Top 10 Must-See Places To Visit In Montreal

The beautiful city of Montreal is found in the province of Quebec. This vibrant city draws a large number of French-speaking tourists because of its history and tradition. If you are planning a trip to Canada, look for stunning places to visit in Montreal. This charming city's history began in 1535 with the arrival of Jacques Cartier. Since then, churches, markets, zoos and observatories, museums and galleries, and much more have been recognized as historical landmarks in Montreal. Scroll down to continue reading about the best places to visit in Montreal.

Top 10 Best Places To Visit In Montreal For Tourists And Locals

Montreal is a lively, open metropolis in North America that combines old-world European beauty with a pleasant, welcoming atmosphere. That the city has one of the greatest neighborhoods in the world is hardly surprising. Montreal, the second-oldest city in Canada, offers an endless array of attractions (and festivals!) thanks to its unique blend of twentieth-century architecture, history, and landscape. 

Explore thought-provoking museums, hidden bars and speakeasies, exquisite eating at cutting-edge establishments, and the best tables (plus some amazing cheap eats). Montreal never fails to astound tourists and locals keep falling back in love with it.

Mont-Royal Park

The captivating park, Mont-Royal Park, is situated close to the city's core and one of the places to see in Montreal. This beautiful park, which was established 233 meters above the city, allows you to see the monuments of King George IV and Jacques Cartier. Travelers can view the tranquil western slopes of the city, where various ethnic groups have lain in peace for centuries.

Come on Sunday for Mount Royal's popular activities: tam-tams. Tam-tams are weekly gatherings (weather permitting) of drummers, dancers, vendors, and just about anyone else. This is a big outdoor party and you are invited. 

The captivating park, Mont-Royal Park, is situated close to the core of Montreal

Notre-Dame Basilica

When walking around Montreal tourist attractions, it's hard to miss the two large towers of the Basilica of Notre Dame of Montreal rising above the skyline. Wait until you enter those doors if the exterior impresses you. It was the first Gothic Revival-style church constructed in Canada when it was finished in 1829, and many tourists are in awe of the exquisite religious artwork and stained-glass windows.

Walking into the Basilica is similar to traveling across time. Pope John Paul II visited these walls, where the funerals of Prime Minister Pierre-Elliott Trudeau and hockey legend Maurice Richard were also held. Included with your admission fee is a 20-minute guided tour that covers the history, architecture, and artwork of the Notre-Dame Basilica. Additionally, you can attend mass or go on a longer tour to see the baptistery, galleries, and sacristy.

Walking into the Basilica is similar to traveling across time

La Fontaine Park

Unleash your inner explorer by visiting La Fontaine Park. You can engage in an abundance of exciting activities, such as riding and hiking, at this place. Remember to take in the sight of the glistening, crystal-clear pond—it is an experience that may be enjoyed alone or with loved ones. You may explore a lot of places to visit in Montreal Canada while on vacation, but do not forget to include this one in your itinerary.

Oratoire Saint-Joseph

Among the major Montreal attractions, Oratoire Saint-Joseph is the biggest cathedral church in Canada with one of the biggest domes globally. It is difficult to overlook this landmark perched on the edge of Montreal's central peak, whether you are approaching the city by land or air. Completed in 1967 (having begun as a tiny chapel in 1904), this was the church of Brother André Bessette, a miracle worker rumored to be able to heal pilgrims who ascended its 283 steps. Hundreds of abandoned canes are on display in the church museum, along with Brother André's heart. The views from the top steps of this oratory are impressive in addition to its stature.

Oratoire Saint-Joseph is the biggest cathedral in Canada with one of the biggest domes globally

La Ronde

Originally constructed as an entertainment complex for Expo 67, this amusement park has grown to become the second largest in Canada. It features thrilling rides, roller coasters, family-friendly attractions, and a wide variety of shows, some of which have been there since the park's founding. Although it is primarily a fantastic location for adrenaline junkies in the city, there are plenty of other ways to have fun here, particularly during L'International des Feux Loto-Québec, an international fireworks competition held in the park where "pyromusical" shows compete for bronze, silver, and gold medals. 

La Ronde is one of the top places to go in Montreal Canada during Halloween when the park opens four haunted houses and eerie entertainers roam the grounds.

La Ronde is one of the top places to go in Montreal Canada during Halloween

Sainte-Catherine Street

The center of Montreal's shopping is Sainte Catherine Street, also known as Rue Ste.-Catherine locally. This street has everything you might be looking for, whether it is high-end designers, chain stores, local boutiques, or just souvenirs. Sainte Catherine Street spans the downtown area of Montreal from east to west and is nine miles long. Do not forget to check out this attraction since it is one of the places to visit in Montreal for free.

You could spend hours walking it, and every turn you take would be unique. You may also easily reach the street by bus or metro (subway), which is lined with eateries, pubs, and cafes. Place-des-Arts, a significant arena, and the Montreal Forum, the former home of the storied Montreal Canadiens, are situated on Sainte-Catherine's. When you visit in the summer, you can see the street spring to life as patios eat up the sidewalks.

Sainte-Catherine Street has everything you might be looking for

Biosphere

One of the most popular places to go in Montreal is Biosphere, where you may have the finest time as environmentalists and enthusiasts of architecture alike. It is the only museum in North America that offers engaging activities and imaginative exhibitions to make sure everyone has a fantastic time. The museum is located in a sphere, a breathtaking architectural wonder that draws thousands of tourists from all over the world. Among the top tourist places in Montreal, the museum never fails to wow with its echoes of its fascinating history and emphasis on environmental conservation.

Musée des Beaux-Arts

It is the oldest museum in Canada, with its enormous collections of sculptures and paintings. Mediterranean archaeology is vibrant and the Musée des Beaux-Arts is home to an exceptional collection of world cultures. Here you will find more than 1,400 paintings, drawings, prints, and sculptures, including the rare works of Pieter Bruegel the Younger, Goya, Gainsborough, Canaletto, Mantegna, Poussin, Rembrandt, and Veronese. The stunning artwork at Musée des Beaux-Arts will transport you back to the Dutch Renaissance's Golden Age. Do not overlook Musée des Beaux-Arts, one of the places to see in Montreal, to add an extra depth of fun to your vacation.

Musée des Beaux-Arts is the oldest museum in Canada

Best Time To Visit These Montreal Tourist Attractions

Depending on the kind of vacation you want, consider when would be the best time to go. The weather and temperatures vary every month due to the city's four distinct seasons. Certain actions are limited to certain times. There will probably be a special event taking place on the dates of your trip because Montreal has nearly 90 festivals annually.

The best time of year to visit these Montreal tourist attractions is April and May, as well as September through November. The weather is lovely and hotel availability is often good throughout these months. The Underground City's heated tunnels provide relief from the bitter cold and let you explore without going outside in the winter. You have to reserve your lodging in advance if you are visiting Montreal in the summer. The city holds some important events that sell out hotels.

If you’re planning a trip to Montreal, it’s important to note that travelers from many countries will need a visa to enter Canada. For short visits, many nationalities can apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), which simplifies the entry process. The Canada ETA is an electronic document that allows you to visit Canada for tourism, business, or leisure purposes with multiple entries.

Applying for a Canada ETA via our Canada Immigration Services website is quick and easy. You can complete the application online from your own home or company. This convenient travel document makes it easier than ever to explore the beautiful tourist places in Montreal. So why wait? Secure your Canada ETA today and get ready to experience all that Montreal has to offer.