Planning a Montréal getaway? Here’s a punchy, no-filler list of can’t-miss spots—what they are, why they’re special, and smart tips to make the most of each stop.
- Old Montréal & the Old Port
Cobblestones, river breezes, patios, and year-round attractions along the St. Lawrence. Stroll De la Commune, pop by Place Jacques-Cartier, then glide above the skyline on La Grande Roue (Canada’s tallest observation wheel). The Old Port itself runs from the Clock Tower Quay to the locks and packs events in every season. Tip: sunrise walks here are magic; evenings glow with the wheel and waterfront lights. Old Port of Montreal+2Old Port of Montreal+2 - Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal
Montréal’s most famous interior: a neo-Gothic dazzler of deep blue vaults and gilded woodwork, right off Place d’Armes. Book a sightseeing visit or the AURA light experience. Tip: mornings are quieter for photos. Basilique Notre-Dame de MontréalWikipedia - Mount Royal Park & Kondiaronk Belvedere
Olmsted-designed parkland with the city’s postcard lookout. From Smith House, it’s an easy walk to the chalet and belvedere; in any season, this is where Montréal breathes. Tip: bring layers—winds whip across the summit in shoulder seasons. Les amis de la montagneTourisme Montréal - Jean-Talon Market (Little Italy)
One of North America’s largest open-air markets: peak-season produce, maple treats, cheeses, flowers, and snack stands galore. Go hungry; go early on weekends. Tip: pair with a cappuccino stroll through Little Italy. Tourisme MontréalMarchés Publics de Montréal+1 - Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal
Canada’s largest church crowns the city with a monumental dome and sweeping steps. Pilgrims, architecture fans, and sunset-chasers all meet here. Tip: check accessibility updates and hours before you go. WikipediaL’Oratoire Saint-Joseph du Mont-Royal+1 - Espace pour la vie: Biodôme + Botanical Garden
Under one roof, the Biodôme recreates five ecosystems—from tropical rainforest to sub-Antarctic penguins. A few minutes away, the Botanical Garden spans 75 hectares with themed gardens and greenhouses. Tip: buy timed tickets; plan 2–4 hours if you’re doing both. Espace pour la vie+1 - Lachine Canal Path
A 13.5-km waterside trail from the Old Port toward Lake Saint-Louis—flat, scenic, perfect for cycling or strolling past old industrial brick and parkland. Tip: rent bikes near the canal; golden hour is prime. Parks CanadaParks Canada - Mile End (Bagel Country)
Creative cafés, indie shops, murals—and a friendly rivalry between St-Viateur and Fairmount bagels. Grab one hot from the wood-fired ovens and wander. Tip: late-night bagel runs are a Montréal rite of passage. Tourisme Montréal+1St-Viateur Bagelfairmountbagel.com - Montréal Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA)
The city’s flagship art museum spans centuries and disciplines across multiple pavilions on Sherbrooke Street. Expect major exhibitions plus strong Québec and Indigenous collections. Tip: check the “Plan your visit” page for hours and ticketing. MBA Montreal+1 - Habitat 67 (Guided Tours)
Moshe Safdie’s modular icon from Expo 67—stacked concrete units forming one of the world’s great residential experiments. Summer tours take you onto terraces and through restored spaces. Tip: tours sell out—book ahead. Habitat 67+1
