What to do in Montreal

Activities, attractions and tours

A historic building with columns and a dome, surrounded by modern skyscrapers and a statue in a square.
A marina with various boats docked, a city skyline with historic buildings and modern skyscrapers in the background.
A historic red brick building with large windows and a sign for 'la Bae'.
A classical building with columns, a large sculpture, and a tower.
A modern building with a large glass facade, surrounded by trees and a street with pedestrians.

Montreal Attractions

Outside of Paris, Montreal is the largest French-speaking city in the world, which is highly reflected by the culture of the city. Named by Monocle Magazine as "Canada's Cultural Capital," there is no shortage of things to do in Montreal. The downtown area is particularly noted for the vibrancy provided by its many festivals.

Sports lovers can get their hockey fix by attending local games featuring the city's ice hockey team, the Montreal Canadiens.

The Montreal city limits include over 50 National Historic Sites of Canada, and many of these old buildings remain in their original forum. Whether you're visiting the city as a tourist or on business, Old Montreal is a must see destination. Featuring 19th century architecture, cobbled streets and rides on horse drawn carriages, Old Montreal is one of the most enthralling attractions in Montreal - no matter what time of year you visit.

Obtain a map of Old Montreal and familiarize yourself with the city, if you want to discover the city on your own. Alternatively, you can count on Expedia for offering you access to tours to suit your tour taste. On of the top Montreal excursions is a tour of the city's churches. Even though it's commonly referred to as the City of a Hundred Steeples, Montreal has far more than 100 churches of architectural merit within its city limits. Even if you aren’t exactly an architecture or history buff, Montreal tours of the old churches provide you with an excellent way to spend a few hours while during your visit.

Here at Expedia, we can help you find the best deals on Montreal activities as well as assist you in finding the best places to stay during your visit. Whether you are looking for the top spots to have romantic dinners for two or are anticipating bringing the entire family for a vacation, we can help you plan your trip so everything goes smoothly and all you have to do is relax and enjoy your time in the enchanting city of Montreal.

Things to do


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Top places to visit

1. Old Port of Montreal

The Old Port of Montréal is an excellent place to start your journey around the city’s historic area. Locals and tourists alike flock to the port in their millions every year, drawn by its mix of fascinating history and contemporary culture.
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A city skyline at night with illuminated buildings and a marina with boats.

2. Notre Dame Basilica

This neo-Gothic masterwork is one of the most popular locations in Montreal. Thousands enter Notre-Dame Basilica’s doors each day during the summer months. It is a Canadian national icon, hosting such high-profile events as Pope John Paul II’s 1984 visit and Celine Dion’s 1994 wedding.
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A city square with historic buildings and a prominent church tower at dusk.

3. Six Flags La Ronde

Originally built for the 1967 Montreal World’s Fair, La Ronde is now the city’s exhilarating Six Flags amusement park. Great views, thrilling rides and fun festivals make this park worth a day’s visit.
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A theme park with roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, and a water body.

4. Saint Joseph's Oratory

Saint Joseph’s Oratory church was founded in 1904 by Brother André Bessette. After the congregation rapidly outgrew the church twice, construction began on a third church in 1924. The modern 3,000-seat church that resulted is still the largest church in Canada, and its copper dome is one of the world’s largest.
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A large, historic building with a green dome and a central staircase leading to the entrance.

5. Jean-Drapeau Park

Spread across two islands in the St. Lawrence River to the east of downtown Montréal, Parc Jean-Drapeau offers the most diverse range of attractions of any area in the city. Gamble at a casino, watch a fireworks show for free, tour revolutionary buildings and bike on a professional racetrack.
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A large geodesic dome structure surrounded by trees and yellow poles.

Recommended things to do in Montreal

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What to do in Montreal


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Where to stay in Montreal

Find the best Montreal areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Montreal
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Plateau Mont-Royal

Noted for its art galleries and cafes, there's plenty to explore in Plateau Mont-Royal. Top attractions like Saint Denis Street and Laurier Avenue are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Mont Royal Station or Laurier Station to see more of the city.

Quartier des Spectacles

Cosy cafes, live music and vibrant jazz clubs are just a few top things to explore in Quartier des Spectacles. A visit to Sainte-Catherine Street or Complexe Desjardins might round out your trip, and you can jump aboard the metro at Place des Arts Station or Saint Laurent Station to get around town.

Old Montreal

A bustling port renowned art and top sights from Old Port of Montreal to Notre Dame Basilica – discover Old Montreal, a destination also famous for its historic sites.

Downtown Montreal

Known for its fascinating museums and great live music, there's plenty to explore in Downtown Montreal. Check out top attractions like Bell Centre and Sainte-Catherine Street, and jump on the metro at McGill Station or Peel Station to see more of the city.

Mile End

You'll enjoy the churches and coffee shops in Mile End. You might want to make time for a stop at Saint Laurent Boulevard or Laurier Avenue.


 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Day trip destinations from Montreal

Frequently asked questions

Is Montreal worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Montreal is visit Old Port of Montreal. Check this top sight off your list, then experience more of the area's dining and culture.
How do I spend a day in Montreal?
Once you've checked off key attractions like Old Port of Montreal and Sainte-Catherine Street, spend some time enjoying Montreal's retail and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Montreal?
Old Port of Montreal is one of the top tourist attractions in Montreal and deserves a spot on every must-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Montreal?
Three days will give you time to check out many city sights, including Old Port of Montreal, Notre Dame Basilica and Sainte-Catherine Street. The average stay in Montreal is two days. If you have the time to extend your getaway, Dorval isn't far away.
Is Montreal a walkable city?
It all depends on what you'd like to do and see in Montreal. Several attractions, like Old Port of Montreal and Notre Dame Basilica, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a stroll through some of Montreal's neighbourhoods, Ville-Marie is 2 kms (1 mile) away from downtown, while Downtown Montreal is 0.48 kms (0.30 miles) away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Montreal with kids?
Planning what to do in Montreal with kids has never been easier. Whether you're travelling with teenagers or toddlers, there are loads of family-friendly sights and activities to keep them busy here.
What to do in Montreal for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or fan of nature, there are lots of things to do in Montreal for adults including Montreal Convention Centre and Place Bell.
Are there free things to do in Montreal?
In Montreal, Old Port of Montreal is an unmissable spot for anyone wanting to see the city without taking their wallet out. Also, stroll around the other neighbourhoods and green spaces, and ask a local tour guide for tips. It's a good way to discover the best free things to do in Montreal.

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