While North America features some of the largest and most famous cities on the planet, it would be a crime to pass up on one of its most cultural and historical. Montreal, Quebec may not be a booming metropolis of white collar business, but it is one of the oldest and most diverse cities on the continent. Founded originally in 1642, Montreal was incorporated as a city in 1832. While many cities feature multi-cultural aspects, Montreal is a truly bilingual city, supporting both the French and English languages. I spoke with FlightHub, an online travel agency, to get the lay of the land when it comes to what to do in Montreal. FlightHub reviews the top attractions across the world, including Montreal, so using their starting point I was able to pinpoint three key things you need to see and/or do in Montreal.
The Old Port
Cobblestone streets? Check. Unique historical buildings? Check. Quaint shops and street performers? Of course. The Old Port in Montreal is pretty much a go-to spot for anyone travelling to Montreal for the first time. In addition to the aforementioned draws, The Old Port is also uniquely situated between Montreal’s downtown core and the waterfront facing the St Lawrence River. Other attractions according to FlightHub include the Science Centre, museums, and superb restaurants and bars.
Mount Royal Park
If relaxing is more of your thing than there isn’t a better place than Mount Royal Park. Encompassing much of Mount Royal, the namesake of Montreal, Mount Royal Park has a ton of green space for you to bring a blanket and sit and chill while enjoying great views of the city. In terms of physical activity Mount Royal offers year round opportunities. Whether hiking and biking in the Summer or skating and playing hockey on Beaver Lake in the Winter, FlightHub says there is something for everyone at Mount Royal Park.
Biodome/Olympic Park
If you are more interested in nature, the Biodome is the place to go according to FlightHub. Featuring recreations of four different ecosystems, the Biodome is filled with animals, trails, and humid weather, making it a pleasant place to visit in the dead of Winter. The Biodome is also located very close to Montreal’s Olympic Park. Montreal hosted the Olympics in 1976 and many of the facilities are still intact including Montreal’s Olympic Stadium, which was ground zero for the Olympic Games in Montreal and also the home of the former Montreal Expos, who played in the MLB from 1969-2004.
