Why Visit Montreal?

Introduction

Why visit Montreal? I say why not?

Montreal has long been a favourite destination for travellers seeking a blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and a taste of Europe without the transatlantic flight. Over my years of visiting, from my carefree university days to now, I’ve come to adore how Montreal offers something special in every season. Whether you’re sipping coffee on a terrace in summer or navigating the cosy underground in winter, there are endless reasons to visit Montreal.

A Real Short History

Hochelaga was the original name of Montreal, as given by the Huron nation. The first known visitor was Jacques Cartier in 1535-36. More than fifty years passed before the next Frenchman visited – Samuel de Champlain. While Champlain’s original vision was to set up a fur-trading post, it became a missionary centre named Ville-Marie. The outpost consisted of dwellings, a chapel, a hospital, and a stockade to protect against Indigenous attack.

Jumping forward in time to the 1760s, the British defeated the French on the Plains of Abraham, near Quebec City. The Province of Quebec, including Montreal, became part of British North America.  This is significant in relation to the upcoming American Revolution, which will drive folks of English, Scottish, and Irish descent north to settle in and around Montreal. English names for streets and parts south of Montreal started to become prevalent.

In modern times, Montreal rose to become the site of many industries with companies headquartering there. Through the 1800s and early 1900s, the city had the first electric lighting; the first electric tramways, the first to have auto traffic and more.

The highlights for Montreal in the modern era were the building of Place Ville Marie, hosting of Expo ’67, the construction of the Metro system, and hosting of the Olympic Games in 1976, which left so many landmarks across the city.  Check out Britannica Online and Wikipedia if you want more on the history of Montreal.

When you visit, check out landmarks like Place Ville Marie, the Notre-Dame Basilica, and the Olympic Stadium to walk through history while soaking in remnants of this incredible past.

Why Visit Montreal in Every Season?

Montreal is a year-round destination, but each season brings its own flavour. Here’s how to make the most of it, weather be damned!

Best Time to Visit Montreal (And What to Pack!)

• • Summer (June–August): Festivals galore, patio vibes, shorts, sundresses, sunglasses, and comfy walking shoes are a must.
• • Autumn (September–November): Think spectacular foliage and cooler days. Pack jumpers, a light coat, and boots for crunching through leaves.
• • Winter (December–February): The city transforms into a snowy wonderland. Bring a warm coat, scarf, gloves, and waterproof boots for those slippery cobblestones.
• • Spring (March–May): Watch the city wake up. Layers are key as mornings can be brisk while afternoons are sunny. Keep an umbrella handy!

Do You Need to Speak French?

Short answer? Non! Visitors often worry about the whole French-English divide, but rest assured, Montreal is a bilingual city. Tourism is a big deal here, so service staff are accustomed to welcoming English-speaking guests. While a friendly bonjour certainly won’t hurt, don’t stress about speaking perfect French. The locals appreciate effort, but they’ll always find a way to communicate.

How to Get to Montreal

Why visit Montreal? Well, it is easy to get to Montreal from no matter where you are travelling. Whether you’re jet-setting in from London, road-tripping from Eastern Canada, or hopping across the border, there are plenty of ways to get to Montreal.

1. Flights
    For Canadian travellers, major airlines like Air Canada and WestJet serve direct flights to Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL). For Torontonians, consider a quick 45-minute flight from Pearson or Billy Bishop.
    Coming from Europe? YUL offers direct flights from Heathrow, Paris, and Frankfurt.
    For US visitors, airlines like United and Delta make it easy. Or fly into Burlington, Vermont, and enjoy a scenic drive to Montreal.
2. Train Travel
    Via Rail Canada gets it right with its relaxing downtown-to-downtown route between Toronto and Montreal. No airport security lines, no hidden baggage fees, just you, a window seat, and coffee.
    Fancy a slower pace? The Amtrak Adirondack railway runs daily from New York. For autumn lovers, book this route during peak foliage season for breathtaking views as you pass Lake Champlain and into Montreal.
3. Driving
   • A road trip offers flexibility, but remember that parking in Montreal can be tricky! Use a reliable map app, follow the French signage, and you’ll be fine.

Ready to do some research? Use our tools below:

Where to Stay in Montreal

Why visit Montreal? Well, accommodation for any budget is readily available all year round. Whether you’re after luxury, a cosy boutique vibe, or somewhere budget-friendly, Montreal has options for everyone.
• Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal): Perfect for first-time visitors who want to immerse themselves in history and charm. Cobblestoned streets, historic landmarks, and restaurants galore await!
• Downtown (Centre-Ville): A convenient hub with access to public transit, shopping, and nightlife. Great for those who want everything at their fingertips.
• Mont Royal Plateau: A quirky, bohemian neighbourhood with killer brunch spots and indie boutiques. Ideal for families or foodies who want local flavour.

What To Do And See In Montreal

Must-See Attractions

Montreal’s got a rich menu of experiences to indulge all kinds of travellers. Here are a few can’t-miss sights and activities that will have you falling in love with this city.
• Climb Mont Royal for sweeping city views.
• Indulge in a smoked meat sandwich at Rueben’s Deli or the famous Schwartz’s.
• Visit the Notre-Dame Basilica, a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture.
• Experience thrills at the Montreal Casino or stroll the scenic Old Port.

City of Festivals (Organized by Season)

Montreal’s festival calendar is unrivaled. If there’s a time of year you’re planning to visit, try to catch one!
• Summer: The Montreal International Jazz Festival and the legendary Osheaga.
• Autumn: The quirky Festival du Nouveau Cinéma and the foodie favourite MTL à Table.
• Winter: Celebrate lights at Luminothérapie or laugh through the cold at the Just for Laughs Festival Winter Edition.
• Spring: Don’t miss the Go Velo ride, a must for cycling fans.

A Senior Moment

Here I am going to provide information for those of you who have reached your senior years and or may have mobility issues. I, myself, have arthritis in my knee and in both feet, which makes walking long stretches difficult.

That said, Montreal is easy to walk about. The main downtown districts are flat. Walking along St Catherine will be even, and there are plenty of cafes and benches where you can rest, and people watch. When you switch directions, however, the east/west avenues are quite hilly as they ascend towards Mont Royal. Use your judgment.

Another word of caution comes regarding Old Montreal. The streets leading to and from the port are hilly and steeply so. Then to top that off, many of the sidewalks are narrow and uneven, with the streets themselves still being cobblestoned. I would recommend public transit, a Hop On Hop Off tour or Uber and taxi to get to and from the port. The port area, once you get there is flat for walking.

Lastly, as I have mentioned in other blogs, mobility access to many of the Metro stations can be hit and miss. Much of the infrastructure for the Metro was built in the ‘50s and ‘60s. While some key stations like Berri-UQAM have been made fully accessible, others may require you to climb stairs to access or egress. Prime examples are Atwater which has no escalator from the platform to the ticketing level; De Castelnau, which has only up escalators from the train platform to the ticketing but only stairs to street level and stairs only all the way down (at the time of writing).

City of Festivals

All said, I would look at planning your trip around one of the festivals or events held annually in Montreal. As we open up, I am sure your support of any one or all of them will help get the city back up and running. Here are just a few:

• Festival TransAmerique
• Festival Go Velo
• St-Ambroise Montreal Fringe Festival
• L’International des Feux Loto-Quebec
• Festival International de Jazz de Montréal
• Just For Laughs
• Festival Fantasia
• Osheaga
• Ile Soniq
• Italfest MTL
• Montréal Pride
• And many more

What to do and see in Montreal

Once again, there are far too many things to list here. I will give some ideas:

• National Bank Tennis Open – Masters or WTA 1000
• Montreal Canadiens – NHL
• Montreal Impact – MLS
• Visit the Olympic Stadium
• Visit the Montreal Casino
• Rent a Bixi Bike
• Formula 1 – Canadian Grand Prix
• Visit Mont Royal Overlook
• Walk St Catherine
• Walk the Gay Village (eastern St Catherine)
• Visit Mt Tremblant in winter for skiing
• Atwater Market
• Musee des Beaux Art
• Old Montreal
• La Ronde
• All just to name a few

Is Montreal Safe?

If you’re planning a trip and wondering, is Montreal safe? The short answer is yes—Montreal is considered one of the safest major cities in North America. Whether you’re exploring historic Old Montreal, enjoying the lively nightlife of the Plateau, or strolling through peaceful parks and residential neighborhoods, you’ll find the city welcoming and secure. Like any large urban area, it’s wise to stay aware of your surroundings and take standard precautions, especially at night or in less busy areas. But overall, both locals and tourists alike enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and a strong sense of community throughout the city.

For solo travelers, seniors, or families with kids, Montreal offers a comfortable environment with well-maintained public spaces, helpful signage, and a visible police presence in tourist-heavy areas. Public transit is reliable and generally safe, and most people feel at ease walking or biking around, even after dark. So if you’re still asking yourself, is Montreal safe to visit?—rest assured, it’s a fantastic destination where safety and charm go hand in hand.

Why I Love Montreal

Why go to Montreal? Because it’s a city that meets you wherever you are in your life. Whether you’re here to soak up the history, indulge in amazing food, or just enjoy a change of pace, Montreal offers European charm without the jet lag.
If you’re ready to experience the best this vibrant city has to offer, book those tickets! Trust me, one trip won’t be enough. 🙂

Please note: the opinions expressed in this post should never be construed as advice. The thoughts are based on my experiences and those of my friends and family. Whether traveling, exercising or other activity it is always a matter of personal preference.  Find what you like and enjoy and share if you want with us all!
Also: If considering a change in diet, exercise, nutrition and or supplements, you must consult your medical practitioner to make sure that what you are about to embark upon doesn’t interfere with your current treatments.