Things to See in Montreal Downtown: Two Days in Montreal
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A Visit to this Canadian city is the closest you can come to feeling like you’re in Europe without leaving North America.
Things to do in Montreal: (Jump To)
Climb Mont-Royal
Parc du Mont-Royal is an urban oasis nestled in the heart of Montreal. It offers visitors a natural escape from the bustling city. The Kondiaronk Lookout, atop the hill, is a great place to start your morning in the city. You have two main ways to the top. The most popular and scenic route is the Olmsted Path, offering a gentle and gradual ascent. If you prefer a good morning working try the more challenging Peel Stairs.
You’ll be greeted at the top with sweeping panoramas of the Montreal skyline and the St. Lawrence River. There is also a cafe and restrooms are available.
Visit the McCord Stewart Museum
The McCord Stewart Museum is heavily steeped in the history of Montreal, Quebec, and the First Nations people that call the region home. It’s a great way to deepen your appreciation for the city and regional history (or just to escape a rainy afternoon).
A highlight is the museum's Indigenous Cultures Collection. It showcases the traditions of the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples with displays of indigenous art and traditions.
Upstairs is a photographic exhibit that chronicles the evolution of Montreal's street life. Through a series of photographs, you'll witness the transformation of the city's bustling streets, markets, and neighborhoods over the course of the 20th century.
Shop Like a Local at the Jean-Talon Market
The Jean-Talon Market, located in the heart of Little Italy, is outside of the normal tourist-heavy area. Don’t worry though, It’s easy to get to on the subway from the heart of downtown.
The majority of the market is dedicated to fresh fruits and vegetables. Seasonally you will also find ornamental and agricultural plants for sale.
One of the highlights of the market is the abundance of low(ish) priced Québécois specialty foods. You'll find an impressive selection of maple syrup ranging from the classic variety to various flavored versions.
There are also numerous food stands offering a variety of street food-style dishes. This would be a good place to try poutine, a dish of crispy fries and cheese curds covered with savory gravy.
Shop Like a Tourist at the Bonsecours Market
Bonsecours Market was constructed between 1844 and 1847 as a public marketplace where local merchants could gather to sell their wares. Designed by architect William Footner, the building itself is an architectural masterpiece. Originally named "Marché Bonsecours,” the market quickly became a vital hub for trade and commerce. Its prime location near the waterfront allowed for easy access to goods arriving by ship.
These days the market caters mostly to tourists with a collection of small boutique souvenir shops. Downstairs you’ll also find some great dining options.
Explore Old Montreal
The story of Old Montreal dates back to the 17th century when French settlers established a fur trading post on the island of Montreal in 1642. In the 19th century, Old Montreal served as the commercial heart of the city. The late 20th century brought about a newfound appreciation for the historical significance of the area. Efforts were made to preserve and revitalize the unique character of the quarter. Strolling through its narrow cobblestone streets, visitors are transported back in time.
You will find plenty of great ice cream, coffee, and regionally popular treats as you make your way through the inviting storefronts. Home to an equal collection of tourist junk shops and interesting boutiques, Old Montreal should appeal to any visitor.
Embrace the Outdoors at the Port of Montreal
Situated along the Saint Lawrence River, the Port of Montreal has loads of fun outdoor activities. You could rent a bike or take a leisurely walk along the numerous paved paths. From almost any vantage point you can admire the imposing blue steel Jacques-Cartier Bridge.
During the winter months, a visit to the Montreal Science Centre is an excellent choice.
You can take a ride on the La Grande Roue de Montréal, the harborside Ferris Wheel. It’s one of the best ways to get a view of the river and the city’s skyline against Mont-Royal. If you’re more daring, a ride on the Tyrolienne MTL Zipline might be for you.
See the Clock Tower
The Clock Tower was constructed between 1919 and 1922 as part of a revitalization project for the port area. The tower was built to serve as a memorial to the sailors of the Canadian Merchant Navy who lost their lives during World War I. Dedicated to their memory, it became known as the "Sailors' Memorial Clock."
The tower is one of the most popular photo spots in all of Montreal.
Tour (the other) Notre-Dame Cathedral
The Basilique Notre Dame is a Gothic Revival architectural masterpiece that stands as the religious heart of Old Montreal. For a small fee, you can step inside to view the intricate woodwork, stained glass windows, and pipe organ. Famous for its deep blue star-covered vaults, the church is often named on lists of the most beautiful churches in the world.
Shop and Taste in Chinatown
Montreal's Chinatown offers visitors a myriad of experiences. If you’re looking for some good food, savory dumplings, flavorful stir-fried noodles, and Peking duck await. If you prefer to buy something to cook at home or need a specific Asian ingredient to make your next dish pop; Chinese markets and grocery stores line the streets.
Visit Sun Yat-Sen Park. This peaceful oasis offers an escape from the bustling city, with traditional Chinese gardens, koi ponds, and a gazebo.
Visit The Expo '67 Grounds
Situated on Île Sainte-Hélène, an island in the St. Lawrence River, the Expo '67 Grounds is a reminder of the city's historical significance and spirit of innovation. In the summer of 1967 the Expo, held under the theme "Man and His World," showcased the cultural, technological, and artistic achievements of nations from around the globe.
The most eye-catching structure from the Expo is the Biosphere, a geodesic dome originally designed by visionary architect Buckminster Fuller. Today, it serves as an environmental museum, inviting visitors to explore the ecological challenges and opportunities facing our planet.
The grounds have been preserved and transformed into a vast parkland known as Parc Jean-Drapeau. The park allows visitors to relax, enjoy a picnic, or participate in a variety of recreational activities such as cycling, walking, or swimming in the Aquatic Complex.
During the summer months, the park hosts numerous cultural events, concerts, and festivals. As you stroll through the Expo '67 Grounds, take a moment to appreciate the view of downtown Montreal across the St. Lawrence River.
Take a Theme Park Day at Six Flags La Ronde
The La Ronde amusement park was originally built for Expo '67. It is now a theme park in the Six Flags chain. The park has an array of thrilling rollercoasters, rides, and attractions.
The park’s location on the island sets a beautiful backdrop to any thrilling rollercoaster ride. There are also lots of great food options in the park as compared to other Six Flags locations.
Things to do in Montreal:
Climb Mont-Royal
Visit the McCord Stewart Museum
Shop like a local at the Jean-Talon Market
Shop like a tourist at the Bonsecours Market
Explore Old Montreal
Embrace the outdoors at the Port of Montreal
See the Clock Tower
Tour (the other) Notre-Dame Cathedral
Shop and Taste in Chinatown
Visit The Biosphère and Expo ’67 Grounds
Take a theme park day at Six Flags La Ronde
