our eyes on the Jean Talon Market version. That one dives into one of Montreal’s oldest public markets, with toasty breads, hand-carved meats, creamy local cheeses, and ripe seasonal produce. It also includes a stroll through Little Italy!. It also includes a stroll through Little Italy!

Whichever one you choose, don’t wing your way through Montreal’s food scene—this small-group tour does it better. Just come hungry and dress warmly.

3. Explore the Old Port

Montreal’s Old Port is one of the most scenic parts of the city, and it’s definitely worth exploring in winter! The historic cobblestone streets feel especially charming under a dusting of snow, and you’ll find plenty of little shops, cozy cafés, and scenic spots to stop for photos along the way. It’s a great place to wander at your own pace and soak up that classic Montreal atmosphere. Just bundle up, as the waterfront can get pretty chilly on a windy day!

One of the highlights is La Grande Roue de Montréal, Canada’s tallest observation wheel. Its climate-controlled cabins make it a particularly great winter activity, letting you enjoy panoramic views of the snowy city, the St. Lawrence River, and the downtown skyline without freezing outside. Each ride includes three full rotations, giving you plenty of time to take in the views from above.

Back on the ground, you can wander along the Old Port waterfront and admire the historic architecture and river views. The boardwalk is especially beautiful when the area is dusted with snow, although it’s worth checking conditions before heading out for a long walk. Some outdoor attractions and food vendors may have limited seasonal hours, so don’t count on everything being open during your visit.

If you’re traveling with kids, the Montreal Science Centre is another great stop nearby. Its hands-on exhibits offer a fun indoor activity when you need a break from the cold, making it easy to combine a little sightseeing with something the whole family can enjoy.

4. Relax at the Bota Bota Spa

Relaxing at Bota Bota is one of the most memorable winter experiences you can have in Montreal. Right in the heart of the Old Port, this spa sits on a historic ferry boat, surrounded by river views and skyline reflections as you move between the baths. We especially love visiting in winter because there’s something extra satisfying about soaking in a warm outdoor pool while you watch snowflakes floating in the air.

Bota Bota offers several thermal circuit packages, which give you access to hot baths, cold plunges, saunas, steam rooms, and quiet relaxation areas. If you want something more indulgent, you can book a massage or one of their body treatments. Their winter massages are especially popular and tend to fill quickly. I definitely think it’s worth booking ahead! The spa also has a few upgraded experiences that include waterfront lounges or extended access to the thermal circuit if you want to go all out.

Since this is one of the most unique spas in Montreal, it does get busy, especially on weekends or during cold snaps when everyone wants to warm up. Booking in advance is the best way to make sure you get the time slot you want.

5. See the city from above on a helicopter tour

Seeing Montreal from a helicopter flight is one of the most memorable ways to experience the city, especially in the winter when the landscape is covered in snow. The flight gives you a perspective that you simply can’t get on the ground, and it’s a fun way to understand how the city fits together. 

We also like the fact that you can choose between two routes! The Montreal tour takes you over Old Montreal, the Olympic Stadium, and Mount Royal, while the Saint-Laurent Circuit gives you sweeping views of Jean-Drapeau Park and the St. Lawrence River. Both options offer incredible scenery, so you can’t go wrong — it just depends on what you’re most interested in seeing. 

The whole experience feels smooth and personal from the moment you arrive. Your pilot walks you through what to expect and points out landmarks along the way. Plus, the flight is private so you’ll get plenty of space and uninterrupted views the entire time!

Winter makes the city look even more beautiful from above. You get striking contrasts between the white snow and the dark river. If the weather is shifting, the operators often do their best to adjust the timing so you can still get into the air safely. And with flexible departure times throughout the day, this flight is also to fit into your Montreal itinerary, not to mention a great way to see as much as possible if you’re short on time! 

6. Learn how to make Montreal-style bagels

Before going to Montreal, I had no idea how big a deal bagels were here. Turns out that bagels, poutine, and Montreal smoked meat sandwiches are the three must-try foods in the city, so this bagel-making workshop is the best way to get into the spirit (and warm up indoors on a chilly winter day!).

Montreal bagels are quite different than New York bagels, and I actually preferred them. These bagels are a little smaller, denser, and slightly sweeter because they are traditionally cooked in honey water before going in the oven, but don’t worry, you’ll learn all of this soon!

During our session, we kneaded our own dough, learned the differences between flour types, and brushed our creations with egg wash before choosing our toppings—everything bagel fans, rejoice. 

The process felt relaxed but hands-on, and our instructor made it easy to follow along, whether we were seasoned bakers or complete newbies. After baking, we got to enjoy hot, fresh bagels right out of the oven. Plus, you get to take a few home, too! With just a small group, this was intimate, fun, and surprisingly educational.

We had such a great time learning and laughing—by the end, it felt like we were baking with old friends. Check out the five-star reviews here to see why this class is such a hit. We left full, happy, and officially converted to Team Montreal Bagel!

7. Winter Festivals

Montreal really shines in the winter thanks to its fantastic lineup of festivals. No matter when you visit, there’s usually something happening somewhere in the city. It’s actually one of my favorite things about Montreal, because it’s proof that the colder months are no excuse to stop having fun! Here are a few of the biggest ones to keep an eye out for:

• Luminothérapie / LUMINO – This is, without a doubt, one of the coolest light installations in Montreal. Interactive art installations are scattered around the city — some indoors, some outdoors. Either way, they all do a lot to brighten up the winter nights. Best of all, it runs from mid-November to early March, so you’ll probably be able to catch it if you’re visiting in winter.

• Montréal en Lumière – This one is a big deal! Montréal en Lumière takes place from late February into the first week of March and mixes food events, live music, workshops, and outdoor activities. Restaurants create special menus just for the festival, and the whole Quartier des Spectacles really comes alive. It’s my favorite way to experience Montreal in winter.

• Igloo Fest – If you’re into electronic music, checking out this festival is a must! It runs from mid-January to early February and takes place outdoors, right on the Old Port. Everyone bundles up to enjoy the music and lights, and the atmosphere is amazing. It’s cold, but it’s worth it.

• The Great Christmas Market – From mid-November to early January, the Quartier des Spectacles hosts this cozy holiday market. It’s so much fun to wander around and enjoy all the warm drinks and festive treats, especially at night when it’s all lit up. Plus, with lots of local crafts on offer, it’s also a good place to find unique gifts for your loved ones! 

8. Fat tire eBike up Mount Royal

Exploring Mount Royal on this fat e-bike tour is such a fun way to experience Montreal in the winter. Most people don’t realize you can even do a bike tour once the snow arrives, but these electric fat-tire bikes are built precisely for it! 

The wide tires grip snowy paths, and the powered assist takes the effort out of the hills. This way, you get to enjoy the park without feeling cold or worn out. It’s a great option for beginners because the pace of the tour is relaxed and the bikes do most of the work for you.

The tour covers Mount Royal Park, which is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Montréalers call it their “mountain,” even though it’s technically more of a forested hill, and it’s a beautiful place to visit at any time of year. The ride takes you up to the summit lookout, where you get one of the best skyline views in Montreal. Seeing the city from above while everything is covered in white is pretty special.

Along the way, your guide shares stories about Montreal’s architecture, history, and neighborhoods. You’ll move between bike lanes and easy paths, so it’s a safe and straightforward ride even if you’re new to winter riding. 

All in all, you want a fun winter adventure that mixes fresh air with incredible city views, this fat e-bike tour is a fantastic choice. It’s a really fun outdoor adventure, and we love that the bikes make cycling so easy, even when there’s snow on the ground!

9. Visit Montreal’s Olympic Park

Montreal’s Olympic Park is one of the city’s most interesting areas to explore, especially if you’re visiting in the winter. This massive complex was built for the 1976 Olympic Games, and today it’s home to several museums, exhibits, and family-friendly attractions that are open year-round. It’s a great place to escape the cold for a few hours while still learning something new and enjoying the city’s cultural side. Here are a few highlights:

• Biodôme –  The Biodôme lets you walk through several recreated ecosystems, from a tropical rainforest to the Sub-Antarctic islands. It’s so cool, and the warmer environments are a nice contrast to the snowy weather outside! This is one of the most popular attractions in the park, and it’s great for all ages.

• Montreal Planetarium – The Planetarium offers immersive shows that explore the night sky, so again, this one is great for kids and adults alike. The dome theatre experience is actually quite mesmerizing, especially if you’re looking for something different to do indoors.

• Botanical Garden – The gardens might be covered under a layer of snow at this time of year, but the greenhouses are still full of life! I love warming up here and wandering among the tropical plants. The seasonal exhibits are also beautiful and well worth checking out!

• Insectarium – The Insectarium has been recently redesigned, and it offers a fascinating look at the world of insects through creative exhibits and live displays. It’s a unique stop and a favorite for families, though not for those with a fear of creepy crawlies! 

• Château Dufresne – This historic mansion sits near the Olympic Park and showcases lavish early-20th-century architecture and decorative arts. It’s a nice spot to step back in time into the Montreal of old.

• Olympic Stadium – You can explore the stadium grounds and learn about its Olympic history. The Olympics were held here in 1976, but the stadium remains one of Montreal’s most recognizable landmarks to this day! 

10. Explore Montreal’s Underground City

Exploring downtown Montreal with a private guide is a great way to get your bearings, especially if it’s your first time in the city. This two-hour walking tour gives you a relaxed introduction to the heart of Montreal while keeping things personal and flexible. Since it’s a private experience for up to eight people, you can ask as many questions as you want and move at a pace that feels comfortable for your group.

The tour starts near Dorchester Square, where you’ll get an overview of the city’s layout before weaving through some of Montreal’s most recognizable buildings. You’ll pass the Sun Life Building, Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral, and Windsor Station, which are all beautiful examples of the city’s mix of old and new architecture. 

Saint-Catherine Street is another highlight, with its busy shops and lively atmosphere. It’s one of Canada’s most important commercial streets, and it’s fun to see how much happens here in just a few blocks.

From there, you head underground to explore Montreal’s famous Underground City. This network of passageways connects shops, restaurants, museums, and office towers beneath the streets, and it’s especially useful in the winter when you want to stay warm while still exploring. Your guide will lead you through some of the most interesting sections, pointing out art installations and sharing stories about how this unique system came to be.

It’s a fantastic introduction, as knowing your way around the Underground City will certainly come in handy throughout the rest of your visit! 

11. Go inside the Cathedral

Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal is one of the most beautiful cathedrals I’ve ever seen (don’t tell Europe!). Built in the 1820s, this grand structure is detailed, ornate, and a true piece of art in itself. 

You might have already passed by Notre-Dame Basilica on a Montreal sightseeing tour, but it’s worth going back to see the inside! A visit lasts about an hour, giving you plenty of time to admire the golden vault, learn the stories behind the stained glass, and discover some unique Quebec history. The 7,000-pipe organ is especially impressive! Tickets are $16 CAD for adults, and you can reserve yours in advance here.

It’s also a great indoor activity when you need a break from Montreal’s winter weather. For a more unique experience, you can visit in the evening for a light show. The AURA Experience is a 25-minute light show that illuminates the cathedral in colorful displays and music. It tells a story and shows how beautiful the design truly is!

The full experience takes around 40–45 minutes, including time to explore the illuminated installations before the show. Tickets start at $37 CAD before tax, and booking in advance is recommended.

12. Visit a speakeasy

Montreal has a surprising number of hidden, speakeasy-style bars. They’re especially fun to duck into on a chilly winter evening, so here are a few you can’t miss out on.

If you’re looking for a cocktail with a bit of mystery, The Coldroom in Old Montreal is a speakeasy that’s actually hidden and honestly the coolest speakeasy I’ve ever been to. The Google Maps location is approximate, so you’ll need to wander around a bit and find a large, unmarked black door. Above the door is an exit sign that has a small duck on it. When you find it, ring the bell and wait for them to come and get you. Fun right!?

The Cloakroom is another favorite in Montreal (I know, it’s a little confusing because they sound so similar!). This one is located in downtown Montreal, and the building is unmarked, but once you walk through the black curtains, you’re in. The Cloakroom is special because the bartenders make each cocktail specific to your taste preferences. They will ask what you like and don’t like, and make you something totally unique – how cool!

And while not a true speakeasy, we went to Bar George, which gave speakeasy vibes! It’s also very close to The Cloakroom, so you can hit both in one night. It’s in a beautiful Victorian-style mansion with an upscale, cozy atmosphere that feels especially inviting on a cold winter night. The quality of the drinks and the overall ambiance is worth a higher price tag (about $25+ CAD per drink), so stop in for at least one drink to soak it all in!

13. Take a day trip to Quebec City

Spending a few days in Montreal, but still want to see Quebec City? We were in the same boat—literally. This full-day Quebec City tour let us soak up another iconic Canadian destination without planning overnight logistics or figuring out public transport. Everything was handled, from hotel pickup to itinerary highlights.

The day kicked off at Montmorency Falls, which is even taller than Niagara and especially impressive in winter, and way less crowded. Then it was on to Old Quebec, where our guide Shawn kept the day relaxed but informative, sharing the city’s rich French history without overwhelming us with dates. 

We had plenty of free time to wander the cobbled lanes of Petit Champlain, admire the Château Frontenac, and browse quirky little shops that looked like storybook illustrations. I may or may not have bought maple syrup from 3 different places! The area feels lively and easy to explore at your own pace.

The tour also includes a seasonal bonus at the end. In winter, that means a visit to the Ice Hotel, while other seasons swap this out for a river cruise or a museum stop. So, no matter when you visit, you’re in for a treat.

If you’re short on time and visiting Montreal in winter, this is an easy and rewarding way to add Quebec City to your trip!

14. Go sledding and ice skating

Ice skating is a classic Montreal winter activity, and the Esplanade Tranquille rink is THE place to do it! The rink sits in the heart of the Quartier des Spectacles, so you’ll be surrounded by lights and music as you glide across its large, smooth surface. Best of all, it’s completely free to access, but you can rent skates on site if you don’t have your own.

If you’re looking for even more outdoor fun, Parc Mont-Royal is a go-to for both skating and sledding. The park has a picturesque skating rink set right among the trees, and then there are several gentle hills that are perfect for sledding! This is an ideal spot for families because it offers enough speed to be exciting, but it’s not anything extreme.

Another popular place to go sledding is Parc Jean-Drapeau. It offers long, open slopes as well as plenty of open space for snowball fights! It’s a fun place to spend a snowy afternoon, and you get fantastic views of the city across the river from here.

Related Read: Planning a warmer getaway? Follow our 3-day Montreal itinerary to fit everything into your schedule!

15. Eat Crepes at Jean-Talon Market

If you’re ready to see one of the best local spots in Montreal, head to the Jean-Talon Market, nestled in the heart of Little Italy. Even if you’re not starving, this open-air market is absolutely worth a visit. It’s one of the largest in North America, and wandering through the rows of local produce, flower stalls, and food stands is an experience all its own.

One of the highlights is grabbing a freshly made crepe, the perfect treat to enjoy while exploring the market on a cold day. You can also sample Quebec-grown produce, nibble on locally made cheeses, or grab a little something extra like a maple-glazed treat or a warm empanada. We sipped espresso from a tiny stand tucked in the back, snacked on a baguette, and stocked up on some maple goodies to take home.

More than just eating, the market is fun to browse and experience Montreal’s local food scene. Montrealers take their cuisine and ingredients seriously, so we loved seeing the colorful stalls and discovering all the delicious things made and sold here!

And don’t worry if you’re visiting in winter—the market puts up temporary walls to enclose the main shopping area and keep everyone sheltered from the cold. Just keep in mind that some vendors have reduced hours during the colder months, so check ahead if you’re visiting specifically for crepes!

Related Read: For even more ideas, check out our guide to the best things to do in Montreal here, which covers top attractions and experiences you can enjoy year-round.

Where to Stay in Montreal

Montreal is packed with fantastic places to stay, whether you’re after upscale luxury, a comfortable mid-range suite, or a fun, budget-friendly hostel. From stylish boutique hotels with rooftop pools to cozy spots with kitchenettes and communal vibes, there’s something for every travel style and budget. 

To make planning easier, we’ve put together our top picks for where to stay in Montreal so you can focus on enjoying the city!

Honeyrose Hotel – $$$

Set in the heart of downtown Montreal, the Honeyrose Hotel blends vintage-inspired glamour with modern comfort and top-tier service. With an Art Deco aesthetic, stylish restaurants, and rooms featuring walk-in showers, plush robes, and sweeping city views, this boutique stay feels indulgent and welcoming. Guests rave about the rooftop pool, spa, and standout location just steps from Place des Arts and Saint Catherine Street’s shopping scene.

Room rates typically range from $400–$700 CAD, depending on room type and season. Explore your options and book your stay on Booking.com.

L’Appartement Hôtel – $$

L’Appartement Hôtel is a reliable and well-loved mid-range pick right in the heart of Montreal. Located just two blocks from McGill University and a short walk from the Place des Arts, it’s a practical base for exploring downtown. The spacious suites come with kitchenettes, dining areas, and private balconies—ideal for longer stays. Guests also enjoy a rooftop indoor pool, fitness center, self-serve laundry, and daily breakfast.

Rates typically start around $220 CAD per night. Check your travel dates and reserve your suite on Booking.com.

Auberge Saintlo Montréal Hostel – $

For budget-conscious travelers visiting Montreal, Auberge Saintlo Montréal Hostel is a top pick. Set just steps from Lucien-L’Allier Metro Station, this lively, modern hostel offers a mix of clean dorm beds and private rooms—all with en-suite bathrooms. Guests enjoy free breakfast, coworking spaces, a shared kitchen, and a welcoming on-site bar with fun daily activities. The friendly vibe and unbeatable downtown location make it a favorite among solo adventurers and backpackers alike.

Dorm beds typically start around $51 CAD, and private rooms are also available starting around $150 CAD. Check availability and book your stay on Booking.com.

For more options, see all of Montreal’s hotels listed here!

Related Read: For a full breakdown of Montreal’s best areas and hotels, have a look at our where to stay guide here!

Thanks for reading!

Montreal is one of those cities that truly shines in winter. Snowy streets, cozy cafés, seasonal festivals, and hearty food make exploring feel extra special during the colder months. We loved experiencing the city this way, and these activities show just how much Montreal has to offer in winter.

Before you go, be sure to check out our other Canada blogs here! We’ve shared more things to do, detailed itineraries, and tips on where to stay to help you plan an unforgettable winter getaway. Or scroll on for a few related blogs to spark your next adventure. Cheers to cold-weather adventures!

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