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
Nearby
Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History
Modern museum with archaeological digs & interactive exhibits in historical buildings.
Central Market
Outdoor complex featuring warehouse stores, plus other apparel, sporting goods & home retailers.
Alexis Nihon
Spacious shopping centre featuring apparel, accessory & home goods stores, plus a food court.
Place Versailles
Indoor mall featuring stores with clothing, accessories, electronics & home goods, plus restaurants.
Centre Rockland
Spacious shopping center featuring sophisticated clothing & home decor shops, plus eateries.
Montreal Olympic Park
Olympic Stadium site with outdoor events, food trucks, a famous skateboarding area & kids' tennis.
Bonsecours Market
Venerable building featuring apparel & accessory boutiques, plus art galleries & restaurants.
Galeries d'Anjou
Indoor complex featuring numerous apparel & accessory stores, plus other chain shops & restaurants.
Marché Atwater
Specialty market carrying gourmet olive oils, balsamic vinegars, spices & dried fruits.
Costco Wholesale
Members-only warehouse selling a huge variety of items including bulk groceries, electronics & more.
La Fontaine Park
Trails, fields & ponds for paddleboating & skating, with both English- & French-style landscaping.
Montreal Convention Centre
Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
Spacious museum showcasing Québec & Canadian visual works, plus international contemporary art.
via Google MapsVieux-Port Steakhouse
Steakhouse with aged beef & a Sunday brunch buffet, in a stone-wall space with nooks & fireplaces.
Kondiaronk Belvedere
Accessed by staircase or trail, this broad terrace on leafy Mount Royal offers city & river views.
3 Brasseurs Saint-Paul
via Google MapsGibeau Orange Julep
Iconic giant orange orb along the highway, with hot dogs, creamy orange drinks & fries for takeaway.
St-Viateur Bagel
Iconic storefront known for wood-oven baked bagels with varied flavors & toppings.
via Google MapsCarrefour Angrignon
Large mall featuring retailers with clothes, accessories, home goods & electronics, plus eateries.
