Montreal – all you need to know

If you’re in Quebec in Canada for a vacation, then try and make Montreal one of your must-see cities. It’s a mixture of old and new, and boasts a lively music scene. You can get also get to other interesting places from here. So, Montreal is also a good starting point to explore from.

Whether you’re in town for a day, a city-break or a bit longer, here are some of the highlights that you might want to check out.

Notre-Dame Basilica

If you’re in the Old Port part of Montreal, you can’t fail to notice the Notre-Dame Basilica – which has two domineering, large towers.

This is a symbol of history in the city, having been built in 1829 – and you really appreciate that when you go inside. The stained-glass windows will have you staring.

The Basilica has seen the likes of Pope John Paul II. It was also where the funeral took place for Prime Minister Pierre-Elliott Trudeau.

History, architecture and art all come together here.

Old Montreal

Many places around the world have an ‘old town,’ some more interesting than others. Old Montreal is well worth a visit. It’s home to the site where Montreal was actually first established back in 1642.

Check out the waterfront and go for a stroll around the streets. Soak up the cafés, the shops and local life. If you’re in the area at night, why not check out one of the many modern restaurants.

In January, there’s an outdoor, electronic music festival here – called ‘Igloofest.’

Shop ‘til you drop

If you’re in Montreal to pick up some gifts, or something for yourself, or you just love browsing around the shops, then you should head for Sainte Catherine Street. It’s the place to be in Montreal. You’ve got everything here – from souvenirs to top notch goods from designer brands.

It’s a nine-mile street, so you shouldn’t get bored here! And, if you want to rest your feet, and your hands from carrying all the bags, there’s plenty of bars and cafes dotted along the way.

Going underground

There’s plenty to see and do on the surface of Montreal. But how about what lies beneath? Yeah, the city’s home to another world when you look deeper – in fact, what’s described as an “underground city.”

It’s called the RESO officially, and it’s almost 20 miles of underground tunnels and paths – which hook up subway stations, shopping malls and other buildings. You can get into it from the street, as well as some hotels and subways.

Going underground gives you a whole new take on this fascinating city.

Further afield

Montreal is a good place to be if you want to get out and about and explore what the rest of Canada has to offer.

You can swap urban for nature, for example, if you head to the Laurentian mountain range – which is just 80 miles north. There, you’ll find Mont Tremblant. It’s worth staying for a few days and, if you’re looking for a hotel, check out ChateauBeauvallon.com

Events

Check out events listings locally for all the latest goings-on in Montreal and further afield.