Montreal

Plan Your Perfect Montreal Holiday with Thorne Travel

Montréal offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern city life. With cobblestone streets, French-speaking locals, vibrant neighbourhoods, and a thriving food and arts scene, it’s a destination that feels like a little slice of Europe—without the jet lag.

Wander through the historic Old Montréal, lined with 17th-century buildings, boutique cafés, and galleries. Visit the towering Notre-Dame Basilica, stroll up Mount Royal for sweeping city views, and sample everything from gourmet French cuisine to famous smoked meat sandwiches and maple delights.

The city buzzes year-round with festivals, markets, and culture — from winter snowshoeing and hot chocolate to summer jazz concerts and rooftop terraces. Whether you’re into history, food, fashion, or street art, Montréal delivers with style and soul.

Travel Guide

Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Average Temperature: -6°C (January) to 26°C (July)

Average Flight Time from UK: Approximately 7 hours (direct)

Time Difference: -5 Hours

Landmarks

Montreal is a city of contrasts, where modern skyscrapers stand alongside charming cobblestone streets. Here are some of the top sights you won’t want to miss:

Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal) – Wander through this historic district with its narrow streets, cobblestone alleys, and European-style architecture. Visit the iconic Notre-Dame Basilica, admire the Old Port, and explore the local boutiques and cafés.

Mount Royal (Mont Royal) – The city’s namesake hill, offering panoramic views of Montreal. Hike or drive to the summit for stunning vistas, or visit in winter for ice skating and tobogganing fun.

Biodome & Botanical Garden – A paradise for nature lovers, explore the unique ecosystems of the Biodome or stroll through the lush landscapes of the Montreal Botanical Garden, which is one of the largest in the world.

Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des beaux-arts) – This prestigious museum houses an impressive collection of international and Canadian art. It’s a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

Atwater Market – A local favourite, this bustling market is the perfect place to explore fresh produce, artisanal products, and gourmet food vendors.

Cuisine

Montreal is a food lover’s dream, offering a variety of culinary experiences ranging from fine dining to casual street food:

Schwartz’s Deli – Montreal is famous for its smoked meat sandwiches, and Schwartz’s is the iconic spot to indulge in this local delicacy.

Toqué! – For a fine dining experience, Toqué! offers an exquisite menu featuring local and seasonal ingredients, making it one of Montreal’s top-rated restaurants.

La Banquise – A must-visit for a true taste of Quebec, La Banquise serves up classic poutine, with a wide range of toppings and variations.

Le Club Chasse et Pêche – A chic and modern restaurant offering refined Quebecois cuisine, focusing on local meats, seafood, and creative dishes.

Jean-Talon Market – One of the largest public markets in Montreal, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, baked goods, and artisan products – perfect for a food-filled afternoon.

Accommodation

Whether you’re looking for luxury, boutique charm, or something more budget-friendly, Montreal has a wide range of accommodations to suit all tastes:

The Ritz-Carlton Montreal – A luxury hotel offering classic elegance with modern amenities, and located in the heart of Montreal’s Golden Square Mile.

Le Saint-Sulpice Hotel – A stylish boutique hotel with spacious suites, located in the historic Old Montreal district, offering easy access to shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks.

Hotel Bonaventure Montreal – A contemporary hotel set in a modern skyscraper with a rooftop pool, offering both luxury and convenience in downtown Montreal.

Hotel William Gray – A chic, upscale hotel in Old Montreal, known for its beautiful views, exceptional service, and trendy rooftop terrace.

Auberge du Vieux-Port – A charming, boutique hotel located along the St. Lawrence River, offering elegant rooms and a great location for exploring Old Montreal.

Day Trips

Montreal is surrounded by scenic landscapes and charming towns perfect for a day trip:

Quebec City – A few hours’ drive from Montreal, Quebec City is a beautiful, historic destination known for its charming Old Town and cobblestone streets.

Ottawa – Canada’s capital, just a two-hour drive away, offers cultural and historic landmarks such as the Parliament Buildings and Byward Market.

Mont-Tremblant – A beautiful resort town in the Laurentian Mountains, ideal for hiking, skiing, and outdoor activities.

Eastern Townships – A charming region of rolling hills, vineyards, and quaint villages, perfect for a relaxing day trip with wine tastings and scenic views

Nightlife and Entertainment

Montreal’s nightlife is legendary, offering everything from lively bars and music venues to glamorous nightclubs:

Saint-Laurent Boulevard – This vibrant area is packed with trendy bars, lounges, and clubs, making it one of the hottest spots in Montreal.

Le Belmont – A lively venue for live music and DJ sets, offering a fun night out for music lovers.

Bily Kun – A cozy bar with a laid-back vibe, serving creative cocktails in a relaxed setting.

Le Ritz PDB – A historic venue turned nightclub, offering a stylish environment for dancing and live shows.

Theatre du Nouveau Monde – For a more cultural experience, enjoy an evening of theatre or performing arts at this iconic venue.

Festivals and Events

Montreal is known for its vibrant festivals, attracting visitors from around the world. Some of the most famous include:

Montreal International Jazz Festival – One of the largest jazz festivals in the world, attracting top musicians and artists for a multi-week celebration of music.

Just for Laughs – The world’s largest comedy festival, featuring international comedians and performances throughout the city.

Montreal en Lumière – A winter festival that celebrates food, arts, and culture with amazing light displays, performances, and culinary events.

Montreal Film Festival – A fantastic event for cinephiles, showcasing independent films from around the world.

Montreal

Plan Your Perfect Montreal Holiday with Thorne Travel

Travel Guide

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