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
Bota Bota, spa-sur-l'eau
Historic river ferry turned upscale "floating spa" offering diverse treatments, yoga & a restaurant.
via Google MapsDuc de Lorraine
Longtime Parisian-style pastry shop & cafe with an ample patio, plus a deli with savory items.
Scotiabank Cinema Montreal
Multiplex theatre with 13 screens (including IMAX & 3D) showcasing new releases.
Plaza Côte-des-Neiges
Indoor mall with over 100 shops & restaurants, plus a movie theater & medical offices.
Crew Collective & Cafe
Cathedral-style coworking space with a cafe menu of sandwiches, soups & quiches, plus coffee.
Diablos BBQ Smokehouse
Casual eatery & saloon with an outdoor patio specializing in Southern-style fare & smoked meats.
via Google MapsFairmount Bagel
Well-known bakery doling out varied flavors of bagels topped with cream cheese, plus other bites.
Parc Angrignon
A 97-hectare refuge minutes from the metro with picnic tables, walking trails, a pond & playgrounds.
Reuben's Deli and Steakhouse
Cheesecake, steaks & smoked meat sandwiches are the stars at this casual eatery with marquee lights.
via Google MapsBillets.ca
Modavie
Wine bar with live music & an old-timey jazz vibe, plus an eclectic menu with lamb specialties.
The Biosphere, Environment Museum
Exhibits covering a range of environmental issues in a geodesic dome built for the 1967 world expo.
via Google MapsParc Jarry
89-acre green space with gardens, gazebos & a fountain, plus many sports, a pool & a dog run.
Place Montreal Trust
Chain stores, services & a food court set in a sleek, 5-story shopping mall with a soaring fountain.
Montreal Science Centre
Interactive & educational science & technology exhibits for kids of all ages, with an IMAX theatre.
Les Enfants Terribles
Outpost of a small chain of neighbourhood brasseries serving comfort food & cocktails.
via Google MapsOlympic Stadium
Multipurpose stadium, home of the 1976 Summer Olympics & one of the world’s tallest leaning towers.
Siboire Saint-Denis
Comfy gastropub serving tavern fare such as burgers & poutine, with craft beer & cocktails.
via Google MapsPizza Il Focolaio
Large menu of thin-crust, wood-fired pizzas in a warm space with a terrace facing Square Phillips.
3 Amigos (Centre ville)
Vibrant Mexican venue with weekly specials on tacos & fajitas, plus margaritas & birthday gifts.