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Panorama of an urban skyline at sunset, with modern high-rise buildings bathed in warm light and a green park in the foreground.
Panorama of an urban skyline at sunset, with modern high-rise buildings bathed in warm light and a green park in the foreground.

Montréal

Published: 01 December 2025, 15:56

Bonjour Montréal

Montréal is the largest city in Québec and ranks among the most liveable cities in North America. Situated on the Île de Montréal and almost entirely surrounded by water, the city impressively blends historical charm with modern architecture. Visitors are captivated by its bilingual culture, French-inspired cuisine, lively festivals, diverse art scene, and rich cultural offerings. Expansive parks, Mont Royal, idyllic waterfront promenades, warm summers, and a colourful Indian summer make Montréal an especially charming and unforgettable destination for travellers from around the globe.

Numbers, data, facts

  • Time difference:  - 6 hours 
  • Population: approx. 1.9 million   
  • Official language: French  
  • Currency: Canadian dollar (CAD)

Seven highlights

Aerial view of a green island with a striking spherical geodesic dome in the centre, nestled in a park landscape. The island is surrounded by water, connected by bridges, with an urban skyline in the background.
The impressive biosphere on Île Sainte-Hélène is an architectural highlight surrounded by greenery. The large geodesic dome is now an environmental museum. © R.M. Nunes/stock.adobe.com
A narrow, cobbled alleyway in Old Montréal, lined with historic buildings and lush pink floral decorations climbing up the façades.
Old Montréal is a neighbourhood steeped in history. Colonial houses, churches and restored warehouses characterise the unique cityscape. © Torval Mork/stock.adobe.com
Interior view of Notre-Dame Basilica in Montréal with blue starry sky, neo-Gothic altar and ornate details bathed in warm light.
The majestic interior of Notre-Dame Basilica features impressive neo-Gothic architecture with a sky-blue vaulted ceiling and an artistically illuminated altar. © Shawn.ccf/stock.adobe.com
Aerial view of a park with a lake, green and colourful autumn trees, and city buildings in the background.
Mont Royal is a year-round destination for nature and recreation in the heart of the city. During Indian summer, it is ablaze with bright reds, oranges and yellows. © lightscience/stock.adobe.com
Night-time shot of a stadium with a slanted, futuristic-looking tower. In the foreground is an illuminated street and in the background are the lights of the city against a dark blue sky.
The Stade Olympique was built for the 1976 Olympic Games. Known for its futuristic design and leaning tower, it is now used for sporting and major events. © MirceaCostina/stock.adobe.com
Large, dome-topped church building standing on a hillside and bathed in warm, golden light; steps and green spaces lead up to it.
With its imposing dome, Saint Joseph's Oratory is one of the largest basilicas in the world. This important pilgrimage site also offers a panoramic view of Montréal. © mbruxelle/stock.adobe.com
A large white Ferris wheel stands at the harbour, with many buildings behind it. Trees stand on either side of the Ferris wheel and a calm body of water lies in front of it, all bathed in clear daylight.
Since 2017, La Grande Roue de Montréal has offered impressive views of the city, the harbour and the historic Old Port district from a height of 60 metres. © Natalia/stock.adobe.com

Gateway to Eastern Canada

Montréal, located in southern Québec, is the gateway to eastern Canada and is ideal for day or road trips. Québec City is only about three hours away by car and captivates visitors with its enchanting old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, cobblestone streets and breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River. The Eastern Townships attract visitors with their charming villages and wine regions, while the Laurentians offer mountains, lakes and outdoor activities. Mauricie and Charlevoix are a must for outdoor enthusiasts. The regions offer spectacular nature parks, and Charlevoix also attracts visitors with its fjords and whale watching opportunities.

Closer to Montréal, Parc National des Îles-de-Boucherville is perfect for hiking, cycling and wildlife viewing. Charming towns with small cafés, local markets and historic sites can be discovered along the St. Lawrence River from Montréal.

Imposing building with many towers and bay windows in the French Renaissance style, surrounded by other smaller houses, streets and trees. A wide river flows to the left.
Château Frontenac dominates the skyline. This landmark reflects Québec City's colonial past and French heritage. © Bailey Parsons/stock.adobe.com
Wide section of a river with green banks and trees under a blue sky with a few clouds, in a park.
Near Montréal, the St. Lawrence River flows through Parc Îles-de-Boucherville, a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor activities. © sarah/stock.adobe.com
Aerial view of a national park with two small chapels surrounded by dense forest in autumn colours under a blue sky.
Indian Summer in the Laurentians: Just 50 km from Montréal, Oka National Park attracts visitors with its hiking trails. Oka Historic Village is well worth a visit. © Mircea Costina/stock.adobe.com
Moated castle with bridge to the shore in the middle of a river and trees.
The Thousand Islands in the St. Lawrence River consist of over 1,800 islands and offer fantastic views of nature, lighthouses, and historic estates. © Karsten Thiele/stock.adobe.com
A tranquil lake with deep blue water, surrounded by dense, green forests. In the foreground is a wooden jetty where a person is relaxing in the sun. Next to it are canoes in the water.
Parc national de la Mauricie is located just around two hours from Montréal. It is ideal for long hikes, kayaking, and outdoor adventures. © Su Nitram/stock.adobe.com
A wooden walkway leads along a rugged coastline with rocks, coniferous trees, and sweeping views of a fjord. A person walks toward the water with a dog, surrounded by autumn colours.
The Sentier Pointe-de-l'Islet near Tadoussac offers short, easy hikes with views of the Saguenay Fjord and excellent whale watching opportunities. © Brad Pict/stock.adobe.com

Montréal from BER

Aircraft about to land on the runway

Air Canada

 

Montréal–Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL)

5 tips for…

1. Just for Laughs: Montreal becomes a comedy stage with stand-up acts, crazy street performances, and lots of good vibes.  

2. Montreal Jazz Festival: The world's largest jazz festival thrills audiences with legendary artists, open stages, and music on every corner. 

3. Osheaga: Montreal's musical highlight combines rock, pop, indie, hip-hop, and electro in one festival.

4. Fantasia International Film Festival: The festival brings the world of horror, fantasy, and science fiction to the screen for genre fans.

5. MURAL Festival: Artists create huge murals on Boulevard Saint-Laurent, transforming the city into an open-air gallery.

1. Jean-Talon Market: Large market in the north, ideal for local products.

2. Schwartz's Deli: Cult restaurant for Montréal smoked meat.

3. La Banquise: The most famous place for poutine (open around the clock).

4. St-Viateur Bagel: Famous for Montréal-style bagels.

5. L'Avenue: A very popular brunch restaurant with creative dishes.

1. Mont Royal Park (Parc du Mont-Royal): The city's most famous park, offering a perfect retreat in the heart of Montréal with its extensive trails, dense forests, and impressive viewpoints.

2. Parc La Fontaine: A city park extremely popular with locals, featuring large green spaces, shaded areas, and two lakes that invite you to relax outdoors.

3. Jean-Drapeau Park: A diverse nature and recreation area on two islands with beaches, event venues, and plenty of space for all kinds of activities.

4. Parc Jarry: A large city park, ideal for walking, sports, or picnics, and a quiet meeting place for residents of different neighbourhoods.

5. Botanical Garden (Jardin Botanique): One of the largest botanical gardens in the world, delighting visitors with themed areas, greenhouses, and artistic garden landscapes.

1. Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA): The city's largest art museum displays an impressive collection of art ranging from classical to contemporary. 

2. Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC): The MAC presents innovative works from the contemporary art scene and is known for its multimedia installations. 

3. Pointe-à-Callière Museum: This archaeology and history museum offers fascinating underground excavations and immersive historical exhibitions. 

4. McCord Stewart Museum: This museum highlights Canadian history and culture with a special focus on Montréal and indigenous perspectives. 

5. Biosphère: The environmental museum in the geodesic dome on Île Sainte-Hélène features interactive exhibitions on nature and sustainability.

1. La Ronde: Quebec's largest amusement park features spectacular roller coasters, a high ropes course, and family-friendly attractions.

2. HavreauxGlaces: This ice cream parlour serves handmade ice cream and a wide selection of vegan sorbets.

3. Zoo Ecomuseum: Quebec's only outdoor wildlife museum delights visitors with native animals such as black bears, owls, and lynxes.

4. La Grande Roue de Montréal: The impressive Ferris wheel offers a fantastic view of the city.

5. Parc Lalancette: The spacious water playground offers adventures in the cool water.

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© f11photo/stock.adobe.com

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