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Attractions & Sightseeing

Attractions & Sightseeing

Quebec, Canada

Iconic Landmarks

These sites characterize Old Montreal and are must-visit destinations for any traveler. Access to tickets for many attractions can be found on GetYourGuide.

The stunning blue and gold interior of Notre-Dame Basilica in Montreal.

Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal

  • Context: A stunning Gothic Revival basilica, completed in 1829. Windows depict Montreal's religious history rather than biblical scenes. The sheer scale and detail inside are awe-inspiring.
  • Hours: Vary by season and religious services. Generally open for visits Monday-Saturday, with limited hours on Sunday. Confirm specific times on their official website.
  • Fees: Typically CAD $16-20 for general admission. This often includes access to the "AURA" light show or a short guided historical tour during the day. Check current pricing and what is included.
  • Insider Tips: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds, especially tour groups.

More Iconic Sites

Old Port & Place Jacques-Cartier

  • Old Port of Montreal: A major recreational and tourist area along the St. Lawrence River. Panoramic city skyline and river views.
  • Old Port Visitor Information: Promenade open year-round. General area access is free. Activities within the port, like rides or specific attractions, have separate fees.
  • Old Port Activities: Montreal Science Centre, La Grande Roue de Montréal (observation wheel), boat tours, Bota Bota floating spa, and ziplining. Transforms into an ice-skating rink in winter.
  • Place Jacques-Cartier Context: Lively public square, the heart of Old Montreal. Slopes down towards the Old Port. Lined with restaurants, cafes, street artists, and flower vendors in warmer months.
  • Place Jacques-Cartier Ambiance: atmosphere. Restaurants here are often tourist-oriented and may be pricier. Many walking tours start from or pass through this square.
  • A view of the Old Port of Montreal with the Grande Roue (observation wheel) and the St. Lawrence River.

Bonsecours Market & City Hall

  • Bonsecours Market Context: Grand domed building from 1847. Once Montreal's main public market and later City Hall. Now houses artisan boutiques, cafes, and exhibition spaces.
  • Bonsecours Market Information: Open daily. Admission is free to explore shops and architecture. Significance in its architectural grandeur.
  • Montreal City Hall Context: Magnificent Second Empire style building, completed 1878, rebuilt 1922. Site of Charles de Gaulle's "Vive le Québec libre!" speech in 1967. Free public access to the main hall.
  • Rue Saint-Paul Context: One of Montreal's oldest streets, dating to the 17th century. Lined with charming stone buildings, art galleries, unique boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. Explore narrow side alleys for hidden gems.

These landmarks frame the historical essence of Old Montreal, each with its own story.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

  • Pointe-à-Callière, Montréal Archaeology and History Complex: Sits on Montreal's birthplace. Presents city history through archaeological remains, interactive exhibits, and an underground path through ruins. Admission fee applies.
  • Château Ramezay – Historic Site and Museum: Former governors' residence (1705). Showcases daily life from the 18th century. Features historical gardens. Admission fee applies.
  • Centre d'histoire de Montréal (Montreal History Centre): Focuses on social history. (Currently closed for renovations or relocation. Verify official status before visiting).
  • Montréal Science Centre: Interactive science museum in the Old Port for all ages. Permanent and temporary exhibits, IMAX theatre. Admission fee applies.

Historical Sites

  • Rue Saint-Paul:

    Its historic buildings and cobblestones invite visitors to walk through centuries of history.

  • Place d'Armes:

    Montreal's second oldest public square. Surrounded by Notre-Dame Basilica, Aldred Building, and Bank of Montreal head office. An equestrian statue of Montreal's founder, Paul de Chomedey, stands at its center.

  • Old Custom House (Ancienne Douane):

    Beautiful Neoclassical building (1836). Now part of Pointe-à-Callière Museum complex, accessible via underground pathways.

  • Marguerite Bourgeoys Historic Site / Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel:

    Canada's first stone chapel built by Marguerite Bourgeoys. Includes crypt, archaeological site, museum. Climb to the tower for panoramic views of the Old Port and St. Lawrence River.

  • Chapel of Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours:

    This chapel represents a deep part of Montreal's early religious and social history.

Natural Attractions

While an urban district, Old Montreal provides access to natural beauty, especially along the waterfront and nearby parks.

Green Spaces & River Access

  • Old Port of Montreal

    Expansive river views, opportunities for boat activities, and ample green spaces along its promenade. It connects the city to the vastness of the St. Lawrence River.

  • Parc Jean-Drapeau

    Not directly in Old Montreal, but easily accessible by Metro (Yellow Line from Berri-UQAM station). Features extensive green spaces, walking paths, a beach, and hosts major events. Presents impressive views of the Montreal skyline.

  • Mont Royal Park (Parc du Mont-Royal)

    Montreal's largest urban park, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. Panoramic city views from the Kondiaronk Belvedere. Accessible by bus or a longer walk from downtown. A peaceful escape for outdoor recreation.

  • Parks & Recreation

    These green areas invite picnics, leisurely strolls, and a breath of fresh air away from the urban bustle. They are popular spots for both locals and visitors to enjoy nature.

  • Scenic Views

    The Old Port and Mont Royal Park, in particular, are fantastic for capturing scenic photographs of the city and its natural surroundings.

  • Cycling Routes

    The paths along the Old Port and within Parc Jean-Drapeau are suitable for cycling, offering a dynamic way to experience the waterfront and parklands.

Hidden Gems

Explore these less-known spots for a appreciation of Old Montreal's character.

Cours Le Royer

A charming, hidden cobblestone alleyway. Connects Rue Saint-Paul and Rue Le Royer, featuring historic architecture and quiet courtyards. A peaceful escape from busier main streets.

World Trade Centre Montreal

A unique glass-covered public thoroughfare connecting several historic buildings. Includes a section of the Berlin Wall, a striking piece of international history within a commercial space.

More Hidden Gems

Discover these unique corners for a richer experience.

  • Rue de la Commune Ouest: Beyond the main Old Port promenade, this street presents views of old warehouses and quieter sections of the waterfront. A different perspective on the port's industrial past.
  • Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Chapel (within Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel complex): Often overlooked, this smaller chapel within the complex presents a peaceful respite and further historical insight, a quiet space for reflection.
  • Tip: Look for plaques and historical markers on buildings. These small details frequently share intriguing stories about the area's past.

Planning Your Sightseeing

Old Montreal is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes, as cobblestone streets are common. Many attractions are within walking distance of each other.

Consider purchasing a multi-attraction pass if you plan to visit many museums, as these can offer savings. Check the official websites of individual attractions for current operating hours, admission fees, and any special exhibitions or events. Booking tickets online in advance is frequently a good idea, especially during peak season, to avoid queues.

Best Times to Visit

Timing your visit can influence your experience.

Seasonal Highlights

  • Summer (June-August): Warm weather, outdoor activities, festivals. Very busy, higher prices.
  • Shoulder Seasons (May, September, October): Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, potentially lower prices.
  • Winter (November-April): Festive atmosphere during holidays, ice skating. Cold, fewer outdoor activities.

Getting Around

Navigating Old Montreal and beyond.

Transportation Tips

  • On Foot: The best way to explore Old Montreal's charming streets and hidden alleys.
  • Metro: Excellent for reaching other city neighborhoods quickly and efficiently.
  • Buses: Good for connecting areas not served by Metro, or if you prefer surface transport.

Guided Tours

Enhance your visit with expert insights.

Tour Types

  • Walking Tours: Historical, architectural, or ghost tours. Gain local insights and hear fascinating stories.
  • Boat Tours: Depart from the Old Port, views of city skyline and river. Historical narration, jet boat thrills, or romantic dinner cruises.
  • Hop-on Hop-off Bus: A convenient way to see major sights at your own pace, with commentary.
  • Many tour and attraction tickets are available on GetYourGuide.

Visitor Information

Practical considerations for your trip.

Important Notes

  • Photography: Most attractions allow photography, but check for restrictions inside religious sites or museums.
  • Safety: Old Montreal is generally safe, but common sense precautions are always good, especially at night or in crowded areas.
  • Language: French is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Museum Passes & Savings

Montreal Museums Pass

  • Consider purchasing a multi-attraction pass for savings on museum entries.
  • Passes frequently offer access to multiple museums and attractions across the city, not just in Old Montreal.
  • Evaluate if the pass justifies the cost based on your planned visits.

Online Booking Benefits

  • Booking tickets online in advance is frequently a good idea, especially during peak season.
  • Online booking often helps bypass long queues.
  • Some attractions may offer online-only discounts.

Beyond Old Montreal

While Old Montreal holds many attractions, the wider city of Montreal has more to discover, accessible via its efficient public transport system.

The Plateau

Known for its colorful row houses, murals, independent boutiques, and numerous cafes. A fantastic neighborhood for walking and soaking up local life.

Botanical Garden

One of the world's great botanical gardens, with themed gardens, greenhouses, and extensive collections. A peaceful escape and a feast for the senses.

Olympic Park

Home to the 1976 Olympic Stadium, the Montreal Tower (highest inclined tower in the world), Biodome, Insectarium, and Planetarium. A cluster of attractions for all ages.

Further Exploration

Underground City RESO

A vast network of tunnels connecting metro stations, shopping malls, and attractions. Ideal for navigating the city in cold or rainy weather.

Lachine Canal National Historic Site

A beautiful park and cycling path along a historic canal. Popular for walking, cycling, and picnics.

Jean-Talon Market

A public market in Little Italy, offering fresh produce, local foods, and a lively atmosphere. A culinary delight.

Mile End Neighborhood

A trendy area known for its independent bookstores, vintage shops, cafes, and famous bagel shops (Fairmount and St-Viateur).

Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal

A massive basilica and national shrine, offering stunning architecture and panoramic views of the city. A place of pilgrimage and beauty.

Museum Hopping

Montreal's diverse museums cater to every interest.

Beyond Old Montreal's Museums

  • Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des beaux-arts de Montréal): Extensive collections covering various periods and styles.
  • McCord Stewart Museum: Focuses on Canadian social history and cultural identity.
  • Canadian Centre for Architecture (CCA): A research museum and archive focusing on architecture and its influence on society.

Public Art & Murals

The city's walls tell stories through art.

Street Art Exploration

  • Plateau Mont-Royal and Mile End are renowned for their street art and large-scale murals.
  • Mural Festival: An annual event in June that sees new murals painted along Saint-Laurent Boulevard.
  • A fantastic opportunity for unique photography.
  • Guided mural tours are available for insights.

Travel Tip

Utilize Montreal's efficient Metro system to access attractions outside Old Montreal. A day pass or multi-day pass might be economical.

Plan your itinerary by grouping attractions in the same neighborhood to save time.

Unique Perspectives

For distinct views and experiences, explore these options that offer a different lens on Montreal.

City Views from Above

Gain a new perspective of the cityscape.

Observation Decks & Towers

  • Kondiaronk Belvedere (Mont Royal Park): Offers panoramic views of downtown Montreal, the St. Lawrence River, and beyond.
  • La Grande Roue de Montréal (Old Port): A large observation wheel providing sweeping vistas of the Old Port, Old Montreal, and the city skyline.
  • Montreal Tower (Olympic Park): The world's tallest inclined tower with an observation deck.

River Perspectives

See the city from the water.

Boat Tours on the St. Lawrence

  • Leisurely cruises: Provide historical narration and relaxing views.
  • Jet boat rides: For an adrenaline-filled experience on the rapids.
  • Dinner cruises: A romantic evening with dining and city lights.

Themed Walks

Discover specific aspects of Old Montreal's charm.

Specialized Tours

  • Ghost Tours: Explore the spooky history and legends of Old Montreal by night.
  • Food Tours: Sample local delicacies and learn about Montreal's culinary scene.
  • Architectural Tours: A dive into the district's diverse building styles and their history.

These tours frequently include hidden details and local stories not found in guidebooks.

Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides

A romantic and traditional way to see the sights.

Calèche Tours

  • Depart from Place Jacques-Cartier.
  • A leisurely pace, taking in the ambiance of the old streets.

A classic experience that transports you back in time.

Underground Explorations

Discover the city's hidden layers.

Subterranean Sites

  • Pointe-à-Callière Museum: Explore the archaeological crypt built over Montreal's birthplace.
  • RESO (Underground City): Navigate a network of tunnels connecting attractions, useful in extreme weather.
  • Some bars and venues in Old Montreal are in historic basements, offering an unique atmosphere.

These experiences frequently reveal unexpected depths to the city.

Photography Hotspots

Place Jacques-Cartier

Lively street scenes, historical buildings, and the Nelson's Column. Great for capturing the pulse of Old Montreal.

Rue Saint-Paul

Cobblestone streets, charming architecture, art galleries, and boutiques provide endless photo opportunities.

Old Port & La Grande Roue

Panoramic river views, the iconic observation wheel, and historic ships create stunning waterfront backdrops.

Sightseeing Tip

Start your day early to enjoy popular sites like Notre-Dame Basilica with fewer crowds. Consider a walking tour for historical context.