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Plan Montreal

Canada · North America

3 days in Montreal

Montreal is the largest city in Quebec, serving as Canada's vibrant cultural and economic hub. It offers a unique blend of North American energy and European charm, making it a captivating destination for travelers.

Plan this trip, free

Montreal is the largest city in Quebec, serving as Canada's vibrant cultural and economic hub.

When you plan it, day 1 and the last day fit your journey from home: a long flight keeps them light.

3 days5 days

Day 1 · Old Montreal & Waterfront Wonders

7 stops 7.7 km

MorningBegin with the breathtaking Notre-Dame Basilica, then get lost in the historic charm of Old Montreal's streets and delve into its past at Pointe-à-Callière.

AfternoonEnjoy the lively Old Port, perhaps a boat tour or zip-line, followed by panoramic views from La Grande Roue de Montréal.

EveningSavour a classic Montreal smoked meat sandwich at Schwartz's, then experience the vibrant nightlife of Rue Crescent.

Walk extensively in Old Montreal and the Old Port. Use metro (Orange Line) to reach Schwartz's area.

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  • All 3 days, 19 stops
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Must-see in Montreal

Save money shopping

Shop smarter in Montreal

Where prices are lower than at home, the outlets within reach, and how to get the tax back. Editorial picks; check hours and prices on the official sites before you go.

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Cheaper here than at home

  • Outdoor gear and Canadian labels

    Canada Goose, Arc'teryx and Lululemon are cheapest in Canada; sales tax is added at the till.

Outlet

about 40 min

Premium Outlets Montréal

Outlet centre in Mirabel with 80 stores.

Getting there. Car, about 40 minutes; bus from Montmorency.

Official site Transport

Where locals shop

  • Adonissupermarket

    Popular local grocery chain loved for its fresh Middle Eastern pita, mezze, and marinated meats.

  • Atwater Market (Marché Atwater)public market

    Housed in an Art Deco building by the Lachine Canal, this market offers a wide selection of fresh produce, meat, cheese, and specialty foods. It's a great spot for gourmet groceries and a quick bite.

  • Jean-Talon Market (Marché Jean-Talon)farmers market

    A bustling open-air market in Little Italy, offering a vibrant array of fresh produce, local cheeses, baked goods, and flowers. It's a fantastic place to experience local life and taste Quebec's bounty.

  • Rue Saint-Paulboutique street

    One of the oldest streets in Montreal, Rue Saint-Paul in Old Montreal is lined with art galleries, souvenir shops, charming boutiques, and restaurants. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll and unique finds.

Know before you goVisa, safety, money and getting around in Montreal
  • Visa: Most visitors require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or a visa to enter Canada.
  • Safety: Safe for most travellers · 8/10
  • A day: about $180 mid-range
  • Best months: Jun – Sep
Read it

Know before you go

  • Money$ CAD · about US$180 a day
  • LanguageFrench
  • Local timeAmerica/Montreal
  • Best monthsJun · Jul · Aug · Sep
  • SafetySafe · 8/10
  • CrowdsBusy

Safety is Travlyo’s own reading, not an official figure. Official advice: US State Department ↗ · UK Foreign Office ↗

Visa

Most visitors require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or a visa to enter Canada.

Read moreShow less

Check official Canadian government websites for specific requirements based on your nationality.

Rules change: check for your passport before you book.

Getting around

Montreal boasts an excellent public transportation network, including a clean and efficient metro system and numerous bus lines, making it easy to navigate the city without a car. Walking and cycling are also popular, especially in warmer months.

What a day costs

Per person, for food, getting around and tickets. Stays and getting there come on top.

See the three stylesShow less
  • Budget: about US$100
  • Mid-range: about US$180
  • Comfort: about US$300

Good to know

Learn a few basic French phrases; while English is widely spoken, locals appreciate the effort.

4 more tipsShow less
  • Utilize the extensive public transport system (STM metro and buses) to get around efficiently.
  • Explore the underground city (RESO) during colder months for shopping and dining without braving the elements.
  • Take advantage of the many free festivals, especially in summer, for a true taste of Montreal's vibrant culture.
  • Don't be afraid to venture beyond Old Montreal; neighborhoods like Plateau Mont-Royal and Mile End offer unique experiences.

Stories

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  • RRomeRomanticEchoes Beneath the CobblestonesElena Marsh · 12 days · 2 min read
  • PPragueNostalgicGold Leaf and Bitter FoamAisha Rahman · 10 days · 3 min read
  • MMadridElectricElectric Nights and Goya’s GhostJonas Lindqvist · 8 days · 3 min read

Book for Montreal

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Cover: sebastien cordat on Unsplash · Photos via Wikimedia Commons · Map © OpenStreetMap contributors