15 Best Things to do in Montreal, Quebec

Planning a trip to Montreal? You hit the jackpot!

We’ve explored this vibrant, culture-packed city on foot, bike, scooter, boat—even helicopter—and we’re here to help you make the most of your time. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, Montreal always has a new angle, flavor, or hidden street to surprise you. From historic cobblestone neighborhoods and graffiti-lined back alleys to world-class bagels and adrenaline-pumping river rides, this city is anything but boring.

After multiple trips (and way too many bagels to count), we’ve rounded up the absolute best things to do in Montreal, including the can’t-miss tours and experiences that made our visits unforgettable. Let’s dive in!

Montreal at a Glance

Before you take off on your French-Canadian adventure, here are a few helpful tips to make your travel days easier.

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 – that was our main mode of transport. You can also use the metro, which is safe, clean, and affordable. Biking is also popular here, and you can use a BIXI bike easily! 

Plan on eating! As the food capital of Canada, you’ll need to eat your way through the city! Be sure to try Montreal bagels, smoked meat, and poutine.

How I would spend three days in Montreal

🍁 Day 1: Explore Old Montreal & Downtown
Start with breakfast at Tommy Cafe, take a guided walking tour of Old Montreal, visit Notre-Dame Basilica, explore the Old Port, go jet boating, and finish with a sunset cruise and dinner.

🥯 Day 2: Bagel-Making Workshop, Jean-Talon Market & Mile End Food Tour
Learn how to make Montreal-style bagels, snack your way through Jean-Talon Market, then explore Little Italy and Mile End before finishing the day on a guided food tour.

👻 Day 3: Jardin Botanique, Downtown Montreal & Old Montreal Ghost Tour
Visit the stunning Biodome and Jardin Botanique, spend the afternoon downtown, then enjoy dinner in Old Montreal before ending the night with a spooky ghost tour and dinner.

Things to do in Montreal

1. Learn about Old Montreal on a walking tour

Old Montreal is full of charm, but without context, it can seem like a maze of old stone buildings and winding cobblestone streets. This small-group tour turned it into a living, breathing story full of surprising history, hidden details, and local personality.

Our guide, Martin, was everything you want in a local expert. He was sharp, hilarious, and clearly proud of the city. From Montreal’s oldest street to the grandeur of City Hall and the gothic spires of Notre-Dame Basilica, he filled every stop with stories we’d never have known just reading plaques.

One of our favorite stops was Place Jacques-Cartier, a lively square where street performers and terrace cafés buzzed with energy. Martin painted a vivid picture of how it’s evolved over the centuries, from a bustling market to one of the city’s most iconic gathering spots.

This isn’t one of those bloated group tours where you’re straining to hear, so we could ask questions, linger a little longer, and actually take it all in. The mix of history, architecture, and pop culture made it feel surprisingly dynamic, and we even walked away with a little treat and some great local recommendations.

Of all the tours we did in Montreal, this one stuck with us the most. Check out the five-star reviews here to see why travelers keep calling this their favorite, too!

2. Taste your way around Montreal

Montreal’s food scene is legendary, but finding the good stuff on your own 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.

On our tour, our guide, Donna-Lynn, made it feel like we were exploring the city with a friend who just happens to know all the best local spots. From flaky Greek pastries to hand-rolled Montreal-style bagels still warm from the oven, every bite had a story and a reason it made the cut.

Donna-Lynn made sure we sampled classic dishes, like a Montreal smoked meat sandwich with meat from the most famous smoked meat restaurant in town, and even traditional poutine from a local brewery (I ordered a beer, too!).

The tour easily moves through Mile End’s colorful streets and stops for Italian coffee, gnocchi, poutine, sweet brioche, and some of the best ice cream I’ve ever tried. 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.

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

3. Visit a speakeasy

Montreal has a surprising number of hidden, speakeasy-style bars. This is always a fun activity, 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 and has more of an upscale setting. 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!

4. 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.

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!

5. Walk the Old Port

Montreal’s Old Port is one of the most scenic and vibrant parts of the city, and definitely worth exploring. This area is a total vibe—historic buildings, river views, quirky shops, and just enough street performers to keep things interesting without feeling like a circus.

It’s super walkable, full of little surprises, and makes for a relaxed but still packed day of sights.

La Grande Roue de Montréal towers over the Old Port, offering you a whole new perspective on the city. It’s actually the tallest observation wheel in Canada, and riding it felt surprisingly peaceful, like floating above Montreal in a climate-controlled bubble. Each ride includes three full 18-minute rotations, so you get nearly an hour to soak in panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River, the downtown skyline, and even the mountains in the distance on a clear day.

Back on solid ground, walking along the Old Port Boardwalk gives more iconic views! Stretching about 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles) along the St. Lawrence River, it’s one of those places where you don’t need a plan; you just walk and enjoy the atmosphere. Be sure to stop and grab a bite to eat at some of the food vendors along the way!

If you’re traveling as a family, you’ll find lots of kid-friendly options here. People rave about the Montreal Science Centre with lots of hands-on exhibits.

6. Go jet boating on the Lachine Rapids

We’d done our fair share of sightseeing in Montreal, so by the time we signed up for this jet boat tour, we were more than ready to switch things up. This wasn’t just a boat ride—it was a full-body, laugh-until-you-can’t-breathe blast through the roaring Lachine Rapids. And yes, we got completely soaked!

Our guide, Todd (a self-declared legend and, honestly, he lived up to it), had us grinning before we even left the dock. The ride starts out calm enough, cruising past the Clock Tower, Biosphere, and Habitat 67, but once we hit the rapids, it was total chaos in the best way. You’ll be drenched, laughing, and gripping the rail before you even realize what hit you.

The front of the boat is where the real action is (prepare to swallow half the river), while the back offers a tamer version that’s family-friendly and for anyone who wants to stay semi-dry. Either way, you’ll be laughing the whole time, and the shared reactions from the group made it even better

They provide ponchos, life jackets, and lockers, but our number one tip is to bring a full change of clothes, because no one escapes dry.

This was easily one of the most fun and unexpected highlights of our trip. Total adrenaline, zero stress, and a shared group energy that made it unforgettable!

7. Relax on a scenic river cruise

If you’re looking for something a little less heart-racing, we have the perfect boat tour for you. This river cruise was such a lovely way to see the city, and at only 45 minutes, it didn’t feel like a huge commitment.

There are departure times all throughout the day, but we booked the evening option that let us see the sunset, and I’d highly recommend it! The views of the Jacques Cartier Bridge and the Clock Tower at sunset were genuinely stunning.

We sipped wine, chatted with the friendly crew, and listened to fascinating stories from our guide about places like Habitat 67, the Lachine Canal locks, and the historic Harbour Commissioners’ Building. The boat is electric, so it’s eco-friendly and was much quieter than other scenic cruises we’ve been on, and we honestly really appreciated that!

What made this stand out was the vibe—relaxed, scenic, and just social enough. Whether you’re with friends or on a romantic night out, this one-hour cruise was a highlight of our day and a perfect way to unwind. Just read the five-star reviews here to see why this peaceful, one-of-a-kind experience is a favorite for so many travelers.

8. Enjoy a meal and a drink from a “Terrasse”

We loved Old Montreal’s charm and the unique architecture – you’ll feel like you’re in Europe! One of the most charming things we discovered was the rooftop restaurants and bars on historic buildings, boasting incredible city views. These are called terrasses, which means “terrace” in French. Dining at a terrasse is a must while in Montreal, and here are two great options for lunch. 

Terrasse Sur L’Auberge is a winner all around, but it really stands out for its incredible river and port views. We also thought it was quite affordable considering the view, which is always a bonus in my book. It can get pretty busy, so be sure to make a reservation. It’s also just a minute from the end of the walking tour, so this is definitely a convenient option!

Terrasse Place D’Armes is another contender with a large menu and great service. It sits further back from the water and offers more seating options, which means you should be okay without a reservation. It’s slightly more expensive than Terrasse Sur L’Auberge, but we thought the quality was well worth the price. 

Regardless of which one you go with, you can relax over lunch and take in Old Montreal’s beauty!

9. Visit the Basilica, underground Montreal, Chinatown, and more with a local guide

Ready to get off the main tourist track and see some of Montreal’s hidden gems? This small-group walking tour is ideal for first-time visitors, but even if you’ve been before, you’ll see the city with totally new eyes.

The tour kicks off at Notre-Dame Basilica, where you will have time to step inside and take in its ornate interior before heading deeper into the city. From there, stroll through Old Montreal’s historic streets, grab a quick bite in Chinatown, and wander past the old Red Light District into Saint-Laurent Boulevard—each stop layered with stories and surprises. 

Eventually you’ll head to Montreal’s underground city, where you can see a massive reflecting pool inside the World Trade Center and a tucked-away piece of the Berlin Wall that often goes unnoticed.

As you explore Montreal, you’ll admire bold murals splashed across alley walls, browse a chaotic three-floor thrift store, and wrap up with a pause for locally roasted coffee in the Plateau. It’s the kind of tour that really blends street art, social history, and local flavor in a way that feels thoughtful, not touristy.

10. 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 can see all of its glory on a sightseeing tour, which lasts for about an hour. You’ll get to go beneath the golden vault, learn the stories behind the stained glass, and discover some unique Quebec history as you go. Most impressive is the 7,000-pipe organ! Tickets are $16 CAD for adults and can be reserved in advance here. 

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! Tickets are $36 CAD, and these sell out quickly, so book yours in advance. 

11. Take a day trip to Quebec City

If you have extra time and want to explore more of Quebec, I can highly recommend this day trip to Quebec City! This tour was all around excellent, from the easy organization to the incredible sights we saw. 

It’s a three-hour drive from Montreal to Quebec City. We were in a big coach bus, which was comfy enough for the journey. Our first official stop is Montmorency Falls, which somehow manages to be taller than Niagara but less crowded. You’ll have about an hour here and can enjoy the beautiful scenery and walking paths. If you’re feeling up for it, you can climb the 500ish steps to the top of the falls!

Then we made it to Old Quebec City and started off with a 1-hour history tour. This gave us insight into the stunning historic buildings, and it helped us get oriented in the city. We then had free time until the cruise, which was definitely the highlight of the day.

Cruising down the St Lawrence River was such a fun way to experience Quebec. The boat was massive, with indoor and outdoor tables, a bar, food, and table service. It was such a good way to relax and take in the views!

The rest of our time in Quebec was ours, so we spent it wandering through cobbled lanes of Petit Champlain, admiring the Château Frontenac, and browsing quirky little shops that looked like storybook illustrations. After our journey back to Montreal, it was about 8 pm, so while it was a long day, it was really fulfilling!

Overall, we loved this experience, as it balanced organized tour activities and time to explore on our own. I’d highly recommend it for those who want to experience Old Quebec City’s quaint and historic streets but don’t have the time to spend a few nights here. 

12. Eat an amazing crepe

Crepes and Montreal go hand in hand, and Creperie Maison Bagatelle was a yummy way to kick off our day of exploration. We loved this place for a few reasons, from the Victorian-style decor to the quick service, which is ideal if you’re eager to get going. 

You order at the counter, and they quickly bring out your food. They serve sweet and savory crepes, so of course we had to get one of each, for research purposes. The “strawberry love” had strawberries and Nutella, and the savory one had turkey and cheese. They were both delicious and balanced each other out well!

Whether you stop in for breakfast, lunch, or a sweet mid-day snack, it can’t be missed!

13. Discover Montreal’s murals and street art

Montreal’s streets are full of energy, but this small-group mural tour will make you slow down and look up. Having a guide will help you see more than just wandering on your own – what might look like random street art could be a timeline of stories, artists, and subcultures layered across the city’s walls.

You’ll explore with a local guide who has their finger on the pulse of Montreal’s art scene. Together, you will explore Saint-Laurent Boulevard and its surrounding alleys, the heart of the city’s mural culture, spotting politically charged works, community tributes, and abstract pieces from local and international artists. 

One of the highlights is the massive Leonard Cohen mural, but you’ll also love discovering how many styles and voices make up this living, ever-changing gallery.

The group was capped at ten, which makes it feel personal and casual, more like wandering with an artsy local friend than following a tour script. You’ll leave not only with a new appreciation for Montreal’s murals but also with plenty of insider tips for food and drinks nearby.

This tour is a must for street art lovers and anyone craving a deeper, more colorful look at Montreal’s creative side!

14. Visit the Biodome and the Botanic Gardens

Ready for a break from city sites? Head to Montreal’s iconic outdoor space and experience two of the most popular museums in the Space for Life museum complex.

Jardins botaniques de Montréal is a stunning botanical garden with 10 exhibition greenhouses and 20 themed gardens. The Chinese lantern garden is a crowd favorite! The botanical garden is quite large, covering 75 hectares (1895 acres), and is a must-stop for any nature lover or anyone looking to take a break from the city vibe. 

The Biodome is a 10-minute walk away and is an indoor nature museum. It’s really unique because it has five distinct ecosystems, and animals can roam freely, which is more ethical for them. This is great for kids and families, or any animal enthusiast. 

If you can visit both, they pair well. The Biodome is fascinating to see all of the animals, and the museum is very impressive in itself. The gardens are really beautiful and have such a relaxed pace, especially if you are lucky to have good weather! 

While the botanical garden and Biodome are within walking distance, you will need to purchase separate tickets, each for $25 CAD. You can also purchase a multi-museum pass for $87 CAD if you want to see any of the other museums here.

15. Visit 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.

You can sample juicy Quebec-grown berries, nibble on locally made cheeses, or grab a little something extra like a maple-glazed treat, a crepe, or even 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 see the colorful rows of fresh produce. Montrealers take their cuisine and ingredients seriously, so we enjoyed seeing the local side of things here!

Related Read: Need help planning all these activities? Follow our 3-day Montreal itinerary to fit everything into your schedule!

Where to Stay in Montreal, Quebec

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. We’d recommend staying in Old Montreal if it works out! Although there aren’t many budget options there, in which Plateau Mont-Royal is another great option.

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!

Luxury – $$$

Set across four historic 19th-century buildings right in the heart of Old Montreal, Hotel Place D’Armes absolutely nails that blend of old-world elegance and modern flair. Rooms are spacious and stylish, with exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and thoughtful touches like plush robes and Nespresso machines.

We love that there’s a rooftop terrace with views over the city, plus an on-site spa and a sleek bar downstairs. The location is also hard to beat, just steps from Notre-Dame Basilica and Place d’Armes metro. Expect to pay around $400 to $800 CAD per night, and it can be booked on Booking.com.

Mid-range – $$

For a stay that balances comfort, location, and perks, Hyatt Centric Montreal is a fantastic choice. Located in Old Town, you’re a short walk from the Old Port, Berri Uqam Metro Station, and Clock Tower Beach. 

But while you’re not adventuring around Montreal, you can enjoy the rooftop pool (which is heated in the winter!) and terrace for a relaxing afternoon. It’s hard to beat a beautiful day in Montreal! Prices range from about $350 to $500 CAD per night and can be reserved on Booking.com.

Budget – $

Traveling on a budget in Montreal doesn’t mean sacrificing location, and Auberge du Plateau proves it. Set right in the heart of Plateau Mont-Royal, this friendly hostel offers a mix of private rooms and dorms, making it a great fit for solo travelers, couples, and families alike.

We love that it includes free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and access to a shared kitchen, which can save a surprising amount on food costs during a longer stay. The rooftop terrace is another standout feature, offering views over the neighborhood and a relaxing place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Rooms typically range from $45 CAD for a dorm bed to $200 CAD per night for private rooms. Check your dates and book it 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 a vibrant mix of old-world charm and modern thrills—whether you’re wandering the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal, getting soaked on an adrenaline-pumping jet boat ride, or tasting your way through the city’s diverse food scene. There’s truly something here for every kind of traveler.

We hope this guide helps you map out your perfect Montreal itinerary. These activities were some of the most unforgettable parts of our visit, and we’re confident you’ll love them just as much. If you’re looking for more Canadian travel inspiration, be sure to browse through all our Canada blogs here, or check out the ones below!

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