- Old Montreal looks like Paris with its basilica and squares.
- Mount Royal gives the city its name and best views—hike to the top.
- Bagels here are better than New York's (fight me)—try St-Viateur or Fairmount.
- Underground City connects downtown during winter so you don't freeze.
- Jazz Festival in summer is world-famous and mostly free.
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When to go: Summer or Fall
Summer is festival season. The city is alive. Fall is beautiful for leaves.
Winter is brutal but fun if you like snow, skating, and cozy bars.
- Best: Jun-Sep.
- Winter: Cold & Snowy.
- Fall: Colors.
Getting there: Bus 747
YUL Airport is connected by Bus 747 to downtown (Lionel-Groulx or Berri-UQAM). It costs $11.
Uber/Taxi is a flat rate to downtown ($48+).
- Bus 747: Cheap & 24/7.
- Uber: Flat rate.
- Train: Via Rail to Central Station.
Where to stay: Plateau or Old Montreal
Plateau Mont-Royal is the coolest area—walkable, murals, cafes. Old Montreal is romantic but touristy.
Downtown is convenient but a bit boring at night.
- Plateau: Cool vibes.
- Old Montreal: Historic.
- Mile End: Hipster.
What to see: Basilica and Mountain
Visit Notre-Dame Basilica (stunning blue interior). Hike Mount Royal.
Walk around the Old Port. See the murals on St-Laurent Blvd.
- Notre-Dame: Must see.
- Mount Royal: The view.
- Old Port: Promenade.
- Oratory: Giant dome.
Food: Poutine and Smoked Meat
Poutine (fries, gravy, curds) is mandatory. La Banquise is open 24/7.
Smoked Meat sandwich at Schwartz's. Bagels at St-Viateur (sesame is the classic).
- Poutine: La Banquise.
- Smoked Meat: Schwartz's.
- Bagels: St-Viateur.
- Orange Julep: Giant orange drink.
Getting around: Metro and BIXI
The Metro is excellent (rubber tires!). BIXI bikes are everywhere in summer.
Walking is the best way to explore neighborhoods.
- Metro: Fast & warm.
- BIXI: Bike share.
- Walk: Best way.
Budget: Moderate
Cheaper than NYC or Toronto. Food is great value.
Alcohol is sold in 'SAQ' stores (spirits/wine) or depanneurs (beer/wine).
- Food: Good value.
- Festivals: Often free.
- Rent: Affordable.
2 Days in Montreal
Day 1: Old Montreal & Downtown. Notre-Dame, Old Port, Place des Arts. Underground City.
Day 2: Plateau & Mile End. Hike Mount Royal. Tam-Tams (Sundays). Bagels and Smoked Meat. Murals.
- Day 1: History.
- Day 2: Vibe & Food.
- Night: Jazz or Pub.
FAQ
Do I need French?
No, everyone switches to English. But 'Bonjour/Merci' is polite.
Is it cold?
In winter? Yes. Bone-chillingly cold. Dress in layers.
Can I turn right on red?
NOT on the island of Montreal. Everywhere else in Canada, yes.