Practical Information: Montreal

Connectivity Essentials

Access to communication tools is widespread for travelers.

Staying Connected

Local ESIMs from Airalo provide mobile service; unlocked phones are needed.
Free Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and at Solis Wi-Fi hotspots.
Canada Post offices are available for mailing letters and packages.

Language & Phrases

French is Quebec's official language, but English is spoken in Montreal, especially in tourist areas.

French Phrases

Hello: Bonjour (bon-ZHOOR)
Thank you: Merci (mehr-SEE)
Do you speak English?: Parlez-vous anglais? (par-LAY voo ahn-GLEH?)

Learning French

While English is common, speaking a few French phrases is appreciated.

Helpful Language Tools

Google Translate or similar apps are useful for translation.
Download French language packs for offline use.
Improve your skills with a language learning platform like Rosetta Stone.

Airport Services

Optimize your airport experience and address potential travel disruptions.

Traveler Amenities

Airport lounges accessible with a Priority Pass membership.
Seek compensation for flight disruptions via Compensair.
YUL airport generally offers free Wi-Fi access.

Language & Communication Tips

Basic French Greetings

Hello: Bonjour (bon-ZHOOR)
Goodbye: Au revoir (oh ruh-VWAR)
Please: S'il vous plaît (seel voo PLEH)
Thank you: Merci (mehr-SEE)

Essential Phrases

Excuse me/Sorry: Pardon (par-DON)
Yes: Oui (WEE)
No: Non (NOHN)
How much?: Combien? (kom-BYEN?)

Effective Communication

Attempting a few French phrases truly makes a difference and is genuinely appreciated by locals. Most service staff in Old Montreal are bilingual.

Business Hours & Schedules

Retail Outlets

Shops typically open 10 AM to 6 PM on weekdays, extending until 9 PM on Thursdays/Fridays.

Dining Establishments

Lunch service is generally 11:30 AM to 2 PM, dinner from 5:30 PM until 10 PM or later.

Banks & ATMs

Banks generally operate 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday to Friday. ATMs are widely available.

Museum & Attraction Hours

Most museums and attractions operate from around 10 AM to 5 PM.

Important Notes

Many attractions close on Mondays, especially during low season.
Always check individual websites for precise hours before visiting.
Tourist shops in Old Montreal might present extended hours in summer.

Public Holidays Impact

Public holidays significantly change business hours, with many establishments closed or operating on reduced schedules.

Holidays in Quebec

New Year's Day (January 1) and Christmas Day (December 25).
Fête Nationale du Québec (June 24) and Canada Day (July 1).
Labour Day (first Monday in September) and Thanksgiving (second Monday in October).

Seasonal Operating Adjustments

Seasonal Closures

Some seasonal attractions, especially outdoor activities at the Old Port, operate only from spring to fall.
Winter months may present reduced hours for certain venues.
Always confirm specific holiday dates and operating hours before your visit.

Planning Ahead

Check attraction websites for any specific holiday schedules.
Cafes generally open earlier for breakfast service.
Dinner service at restaurants may continue late into the evening.

Verify Schedules

Operating hours may change without prior notice, especially during off-peak seasons or local events. A quick check of official websites before visiting saves time and ensures a smooth experience.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Consider local customs to engage respectfully with the culture and its people.

Greeting Customs

Politeness receives high regard in Montreal. A few simple phrases open many doors.

Initial Interactions

Start interactions with a "Bonjour" (hello) upon entering a shop or restaurant.
A "Merci" (thank you) upon leaving is always appreciated.
Use these phrases even if you plan to continue in English.

Appropriate Attire

Dress codes vary by setting, from casual exploration to formal dining.

Dressing for Occasions

Casual attire suits daily sightseeing and walking around Old Montreal.
For fine dining or evening events, smart casual or semi-formal dress works well.
Modest attire (shoulders and knees covered) is appropriate for religious sites.

Dining & Tipping

Tipping is customary for service. Discover unique local dining customs.

Dining Practices

Tipping is standard and expected for service (refer to sections 2.3 and 7.1 for details).
Many restaurants permit "Bring Your Own Wine" (BYOW), an unique local custom.
Explore diverse dining options within and around Old Montreal.

Photography Guidelines

Generally, photography is permitted in public spaces, with considerations for privacy and respect.

Ethical Photography

Be mindful of privacy and seek permission before photographing individuals.
Some museums or religious sites prohibit flash photography; observe signage.
Exercise discretion when capturing images in public areas.

Sensitive Topics & Taboos

Avoid Discussion On

Avoid discussing Quebec's independence movement unless invited by locals.
Approach sensitive topics with utmost consideration and diplomacy.
Never assume all Quebecers speak English; always begin with "Bonjour."

General Awareness

Uninvited political discussions may cause discomfort.
Respect linguistic preferences and avoid imposing English.
When in doubt, observe local behavior or politely inquire.

Inclusivity & Acceptance

Gender Considerations

Montreal maintains a generally progressive and inclusive environment.
Respectful interactions are the norm for all individuals.
Public spaces uphold principles of equality and mutual respect.

LGBTQ+ Information

Montreal openly embraces its diverse community, including LGBTQ+ visitors.
The Gay Village is a prominent and welcoming area with a lively atmosphere.
Laws and social norms reflect a high level of acceptance and protection.

Cultural Immersion Tips

Embracing local customs and showing consideration for cultural hints enriches your travel experience and fosters positive interactions.

Accessibility Information

Montreal strives for accessibility, though Old Montreal’s historic nature can pose some challenges.

Mobility Infrastructure

Old Montreal, with its historic buildings and cobblestone streets, presents some accessibility considerations.

Navigating Old Montreal

Cobblestone streets can be uneven for wheelchairs or those with walking difficulties.
Many historic buildings have made efforts to improve access.
Some older buildings may have limited accessibility, especially upper floors without elevators.

Accessible Attractions & Transport

Many sites and public transport options have accessibility features.

Mobility Friendly Options

Many Metro stations are wheelchair accessible with elevators; check STM website for specifics.
All STM buses maintain wheelchair accessibility.
Major attractions like Notre-Dame Basilica and Pointe-à-Callière have accessible entrances.

Visual & Hearing Impairments

Services exist to support travelers with visual or hearing impairments.

Support Services

Information on services for visual or hearing impairments is available on the STM website.
Service animals are permitted in public spaces and on public transport.
Some attractions provide audio guides or written transcripts.

Information Resources

Official sources offer detailed accessibility guides for travelers.

Contacts

Consult Tourisme Montréal’s official website for specific accessibility guides.
Detailed information on accessible routes and attractions is generally available.
Contact specific attractions directly for the latest accessibility updates.

Practical Information