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
Time Out Market Montréal
Popular foodie favourites are represented in the mix of eats & beverages at this hip food hall.
via Google MapsIndigo
via Google MapsWienstein & Gavino's
Housemade pasta, pizza & Italian standards in a 3-level place with a grand staircase & open kitchen.
via Google MapsMasakali Indian Cuisine
L'Avenue
Hearty upmarket brunch & diner dishes (like chèvre-topped burgers) plus hip digs & quirky bathrooms.
Montréal Underground City
Sprawling subterranean walkway network linking shopping malls, food courts & metropolitan buildings.
Nouilles de Lan Zhou
Busy noodle house with a smart interior dishing up housemade noodles in a variety of broths.
via Google MapsAuberge du Dragon Rouge
Boisterous medieval France-themed inn with period decor, fare & mead, plus troubadours & activities.
MTELUS
Intimate theater with a balcony featuring a lineup of live bands, along with a full bar.
Marché aux Puces Métropolitain
Massive indoor flea market featuring hundreds of vendors, plus diverse food stalls.
via Google MapsMontreal Insectarium
Displays of live & mounted specimens, with beehives, free-flying butterflies & edible bugs.
via Google MapsWalmart Supercentre
via Google MapsDunn's Famous
Venerable 24-hour local chain deli known for Montréal-style smoked meat & cheesecake.
via Google MapsBest Buy
Chain retailer with a large array of brand-name electronics, computers, appliances & more.
3 Brasseurs - Crescent
via Google MapsShawarmaz
Modest eatery offering Canadian & Middle Eastern classics such as poutine, shawarma & grilled meats.
via Google MapsSt-Viateur Bagel & Café Mont-Royal
Iconic storefront known for wood-oven baked bagels with varied flavors & toppings.
via Google MapsGibbys
Venerable steakhouse in an 18th-century stable, with seafood options & a fireplace.
Apple Sainte-Catherine
Apple retail store selling iPhones, iPads & more in sleekly designed spaces.
