Things to do in Montreal
Montreal packs a lot into one city, from island parks and casinos to rooftop dining and speakeasy bars.
Neighborhoods
Montreal packs a lot into one city, from island parks and casinos to rooftop dining and speakeasy bars. The food scene alone spans Portuguese grills, French bistros, and Turkish kitchens, often within a short walk of each other. For a weekend or a longer stay, the mix of old-town charm and modern energy keeps things interesting.
Start outdoors at Parc Jean-Drapeau, a two-island park with attractions and museums that works well for families and dogs. For a different kind of night, Casino de Montréal sits on the same Expo 67 site with river views and live shows. Food-wise, Ma Poule Mouillée serves casual Portuguese chicken sandwiches, while Le Pois Penché offers classic French bistro fare on a busy terrace. Cocktail lovers can try Bootlegger's speakeasy vibe or Bar Le Mal Nécessaire's tiki-style drinks. Shopping ranges from the Place Vertu mall to Place Ville Marie, and Lufa Farms gives a glimpse of urban farming. Walking tours with MTL Detours help connect the neighborhoods.
Frequently asked questions about Montreal
What are the best outdoor spots in Montreal?▾
Parc Jean-Drapeau is the main outdoor draw—two islands with attractions, green space, and museums. It's also dog-friendly and good for kids. If you want a farm visit, Lufa Farms operates urban greenhouses, though it's more of a behind-the-scenes look at local growing than a traditional pick-your-own farm.
Where can I find good Portuguese food in Montreal?▾
Ma Poule Mouillée is the go-to for casual Portuguese fare. It's a counter-service grill known for its chicken and other meat sandwiches, and it serves lunch, dinner, and dessert. Expect a laid-back spot rather than a fancy sit-down meal.
What are some good options for a night out?▾
Casino de Montréal is a full evening destination with gambling, restaurants, and live shows. For drinks, Bootlegger Cocktail Bar & Cuisine has a speakeasy feel with live music, while Bar Le Mal Nécessaire brings a tiki-style, 1970s vibe with DJ sets and outdoor seating.
Are there good places for breakfast or brunch?▾
Eggspectation - Maisonneuve is a solid breakfast chain with a long egg-focused menu and also serves brunch, lunch, and dinner. For something with more of a local feel, Pigeon Café & Bar covers breakfast through dinner with outdoor seating and a full drink list.
What shopping options are there in Montreal?▾
Place Vertu is an indoor mall with clothing, accessories, housewares, and a food court. Place Ville Marie is more of a retail concourse with trendy women's apparel. For beauty products, SEPHORA carries upmarket makeup and skincare. There's also a Walmart Supercentre if you need everyday items.
Things to do in Montreal
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Place Vertu
Indoor shopping centre offering stores with clothing, accessories & housewares, plus a food court.
Ma Poule Mouillée
Casual counter-serve Portuguese grill known for its chicken & other meat sandwiches.
via Google MapsSelect Blinds Canada / Stores Selects
Parc Jean-Drapeau
Park made up of 2 islands that are home to multiple attractions, venues & museums.
Casino de Montréal
Contemporary gambling complex in modernist Expo 67 site, plus river views, restaurants & live shows.
Place Ville Marie
Clothing retailer offering trendy apparel, swimwear & accessories for women.
Nearby
La Ronde
Riverside amusement park with Six Flags rides, the International Fireworks Competition & concerts.
Mount Royal Park
Sizable green space featuring trails, a lake with boat rentals & striking city panoramas.
Vieux-Port de Montréal
Historic riverfront complex featuring stores & restaurants, plus art exhibits, events & activities.
Complexe Desjardins
Indoor complex featuring shops with apparel, accessories & housewares, plus a food court & a grocer.
La Banquise
All-night diner for Québécois grub & local microbrews, with many poutine options & hefty breakfasts.
Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal
Dating from 1824, this massive church features vibrant stained glass & hosts concert performances.
Centre Bell
21,000-seat home of the Montreal Canadiens that hosts everything from concerts to Cirque du Soleil.
Jardin botanique de Montréal
75 hectares of native & exotic flora, with 10 themed greenhouses & a Chinese lantern garden.
Schwartz's Deli
Renowned deli, one of the oldest in Canada, offering huge sandwiches, smoked meats & more.
Jean Talon Market
Established open-air market with many vendors selling produce, meats, cheeses, fish & baked goods.
Montreal Biodome
Former Olympics velodrome housing replicas of 5 ecosystems & related species of animals & plants.
Montreal Eaton Centre
Spacious mall featuring well-known apparel, accessories & electronic shops, plus eateries.
Place des Arts
Multi-venue complex used by jazz & comedy festivals & prominent groups like the Opéra de Montréal.
Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal
Grand domed Catholic church with an art museum, gardens & organ concerts, plus tours & events.