Montreal cruises are a magnificent way to explore the city’s waterfront and see numerous attractions from a unique vantage point. Sightseeing harbor cruises in Montreal, lunch and dinner cruises, and many other types of waterfront rides are scenic and popular ways to take a greater look at Montreal. Sightseeing harbor cruises in Montreal are a major highlight for many visitors. The cruises last roughly two hours. There are several different cruise providers and each has their own specific timeline. A day cruise around Montreal’s harbor is possible between the months of May, once most of the ice has melted off the water, through to October, right before the deep freeze sets in.
A boat tour of the harbor generally departs from the Old Port, or Vieux-Port as it’s called in French. There are several different types of boats to choose from, including glass-bottom ships, historical-type boats resembling larger vessels that ply the Seine, powerboats, glass-topped boats, large ferries, and even hydro-jet boats. Harbor tours bring many Montreal high points into view, sail the St Lawrence River waters, and reveal the Old World waterfront filled with both vintage and new buildings. Many Montreal cruises through the harbor pass Ile Sainte Helene and Ile Notre Dame (home to the 1967 Montreal Expo and now other current events). The canoeing and rowing basin developed for the 1976 Summer Olympics comes into full view as does the Casino de Montreal, a few beaches and pretty, landscaped green spaces.
Sightseeing harbor cruises in Montreal can also take form of history cruises that span the St Lawrence passing many age-old landmarks. These urban boat cruises are conducted by a historical figure relaying interesting anecdotes and plenty of rich regional history. The European elegance of Montreal unfolds as does the geographical and historical city background. The cruises travel more than sixteen miles of the St Lawrence with attractions such as Boucherville Islands and Jacques Cartier Bridge coming into view. Onboard, amenities like a snack bar with desserts, drinks, and small meals are available.
A Montreal dinner cruise is a perfectly romantic way to spend an evening. Most cruise companies will conveniently provide pick up and drop off at any Montreal hotels making it very easy to enjoy some wonderful regional wines. A Montreal dinner cruise lasts anywhere from three to four hours. It usually includes live entertainment in the form of a jazz band or other musical group, multiple-course meals featuring the best of Montreal cuisine, fantastic views from the glass-enclosed dining areas, and seasonal cruise decks with music and warm summer breezes.
Once the sun sets during a dinner cruise, the shores light up with the lights and sound of the city’s evening social agenda. The surrounding islands offer a pretty backdrop as the sun sets. Most Montreal dinner cruises depart from the King Edward Pier which is also home to the Montreal Science Center and close to many city museums. Reservations are required and can be made by calling the cruise lines directly or by filling out a reservation online. Usually gratuities are not included.
Aside from dinner and sightseeing cruises in Montreal, there are many other options. Nature and adventure cruises include visits to the Mingan Archipelago islands where natural gems like unique rock formations and the Northern Gannet bird colonies on Île Bonaventure. Touring the watery corridors of cities like Montreal and Trois Rivieres is a great way to see some of the old ports up close. For a week-long French adventure, Montreal cruises to picturesque Îles-de-la-Madeleine are the way to go. The seven-day cruises whisk passengers off on an adventure-filled trip that stops at Chandler at the Gaspésie, The North Shore’s Havre-Saint-Pierre, and Quebec City. Pair a walk up to the Montreal Tower with a cruise and get the best city views available anywhere in Montreal.
Saturday, 30 July 2011
Montreal Burlesque, Canada
The Montreal burlesque scene is a burgeoning endeavor by many who helped to make the city’s burlesque festival a world-renowned event. Montreal has long been known as a colorful party city offering a huge array of unique venues, shows, and performances that entertain the masses. The history of burlesque shows in Montreal began with the initial stages of their very own vaudeville circuit, a scene only slightly behind larger cities like Chicago and New York. In the early 1940s, entertainers arrived in Montreal in droves, (think Armstrong and Sinatra) performing shows and enjoying entertainment at the once-famous Montreal nightclub Chez Paree.
Jazz pianists, singers, and other performers crept onto a bustling scene in the early 1940s as it picked up speed. A few well-known clubs harnessed their popularity with plenty of pretty showgirls and Montreal burlesque dancers. This scenario eventually led to the city’s famed topless dancers and strippers. One of the legendary Montreal burlesque dancers was born in Minneapolis, but did so well as a dancer in the city, she performed for years. Lili St-Cyr was a professional, 1940s-era burlesque dancers hitting the stage all over North America including Miami, New York City, and Las Vegas. Yet Montreal has a certain air about it that attracted hundreds of girls during the burlesque era which lasted only one short decade or so.
The Montreal Burlesque Festival has put this sexy, savvy dance form back into the mainstream. Or at least, it has begun to. The festival hosts a cabaret-style event that features some of the best dancers from around the world, from Montreal burlesque dancers to Japanese dancers. The festival has, with only one year under its belt, established the most successful burlesque shows in Montreal, witnessing a new revival of this classic, sexy stage dance.
The Montreal Burlesque Festival is hosted by Lhotel Hotel in Old Town where the Old Port, or Vieux-Port, is located. This part of town is a tourist target because of the many historical sites and interesting attractions within it. Lhotel is one of Montreal’s boutique hotels and offers an ideal, historic backdrop to the Montreal burlesque event. The festival kicks off on the Thursday of the opening weekend. A vintage fashion show, and the introduction of the main burlesque dancers are main events. Club Soda is the official venue of the shows and tickets are available directly from the club. It is also pretty much the only club that presents burlesque shows in Montreal outside of festival dates.
The Friday evening begins with an international exhibit with dancers from all over the world including Europe, Asia, and North America. The after-party is hosted each of the three nights by a local club or bar named when the event is publicized. The first Montreal Burlesque Festival hosted after-parties at Jello Martini Lounge, a club celebrated for featuring exceptional live blues, jazz, soul, and rhythm.
The shows are ritzy, humorous, and emphasize the playful and fun side of a tease show rather than the often raunchy and racy strip show. The emphasis is most definitely on the tease. These shows attract men and women alike for a look at the masterful moves of the best dancers around. Saturday is the main night for the Montreal Burlesque Festival. This night features the best dancers, the headliners, which show off their burlesque acumen through three major shows where glamorous costumes are as much as part of the show as the dancing is.
Traditional Montreal burlesque dancing has, in essence been left behind yet still retains its 1930s and 1940s flavor. The foundations of burlesque are clearly evident yet the revival has sparked a modern twist that includes a wider scope of approach to performances. From the quintessential strip tease to theater-based dramas, to modern moves to comedic playfulness, modern burlesque is as surprising as it is entertaining.
Jazz pianists, singers, and other performers crept onto a bustling scene in the early 1940s as it picked up speed. A few well-known clubs harnessed their popularity with plenty of pretty showgirls and Montreal burlesque dancers. This scenario eventually led to the city’s famed topless dancers and strippers. One of the legendary Montreal burlesque dancers was born in Minneapolis, but did so well as a dancer in the city, she performed for years. Lili St-Cyr was a professional, 1940s-era burlesque dancers hitting the stage all over North America including Miami, New York City, and Las Vegas. Yet Montreal has a certain air about it that attracted hundreds of girls during the burlesque era which lasted only one short decade or so.
The Montreal Burlesque Festival has put this sexy, savvy dance form back into the mainstream. Or at least, it has begun to. The festival hosts a cabaret-style event that features some of the best dancers from around the world, from Montreal burlesque dancers to Japanese dancers. The festival has, with only one year under its belt, established the most successful burlesque shows in Montreal, witnessing a new revival of this classic, sexy stage dance.
The Montreal Burlesque Festival is hosted by Lhotel Hotel in Old Town where the Old Port, or Vieux-Port, is located. This part of town is a tourist target because of the many historical sites and interesting attractions within it. Lhotel is one of Montreal’s boutique hotels and offers an ideal, historic backdrop to the Montreal burlesque event. The festival kicks off on the Thursday of the opening weekend. A vintage fashion show, and the introduction of the main burlesque dancers are main events. Club Soda is the official venue of the shows and tickets are available directly from the club. It is also pretty much the only club that presents burlesque shows in Montreal outside of festival dates.
The Friday evening begins with an international exhibit with dancers from all over the world including Europe, Asia, and North America. The after-party is hosted each of the three nights by a local club or bar named when the event is publicized. The first Montreal Burlesque Festival hosted after-parties at Jello Martini Lounge, a club celebrated for featuring exceptional live blues, jazz, soul, and rhythm.
The shows are ritzy, humorous, and emphasize the playful and fun side of a tease show rather than the often raunchy and racy strip show. The emphasis is most definitely on the tease. These shows attract men and women alike for a look at the masterful moves of the best dancers around. Saturday is the main night for the Montreal Burlesque Festival. This night features the best dancers, the headliners, which show off their burlesque acumen through three major shows where glamorous costumes are as much as part of the show as the dancing is.
Traditional Montreal burlesque dancing has, in essence been left behind yet still retains its 1930s and 1940s flavor. The foundations of burlesque are clearly evident yet the revival has sparked a modern twist that includes a wider scope of approach to performances. From the quintessential strip tease to theater-based dramas, to modern moves to comedic playfulness, modern burlesque is as surprising as it is entertaining.
Bed and Breakfasts in Montreal, Canada
If Montreal’s Old World European charm is what draws you into exploring vacations in the city, then a stay at one of the top bed and breakfasts is a must, even if just for a night. Montreal bed and breakfasts can be found all over the city and outskirts, and active competition has prompted a renaissance of innkeepers striving to create the most attractive backdrops inside their cherished B&Bs. A Montreal B&B can be located anywhere from downtown, Old Montreal and the Old Port, to Little Italy and the Latin Quarter. Visitors are spoiled for choice with a chance to choose a neighborhood that best represents personal interests.
Gite Atmosphere B&B is one of the most revered Montreal bed and breakfasts there is. Set in the heart of the city, its atmosphere welcomes guests into a setting permeated by both history and modern times. The 1875 original stone and brick home features gleaming hardwood floors and an artistic urban environment laden with modern and antique gems. Three-course breakfasts fill guests with the energy needed to explore the many surrounding attractions including the Latin Quarter, Old Montreal, the Old Port, LaFontaine Park, and the rest of the waterfront. Rates vary from full price to half within different seasons and select vacation packages are available.
Hip, trendy, and full of life, Absolument Montreal is another of the Old Montreal bed and breakfasts high on the B&B radar and conveniently close to Montreal underground stops. The famous Montreal breakfast is served up until noon. A sunny backyard garden features an all-season hot tub spa. Guest’s rooms are filled with high-count linens, flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, CD/DVD players, and the essential cozy bathrobe and slippers combo making them really feel like home. This cinema-inspired Montreal B&B offers private bathrooms for each suite, a nice change from the shared-bath facilities of many Montreal bed and breakfasts. Interior hallways are laced with tourist information; maps, guides, and brochures are offered. More than 500 books occupy endless shelves in the modern library. Downtown is a fifteen-minute drive and nearby trendy Plateau Mont Royal is filled with cafes, boutiques, and restaurants.
Eye-popping color, fantastic, unique adornments, and a truly individual style characterizes Bon Matins B&B (pictured), a special getaway near the Bell Centre in Montreal’s downtown area. Three suites, six deluxe suites, and one family suite are available. Each is delightful, vibrant, and unique. A home-style all-you-can-eat buffet breakfast, a fresh bread counter with specialty loaves and fresh cheese spreads, and plenty of specialty breakfasts are on the menu. Located in a bright townhouse with a spacious back terrace, this Montreal B&b also presents three full-size apartments all aligned in their signature style.
Old Montreal bed and breakfasts can offer the most gratifying experience when enjoying Quebec vacations. Cobble stone streets flanking seventeenth- and eighteenth-century buildings, a huge array of cafes and eateries, special events like the Montreal Jazz Festival, and a basic beauty that is hard to resist are the venerable city’s Old Quarter attributes. Staying on the outskirts of the city can be extremely pleasant and with a reliable network of pubic transportation, getting around is never a worry.
Gite Atmosphere B&B is one of the most revered Montreal bed and breakfasts there is. Set in the heart of the city, its atmosphere welcomes guests into a setting permeated by both history and modern times. The 1875 original stone and brick home features gleaming hardwood floors and an artistic urban environment laden with modern and antique gems. Three-course breakfasts fill guests with the energy needed to explore the many surrounding attractions including the Latin Quarter, Old Montreal, the Old Port, LaFontaine Park, and the rest of the waterfront. Rates vary from full price to half within different seasons and select vacation packages are available.
Hip, trendy, and full of life, Absolument Montreal is another of the Old Montreal bed and breakfasts high on the B&B radar and conveniently close to Montreal underground stops. The famous Montreal breakfast is served up until noon. A sunny backyard garden features an all-season hot tub spa. Guest’s rooms are filled with high-count linens, flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, CD/DVD players, and the essential cozy bathrobe and slippers combo making them really feel like home. This cinema-inspired Montreal B&B offers private bathrooms for each suite, a nice change from the shared-bath facilities of many Montreal bed and breakfasts. Interior hallways are laced with tourist information; maps, guides, and brochures are offered. More than 500 books occupy endless shelves in the modern library. Downtown is a fifteen-minute drive and nearby trendy Plateau Mont Royal is filled with cafes, boutiques, and restaurants.
Eye-popping color, fantastic, unique adornments, and a truly individual style characterizes Bon Matins B&B (pictured), a special getaway near the Bell Centre in Montreal’s downtown area. Three suites, six deluxe suites, and one family suite are available. Each is delightful, vibrant, and unique. A home-style all-you-can-eat buffet breakfast, a fresh bread counter with specialty loaves and fresh cheese spreads, and plenty of specialty breakfasts are on the menu. Located in a bright townhouse with a spacious back terrace, this Montreal B&b also presents three full-size apartments all aligned in their signature style.
Old Montreal bed and breakfasts can offer the most gratifying experience when enjoying Quebec vacations. Cobble stone streets flanking seventeenth- and eighteenth-century buildings, a huge array of cafes and eateries, special events like the Montreal Jazz Festival, and a basic beauty that is hard to resist are the venerable city’s Old Quarter attributes. Staying on the outskirts of the city can be extremely pleasant and with a reliable network of pubic transportation, getting around is never a worry.
Airport Transportation in Montreal, Canada
Montreal Airport transportation options offer great choices for getting to and from Montreal-Trudeau International Airport. Montreal Airport is reached by more than 100 worldwide destinations and is most commonly connected to from Toronto Pearson International Airport. The only other airport near Montreal is the St Hubert Regional Airport. It is located along the southern shores of the region of Monteregiesituated south of the resort village of Mont Tremblant. Montreal airport shuttles from St Hubert mean a speedy arrival to your skiing chalet, hotel, or condo in the thick of the winter.
A Montreal airport limousine is the classiest way to make your way downtown. Limousines can range from super-deluxe stretch limos to luxurious sedans. Limos are available at any time of the day or night. A ride from the airport to downtown Montreal or the Old Port in a luxury sedan doesn’t cost much more than twice that of the government regulated taxi cabs. Each terminal has an area labeled “pre-arranged area” just outside the terminal exit doors. Onsite commissioners take your name and connect you with the Montreal airport limousine or car waiting for you. Anyone arriving at Montreal-Trudeau for ski vacations can also take a Montreal airport limousine to Mont Tremblant in the summer or winter for golfing and skiing getaways.
Airport shuttles are the most popular and budget-friendly choices in Montreal airport transportation. Montreal airport shuttles are extremely low-cost ways of getting to the central downtown area where many main attractions are located. Express bus shuttles run directly between downtown and the airport and operate 24 hours per day every day of the week. The ride takes about 35 minutes outside of peak rush hour times. There are seven scheduled stops along the route that will get you closer to your final destination including Saint-Laurent, Drummond, Boulevard Rene-Levesque, and Mansfield.
If you’re planning on staying in Montreal for some time and have purchased a TRAM or CAM transportation pass, the Montreal airport shuttles are free. A one-way ride will cost under $10 CAD. The tickets for Montreal airport transportation via shuttle are available at the currency exchange kiosk at International Arrivals. Regional shuttles, called Orleans Express, are also an option to get to and from Quebec City, Trois Rivieres, and St-Foy. If heading to either Gatineau or Ottawa, Canada’s Greyhound service provides frequent return airport shuttle services. Buses are located at the passenger drop-off center at International Arrivals and tickets can be purchased on board.
VIA Rail, Canada’s primary train service, offers Montreal airport transportation along inter-city routes between Ottawa and Montreal, Quebec City and Montreal, a regular Montreal, Kingston and Toronto circuit. There is a complimentary bus service that takes passengers on the short trip between the airport and the VIA Rail station to begin train travel.
Taxis are great alternatives to limos. They offer the convenience of a Montreal airport limousine without the higher price tag. Taxi cabs have fixed rates regulated by the government for fares between the airport and downtown only. All other trips are priced by taxi meters. Grab a taxi without a reservation by the arrivals area in-front of the Cloakroom. Most taxis except American Express, Visa, and Mastercards as well as cash. Fares must be paid in Canadian dollars.
There is also a regular shuttle service from Montreal-Trudaeu to Mont Tremblant. If you happen to fly in late, choose one of the airport hotels and get on route the next day. In the summer from April through mid-December, a shuttle bus service provides two departures daily each day of the week. During the winter months shuttles operate from mid-December to April 3 with four departure times every day of the week. If choosing this type of Montreal airport transportation, head to Post 6 at International Arrivals.
A Montreal airport limousine is the classiest way to make your way downtown. Limousines can range from super-deluxe stretch limos to luxurious sedans. Limos are available at any time of the day or night. A ride from the airport to downtown Montreal or the Old Port in a luxury sedan doesn’t cost much more than twice that of the government regulated taxi cabs. Each terminal has an area labeled “pre-arranged area” just outside the terminal exit doors. Onsite commissioners take your name and connect you with the Montreal airport limousine or car waiting for you. Anyone arriving at Montreal-Trudeau for ski vacations can also take a Montreal airport limousine to Mont Tremblant in the summer or winter for golfing and skiing getaways.
Airport shuttles are the most popular and budget-friendly choices in Montreal airport transportation. Montreal airport shuttles are extremely low-cost ways of getting to the central downtown area where many main attractions are located. Express bus shuttles run directly between downtown and the airport and operate 24 hours per day every day of the week. The ride takes about 35 minutes outside of peak rush hour times. There are seven scheduled stops along the route that will get you closer to your final destination including Saint-Laurent, Drummond, Boulevard Rene-Levesque, and Mansfield.
If you’re planning on staying in Montreal for some time and have purchased a TRAM or CAM transportation pass, the Montreal airport shuttles are free. A one-way ride will cost under $10 CAD. The tickets for Montreal airport transportation via shuttle are available at the currency exchange kiosk at International Arrivals. Regional shuttles, called Orleans Express, are also an option to get to and from Quebec City, Trois Rivieres, and St-Foy. If heading to either Gatineau or Ottawa, Canada’s Greyhound service provides frequent return airport shuttle services. Buses are located at the passenger drop-off center at International Arrivals and tickets can be purchased on board.
VIA Rail, Canada’s primary train service, offers Montreal airport transportation along inter-city routes between Ottawa and Montreal, Quebec City and Montreal, a regular Montreal, Kingston and Toronto circuit. There is a complimentary bus service that takes passengers on the short trip between the airport and the VIA Rail station to begin train travel.
Taxis are great alternatives to limos. They offer the convenience of a Montreal airport limousine without the higher price tag. Taxi cabs have fixed rates regulated by the government for fares between the airport and downtown only. All other trips are priced by taxi meters. Grab a taxi without a reservation by the arrivals area in-front of the Cloakroom. Most taxis except American Express, Visa, and Mastercards as well as cash. Fares must be paid in Canadian dollars.
There is also a regular shuttle service from Montreal-Trudaeu to Mont Tremblant. If you happen to fly in late, choose one of the airport hotels and get on route the next day. In the summer from April through mid-December, a shuttle bus service provides two departures daily each day of the week. During the winter months shuttles operate from mid-December to April 3 with four departure times every day of the week. If choosing this type of Montreal airport transportation, head to Post 6 at International Arrivals.
Airports in Montreal, Canada
Montreal airport handles flights to over 130 destinations within Canada, to the United States, and internationally. Flights to Europe are popular to locations like Spain, Italy and France. From the Montreal International Airport visitors can also access many cities within some of the most popular states south of the Canadian border including New York and Washington DC. YUL, as the airport is abbreviated, is the main flight point east of Canada’s Great Lakes and the third busiest of all Canadian airports.
Montreal-Trudeau International Airport is located southwest of Montreal’s downtown and Old Port areas. This equates into a drive that can be anywhere from fifteen minutes to a half-hour and longer in thick traffic. The Montreal airport services more than 12 million passengers annually via around 40 airlines to more than 130 locations, some of which are regular flights and others that only operate seasonally. The airport is considered a major hub for air traffic between Europe and Canada because of its geographical situation in Eastern Canada.
The resort at Mont Tremblant has more recently added an international airport to its premises. This airport is meant to take the hassle out of travel for skiing and other outdoor recreation amid the resort’s magnificent backdrop. As usual, flying direct into this specialty airport can be pricey and most Tremblant travelers still use Trudeau International. Laurentian’s Mirabel International Airport, 40 minutes northwest of Montreal, used to be another option for flight services. Originally it was to replace Trudeau International, once known as Dorval, but many inconvenient aspects saw it decommissioned as a passenger airport in 2004 and it is now used to ship cargo.
On par with most of the ultra-modern airports around the world, Montreal International Airport is sleek, convenient, and well-organized for an exceptional travel experience. A wide range of services are offered all across the facility including dining, duty-free shopping, a first-class lounge, and a large luxury hotel. Montreal-Trudeau International Airport, named after Canada’s fifteenth prime minister, also features a cloakroom to store baggage prior to check-in, three foreign exchange kiosks, porter services, and a lost and found.
Whether you’re traveling from Montreal-Trudeau International Airport to the nearby suburbs of Ville-Saint-Laurent, Côte-Saint-Luc, or Westwood, or you’re planning a trip farther east to the waterfront, the airport’s ground transportation and car rentals will get you there. There are a vast array of choices in airport transportation including city buses, regional shuttle buses, taxis and limousines, and trains to choose between for the most convenient and budget-friendly options. There is also a direct shuttle to Mont Tremblant for those heading out on skiing vacations.
To avoid wasting a lot of time, be sure to know where to proceed when deplaning. Different connections and points of origin require passengers to debark airplanes and proceed to one of several different Montreal airport areas. For instance, if arriving from an international destination and flying within Canada, passengers need to go through Canadian customs, but must pick up luggage prior to that. If your flight originates in the USA and flying to an international location you can either go to the counter for special connections or you may have to pick up your own luggage if your airline does not personally transfer it. There are eight distinct scenarios that can occur for both arrivals and departures, which means checking where you fit in is a must.
Self-service check-in is another handy option for travelers when departing from Montreal-Trudeau International Airport. Use self-service check-in kiosks to avoid long line-ups during peak flight times. Web check-in is also increasingly popular and several airlines servicing Montreal International Airport offer the service. Mobile boarding cards, self-tagging your own luggage, and mobile check-in via cell phone or PDA are all modern services offered by Montreal airport that have increased efficiency and made using the airport a pleasant experience rather than a frustrating one.
Montreal-Trudeau International Airport is located southwest of Montreal’s downtown and Old Port areas. This equates into a drive that can be anywhere from fifteen minutes to a half-hour and longer in thick traffic. The Montreal airport services more than 12 million passengers annually via around 40 airlines to more than 130 locations, some of which are regular flights and others that only operate seasonally. The airport is considered a major hub for air traffic between Europe and Canada because of its geographical situation in Eastern Canada.
The resort at Mont Tremblant has more recently added an international airport to its premises. This airport is meant to take the hassle out of travel for skiing and other outdoor recreation amid the resort’s magnificent backdrop. As usual, flying direct into this specialty airport can be pricey and most Tremblant travelers still use Trudeau International. Laurentian’s Mirabel International Airport, 40 minutes northwest of Montreal, used to be another option for flight services. Originally it was to replace Trudeau International, once known as Dorval, but many inconvenient aspects saw it decommissioned as a passenger airport in 2004 and it is now used to ship cargo.
On par with most of the ultra-modern airports around the world, Montreal International Airport is sleek, convenient, and well-organized for an exceptional travel experience. A wide range of services are offered all across the facility including dining, duty-free shopping, a first-class lounge, and a large luxury hotel. Montreal-Trudeau International Airport, named after Canada’s fifteenth prime minister, also features a cloakroom to store baggage prior to check-in, three foreign exchange kiosks, porter services, and a lost and found.
Whether you’re traveling from Montreal-Trudeau International Airport to the nearby suburbs of Ville-Saint-Laurent, Côte-Saint-Luc, or Westwood, or you’re planning a trip farther east to the waterfront, the airport’s ground transportation and car rentals will get you there. There are a vast array of choices in airport transportation including city buses, regional shuttle buses, taxis and limousines, and trains to choose between for the most convenient and budget-friendly options. There is also a direct shuttle to Mont Tremblant for those heading out on skiing vacations.
To avoid wasting a lot of time, be sure to know where to proceed when deplaning. Different connections and points of origin require passengers to debark airplanes and proceed to one of several different Montreal airport areas. For instance, if arriving from an international destination and flying within Canada, passengers need to go through Canadian customs, but must pick up luggage prior to that. If your flight originates in the USA and flying to an international location you can either go to the counter for special connections or you may have to pick up your own luggage if your airline does not personally transfer it. There are eight distinct scenarios that can occur for both arrivals and departures, which means checking where you fit in is a must.
Self-service check-in is another handy option for travelers when departing from Montreal-Trudeau International Airport. Use self-service check-in kiosks to avoid long line-ups during peak flight times. Web check-in is also increasingly popular and several airlines servicing Montreal International Airport offer the service. Mobile boarding cards, self-tagging your own luggage, and mobile check-in via cell phone or PDA are all modern services offered by Montreal airport that have increased efficiency and made using the airport a pleasant experience rather than a frustrating one.
Place Jacques Cartier, Canada
Place Jacques Cartier is where summer comes alive in Vieux Montreal (Old Montreal). This popular plaza is located across the street from the Hotel de Ville (City Hall) and is made up of two paved streets around a central promenade. Place Jacques Cartier is the place to go when weather shows signs of warmth. Montreal tourist attractions can be found here, to be sure, but the Place is also extremely popular with locals.
Place Jacques Cartier has all of the Montreal Canada attractions that the city is known for: outdoor cafes, street performers, jugglers, mimes, face painters, caricaturists, horse-drawn carriages, vendors—much unchanged over the past century. The Place Jacques Cartier is located near the Viex Port (Old Port) and affords some beautiful views. The Victorian street lamps and flower market add to the charm of the area. In the cafes spilling out onto the streets, tourists sit beside locals, sipping their coffees and Sangrias. The restaurants and cafes are bustling from morning until night, creating a cheerful atmosphere. The buildings in the area from hotels, stores, and landmarks all blend together in Old World style. The Place De La Dauversiere, across from City Hall is a beautiful public garden restored in 1997. It’s no wonder Place Jacques Cartier is one of the most popular Montreal tourist attractions. The Montreal Canada attractions of Old Montreal can easily be reached from Place Jacques Cartier, making it a popular starting or ending point to the day.
Summertime is not the only time with Place Jacques Cartier is full of festivities and Montreal tourist attractions. During the Christmas season, the streets are alight with shining trees. During any season the restaurants are open on the central street of Jacques Cartier, as well as the surrounding streets of Vieux Port, especially on Rue Saint-Paul. Jardin Nelson is a very popular restaurant on Place Jacques Cartier during the summer high season. Like this restaurant, many others offer the traditional terrace dining, a la Paris, France.
On Rue de la Commune, near Place Jacques-Cartiers, an original piece of the old fort wall can be seen in Auberge du Vieux Port. On the upper end of the Place is The Nelson Column, one of the most controversial Montreal Canada attractions. This monument dates back to 1808 and was put in place by English merchants in memory of Admiral Horatio Nelson. Many Montreal folk feel that the monument represents British imperialism.
Place Jacques Cartier was named after by the French explorer by the same name who has been given the credit of being one of the major discoverers of Canada.
Place Jacques Cartier has all of the Montreal Canada attractions that the city is known for: outdoor cafes, street performers, jugglers, mimes, face painters, caricaturists, horse-drawn carriages, vendors—much unchanged over the past century. The Place Jacques Cartier is located near the Viex Port (Old Port) and affords some beautiful views. The Victorian street lamps and flower market add to the charm of the area. In the cafes spilling out onto the streets, tourists sit beside locals, sipping their coffees and Sangrias. The restaurants and cafes are bustling from morning until night, creating a cheerful atmosphere. The buildings in the area from hotels, stores, and landmarks all blend together in Old World style. The Place De La Dauversiere, across from City Hall is a beautiful public garden restored in 1997. It’s no wonder Place Jacques Cartier is one of the most popular Montreal tourist attractions. The Montreal Canada attractions of Old Montreal can easily be reached from Place Jacques Cartier, making it a popular starting or ending point to the day.
Summertime is not the only time with Place Jacques Cartier is full of festivities and Montreal tourist attractions. During the Christmas season, the streets are alight with shining trees. During any season the restaurants are open on the central street of Jacques Cartier, as well as the surrounding streets of Vieux Port, especially on Rue Saint-Paul. Jardin Nelson is a very popular restaurant on Place Jacques Cartier during the summer high season. Like this restaurant, many others offer the traditional terrace dining, a la Paris, France.
On Rue de la Commune, near Place Jacques-Cartiers, an original piece of the old fort wall can be seen in Auberge du Vieux Port. On the upper end of the Place is The Nelson Column, one of the most controversial Montreal Canada attractions. This monument dates back to 1808 and was put in place by English merchants in memory of Admiral Horatio Nelson. Many Montreal folk feel that the monument represents British imperialism.
Place Jacques Cartier was named after by the French explorer by the same name who has been given the credit of being one of the major discoverers of Canada.
Place des Arts Montreal, Canada
The Place des Arts Montreal is the main performing arts complex in Montreal, housing five individual theatres: the Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier Theatre, the Theatre Jean-Duceppe, the Theatre Maisonneuve, the Studio Theatre, and the Cinquime Salle. This major destination in the eastern portion of Downtown Montreal is the home of the Montreal Symphony Orchestra, Opera de Montreal, and Les Grands Ballets Canadiens.
The theatre was inaugurated in September of 1963. Since then it has earned the reputation as the premiere venue to see classical music, opera, and ballet, as well as a whole range of other performances in the city of Montreal, including chamber music, jazz, dance film, and theatre. In fact, Place des Arts tickets are some of the hottest items in town. There are a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, bars, and hotels near Place des Arts as well, which means you will have the opportunity to enjoy not just the complex itself, but also the vibrant surrounding areas should you decide to pay a visit.
The Place des Arts Montreal continues to expand and develop to this day, and the complex does not only house venues for the performance of music and dance. The Musee d’Art Contemporain is also a vital part of the facilities and a big draw in terms of tourism for the city. The exterior esplanade is a welcoming sight that invites people into the historic confines of the theatre, complete with cascading waterfalls and ornate fountains. When you purchase your Place des Arts tickets to whatever event or performance you choose, you will also have access to the gift shops, restaurants, and cafes onsite. It is also well worth noting that the Place des Arts Montreal is connected to the Underground City as well as the Place des Arts metro stop.
The Place des Arts is located in an lovely part of town that you may want to consider staying in. It is not only situated in the heart of the city nearby attractions like the Montreal Botanic Garden and Old Port, but also seemingly countless places to enjoy a nice meal or cocktail, cup of coffee or snack on the go. If you do decide to stay in the area, you should know that there is also a pretty expansive selection of hotels near Place des Arts, ranging from some of the most luxurious accommodations in the city, to designer boutique hotels that emanate elegance and chic sophistication.
The Hotel Place D’Armes, the Delta Hotel Montreal, the InterContinental Hotel Montreal, Hotel St-Denis, Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth, Loews Hotel Vogue, and the Best Western Hotel Europa Montreal are all viable options for wonderful accommodations within close range of the performing arts complex. Any of these hotels near Place des Arts will provide a pleasant and memorable experience.
If there is a particular performance that you have your heart set on seeing, be sure to reserve your Place des Arts tickets as far in advance of the show as possible to ensure availability.
The theatre was inaugurated in September of 1963. Since then it has earned the reputation as the premiere venue to see classical music, opera, and ballet, as well as a whole range of other performances in the city of Montreal, including chamber music, jazz, dance film, and theatre. In fact, Place des Arts tickets are some of the hottest items in town. There are a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, bars, and hotels near Place des Arts as well, which means you will have the opportunity to enjoy not just the complex itself, but also the vibrant surrounding areas should you decide to pay a visit.
The Place des Arts Montreal continues to expand and develop to this day, and the complex does not only house venues for the performance of music and dance. The Musee d’Art Contemporain is also a vital part of the facilities and a big draw in terms of tourism for the city. The exterior esplanade is a welcoming sight that invites people into the historic confines of the theatre, complete with cascading waterfalls and ornate fountains. When you purchase your Place des Arts tickets to whatever event or performance you choose, you will also have access to the gift shops, restaurants, and cafes onsite. It is also well worth noting that the Place des Arts Montreal is connected to the Underground City as well as the Place des Arts metro stop.
The Place des Arts is located in an lovely part of town that you may want to consider staying in. It is not only situated in the heart of the city nearby attractions like the Montreal Botanic Garden and Old Port, but also seemingly countless places to enjoy a nice meal or cocktail, cup of coffee or snack on the go. If you do decide to stay in the area, you should know that there is also a pretty expansive selection of hotels near Place des Arts, ranging from some of the most luxurious accommodations in the city, to designer boutique hotels that emanate elegance and chic sophistication.
The Hotel Place D’Armes, the Delta Hotel Montreal, the InterContinental Hotel Montreal, Hotel St-Denis, Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth, Loews Hotel Vogue, and the Best Western Hotel Europa Montreal are all viable options for wonderful accommodations within close range of the performing arts complex. Any of these hotels near Place des Arts will provide a pleasant and memorable experience.
If there is a particular performance that you have your heart set on seeing, be sure to reserve your Place des Arts tickets as far in advance of the show as possible to ensure availability.
Olympic Stadium in Montreal, Canada
The infamous Olympic Stadium in Montreal’s Olympic Park has had more than its fair share of flack. Just ask any Montrealer and you’ll hear it—the tales of disgust and scandal that surround the making of the stadium intended for the 1976 Olympics. Known to locals as the “Big ‘O,’” the Olympic Stadium Montreal is definitely worth a visit.
The Montreal Olympic Stadium is a brilliant structure, to be sure—it’s just too bad that it wasn’t completed until 1990—14 years after the Olympics had come and gone. Not only did the Olympic Stadium Montreal take far longer to build than expected, it also cost hundreds of millions more than estimated. To add insult to injury, the Stadium and swimming complex have had a bad track record with parts breaking down and falling apart.
The much talked about retractable roof for the Montreal Olympic Stadium didn’t even arrive from its origin, Paris, France, until 1981. It sat unused for several years before the city found the money to have it attached. Even then, it ripped several times and needed expensive repairs. In 1991 part of the roof’s support causing hunks of concrete weighing 55 tons to fall to the ground. Miraculously, no one died. The city then decided to replace the retractable roof with a non-retractable steel one—a project that cost around $57 million. As if this wasn’t bad enough, another blunder took place in 1993 when one of the Olympic pool floors fell in during a therapy session with some senior citizens.
Apart from these major disasters, or perhaps because of them, the Olympic Stadium has become a busy tourist attraction in Montreal. The Stadium itself was made to hold 80,000 spectators and has been desperately trying to book events to pay for its financial debt. If you don’t get to attend an event at the Olympic Stadium Montreal, you can help take a bite out of the debt by taking a guided tour of the complex. Tours leave daily from the lobby the swimming complex. The natatorium, with six different pools, is impressive. One of the pools has an adjustable bottom, and one is 15m (49ft) deep for scuba diving.
For a great view of the city, take the cable car that goes from the Montreal Olympic Stadium to an observation deck. Tickets to the top cost $9 CAN for adults and $5.50CAN for children and students. There is also a free shuttle bus from the Olympic Park to the Botanical Garden.
The Olympic Stadium, a worthwhile tourist attraction in Montreal, is easily reached by metro stop Viau.
The Montreal Olympic Stadium is a brilliant structure, to be sure—it’s just too bad that it wasn’t completed until 1990—14 years after the Olympics had come and gone. Not only did the Olympic Stadium Montreal take far longer to build than expected, it also cost hundreds of millions more than estimated. To add insult to injury, the Stadium and swimming complex have had a bad track record with parts breaking down and falling apart.
The much talked about retractable roof for the Montreal Olympic Stadium didn’t even arrive from its origin, Paris, France, until 1981. It sat unused for several years before the city found the money to have it attached. Even then, it ripped several times and needed expensive repairs. In 1991 part of the roof’s support causing hunks of concrete weighing 55 tons to fall to the ground. Miraculously, no one died. The city then decided to replace the retractable roof with a non-retractable steel one—a project that cost around $57 million. As if this wasn’t bad enough, another blunder took place in 1993 when one of the Olympic pool floors fell in during a therapy session with some senior citizens.
Apart from these major disasters, or perhaps because of them, the Olympic Stadium has become a busy tourist attraction in Montreal. The Stadium itself was made to hold 80,000 spectators and has been desperately trying to book events to pay for its financial debt. If you don’t get to attend an event at the Olympic Stadium Montreal, you can help take a bite out of the debt by taking a guided tour of the complex. Tours leave daily from the lobby the swimming complex. The natatorium, with six different pools, is impressive. One of the pools has an adjustable bottom, and one is 15m (49ft) deep for scuba diving.
For a great view of the city, take the cable car that goes from the Montreal Olympic Stadium to an observation deck. Tickets to the top cost $9 CAN for adults and $5.50CAN for children and students. There is also a free shuttle bus from the Olympic Park to the Botanical Garden.
The Olympic Stadium, a worthwhile tourist attraction in Montreal, is easily reached by metro stop Viau.
Old Port in Montreal, Canada
Montreal Old Port is the historic city center of the capital of Quebec. It is situated between the downtown skyscrapers and the Saint Lawrence River in Montreal. This popular tourist destination along the Montreal waterfront is also a highly popular gathering place for residents of the city who also enjoy the restaurants, cafes, boutiques, galleries, and lovely architecture. One of the great appeals of the Vieux Port in Montreal is that you are able to explore it on foot with great ease. You can walk through the cobblestone streets and witness some of the most historic buildings in the city, including those built around the time of Montreal’s founding in 1642. From historic churches, museums, and monuments, to bustling cafes, restaurants, and public gathering places, the Montreal Old Port is easily one of the most exciting places to spend time in this city.
If you are planning a trip to this part of Quebec, you may want to consider staying at one of the hotels in Montreal Old Port. This section of town is the excellent venue for sipping a latte or glass of wine, taking in the wonderful gastronomy of the city, and watching throngs of people walk by. It is estimated that over 5 million people visit this tourist attraction along the Montreal waterfront each and every year. As you sit and enjoy yourself at one of the cafes or restaurants, you can watch as ferries cross the Saint Lawrence River in Montreal to the Parc del Iles, the site of the 1967 International and Universal Exposition. One obvious benefit of unwinding in the Montreal Old Port is the beautiful scenery of the ferries, yachts, and motorboats skimming across the gorgeous Saint Lawrence. The boats, quays, and overall atmosphere of the Montreal waterfront in the Old Port is unique in the city.
The Montreal Old Port is a center for arts and entertainment for both residents and tourists alike. It is not only restaurants, bars, cafes, and boutiques you will discover in this part of town, but also a Science and Technology Center, a large, open-air ice rink, an IMAX cinema, and seemingly countless buildings and monuments that hearken back to the time when the Montreal Old Port was fortified with walls. Many of the oldest and most engaging examples of Montreal architecture and history can be unearthed within the confines of this enviable part of the city. Depending on the season, there are many more family-oriented activities, including swimming, boating, biking, and more. Really, activities reveal themselves to first-time visitors of the Vieux Port easily.
There are important remnants of Montreal’s past interspersed with a wonderful selection of modern amenities and accommodations including restaurants and hotels. You can stay in the Vieux Port and enjoy an authentic and unique cultural experience while also being within close range of plenty of accommodations, great cafes, interesting museums, and attractions for the entire family. Nighttime is especially beautiful in the Montreal Old Port when the lights illuminate the facades of the historical buildings and gorgeous hotels and homes. If you are planning a trip to Montreal, you should certainly factor in a trip to the historic center of the city.
If you are planning a trip to this part of Quebec, you may want to consider staying at one of the hotels in Montreal Old Port. This section of town is the excellent venue for sipping a latte or glass of wine, taking in the wonderful gastronomy of the city, and watching throngs of people walk by. It is estimated that over 5 million people visit this tourist attraction along the Montreal waterfront each and every year. As you sit and enjoy yourself at one of the cafes or restaurants, you can watch as ferries cross the Saint Lawrence River in Montreal to the Parc del Iles, the site of the 1967 International and Universal Exposition. One obvious benefit of unwinding in the Montreal Old Port is the beautiful scenery of the ferries, yachts, and motorboats skimming across the gorgeous Saint Lawrence. The boats, quays, and overall atmosphere of the Montreal waterfront in the Old Port is unique in the city.
The Montreal Old Port is a center for arts and entertainment for both residents and tourists alike. It is not only restaurants, bars, cafes, and boutiques you will discover in this part of town, but also a Science and Technology Center, a large, open-air ice rink, an IMAX cinema, and seemingly countless buildings and monuments that hearken back to the time when the Montreal Old Port was fortified with walls. Many of the oldest and most engaging examples of Montreal architecture and history can be unearthed within the confines of this enviable part of the city. Depending on the season, there are many more family-oriented activities, including swimming, boating, biking, and more. Really, activities reveal themselves to first-time visitors of the Vieux Port easily.
There are important remnants of Montreal’s past interspersed with a wonderful selection of modern amenities and accommodations including restaurants and hotels. You can stay in the Vieux Port and enjoy an authentic and unique cultural experience while also being within close range of plenty of accommodations, great cafes, interesting museums, and attractions for the entire family. Nighttime is especially beautiful in the Montreal Old Port when the lights illuminate the facades of the historical buildings and gorgeous hotels and homes. If you are planning a trip to Montreal, you should certainly factor in a trip to the historic center of the city.
Notre Dame Basilica in Montreal, Canada
The Notre-Dame Basilica, located on rue Notre-Dame ouest (West Notre-Dame Street) dominates the square with its impressive neo-Gothic structure. The story of the church of Notre-Dame in Montreal has a colorful history of devoted architects and artistic contributors. It is said that the original architect, Protestant Irish-American James O’Donnell, was so moved by the experience of building the church that he converted to Catholicism on his deathbed in order to be buried in the crypt of the church. O’Donnell, proponent of the Gothic style revival, was the only person ever granted this honor.
Since 1829 the Notre-Dame Basilica has awed visitors with its sky-blue interior and exquisite details. The eastern tower of the Notre- Dame Montreal holds a ten-bell carillon, while the western tower, named Temperance, holds a single bell, the Jean-Baptiste bell. This ten ton bell is only rung on special occasions and can be heard 25km away.
Much of the interior of the basilica was originally designed by Victor Bourgeau, a local Montreal artist. Behind the main altar is the Chapelle Sacre Coeur (Sacred Heart Chapel) much of which was destroyed in a fire in 1982. The altar was later replaced by a 32 panel altar cast in bronze by Charles Daudelin (also from Montreal). The stained-glass windows in the Notre Dame Montreal depict the history of Ville-Marie (Montreal) and were imported from Limoges, France. Also impressive are the wood carvings of the prophets by the French sculptor, Bouriche. The rare woods used in the basilica, carved and carefully painted, are some of the most unique and awe-inspiring features of the church.
Tours of the church of Notre-Dame in Montreal run daily from 9am-4pm, though you can also go in on your own from 8am until 5pm. Entrance fees are $4CAN for adults and $2CAN children over 6 (under 6 are free). There is also a sound and light show called “Et la lumiére fut” (And There Was Light) taking place most evenings. The sound and light show uses multimedia techniques to tell the historical, cultural, architectural and spiritual story of the Notre-Dame Basilica. Over 150 artists and artisans have taken part in this work, which costs around $7 CAN for adults.
Since 1829 the Notre-Dame Basilica has awed visitors with its sky-blue interior and exquisite details. The eastern tower of the Notre- Dame Montreal holds a ten-bell carillon, while the western tower, named Temperance, holds a single bell, the Jean-Baptiste bell. This ten ton bell is only rung on special occasions and can be heard 25km away.
Much of the interior of the basilica was originally designed by Victor Bourgeau, a local Montreal artist. Behind the main altar is the Chapelle Sacre Coeur (Sacred Heart Chapel) much of which was destroyed in a fire in 1982. The altar was later replaced by a 32 panel altar cast in bronze by Charles Daudelin (also from Montreal). The stained-glass windows in the Notre Dame Montreal depict the history of Ville-Marie (Montreal) and were imported from Limoges, France. Also impressive are the wood carvings of the prophets by the French sculptor, Bouriche. The rare woods used in the basilica, carved and carefully painted, are some of the most unique and awe-inspiring features of the church.
Tours of the church of Notre-Dame in Montreal run daily from 9am-4pm, though you can also go in on your own from 8am until 5pm. Entrance fees are $4CAN for adults and $2CAN children over 6 (under 6 are free). There is also a sound and light show called “Et la lumiére fut” (And There Was Light) taking place most evenings. The sound and light show uses multimedia techniques to tell the historical, cultural, architectural and spiritual story of the Notre-Dame Basilica. Over 150 artists and artisans have taken part in this work, which costs around $7 CAN for adults.
Museums in Montreal, Canada
Montreal museums are an important aspect of the overall cultural dynamic in the capital of Quebec. This vibrant and cosmopolitan city is known to offer its residents and visitors from all over the world a unique experience, from the Underground City and Biodome to the alluring shopping districts and sightseeing attractions.
If you are interested in experiencing the best museums in Montreal, it is highly advisable to look into a Montreal Museum Pass. This way you can purchase a discount card that suits the individual needs of your trip, including how long you plan to stay in town, and which Montreal museums you are most interested in visiting. You can purchase a Montreal Museum Pass that gives you access to 34 museums, valid for one use per museum for three days over the course of a three-week period. There are even passes that are good for a year. Once you look into the purchase of a Montreal Museum Pass, you will quickly realize that if you plan to spend anytime at the city’s museums at all, this is the way to go.
Determining the best museums in Montreal will largely depend upon where you specific areas of interest lie. Lovers of human history, anthropology, and archaeology will certainly want to check out the Montreal Natural History Museum, properly titled the Redpath Museum located at McGill University. It was founded in 1882 and many of its collections were directly influenced by some of the same individuals who founded the Smithsonian in Washington D.C. and the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto. This is certainly one of the most reputable and best museums in Montreal, covering an exhaustive range of subject matter and featuring exhibits that detail the progression of human beings and other residents of the planet earth over the past 3.5 billion years. It is located at 859 Sherbrooke Street West.
The Archaeological Museum in Montreal, known as the Pointe-a-Calliere, is considered by many to also be among the best museums in Montreal. It is located at 350 Place Royale and features a wonderful array of exhibits and displays that give insight into Montreal’s past and development. You will learn about the first inhabitants of the city and many more interesting and engaging subjects that will shed light upon the progression of Montreal and its people.
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts was founded in 1860. It is the oldest museum in Canada and the largest in the city of Montreal. It is located along the Golden Square Mile on Sherbrooke Street. It features over 30,000 pieces from masters from around the world including Rembrandt, Dali, Monet, Renoir, and many more. There are three different pavilions within the museum where you will get to experience a seemingly endless bounty of amazing art.
Some other fine Montreal museums include the Montreal Maritime Museum, the Holocaust Memorial Museum, the Biosphere, the Montreal Planetarium, and the McCord Museum of Natural History. In a city where you will find countless restaurants, cafes, shopping boutiques, and galleries, the museums round things out, offering guests and residents a memorable cultural experience.
If you are interested in experiencing the best museums in Montreal, it is highly advisable to look into a Montreal Museum Pass. This way you can purchase a discount card that suits the individual needs of your trip, including how long you plan to stay in town, and which Montreal museums you are most interested in visiting. You can purchase a Montreal Museum Pass that gives you access to 34 museums, valid for one use per museum for three days over the course of a three-week period. There are even passes that are good for a year. Once you look into the purchase of a Montreal Museum Pass, you will quickly realize that if you plan to spend anytime at the city’s museums at all, this is the way to go.
Determining the best museums in Montreal will largely depend upon where you specific areas of interest lie. Lovers of human history, anthropology, and archaeology will certainly want to check out the Montreal Natural History Museum, properly titled the Redpath Museum located at McGill University. It was founded in 1882 and many of its collections were directly influenced by some of the same individuals who founded the Smithsonian in Washington D.C. and the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto. This is certainly one of the most reputable and best museums in Montreal, covering an exhaustive range of subject matter and featuring exhibits that detail the progression of human beings and other residents of the planet earth over the past 3.5 billion years. It is located at 859 Sherbrooke Street West.
The Archaeological Museum in Montreal, known as the Pointe-a-Calliere, is considered by many to also be among the best museums in Montreal. It is located at 350 Place Royale and features a wonderful array of exhibits and displays that give insight into Montreal’s past and development. You will learn about the first inhabitants of the city and many more interesting and engaging subjects that will shed light upon the progression of Montreal and its people.
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts was founded in 1860. It is the oldest museum in Canada and the largest in the city of Montreal. It is located along the Golden Square Mile on Sherbrooke Street. It features over 30,000 pieces from masters from around the world including Rembrandt, Dali, Monet, Renoir, and many more. There are three different pavilions within the museum where you will get to experience a seemingly endless bounty of amazing art.
Some other fine Montreal museums include the Montreal Maritime Museum, the Holocaust Memorial Museum, the Biosphere, the Montreal Planetarium, and the McCord Museum of Natural History. In a city where you will find countless restaurants, cafes, shopping boutiques, and galleries, the museums round things out, offering guests and residents a memorable cultural experience.
Mount Royal in Montreal, Canada
Mount Royal is the mountain located directly north of the city from which Montreal takes its name. Mount Royal is only one part of the Monteregian Hills, which are situated between the Appalachian and Laurentian Mountains. There are three main peaks in the Monteregian Hills: Westmount, Mount Murray, and Mount Royal proper. Jacques Cartier (a name that you will see all over the city, most notably the Place Jacques Cartier) was the first European to explore and climb Mount Royal. The area upon which he landed became the spot of the first settlement in the city. Mount Royal Park in Montreal now dominates the land where Jacques Cartier once came in the early to middle part of the sixteenth century. Parc du Mont Royal is a popular tourist attraction and a place where both visitors and residents of the city alike can enjoy a respite from the fast pace of city life.
There are a variety of things to do in Mount Royal Montreal, most of which revolve around the opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and more. Climbing to the summit of Mount Royal only takes around 45 minutes and is accessible for people of most all ages and abilities. It is a rather gentle grade as you walk up the hills at the Mount Royal Park in Montreal. The tallest peak in the Monteregian Hills does not even reach 800 feet. You also have the option of driving or biking to the summit of the Parc du Mont Royal. In any event, you will be rewarded for your efforts with some of the most stunning panoramic views of Montreal, including the confluence of the St. Lawrence and Ottawa Rivers. Of course, you may have a more far-reaching view at the penthouse level of one of the luxury hotels in the city, but witnessing Montreal from the serene and naturally beautiful surrounding of historic Mount Royal provides an unparalleled experience.
Another thing you can do when visiting Mount Royal (especially if you want to learn about the history of the city and the role the hills played in it) is to visit the Smith Heritage House. Beaver Lake features a host of activities for both adults and children, including ice skating in the winter. For a bit more unique experience, consider the Sunday morning outdoor drum jam, held every week in the Parc du Mont Royal when the weather permits.
The Mount Royal Park in Montreal is one of the top attractions in the city, along with places like the Montreal Biodome and Montreal Museum of Fine Arts for good reason. You will be able to enjoy nearly 500 acres of green spaces. Relax in the gentle atmosphere of the lush flora and fauna that permeates every corner of the park. Not only are there plenty of leisure activities to enjoy at the park, but there are also plenty of restaurants and cafes should you want to venture outside the park and get a bit to eat or something to drink. There are also a range of accommodations near Mount Royal, including designer, boutique hotels and luxury hotels.
There are a variety of things to do in Mount Royal Montreal, most of which revolve around the opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and more. Climbing to the summit of Mount Royal only takes around 45 minutes and is accessible for people of most all ages and abilities. It is a rather gentle grade as you walk up the hills at the Mount Royal Park in Montreal. The tallest peak in the Monteregian Hills does not even reach 800 feet. You also have the option of driving or biking to the summit of the Parc du Mont Royal. In any event, you will be rewarded for your efforts with some of the most stunning panoramic views of Montreal, including the confluence of the St. Lawrence and Ottawa Rivers. Of course, you may have a more far-reaching view at the penthouse level of one of the luxury hotels in the city, but witnessing Montreal from the serene and naturally beautiful surrounding of historic Mount Royal provides an unparalleled experience.
Another thing you can do when visiting Mount Royal (especially if you want to learn about the history of the city and the role the hills played in it) is to visit the Smith Heritage House. Beaver Lake features a host of activities for both adults and children, including ice skating in the winter. For a bit more unique experience, consider the Sunday morning outdoor drum jam, held every week in the Parc du Mont Royal when the weather permits.
The Mount Royal Park in Montreal is one of the top attractions in the city, along with places like the Montreal Biodome and Montreal Museum of Fine Arts for good reason. You will be able to enjoy nearly 500 acres of green spaces. Relax in the gentle atmosphere of the lush flora and fauna that permeates every corner of the park. Not only are there plenty of leisure activities to enjoy at the park, but there are also plenty of restaurants and cafes should you want to venture outside the park and get a bit to eat or something to drink. There are also a range of accommodations near Mount Royal, including designer, boutique hotels and luxury hotels.
Montreal Underground, Canada
The Montreal Underground City is one of the most unique and distinctive elements of this capital city of Quebec. There are already numerous events, festivals, and activities going on above ground in this cosmopolitan city, and the vast network of tunnels below only add to the dynamic experience of being in Montreal. The word tunnel here can be somewhat misleading. Architecturally and technically they are tunnels, but some are wide enough to have multi-tier shops on either side. The Montreal Underground City is actually a vast network of interconnected facilities that span over 20 miles of tunnels across 4.6 miles, and also include connected above-ground facilities, including museums, galleries, hotels, condos, shopping malls, seven metro stations, as well as two commuter train stations. Shopping in Montreal Underground is a unique experience that anyone traveling to the city for such activities must experience. You will find everything from clothing and accessories to home wares and electronics.
You really get a sense for the breadth and scope of the Montreal Underground City when you find out that there are 120 exterior access points. It is a perfect retreat for residents and visitors of the city alike, both in the summer and the winter. Montreal is certainly known for its unpredictable and sometimes extreme weather. Upwards of 500,000 people use the Montreal Underground City facilities per day, many to shield themselves from the heat of the sun in the summer or the extreme conditions of the cold Canadian winter in Quebec. Montreal Underground adds an entirely different dimension to the city, causing people to refer to Montreal as the Double-Decker City. And there is good reason why it is called the Montreal Underground City and not the Montreal Underground town or village. It is simply huge. There are over 1,600 boutiques, 200 restaurants, 30 cinemas, 1,500 apartments, and convenient connection points to metro stops that can have you off to virtually any corner of the city in a matter of minutes.
Some of the most popular places for shopping in Montreal Underground are the major shopping complexes of the Eaton Centre and the Place Canada Trust. The Eaton Centre is home to some 175 shops, 30 restaurants, and a nice mixture of cinemas and other entertainment-related venues. Unbelievably, the Eaton Centre itself draws around 20 million patrons every year, many of who shop regularly as residents of the city. The Place Montreal Trust provides even more great opportunities for shopping in Montreal Underground. It is located at the corner of St. Catherine Street (a massive shopping epicenter in the city) and McGill College Avenue. This huge shopping complex also features hundreds of shops and numerous restaurants, eateries, and cafes spread out over 320,000 square feet. Nearby attractions include the Montreal Biodome, the Montreal Botanic Garden, and the Bell Centre (which is also connected to the Montreal Underground City).
If you are planning a trip to Montreal and have begun to do your research, you probably already know just how much there is to do and see in the city. The Montreal Underground City is just more aspect of what makes this destination so popular among the people who live and visit there.
You really get a sense for the breadth and scope of the Montreal Underground City when you find out that there are 120 exterior access points. It is a perfect retreat for residents and visitors of the city alike, both in the summer and the winter. Montreal is certainly known for its unpredictable and sometimes extreme weather. Upwards of 500,000 people use the Montreal Underground City facilities per day, many to shield themselves from the heat of the sun in the summer or the extreme conditions of the cold Canadian winter in Quebec. Montreal Underground adds an entirely different dimension to the city, causing people to refer to Montreal as the Double-Decker City. And there is good reason why it is called the Montreal Underground City and not the Montreal Underground town or village. It is simply huge. There are over 1,600 boutiques, 200 restaurants, 30 cinemas, 1,500 apartments, and convenient connection points to metro stops that can have you off to virtually any corner of the city in a matter of minutes.
Some of the most popular places for shopping in Montreal Underground are the major shopping complexes of the Eaton Centre and the Place Canada Trust. The Eaton Centre is home to some 175 shops, 30 restaurants, and a nice mixture of cinemas and other entertainment-related venues. Unbelievably, the Eaton Centre itself draws around 20 million patrons every year, many of who shop regularly as residents of the city. The Place Montreal Trust provides even more great opportunities for shopping in Montreal Underground. It is located at the corner of St. Catherine Street (a massive shopping epicenter in the city) and McGill College Avenue. This huge shopping complex also features hundreds of shops and numerous restaurants, eateries, and cafes spread out over 320,000 square feet. Nearby attractions include the Montreal Biodome, the Montreal Botanic Garden, and the Bell Centre (which is also connected to the Montreal Underground City).
If you are planning a trip to Montreal and have begun to do your research, you probably already know just how much there is to do and see in the city. The Montreal Underground City is just more aspect of what makes this destination so popular among the people who live and visit there.
Montreal Tower, Canada
The Montreal Tower is most notable for its dramatic 45-degree angle as well as being the highest inclined tower anywhere in the world. On a clear day, people can see up to 50 miles from the Montreal Observatory Tower. You will not only be treated to awe-inspiring vistas of the city, but also the Laurentian Mountains, the confluence of the St. Lawrence and Ottawa Rivers, and all of the breathtaking surrounding landscape. The Montreal Light Tower (as it is referred to by some) is part of the World Federation of Great Towers. Other celebrated towers in this elite federation include the CN Tower in Toronto and the Empire State Building in New York City. In a city that features a virtually limitless supply of attractions and activities, the Montreal Tower ranks among the must-see attractions.
The Montreal Observatory Tower takes up the top three floors. There are also two reception halls, an elegant bar, and the Salon Montreal, a facility which can be rented for banquets, wedding receptions, business conferences, and much more. One of the top features of the Montreal Tower is riding the funicular to the top of the tower. Even though you will be traveling along over 800 feet of rails, the ascent takes less than two minutes. Up to 76 people can fill into the funicular, which provides stunning views of the city through broad windows. The natural beauty of the topography in the region combined with the spectacular skyline make for amazing photo opportunities. If you are planning a trip to the top of the Montreal Observatory Tower, you will want to be sure to bring along the camera and/or camcorder. These are memories that you are going to want to be able to share for years to come.
There are several ways to enjoy the Montreal Light Tower experience. There are guided tours available that really help you make the most of your experience in the observatory. You will get insightful information about the vast array of sights below, including notable attractions in the city including the Notre Dame Basilica, the Montreal Biodome, and the Old Port. For those people who like to have context for what they are seeing, this is an invaluable part of the experience. Guided tours of the Montreal Light Tower, including the observatory, generally last for about 30 minutes. The knowledgeable and experienced tour guides will cover a range of information, from the 1976 Olympic Games to the history of the observatory itself. You will also have the opportunity to explore the Sports Centre including the Olympic Stadium.
When you finish with your tour of the Montreal Tower, you can enjoy a wide range of options for restaurants, cafes, and bars located within immediate proximity of this popular attraction. You are never far away from a great place to eat or grab a drink in the city of Montreal. There are also plenty of hotels in this part of the city.
Be sure not to miss the amazing Montreal Tower if you are planning a trip to the city. The tower is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. during the peak tourist season of June through Labor Day. The hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for the rest of the year.
The Montreal Observatory Tower takes up the top three floors. There are also two reception halls, an elegant bar, and the Salon Montreal, a facility which can be rented for banquets, wedding receptions, business conferences, and much more. One of the top features of the Montreal Tower is riding the funicular to the top of the tower. Even though you will be traveling along over 800 feet of rails, the ascent takes less than two minutes. Up to 76 people can fill into the funicular, which provides stunning views of the city through broad windows. The natural beauty of the topography in the region combined with the spectacular skyline make for amazing photo opportunities. If you are planning a trip to the top of the Montreal Observatory Tower, you will want to be sure to bring along the camera and/or camcorder. These are memories that you are going to want to be able to share for years to come.
There are several ways to enjoy the Montreal Light Tower experience. There are guided tours available that really help you make the most of your experience in the observatory. You will get insightful information about the vast array of sights below, including notable attractions in the city including the Notre Dame Basilica, the Montreal Biodome, and the Old Port. For those people who like to have context for what they are seeing, this is an invaluable part of the experience. Guided tours of the Montreal Light Tower, including the observatory, generally last for about 30 minutes. The knowledgeable and experienced tour guides will cover a range of information, from the 1976 Olympic Games to the history of the observatory itself. You will also have the opportunity to explore the Sports Centre including the Olympic Stadium.
When you finish with your tour of the Montreal Tower, you can enjoy a wide range of options for restaurants, cafes, and bars located within immediate proximity of this popular attraction. You are never far away from a great place to eat or grab a drink in the city of Montreal. There are also plenty of hotels in this part of the city.
Be sure not to miss the amazing Montreal Tower if you are planning a trip to the city. The tower is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. during the peak tourist season of June through Labor Day. The hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for the rest of the year.
Montreal Planetarium, Canada
The Montreal Planetarium is one of the premiere science-related tourist destinations in the city. It is most notable for being the largest and oldest public planetarium in the entirety of Canada, with seating for around 375 people. The Planetarium de Montreal is one of many attractions that were constructed in advance of the 1967 International and Universal Exposition (Expo 67 for short) in Montreal, including the Ile Notre Dame and the Montreal Casino. The planetarium is located in the heart of downtown Montreal at 1000 Rue St. Jacques, within steps of the Cathedral of Notre Dame, Peel Street, and numerous restaurants, cafes, bars, and boutiques.
There have been over 250 Montreal Planetarium shows over the years in the Star Theatre. This popular tourist attraction has been visited by over 6 million people since its opening, which is especially amazing when you consider that less than 400 people can be in the place at one time. The sustained popularity of the Montreal Planetarium has caused city officials to come to an agreement to move the planetarium next to the Montreal Biodome. The new combined facilities will be called the Planetarium Rio Tinto Alcan de Montreal. The idea behind the move of the Planetarium de Montreal is to create a greater synergy between the science-based attractions in the city. When the move is complete, both the Montreal Planetarium and the Montreal Biodome will share facilities, and people can enjoy the Star Theatre as well as the Biodome’s four distinct indoor ecosystems. The LEED certified new building will be able to seat over double what the current Montreal Planetarium is able to accommodate, and features the addition of new laboratories, and exhibition rooms. Completion of the project is slated for sometime in the middle of March 2012. The facility will also be enhanced by its close proximity to the Insectarium and the Montreal Botanic Garden.
The Zeiss planetarium projector is the primary projector on the premises, although there are over 100 auxiliary projectors. Although you can witness the cosmos in all of its splendor on a regular basis at the Planetarium de Montreal, they also put on special shows and exhibitions that revolve around particular themes. It may be a certain cluster of constellations, or an educational exhibition about a planet or far-off solar systems. Montreal Planetarium shows cover a wide variety of subject matter and are engaging for people of all ages. You do not have to be an astronomer or expert scientist to enjoy the Montreal Planetarium. Adults and kids alike will have a blast being rocketed into the cosmos and brought into much closer contact than they have ever been before with the stars in the sky.
It is a very modest fee to get into the planetarium, and kids under five get in for free. An Access Montreal Card will also help you to save money, not only on attractions like the Planetarium, but also on public transport and a range of other things while you are in the city. The opening hours change from season to season at the Planetarium, so be sure to check the events schedule for hours of operation and current exhibitions and shows.
There have been over 250 Montreal Planetarium shows over the years in the Star Theatre. This popular tourist attraction has been visited by over 6 million people since its opening, which is especially amazing when you consider that less than 400 people can be in the place at one time. The sustained popularity of the Montreal Planetarium has caused city officials to come to an agreement to move the planetarium next to the Montreal Biodome. The new combined facilities will be called the Planetarium Rio Tinto Alcan de Montreal. The idea behind the move of the Planetarium de Montreal is to create a greater synergy between the science-based attractions in the city. When the move is complete, both the Montreal Planetarium and the Montreal Biodome will share facilities, and people can enjoy the Star Theatre as well as the Biodome’s four distinct indoor ecosystems. The LEED certified new building will be able to seat over double what the current Montreal Planetarium is able to accommodate, and features the addition of new laboratories, and exhibition rooms. Completion of the project is slated for sometime in the middle of March 2012. The facility will also be enhanced by its close proximity to the Insectarium and the Montreal Botanic Garden.
The Zeiss planetarium projector is the primary projector on the premises, although there are over 100 auxiliary projectors. Although you can witness the cosmos in all of its splendor on a regular basis at the Planetarium de Montreal, they also put on special shows and exhibitions that revolve around particular themes. It may be a certain cluster of constellations, or an educational exhibition about a planet or far-off solar systems. Montreal Planetarium shows cover a wide variety of subject matter and are engaging for people of all ages. You do not have to be an astronomer or expert scientist to enjoy the Montreal Planetarium. Adults and kids alike will have a blast being rocketed into the cosmos and brought into much closer contact than they have ever been before with the stars in the sky.
It is a very modest fee to get into the planetarium, and kids under five get in for free. An Access Montreal Card will also help you to save money, not only on attractions like the Planetarium, but also on public transport and a range of other things while you are in the city. The opening hours change from season to season at the Planetarium, so be sure to check the events schedule for hours of operation and current exhibitions and shows.
Montreal Jazz Festival, Canada
The Montreal Jazz Festival is not only one of the most popular festivals in Montreal, but it is also among the most popular festivals of its kind in the world. You only need to look at the fact that the Festival de Jazz de Montreal is a Guinness World Record holder for the largest jazz festival in the world for evidence. This event is arguably the most highly anticipated festival in a city that has been dubbed the City of Festivals due to its lively events scene. This is not hard to imagine when you look at the impressive statistics. Even among other popular annual festivities like Carnaval, Just For Laughs, and Made in Montreal, for many, the Jazz Fest takes the proverbial cake.
First and foremost, the Montreal Jazz Fest events draw over 2 million people to the city each and every year, over a third of which are tourists. The festival features over 3,000 jazz artists from around the world and nearly 700 concerts, approximately 450 of which are free outdoor shows. The entire city truly comes to life for ten days between the end of June and the beginning of July. A good portion of the city’s busy thoroughfares is shut off to traffic to allow for concerts during this time. The gigs are split between around ten indoor venues (including stages at the Place des Arts) and approximately ten outdoor venues.
It may be hard to believe, but for some of the marquee, nighttime outdoor shows, there has been attendance of over 100,000 people. One of the great things about the festival is the great diversity of Montreal Jazz Fest events. You can see a massive outdoor show featuring the biggest names in jazz one night, and settle into a cool jazz club to hear the best up and coming artists the next. Of course, being in Montreal, you will be within close proximity of tons of restaurants, bars, cafes, galleries, museums, and sightseeing attractions as well. Traveling to Montreal during the Festival de Jazz de Montreal is one of the best times to do so, especially if you are not averse to large crowds or heavy tourist traffic.
There are a couple of general rules you will want to abide by to be able to truly make the most of your experience at the Montreal Jazz Festival. Firstly, the weather in late June and early July in Montreal can be downright oppressive. You should wear t-shirts, shorts, bring sun block, sunglasses, and perhaps even a hat. Wear your walking shoes if you plan on exploring the city and checking out a number of shows at the Festival de Jazz de Montreal. You can purchase tickets to particular shows of interest online as well as at ticket windows and venues (most of which are listed on the official website of the Montreal Jazz Festival in advance of that year’s events).
Past performers at this amazing gathering in the capital of Quebec have included: Dave Brubeck, Leonard Cohen, Miles Davis, Ella Fitzgerald, Herbie Hancock, Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, Muddy Waters, and Chuck Berry. Taking a quick glance at this list instantly allows you to see what caliber of festival this is.
First and foremost, the Montreal Jazz Fest events draw over 2 million people to the city each and every year, over a third of which are tourists. The festival features over 3,000 jazz artists from around the world and nearly 700 concerts, approximately 450 of which are free outdoor shows. The entire city truly comes to life for ten days between the end of June and the beginning of July. A good portion of the city’s busy thoroughfares is shut off to traffic to allow for concerts during this time. The gigs are split between around ten indoor venues (including stages at the Place des Arts) and approximately ten outdoor venues.
It may be hard to believe, but for some of the marquee, nighttime outdoor shows, there has been attendance of over 100,000 people. One of the great things about the festival is the great diversity of Montreal Jazz Fest events. You can see a massive outdoor show featuring the biggest names in jazz one night, and settle into a cool jazz club to hear the best up and coming artists the next. Of course, being in Montreal, you will be within close proximity of tons of restaurants, bars, cafes, galleries, museums, and sightseeing attractions as well. Traveling to Montreal during the Festival de Jazz de Montreal is one of the best times to do so, especially if you are not averse to large crowds or heavy tourist traffic.
There are a couple of general rules you will want to abide by to be able to truly make the most of your experience at the Montreal Jazz Festival. Firstly, the weather in late June and early July in Montreal can be downright oppressive. You should wear t-shirts, shorts, bring sun block, sunglasses, and perhaps even a hat. Wear your walking shoes if you plan on exploring the city and checking out a number of shows at the Festival de Jazz de Montreal. You can purchase tickets to particular shows of interest online as well as at ticket windows and venues (most of which are listed on the official website of the Montreal Jazz Festival in advance of that year’s events).
Past performers at this amazing gathering in the capital of Quebec have included: Dave Brubeck, Leonard Cohen, Miles Davis, Ella Fitzgerald, Herbie Hancock, Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, Muddy Waters, and Chuck Berry. Taking a quick glance at this list instantly allows you to see what caliber of festival this is.
Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, Canada
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is one of the most prominent museums in Canada and the oldest institution of its kind in the city. The Musee de Beaux Arts, as it translates in French, was founded in 1860 and has enjoyed a long and rich history since its inception. It is not only Montreal’s oldest, but also its largest museum. The art museum in Montreal is a member of what is known as the Bizot Group, essentially a conglomeration of the world’s most prominent museums that agree to share large exhibitions with one another. This means that you are not likely to ever visit this museum without being inspired by new exhibitions. Not only is it an important part of the cultural heritage of the city, it is also a very popular tourist attraction. It is located on Sherbrooke Street along the famous Golden Square Mile, known for its striking diversity of architecture.
There are some helpful tidbits to know if you are considering paying a visit to the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. The museum itself it split up into three separate sections. The Michael and Renata Hornstein Pavilion is the oldest of the three, constructed in 1912, and is largely dedicated to the history of Montreal. The Jean-Noel Desmarais Pavilion is located across the street and features a wide variety of works by artists from around the world, spanning from the Middle Ages to the twentieth century. The Lilane and David M. Stewart Pavilion is the last of the three pavilions, which all together feature over 30,000 pieces of art, artifacts, and other items. The museum also announced its intention to convert the Erskine and American United Church into an exhibition space for the purpose of doubling the size of the grounds dedicated Canadian art. The size and beauty of the buildings themselves are certainly one aspect of why the experience of visiting the Musee de Beaux Arts is so special, but it is what is on the inside that is really exciting.
The experience at the popular art museum in Montreal starts with the three permanent exhibits. One of the exhibitions features works of art as well as personal affects of Napoleon. The permanent exhibits are rounded out by the engaging Pre-Columbian display and the fascinating Sacred Africa. These are well worth checking out, but anyone who is planning a trip to this art museum in Montreal probably already knows the wide range of legendary artists that are also on display in its halls. The list of legends at the Musee de Beaux Arts is almost too long to recount. Just some of the internationally renowned names include Rembrandt, Salvador Dali, Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Pellegrini, Monet, and Renoir. From the early works on display from the fourteenth century to the amazing Impressionist and post-Impressionist exhibits, you will be amazed at the stunning array of art at the museum.
The Musee de Beaux Arts is closed on Monday, open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is half price for everyone on Wednesdays. The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is one of the finest museums in Canada and well worth a visit on your next trip.
There are some helpful tidbits to know if you are considering paying a visit to the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. The museum itself it split up into three separate sections. The Michael and Renata Hornstein Pavilion is the oldest of the three, constructed in 1912, and is largely dedicated to the history of Montreal. The Jean-Noel Desmarais Pavilion is located across the street and features a wide variety of works by artists from around the world, spanning from the Middle Ages to the twentieth century. The Lilane and David M. Stewart Pavilion is the last of the three pavilions, which all together feature over 30,000 pieces of art, artifacts, and other items. The museum also announced its intention to convert the Erskine and American United Church into an exhibition space for the purpose of doubling the size of the grounds dedicated Canadian art. The size and beauty of the buildings themselves are certainly one aspect of why the experience of visiting the Musee de Beaux Arts is so special, but it is what is on the inside that is really exciting.
The experience at the popular art museum in Montreal starts with the three permanent exhibits. One of the exhibitions features works of art as well as personal affects of Napoleon. The permanent exhibits are rounded out by the engaging Pre-Columbian display and the fascinating Sacred Africa. These are well worth checking out, but anyone who is planning a trip to this art museum in Montreal probably already knows the wide range of legendary artists that are also on display in its halls. The list of legends at the Musee de Beaux Arts is almost too long to recount. Just some of the internationally renowned names include Rembrandt, Salvador Dali, Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Pellegrini, Monet, and Renoir. From the early works on display from the fourteenth century to the amazing Impressionist and post-Impressionist exhibits, you will be amazed at the stunning array of art at the museum.
The Musee de Beaux Arts is closed on Monday, open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is half price for everyone on Wednesdays. The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is one of the finest museums in Canada and well worth a visit on your next trip.
Just For Laughs Festival in Montreal, Canada
The Just For Laughs Festival is one of the most popular annual events in the city of Montreal and the largest festival of its kind in the entire world. Gilbert Rozon founded the Montreal Comedy Festival in Montreal in 1983. It was originally a two-day festival that featured only French-speaking comedians and performers. Two years later, the festival grew to incorporate English-speaking performers as well. Over the course of the past 25 years, the festivities have grown to include hundreds of high-profile Montreal Comedy Festival events, from stand-up performances by up-and-coming amateur comedians, to keynote performances in large theaters around the city by some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. Many times these big-name comedians are at the Just For Laughs Festival to perform, other times just to be in the crowd.
Although there is a certain looseness that goes along with a festival of this kind, it is not altogether without organization. International acts and other non-verbal performers like mimes are interspersed throughout the program, but besides that, they are split between Francophone and Anglophone comedians. There are formal and informal performances at the month-long Montreal Comedy Festival. Many of the New Vaudevillians perform throughout the day, especially in the Latin Quarter, known for its boutiques, cafes, and clubs. These street performers certainly lend to the overall dynamic and atmosphere of the festival, but the main attractions are the night shows that take place around the city in a variety of theaters and nightclubs. There are literally hundreds of Montreal Comedy Festival events. It will not be difficult for you to find a show that interests you. The only potential difficulty will be deciding between which shows and performances to attend.
It is not only fans of comedy that attend the Just For Laughs Festival. There are also a good number of talent scouts, agents, producers, and the like in the audience, checking out the new talent. For this reason, it is obviously a huge opportunity for new comedians to take the stage at this internationally renowned event. But many well-established performers show upas well. Just some of the huge names in the industry that have either attended, performed, or hosted one or more of the Montreal Comedy Festival events include: Jon Stewart, Sarah Silverman, Jerry Seinfeld, Bill Cosby, Tim Allen, Jason Alexander, and many more.
The Montreal Comedy Festival is also expanding. There is a satellite festival held in Hollywood, Florida every year (a popular vacation destination for Quebec's citizens), as well as Just For Laughs festivals in Toronto and Chicago. Another cool aspect of this festival is the Comedia Comedy Film Festival, which screens over 100 short films from around the globe as well as a decent number of full-length comedies.
Montreal is often referred to as the City of Festivals. The Just For Laughs Festival certainly ranks among the most popular in the city for both residents and tourists. If you are planning to be in Montreal during the month of July, you will quickly realize that, although busy, this is a great time to visit the city. There is so much going on with the festival’s events, and you will also want to make time to enjoy sightseeing in the city as well.
Although there is a certain looseness that goes along with a festival of this kind, it is not altogether without organization. International acts and other non-verbal performers like mimes are interspersed throughout the program, but besides that, they are split between Francophone and Anglophone comedians. There are formal and informal performances at the month-long Montreal Comedy Festival. Many of the New Vaudevillians perform throughout the day, especially in the Latin Quarter, known for its boutiques, cafes, and clubs. These street performers certainly lend to the overall dynamic and atmosphere of the festival, but the main attractions are the night shows that take place around the city in a variety of theaters and nightclubs. There are literally hundreds of Montreal Comedy Festival events. It will not be difficult for you to find a show that interests you. The only potential difficulty will be deciding between which shows and performances to attend.
It is not only fans of comedy that attend the Just For Laughs Festival. There are also a good number of talent scouts, agents, producers, and the like in the audience, checking out the new talent. For this reason, it is obviously a huge opportunity for new comedians to take the stage at this internationally renowned event. But many well-established performers show upas well. Just some of the huge names in the industry that have either attended, performed, or hosted one or more of the Montreal Comedy Festival events include: Jon Stewart, Sarah Silverman, Jerry Seinfeld, Bill Cosby, Tim Allen, Jason Alexander, and many more.
The Montreal Comedy Festival is also expanding. There is a satellite festival held in Hollywood, Florida every year (a popular vacation destination for Quebec's citizens), as well as Just For Laughs festivals in Toronto and Chicago. Another cool aspect of this festival is the Comedia Comedy Film Festival, which screens over 100 short films from around the globe as well as a decent number of full-length comedies.
Montreal is often referred to as the City of Festivals. The Just For Laughs Festival certainly ranks among the most popular in the city for both residents and tourists. If you are planning to be in Montreal during the month of July, you will quickly realize that, although busy, this is a great time to visit the city. There is so much going on with the festival’s events, and you will also want to make time to enjoy sightseeing in the city as well.
Botanical Garden Montreal, Canada
The Botanical Garden Montreal is a popular attraction for both residents and tourists of this city in Quebec. It comprises 185 acres of green spaces, themed gardens, and green houses in Maisonnueve Park, which also includes the Montreal Insectarium, a 9-hole golf course, and another 62 acres of public gathering spaces. The Jardin Botanique de Montreal is located at 4101 Sherbrooke Street East. It faces in the direction of Montreal Olympic Stadium.
These tranquil gardens in Montreal provide a welcome retreat from the fast pace of city life in a cosmopolitan metropolis that always has something going on. Whether it is the Montreal Jazz Festival or Made in Montreal, Just For Laughs or the Montreal Beer Festival, there is never a shortage of things to do or places to see. It is therefore handy to have a nice big park in the center of town where you can enjoy a moment of repose and serenity.
The outdoor gardens at the Botanical Garden Montreal are generally snow-covered between April and November, but the greenhouses are open to the public throughout the year. The Jardin Botanique de Montreal was established in 1931 when the Great Depression was in full swing. It was commissioned to serve the cause of educating the general public as well as students in the field of horticulture. Now, some 80 years later, these legendary gardens in Montreal remain one of the most popular attractions in a city where there is no shortage of them. One of the things that sets this large park apart from many others is the thematic element of many of the gardens.
The Chinese Garden is built in the style of a traditional Chinese garden, and features a man-made mountain and a lovely exhibition of bonsai and penjing trees. This is one of the most popular of all the gardens in Montreal because of its reputation as being the largest Chinese garden located outside of China itself.
The Japanese Garden features a wide array of Japanese plant life including an engaging exhibition about tea. You can enjoy a memorable tea ceremony in the gardens during the summer months, a fantastic way to spend the afternoon in Montreal.
The First Nations Garden is dedicated completely to plant life indigenous to Canada, featuring maple trees, a variety of pines, birch trees, and much more. There are also some amazing totem poles on display in the First Nations Garden. Other interesting themed areas in the Botanical Garden Montreal include the Alpine Garden, the Economic Plants Exhibit, the Poisonous Plants Garden, and the Flowery Brook. Some of the wildlife that you can expect to see at the Jardin Botanique de Montreal including turtles, ducks, and a variety of other birds.
After a day of sightseeing in the city, it may do you well to take some time to just relax and take in the magnificent flora and fauna at the Botanical Gardens. They are located centrally to many restaurants, cafes, and shopping districts, so you can definitely incorporate a trip into an exciting day out in the city. Be sure to bring your walking shoes, as once you arrive, you are going to want to see as much of the spectacular 185 acres as possible.
These tranquil gardens in Montreal provide a welcome retreat from the fast pace of city life in a cosmopolitan metropolis that always has something going on. Whether it is the Montreal Jazz Festival or Made in Montreal, Just For Laughs or the Montreal Beer Festival, there is never a shortage of things to do or places to see. It is therefore handy to have a nice big park in the center of town where you can enjoy a moment of repose and serenity.
The outdoor gardens at the Botanical Garden Montreal are generally snow-covered between April and November, but the greenhouses are open to the public throughout the year. The Jardin Botanique de Montreal was established in 1931 when the Great Depression was in full swing. It was commissioned to serve the cause of educating the general public as well as students in the field of horticulture. Now, some 80 years later, these legendary gardens in Montreal remain one of the most popular attractions in a city where there is no shortage of them. One of the things that sets this large park apart from many others is the thematic element of many of the gardens.
The Chinese Garden is built in the style of a traditional Chinese garden, and features a man-made mountain and a lovely exhibition of bonsai and penjing trees. This is one of the most popular of all the gardens in Montreal because of its reputation as being the largest Chinese garden located outside of China itself.
The Japanese Garden features a wide array of Japanese plant life including an engaging exhibition about tea. You can enjoy a memorable tea ceremony in the gardens during the summer months, a fantastic way to spend the afternoon in Montreal.
The First Nations Garden is dedicated completely to plant life indigenous to Canada, featuring maple trees, a variety of pines, birch trees, and much more. There are also some amazing totem poles on display in the First Nations Garden. Other interesting themed areas in the Botanical Garden Montreal include the Alpine Garden, the Economic Plants Exhibit, the Poisonous Plants Garden, and the Flowery Brook. Some of the wildlife that you can expect to see at the Jardin Botanique de Montreal including turtles, ducks, and a variety of other birds.
After a day of sightseeing in the city, it may do you well to take some time to just relax and take in the magnificent flora and fauna at the Botanical Gardens. They are located centrally to many restaurants, cafes, and shopping districts, so you can definitely incorporate a trip into an exciting day out in the city. Be sure to bring your walking shoes, as once you arrive, you are going to want to see as much of the spectacular 185 acres as possible.
Montreal Alouettes, Canada
The Montreal Alouettes is the Canadian Football League franchise that represents the city of Montreal. The team has a long and proud history, having been founded in 1946. Before they became the Montreal Alouettes, the team went by the Montreal Concordes and then the Montreal Stallions. The official name of the franchise was changed in 1996 when they moved from Baltimore to Montreal. Since 1946, the franchise has won the Grey Cup (the Canadian Football League’s equivalent of the Super Bowl) six times. Their home venue is Percival Molson Stadium, which is owned and also used by McGill University. The McGill University Redmen of the Quebec University Football League and a very lucky high school team play their home games at this outdoor stadium as well.
Montreal Alouettes Football is a popular pastime in the city, and games are enjoyed in the picturesque setting of Pervical Molson Stadium situated at the foot of Mount Royal at the corner of University and Des Pines Avenues. The stadium is centrally located to many other attractions and popular areas of Montreal, including the Place des Arts, Old Port, and the Montreal Botanic Gardens. If you decide to make a day of seeing one of the Montreal Alouettes football games, you will be able to enjoy a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes, all very close to Percival Molson Stadium. The CFL may not be widely popular in the United States, but when you visit Montreal and see the response the Montreal Alouettes get in their home stadium, you will discover the excitement it generates north of the border.
The maximum capacity at Percival Molson Stadium is approximately 25,000 people. People interested in visiting this popular sports venue in the heart of the city may also be interested in learning a little bit more about the home team. One of the most interesting facts about the Montreal Alouettes that most people do not know is that the original squad from Montreal was founded all the way back in 1872. The name Alouettes is translated into English as Skylarks. It is also largely unknown that Canadian football has been going on in a professional form since the 1850s. The Montreal Alouettes are one of the first teams to have become involved in the ranks of professional football teams in Canada.
The Montreal Alouettes football team brought home their first Grey Cup in 1949, defeating Calgary 28-15. At the time the squad was led by Montreal football legends, Virgil Wagner and Frank Filchock. Since the Montreal Alouettes returned to the CFL in 1996, they have made an astonishing five Grey Cup appearances with two wins.
Other events that take place at Percival Molson Stadium include high-profile concerts by the likes of U2. If you are traveling to Montreal, it is well worth checking out the events calendar at Percival Stadium. If you have enough time to fit sports into all of the other activities you have planned, including shopping, dining, and hopefully relaxing a bit, you will have a fun time checking out either a concert or football of the Canadian variety at this venue.
Montreal Alouettes Football is a popular pastime in the city, and games are enjoyed in the picturesque setting of Pervical Molson Stadium situated at the foot of Mount Royal at the corner of University and Des Pines Avenues. The stadium is centrally located to many other attractions and popular areas of Montreal, including the Place des Arts, Old Port, and the Montreal Botanic Gardens. If you decide to make a day of seeing one of the Montreal Alouettes football games, you will be able to enjoy a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes, all very close to Percival Molson Stadium. The CFL may not be widely popular in the United States, but when you visit Montreal and see the response the Montreal Alouettes get in their home stadium, you will discover the excitement it generates north of the border.
The maximum capacity at Percival Molson Stadium is approximately 25,000 people. People interested in visiting this popular sports venue in the heart of the city may also be interested in learning a little bit more about the home team. One of the most interesting facts about the Montreal Alouettes that most people do not know is that the original squad from Montreal was founded all the way back in 1872. The name Alouettes is translated into English as Skylarks. It is also largely unknown that Canadian football has been going on in a professional form since the 1850s. The Montreal Alouettes are one of the first teams to have become involved in the ranks of professional football teams in Canada.
The Montreal Alouettes football team brought home their first Grey Cup in 1949, defeating Calgary 28-15. At the time the squad was led by Montreal football legends, Virgil Wagner and Frank Filchock. Since the Montreal Alouettes returned to the CFL in 1996, they have made an astonishing five Grey Cup appearances with two wins.
Other events that take place at Percival Molson Stadium include high-profile concerts by the likes of U2. If you are traveling to Montreal, it is well worth checking out the events calendar at Percival Stadium. If you have enough time to fit sports into all of the other activities you have planned, including shopping, dining, and hopefully relaxing a bit, you will have a fun time checking out either a concert or football of the Canadian variety at this venue.
Montmorency Falls Quebec, Canada
Montmorency Falls Quebec is a spectacular natural attraction located approximately seven miles northeast of Quebec City. It is little more than 100 miles to the northeast of Montreal, the largest city in the province. These falls near Montreal and located within the Montmorency Falls Park are technically located on the border of Beauport and Boischatel. The Montmorency Falls are 275-feet high, measuring nearly 100 feet higher than Niagara Falls, making them the highest in the entire province of Quebec. Situated at the mouth of the Montmorency River, the falls deliver water directly into the St. Lawrence River. The basin into which it spills is nearly 60-feet deep. If you are planning a vacation to Quebec, a visit to the falls can make an excellent day trip from Montreal or an excursion from Quebec City.
You can revel in the magnificent views of the Montmorency Falls Quebec from a variety of angles. There is a suspension bridge that spans the falls and connects the two sides of Montmorency Falls Park. There are also several staircases that afford awesome opportunities for photographs and video from a range of perspectives. The coolest way to take in the falls near Montreal is arguably aboard the aerial tram, which passes between the top and the base of the waterfall. This destination is highly popular among international tourists as well as residents of Canada. Its splendor and magnificence is obvious upon first sight.
If you are planning a trip to the capital of Quebec, you will want to look into a day trip from Montreal. You can easily spend the entire day in and around the falls. The best providers of these kinds of tours will also offer options to explore other attractions including the Place Royale, the Plains of Abraham, the Parliament Building, and an optional river cruise on the Joliet River. There are many advantages of setting up an organized day trip from Montreal to the Montmorency Falls Quebec. The experience is enriched by the presence of a knowledgeable and experienced, bilingual (French and English) tour guide, who will be able to explicate the finer points of the top attractions in and around Quebec City and the falls themselves. The full tour of the falls near Montreal generally last about twelve hours. This full day trip affords you the opportunity to enjoy shopping and dining in the oldest quarter in North America, the Petit Champlain district. These tours are thoughtfully concocted to give patrons the chance to relax, explore, dine, shop, and generally, have an amazing time. You will not be off on your own hoofing it for twelve hours. Rather, you will be transported between top attractions and also given time to go off on your own to eat, explore, and shop.
The Montmorency Falls Quebec are one of the most picturesque natural attractions in the province of Quebec. If you are planning a vacation to this area, you should certainly consider placing the falls near the top of your list of places to see. It is an enjoyable and memorable time for adults and kids alike.
You can revel in the magnificent views of the Montmorency Falls Quebec from a variety of angles. There is a suspension bridge that spans the falls and connects the two sides of Montmorency Falls Park. There are also several staircases that afford awesome opportunities for photographs and video from a range of perspectives. The coolest way to take in the falls near Montreal is arguably aboard the aerial tram, which passes between the top and the base of the waterfall. This destination is highly popular among international tourists as well as residents of Canada. Its splendor and magnificence is obvious upon first sight.
If you are planning a trip to the capital of Quebec, you will want to look into a day trip from Montreal. You can easily spend the entire day in and around the falls. The best providers of these kinds of tours will also offer options to explore other attractions including the Place Royale, the Plains of Abraham, the Parliament Building, and an optional river cruise on the Joliet River. There are many advantages of setting up an organized day trip from Montreal to the Montmorency Falls Quebec. The experience is enriched by the presence of a knowledgeable and experienced, bilingual (French and English) tour guide, who will be able to explicate the finer points of the top attractions in and around Quebec City and the falls themselves. The full tour of the falls near Montreal generally last about twelve hours. This full day trip affords you the opportunity to enjoy shopping and dining in the oldest quarter in North America, the Petit Champlain district. These tours are thoughtfully concocted to give patrons the chance to relax, explore, dine, shop, and generally, have an amazing time. You will not be off on your own hoofing it for twelve hours. Rather, you will be transported between top attractions and also given time to go off on your own to eat, explore, and shop.
The Montmorency Falls Quebec are one of the most picturesque natural attractions in the province of Quebec. If you are planning a vacation to this area, you should certainly consider placing the falls near the top of your list of places to see. It is an enjoyable and memorable time for adults and kids alike.
La Ronde in Montreal, Canada
La Ronde is a hugely popular amusement park operated by Six Flags in the city of Montreal. It is the largest amusement park in the province of Quebec and the second largest in Canada, behind Canada’s Wonderland, located just north of Toronto. This Montreal Six Flags amusement park draws in excess of 2 million visitors every year and is arguably among the top family attractions in the city. There are a wide variety of La Ronde Montreal rides, including some fifteen roller coasters and a twenty-acre water park. Adults and children alike are sure to have a memorable experience at this theme park. Along with the rides and games, you will also discover a nice selection of eateries and places to see live entertainment. The park itself comprises over 145 acres and is situated on Saint Helen’s Island (immediately south of Montreal in the St. Lawrence River). La Ronde is also known as being the annual host venue for L’International des Feux Loto-Quebec, an internationally renowned fireworks competition.
You need to be prepared to do some walking and have the right clothing and gear with you when you visit the Montreal Six Flags amusement park. The weather in Montreal is notoriously capricious, so if you plan to spend the entire day at the park with the family or a group of friends, you should prepare for dropping temperatures in the evening, bright sun during the day, and the potential for rain. If you plan to go to the water park, you may want to pack a change of clothing as well. You cannot be too prepared at a place like this. And after you have spent the not so modest entrance fee to get in, you will want to make the most of your experience anyway.
The exciting lineup of La Ronde Montreal rides begins with the fifteen coasters on the premises. Le Monstre is a giant wooden roller coaster that reaches some 130 feet into the air. It is one of the highest double-tracked roller coasters in the world. Le Boomerang, Cobra, Tornade, Goliath, Le Super Manege, Orbite, and Le Vampire also rank among the most popular La Ronde Montreal rides. There are also lots of viable rides for the entire family and for people who are not as inclined to enjoy the heart-pounding thrill rides. Kids in particular will love the Grand Carrousel, the Air Papillon, and the Nintendo-sponsored gaming center. Just as with many other amusement parks like Disney World in Orlando, Florida, kids will also be entertained by a range of shows and activities to keep them excited all day and night. You will also find a range of paid attractions on-site, including a giant sling shot, Go Kart’s, a Formula 1 simulator, and a large rock climbing wall. There are Le Ronde Montreal rides to suit just about everyone’s interests and levels of adventurousness.
There is a fee to park at La Ronde, and the island parking can get very congested, especially during the peak summer months. The Montreal Six Flags amusement park is well connected to the metro system, so you may want to seriously consider cutting out a lot of hassle and taking a train.
You need to be prepared to do some walking and have the right clothing and gear with you when you visit the Montreal Six Flags amusement park. The weather in Montreal is notoriously capricious, so if you plan to spend the entire day at the park with the family or a group of friends, you should prepare for dropping temperatures in the evening, bright sun during the day, and the potential for rain. If you plan to go to the water park, you may want to pack a change of clothing as well. You cannot be too prepared at a place like this. And after you have spent the not so modest entrance fee to get in, you will want to make the most of your experience anyway.
The exciting lineup of La Ronde Montreal rides begins with the fifteen coasters on the premises. Le Monstre is a giant wooden roller coaster that reaches some 130 feet into the air. It is one of the highest double-tracked roller coasters in the world. Le Boomerang, Cobra, Tornade, Goliath, Le Super Manege, Orbite, and Le Vampire also rank among the most popular La Ronde Montreal rides. There are also lots of viable rides for the entire family and for people who are not as inclined to enjoy the heart-pounding thrill rides. Kids in particular will love the Grand Carrousel, the Air Papillon, and the Nintendo-sponsored gaming center. Just as with many other amusement parks like Disney World in Orlando, Florida, kids will also be entertained by a range of shows and activities to keep them excited all day and night. You will also find a range of paid attractions on-site, including a giant sling shot, Go Kart’s, a Formula 1 simulator, and a large rock climbing wall. There are Le Ronde Montreal rides to suit just about everyone’s interests and levels of adventurousness.
There is a fee to park at La Ronde, and the island parking can get very congested, especially during the peak summer months. The Montreal Six Flags amusement park is well connected to the metro system, so you may want to seriously consider cutting out a lot of hassle and taking a train.
Montreal Chinatown, Canada
Montreal Chinatown is somewhat small, but still very appealing. It is not the largest of the Canadian Chinatowns, but it does have some advantages over the Chinatowns in Vancouver and Toronto. Like other Canadian Chinatowns and all Chinatowns around the world, Chinatown in Montreal has a selection of Asian stores and restaurants, but it has its own unique style that sets it apart. Montreal Chinatown is open to tourists past business hours and into the evening, while other Canadian Chinatowns tend to close early and are left deserted.
Montreal Chinatown dates back as early as 1860 when many Chinese (especially those from Hong Kong) immigrants came to Montreal, looking for work and opportunity. Later many Vietnamese-Chinese refugees came to Montreal, many of them French speaking due to the French colonization of Vietnam. There are now many Vietnamese shops and restaurants in Chinatown in Montreal as well as Chinese. The area has changed from residential to commercial, and today is an exciting Montreal attraction.
Known in French as the Quartier Chinois, Montreal Chinatown is best seen by foot. The most interesting street, La Gauchetiere Street is closed to traffic anyway, so you can walk around and enjoy the street car-free. The striking Chinese-style arches on La Gauchetiere will greet you as you enter Montreal Chinatown La Gauchetiere Street holds many souvenir shops and restaurants, gift stores and the like. The most interesting part of the street is between St. Laurent and Palais des Congres. Another street worth seeing is St. Lawrence Boulevard, where most of the Chinese markets are found.
The atmosphere of Chinatown is lively, with authentic and fresh produce and meat markets and entertaining street merchants. You can buy anything from tempting Chinese sweets to kimonos, to teapots.
Of course, the best place to find authentic Asian food is in Chinatown. There are a number of regional specialties served in Montreal Chinatown from won ton soup, dim sum, Peking duck, and curry dishes. Delicious bowls of steaming Vietnamese phô noodle soup are served in authentic Vietnamese restaurants. Many Asians come to Chinatown in Montreal to get imported foods unavailable at other supermarkets.
Montreal Chinatown dates back as early as 1860 when many Chinese (especially those from Hong Kong) immigrants came to Montreal, looking for work and opportunity. Later many Vietnamese-Chinese refugees came to Montreal, many of them French speaking due to the French colonization of Vietnam. There are now many Vietnamese shops and restaurants in Chinatown in Montreal as well as Chinese. The area has changed from residential to commercial, and today is an exciting Montreal attraction.
Known in French as the Quartier Chinois, Montreal Chinatown is best seen by foot. The most interesting street, La Gauchetiere Street is closed to traffic anyway, so you can walk around and enjoy the street car-free. The striking Chinese-style arches on La Gauchetiere will greet you as you enter Montreal Chinatown La Gauchetiere Street holds many souvenir shops and restaurants, gift stores and the like. The most interesting part of the street is between St. Laurent and Palais des Congres. Another street worth seeing is St. Lawrence Boulevard, where most of the Chinese markets are found.
The atmosphere of Chinatown is lively, with authentic and fresh produce and meat markets and entertaining street merchants. You can buy anything from tempting Chinese sweets to kimonos, to teapots.
Of course, the best place to find authentic Asian food is in Chinatown. There are a number of regional specialties served in Montreal Chinatown from won ton soup, dim sum, Peking duck, and curry dishes. Delicious bowls of steaming Vietnamese phô noodle soup are served in authentic Vietnamese restaurants. Many Asians come to Chinatown in Montreal to get imported foods unavailable at other supermarkets.
Casino de Montreal, Canada
The Casino de Montreal is another reason why this largest city in Quebec is so popular with Canadian and international travelers. It is a massive complex that is most unconventional as compared to the standard casino. For instance, you will not find windows in most casinos in the likes of Las Vegas and Reno. The Casino de Montreal, however, features many windows as well as some low ceilings, another atypical aspect of its design compared to other casinos. You only have to take a look at the exterior of the casino to realize how unconventional it is. The incorporation of the three different buildings into one striking, modern design concept is one of the main appeals of the casino. Besides an awesome atmosphere, you will also find a wide range of Casino de Montreal games, four bars and four restaurants onsite, a cabaret, and plenty of restaurants, bars, cafes, and hotels nearby.
The Casino de Montreal is located on Ile Notre Dame, within close proximity of metro stations and many other top attractions in the city, including the Montreal Biodome and the Bell Centre. It is the biggest casino in the entirety of Canada, featuring over 3,000 slot machines and over 120 tables for Casino de Montreal games, including Blackjack, Poker, Roulette, Craps, Texas Hold ‘Em, and much more. The main building at the casino features five floors. The casino is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You must be 18 years old to get in. Smoking is completely disallowed in the casino and (unlike many other casinos) there is no alcohol permitted in the playing areas. You can, however, enjoy a cocktail in any of the casino’s alluring bars and restaurants.
The Nuances Restaurant has been receiving top honors and distinctions since opening in 1993. Enjoy fine dining, gorgeous Italian food at the Italian restaurant, or slide into one of the chic bars for an innovative cocktail and some light fare. You will find that the selection of food and beverages is a nice complement to the striking environment and convivial atmosphere at the casino. Once you decide to make the trip, you likely want to find out about hotels near Casino de Montreal, as there are no overnight accommodations onsite.
The Auberge Bonsecours is just one of the great hotels near Casino de Montreal where you will find great service and a wonderful selection of amenities and guest accommodations. It is located less than a mile and a half from the Casino de Montreal, and is only a five-minute walk to Old Montreal and a host of other attractions. The Hotel Pierre du Calvet is also less than a mile and a half from the casino. It is a charming hotel housed in a historic building just minutes from all kinds of museums, shopping, and attractions in the city. Enjoy a restaurant onsite, a welcoming guest staff, and perfect location within close range of many other desirable destinations in the city. There are plenty of hotels near Casino de Montreal, making it easy for people to plan a trip around spending time at this fun location. The Casino de Montreal games will keep everyone having a good time for days.
The Casino de Montreal is located on Ile Notre Dame, within close proximity of metro stations and many other top attractions in the city, including the Montreal Biodome and the Bell Centre. It is the biggest casino in the entirety of Canada, featuring over 3,000 slot machines and over 120 tables for Casino de Montreal games, including Blackjack, Poker, Roulette, Craps, Texas Hold ‘Em, and much more. The main building at the casino features five floors. The casino is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You must be 18 years old to get in. Smoking is completely disallowed in the casino and (unlike many other casinos) there is no alcohol permitted in the playing areas. You can, however, enjoy a cocktail in any of the casino’s alluring bars and restaurants.
The Nuances Restaurant has been receiving top honors and distinctions since opening in 1993. Enjoy fine dining, gorgeous Italian food at the Italian restaurant, or slide into one of the chic bars for an innovative cocktail and some light fare. You will find that the selection of food and beverages is a nice complement to the striking environment and convivial atmosphere at the casino. Once you decide to make the trip, you likely want to find out about hotels near Casino de Montreal, as there are no overnight accommodations onsite.
The Auberge Bonsecours is just one of the great hotels near Casino de Montreal where you will find great service and a wonderful selection of amenities and guest accommodations. It is located less than a mile and a half from the Casino de Montreal, and is only a five-minute walk to Old Montreal and a host of other attractions. The Hotel Pierre du Calvet is also less than a mile and a half from the casino. It is a charming hotel housed in a historic building just minutes from all kinds of museums, shopping, and attractions in the city. Enjoy a restaurant onsite, a welcoming guest staff, and perfect location within close range of many other desirable destinations in the city. There are plenty of hotels near Casino de Montreal, making it easy for people to plan a trip around spending time at this fun location. The Casino de Montreal games will keep everyone having a good time for days.
Montreal Biodome, Canada
The Montreal Biodome is among the most popular and unique attractions in the entire city. It was originally constructed for the 1976 Olympic Games to facilitate the judo and track cycling events. Renovations toward the concept of an indoor nature facility were begun in 1989 and the facilities were opened in 1992. The distinctive Montreal Biodome exhibits give visitors the opportunity to experience four true-to-life replicas of North American ecosystems. It is one of four facilities that fall under the umbrella of the Montreal Nature Museum, along with the Montreal Insectarium, the Montreal Botanic Garden, and the Montreal Planetarium. The Montreal Biodome is located in front of the Olympic Stadium within close range of many of the city’s other attractions, as well as conveniently located metro stops, restaurants, cafes, shopping boutiques, and much more. There are also a nice selection of hotels near the Montreal Biodome should you decide to stay in the area.
The Montreal Biodome exhibits include the following: the Tropical Forest, the Laurentian Forest, the Saint Lawrence Marine Eco-System, and the Arctic and Antarctic Polar Areas. Each of the ecosystems are housed within different parts of the complex and feature animals and plants indigenous to that particular climate, area, etc. The Tropical Forest ecosystem replicates the South American rainforest. It is easier to explain that you can count on seeing a true replication of the ecosystem itself than to list the exhaustive array of plant and animal life that you will encounter. The mission of the Montreal Biodome is to bring the distinctive ecosystem to life in the truest sense possible. In this regard, you will see an authentic South American rainforest, just indoors. The Laurentian Forest is another of the engaging Montreal Biodome exhibits that will excite adults and children alike. You will see not only animals and plants, but full-sized trees of the Laurentian Forest (one of the most beautiful in Quebec). The exhibits at the Montreal Biodome are so well conceived, that two new species have even been discovered at the Biodome itself.
The St. Lawrence Marine Ecosystem is a thrilling look at the St. Lawrence Estuary and Gulf, extending all the way to the Atlantic Ocean. You will get to witness the aquatic animal and plant life of the St. Lawrence River in a basin that is filled with about 600,000 gallons of water. The Arctic and Antarctic Polar exhibitions are some of the most popular, due in large part to the wily activities of the resident penguins, which are always keeping the crowds of onlookers entertained. Just as with the other ecosystems at the Montreal Biodome, these true-to-life replicas take you inside the habitat of creatures that live in the coldest and most unsustainable living environments for most other beings. The fact that you can witness a tropical rain forest as well as Arctic and Antarctic polar ecosystems speaks to just how cool this attraction is.
There are plenty of hotels near the Montreal Biodome that are within easy walking distance of this and many other top attractions, as well as restaurants, cafes, shopping districts, and bars. Some of the best cost-effective options for hotels near the Montreal Biodome include the Inn Between, Hotel Dorion, Hotel Royal Versailles, and Motel Lido.
The Montreal Biodome exhibits include the following: the Tropical Forest, the Laurentian Forest, the Saint Lawrence Marine Eco-System, and the Arctic and Antarctic Polar Areas. Each of the ecosystems are housed within different parts of the complex and feature animals and plants indigenous to that particular climate, area, etc. The Tropical Forest ecosystem replicates the South American rainforest. It is easier to explain that you can count on seeing a true replication of the ecosystem itself than to list the exhaustive array of plant and animal life that you will encounter. The mission of the Montreal Biodome is to bring the distinctive ecosystem to life in the truest sense possible. In this regard, you will see an authentic South American rainforest, just indoors. The Laurentian Forest is another of the engaging Montreal Biodome exhibits that will excite adults and children alike. You will see not only animals and plants, but full-sized trees of the Laurentian Forest (one of the most beautiful in Quebec). The exhibits at the Montreal Biodome are so well conceived, that two new species have even been discovered at the Biodome itself.
The St. Lawrence Marine Ecosystem is a thrilling look at the St. Lawrence Estuary and Gulf, extending all the way to the Atlantic Ocean. You will get to witness the aquatic animal and plant life of the St. Lawrence River in a basin that is filled with about 600,000 gallons of water. The Arctic and Antarctic Polar exhibitions are some of the most popular, due in large part to the wily activities of the resident penguins, which are always keeping the crowds of onlookers entertained. Just as with the other ecosystems at the Montreal Biodome, these true-to-life replicas take you inside the habitat of creatures that live in the coldest and most unsustainable living environments for most other beings. The fact that you can witness a tropical rain forest as well as Arctic and Antarctic polar ecosystems speaks to just how cool this attraction is.
There are plenty of hotels near the Montreal Biodome that are within easy walking distance of this and many other top attractions, as well as restaurants, cafes, shopping districts, and bars. Some of the best cost-effective options for hotels near the Montreal Biodome include the Inn Between, Hotel Dorion, Hotel Royal Versailles, and Motel Lido.
Bell Centre Montreal, Canada
The Bell Centre Montreal (previously known as the Molson Centre) is a sports arena most notable for being the home of the legendary Montreal Canadiens. The team moved to the Bell Center in March of 1996. Formerly, they played at the Montreal Forum. It is worth noting that the last time they played in the Forum (1992-93 Season), they won their 24th Stanley Cup, a record unmatched by any other team in the entire National Hockey League.
The venue is located in Downtown Montreal at the corner of Rue de la Montagne and Avenue des Canadiens-des-Montreal. You can get to Montreal Canadiens hockey games from all over the city using the metro system and the Greater Montreal commuter trains. The Bell Center is also conveniently located nearby a wide selection of restaurants, bars, clubs, and cafes. You can easily make a full day or night out of a trip to see one of the exciting Montreal Canadiens hockey games, whether you have the family and kids along, or are hanging out with friends.
To say that hockey is the favorite sports pastime in Montreal would be a resounding understatement, and the Montreal Canadiens are the darlings to be sure. Everything about the history of the franchise speaks to its proud legacy. This member team of the Northeast Division of the Eastern Conference of the NHL was founded in 1909, making them the oldest team in the NHL and the only team in the league that actually predates its formation. The Montreal Canadiens are referred to as one of the “Original Six” teams in the NHL, a moniker that describes the six franchises that were in the NHL between 1942 until the time the league expanded in 1967. The other five teams in the Original Six are the Boston Bruins, the Chicago Blackhawks, the Detroit Red Wings, the New York Rangers, and the Toronto Maple Leafs. Even in the company of such distinguished franchises as these, the Montreal Canadiens hold far more records and can boast a substantially more illustrious history than the rest.
The Bell Centre Montreal is as popular a destination as it is largely because of the huge success of the hockey team itself, even though the squad has not won a Stanley Cup since winning their 24th in 1993. In fact, no other Canadian team has taken home the coveted Cup since then. Nonetheless, the Bell Centre Montreal remains a highly popular attraction in the city, along with others like the Montreal Biodome and Place des Arts, and regularly sells out home games. After a history and long line of tradition like the Montreal Canadiens have, you tend to recruit loyal fans.
Going to Montreal Canadiens hockey games can be a very rewarding experience, both for seasoned hockey fans as well as novices to the sport. If you are well versed in the rules and are a fan of the NHL, you will relish the opportunity to see one of the league’s legendary teams in their home venue. If you are new to the game, it is hard to imagine picking a more exciting environment to witness your first professional hockey match.
The venue is located in Downtown Montreal at the corner of Rue de la Montagne and Avenue des Canadiens-des-Montreal. You can get to Montreal Canadiens hockey games from all over the city using the metro system and the Greater Montreal commuter trains. The Bell Center is also conveniently located nearby a wide selection of restaurants, bars, clubs, and cafes. You can easily make a full day or night out of a trip to see one of the exciting Montreal Canadiens hockey games, whether you have the family and kids along, or are hanging out with friends.
To say that hockey is the favorite sports pastime in Montreal would be a resounding understatement, and the Montreal Canadiens are the darlings to be sure. Everything about the history of the franchise speaks to its proud legacy. This member team of the Northeast Division of the Eastern Conference of the NHL was founded in 1909, making them the oldest team in the NHL and the only team in the league that actually predates its formation. The Montreal Canadiens are referred to as one of the “Original Six” teams in the NHL, a moniker that describes the six franchises that were in the NHL between 1942 until the time the league expanded in 1967. The other five teams in the Original Six are the Boston Bruins, the Chicago Blackhawks, the Detroit Red Wings, the New York Rangers, and the Toronto Maple Leafs. Even in the company of such distinguished franchises as these, the Montreal Canadiens hold far more records and can boast a substantially more illustrious history than the rest.
The Bell Centre Montreal is as popular a destination as it is largely because of the huge success of the hockey team itself, even though the squad has not won a Stanley Cup since winning their 24th in 1993. In fact, no other Canadian team has taken home the coveted Cup since then. Nonetheless, the Bell Centre Montreal remains a highly popular attraction in the city, along with others like the Montreal Biodome and Place des Arts, and regularly sells out home games. After a history and long line of tradition like the Montreal Canadiens have, you tend to recruit loyal fans.
Going to Montreal Canadiens hockey games can be a very rewarding experience, both for seasoned hockey fans as well as novices to the sport. If you are well versed in the rules and are a fan of the NHL, you will relish the opportunity to see one of the league’s legendary teams in their home venue. If you are new to the game, it is hard to imagine picking a more exciting environment to witness your first professional hockey match.
Old Montreal, Canada
Old Montreal, or Vieux-Montréal, is the charming and historical district where the city was born. In May of the year 1642 French settlers founded Ville-Marie (the city’s original name) on a piece of land near the St. Lawrence River, now part of Old Montreal. Layers of the centuries of history can be seen in Old Montreal, from its seventeenth-century beginnings to its modern-day restoration.
In the eighteenth century, Ville Marie was a fortified town under French control until 1760 when the British took over. The early nineteenth-century saw the area turn into the bourgeois center of the city, as Montreal became an important commercial and political center for Canada. During the nineteenth century, Montreal was undergoing changes brought on by the Industrial Revolution. In the early twentieth century, Old Montreal was the heart of the city, with all of the head offices of banks on St.James Street. The old part of town soon came into decline, and it wasn’t until the 1960s when the importance of the buildings and history of Old Montreal were realized. Restoration of the area began, which continues today. Old Montreal is now perhaps the most visited attraction in Montreal.
Old Montreal tourism is not limited to outside visitors. Even locals enjoy spending hours chatting over a coffee in the quaint cafes and restaurants. Locals take pride in the unique and magnificent buildings that have been in Montreal for centuries. Old homes have been turned into Old Montreal hotels and restaurants, and factories have been converted into hip apartment buildings. The Vieux-Port of Old Montreal has changed from abandoned area to gorgeous parkland facing the St. Lawrence River. Here the concentration of seventeenth-, eighteenth-, and nineteenth-century buildings is the highest in all of the country. It is no wonder that locals feel such pride for this historic attraction in Montreal.
There are guided Old Montreal tours available, or you can just take one on your own—just be sure to take one! The best time to take a tour is during the day when everything is still open. Some museums are closed on Mondays, though, so you may want to take this into consideration. The official Old Montreal Walking Tour lasts about 90 minutes with a professional guide. These Montreal tours depart in front of the Notre Dame Basilica boutique; tickets for the tours are sold there as well, beginning 15 minutes before the tour begins.
Montreal tourism also has tours available via calèche (horse-drawn carriage). These Montreal tours are available for 30 minutes (about $45 CAN) or 60 minutes (about $75 CAN) and depart from three locations: the Place d’Armes, Notre-Dame Street and De la Commune Street (near Place Jacques-Cartier).
In the eighteenth century, Ville Marie was a fortified town under French control until 1760 when the British took over. The early nineteenth-century saw the area turn into the bourgeois center of the city, as Montreal became an important commercial and political center for Canada. During the nineteenth century, Montreal was undergoing changes brought on by the Industrial Revolution. In the early twentieth century, Old Montreal was the heart of the city, with all of the head offices of banks on St.James Street. The old part of town soon came into decline, and it wasn’t until the 1960s when the importance of the buildings and history of Old Montreal were realized. Restoration of the area began, which continues today. Old Montreal is now perhaps the most visited attraction in Montreal.
Old Montreal tourism is not limited to outside visitors. Even locals enjoy spending hours chatting over a coffee in the quaint cafes and restaurants. Locals take pride in the unique and magnificent buildings that have been in Montreal for centuries. Old homes have been turned into Old Montreal hotels and restaurants, and factories have been converted into hip apartment buildings. The Vieux-Port of Old Montreal has changed from abandoned area to gorgeous parkland facing the St. Lawrence River. Here the concentration of seventeenth-, eighteenth-, and nineteenth-century buildings is the highest in all of the country. It is no wonder that locals feel such pride for this historic attraction in Montreal.
There are guided Old Montreal tours available, or you can just take one on your own—just be sure to take one! The best time to take a tour is during the day when everything is still open. Some museums are closed on Mondays, though, so you may want to take this into consideration. The official Old Montreal Walking Tour lasts about 90 minutes with a professional guide. These Montreal tours depart in front of the Notre Dame Basilica boutique; tickets for the tours are sold there as well, beginning 15 minutes before the tour begins.
Montreal tourism also has tours available via calèche (horse-drawn carriage). These Montreal tours are available for 30 minutes (about $45 CAN) or 60 minutes (about $75 CAN) and depart from three locations: the Place d’Armes, Notre-Dame Street and De la Commune Street (near Place Jacques-Cartier).
Downtown Montreal, Canada
Downtown Montreal is the epicenter of the city and where you will find many of the most popular activities and attractions. It is not only the central business district of this second largest city in all of Canada, but also one of the cultural centers, featuring a wide variety of historic buildings and monuments, museums, boutiques, restaurants, cafes, and much more. Downtown Montreal attractions include the Place des Arts, the Montreal Underground City (featuring numerous shopping malls and restaurants), the Montreal Biodome, and Mount Royal (the hill for which the city was originally named). An interesting fact is that the law mandates that none of the skyscrapers in Downtown Montreal can exceed the height of this historic mountain. Downtown Montreal is actually situated at the foot of Mount Royal urban park. It spans all the way to the St. Lawrence River.
There are myriad things to do in Downtown Montreal, from exploring chic and trendy shopping districts and enjoying the local restaurants and cafes, to sightseeing at major tourist attractions and learning about the culture and history of the city. Montreal is divided into nineteen boroughs, and the downtown section is located within Ville-Marie, the borough that contains the most neighborhoods. The Ville-Marie also contains Old Montreal, Chinatown, and the Latin Quarter, as well as the Gay Village and the Quartier International. Of all the Downtown Montreal attractions, the boutiques, shopping malls, and markets rank amongst the top for both residents and international tourists. If you are planning a trip to the city and intend to stay downtown, you will want to make the most of your opportunities to enjoy the amazing shopping experience.
The Montreal Underground City comprises over four square miles of underground tunnels that feature metro stops, massive shopping malls, apartment complexes, and seemingly countless restaurants. It lies parallel to the alluring Rue St. Catherine above and boasts an impressive 120 separate entrance points. The Eaton Centre and Place Montreal Trust are two massive mall complexes where you will find everything from designer clothing to home wares and virtually everything else you can imagine. Of course, there is no shortage of eateries and cafes at either place, or anywhere along the way. Be sure not to miss shopping on Rue St. Catherine itself. It is arguably the finest area for shopping in the entire city and is easily one of the top Downtown Montreal attractions.
Another one of the best things to do in Downtown Montreal is to explore the varied architecture on display around seemingly every corner. From the astonishingly spectacular mixture of modern architecture with neo-Classical architecture along the Golden Mile, to the many bank buildings, municipal buildings, churches, and museums, Downtown Montreal is a veritable paradise for lovers of architecture. You will have the opportunity to enjoy the fantastic cityscape while taking in the city’s many restaurants and cafes in the downtown core. There are many accommodations in Downtown Montreal as well, including luxury hotels in historic buildings that will turn any vacation into an opulent affair. Wherever you stay in Montreal, you will be within close range of many of the most popular attractions, including a broad selection of entertainment venues and places to enjoy great food and a nice beverage.
There are myriad things to do in Downtown Montreal, from exploring chic and trendy shopping districts and enjoying the local restaurants and cafes, to sightseeing at major tourist attractions and learning about the culture and history of the city. Montreal is divided into nineteen boroughs, and the downtown section is located within Ville-Marie, the borough that contains the most neighborhoods. The Ville-Marie also contains Old Montreal, Chinatown, and the Latin Quarter, as well as the Gay Village and the Quartier International. Of all the Downtown Montreal attractions, the boutiques, shopping malls, and markets rank amongst the top for both residents and international tourists. If you are planning a trip to the city and intend to stay downtown, you will want to make the most of your opportunities to enjoy the amazing shopping experience.
The Montreal Underground City comprises over four square miles of underground tunnels that feature metro stops, massive shopping malls, apartment complexes, and seemingly countless restaurants. It lies parallel to the alluring Rue St. Catherine above and boasts an impressive 120 separate entrance points. The Eaton Centre and Place Montreal Trust are two massive mall complexes where you will find everything from designer clothing to home wares and virtually everything else you can imagine. Of course, there is no shortage of eateries and cafes at either place, or anywhere along the way. Be sure not to miss shopping on Rue St. Catherine itself. It is arguably the finest area for shopping in the entire city and is easily one of the top Downtown Montreal attractions.
Another one of the best things to do in Downtown Montreal is to explore the varied architecture on display around seemingly every corner. From the astonishingly spectacular mixture of modern architecture with neo-Classical architecture along the Golden Mile, to the many bank buildings, municipal buildings, churches, and museums, Downtown Montreal is a veritable paradise for lovers of architecture. You will have the opportunity to enjoy the fantastic cityscape while taking in the city’s many restaurants and cafes in the downtown core. There are many accommodations in Downtown Montreal as well, including luxury hotels in historic buildings that will turn any vacation into an opulent affair. Wherever you stay in Montreal, you will be within close range of many of the most popular attractions, including a broad selection of entertainment venues and places to enjoy great food and a nice beverage.
History of Montreal, Canada
The history of Montreal is an interesting story that dates back over 8,000 years. Although human beings inhabited the land for centuries prior, the first recorded history of people living in the area came about when European explorers discovered an enigmatic group of Iroquois Indians inhabiting the area near Mount Royal by the St. Lawrence River in present-day Montreal. The facts on Montreal tell us that a French explorer named Jacques Cartier was the first European to arrive in this part of Canada. He recorded some 200 words of the interested Laurentian language that the indigenous Iroquois spoke at the time, a dialect quite distinct from other groups of native peoples in the surrounding areas. Cartier also traveled to present-day Quebec City on his journey. The French people and their own culture would thereafter heavily influence Montreal culture.
Samuel de Champlain revisited the site 70 years after Cartier had discovered Montreal in 1535. This Frenchman sought to set up a fur trade in Montreal, but was met with fierce resistance from the Mohawk of the Iroquois, who it is thought may have completely obliterated the St. Lawrence Iroquois that Cartier found just several decades prior. When Champlain arrived in the same place, he was shocked to find out that there was no evidence of a human settlement at all, and that these were now most probably simply the hunting grounds of the Mohawk. It took until 1639 for the French to take the first step in creating their vision of a French colonial empire in Canada. A man named Jerome le Royer de la Dauversiere, along with several missionaries for the Roman Catholic Church, created this permanent settlement and opened up the Ville Marie Mission in May of 1642.
The beginnings of the history of Montreal for the French were shaky at best, and after repeated attacks by the Mohawks, most all of the people who remained at the mission moved north to what is now Quebec City. But Montreal culture was already beginning to be shaped by the colonial aspirations of the French and by the fur trade that was established in the region. The city was finally fortified in 1725 and the Great Peace of Montreal between the French and Iroquois allowed the new settlement and the surrounding settlements to grow and develop without constant fear of attack from the natives.
More facts on Montreal help us to realize that the presence of the natives were not the only challenge facing the French. Rather, a loss to the British in the Seven Years War and the pursuant Treaty of Paris forced the French to cede the entirety of their Canadian colonies to the British. From this point forward, Montreal culture would also begin to absorb the influences of the British, as well as American revolutionaries. Montreal became an official city in 1832. After the rocky history of Montreal, complete with all of the fighting and wars, the city has come to stand as one of the most significant in all of North America, both in terms of business as well as the arts. Today, people from all over the world can enjoy the rich Montreal culture, whether it is with classical music and opera, art museums and historical monuments, or the vibrant café and restaurant scene.
Some extra facts on Montreal that people may be interested in knowing are that it is the second largest city in Canada and the largest in the province of Quebec. 52 percent of the population speaks French as a first language, with English coming in a distant second with 12 percent of the population.
Samuel de Champlain revisited the site 70 years after Cartier had discovered Montreal in 1535. This Frenchman sought to set up a fur trade in Montreal, but was met with fierce resistance from the Mohawk of the Iroquois, who it is thought may have completely obliterated the St. Lawrence Iroquois that Cartier found just several decades prior. When Champlain arrived in the same place, he was shocked to find out that there was no evidence of a human settlement at all, and that these were now most probably simply the hunting grounds of the Mohawk. It took until 1639 for the French to take the first step in creating their vision of a French colonial empire in Canada. A man named Jerome le Royer de la Dauversiere, along with several missionaries for the Roman Catholic Church, created this permanent settlement and opened up the Ville Marie Mission in May of 1642.
The beginnings of the history of Montreal for the French were shaky at best, and after repeated attacks by the Mohawks, most all of the people who remained at the mission moved north to what is now Quebec City. But Montreal culture was already beginning to be shaped by the colonial aspirations of the French and by the fur trade that was established in the region. The city was finally fortified in 1725 and the Great Peace of Montreal between the French and Iroquois allowed the new settlement and the surrounding settlements to grow and develop without constant fear of attack from the natives.
More facts on Montreal help us to realize that the presence of the natives were not the only challenge facing the French. Rather, a loss to the British in the Seven Years War and the pursuant Treaty of Paris forced the French to cede the entirety of their Canadian colonies to the British. From this point forward, Montreal culture would also begin to absorb the influences of the British, as well as American revolutionaries. Montreal became an official city in 1832. After the rocky history of Montreal, complete with all of the fighting and wars, the city has come to stand as one of the most significant in all of North America, both in terms of business as well as the arts. Today, people from all over the world can enjoy the rich Montreal culture, whether it is with classical music and opera, art museums and historical monuments, or the vibrant café and restaurant scene.
Some extra facts on Montreal that people may be interested in knowing are that it is the second largest city in Canada and the largest in the province of Quebec. 52 percent of the population speaks French as a first language, with English coming in a distant second with 12 percent of the population.
Shopping in Montreal, Canada
Montreal shopping offers something for everyone, from the jet-setting fashionista to the serious art and antique collector. There are a wide variety of not only shopping malls in Montreal, but also an array of independent boutiques, open-air markets, and bargain outlets. It is all a matter of knowing where to look in Montreal based on what kinds of goods you are interested in finding. The Downtown Montreal shopping experience is quite different than that which you will experience in the expansive Montreal Underground complex.
Montreal is a city where you can enjoy the best of sightseeing as well as the modern amenities and accommodations available throughout the city. Taking time to visit popular shopping destinations like the Bonsecours Market, which features tons of boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, is a fun way to mix up the itinerary if you are spending a lot of time exploring the many historic and cultural attractions in the city as well. Bonsecours Market is one of the most popular places for Montreal shopping, not only because of the wide variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, but also because they are all housed within a historic and gorgeous building. The building was actually used at one time as the Legislative Assembly for the Province of Canada. It is now one of the upscale shopping malls in Montreal and can be rented out for banquets and other special occasions. For amazing shopping near the Old Port of Montreal, you cannot get a whole lot better than the Bonsecours Market.
St. Catherine Street is arguably the most popular strip for Montreal shopping, especially when it comes to the latest and hottest trends. The Main is the area of the St. Laurent Borough (the largest in Montreal) where you will be able to locate a vast array of boutiques and trendsetting outlets that sell everything from clothing and handbags to shoes and accessories. For more traditional shoppers that may be looking for clothing that is a bit more mainstream or classic, you may consider exploring the Sherbrooke Street between Guy and Montagne Sreets or Laurier Street, preferably to the west of Avenue du Parc. And whether or not you are traveling to Montreal in the winter, you will want to escape the outdoors and see what is going on inside the various shopping malls in Montreal that are located underground.
The Montreal Underground City comprises over 20 miles of tunnels in over 4 square miles. There are offices, apartment complexes, shopping malls, restaurants, and much more. The Eaton Centre is located in the Montreal Underground and features over 175 boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. The Place Montreal Trust is a five-tier galleria also located in the expansive Montreal Underground City. Les Ailes de la Mode is the latest and trendiest addition to the line up of shopping malls in Montreal.
You will certainly have no problem finding plenty of shopping opportunities in this vibrant city in Quebec. Montreal shopping offers visitors the experience to shop for a whole host of goods in a wide variety of enviable locations. Whether it is at the legendary Bonsecours Market or one of the trendy underground malls, you are sure to have a great time shopping this city.
Montreal is a city where you can enjoy the best of sightseeing as well as the modern amenities and accommodations available throughout the city. Taking time to visit popular shopping destinations like the Bonsecours Market, which features tons of boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, is a fun way to mix up the itinerary if you are spending a lot of time exploring the many historic and cultural attractions in the city as well. Bonsecours Market is one of the most popular places for Montreal shopping, not only because of the wide variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, but also because they are all housed within a historic and gorgeous building. The building was actually used at one time as the Legislative Assembly for the Province of Canada. It is now one of the upscale shopping malls in Montreal and can be rented out for banquets and other special occasions. For amazing shopping near the Old Port of Montreal, you cannot get a whole lot better than the Bonsecours Market.
St. Catherine Street is arguably the most popular strip for Montreal shopping, especially when it comes to the latest and hottest trends. The Main is the area of the St. Laurent Borough (the largest in Montreal) where you will be able to locate a vast array of boutiques and trendsetting outlets that sell everything from clothing and handbags to shoes and accessories. For more traditional shoppers that may be looking for clothing that is a bit more mainstream or classic, you may consider exploring the Sherbrooke Street between Guy and Montagne Sreets or Laurier Street, preferably to the west of Avenue du Parc. And whether or not you are traveling to Montreal in the winter, you will want to escape the outdoors and see what is going on inside the various shopping malls in Montreal that are located underground.
The Montreal Underground City comprises over 20 miles of tunnels in over 4 square miles. There are offices, apartment complexes, shopping malls, restaurants, and much more. The Eaton Centre is located in the Montreal Underground and features over 175 boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. The Place Montreal Trust is a five-tier galleria also located in the expansive Montreal Underground City. Les Ailes de la Mode is the latest and trendiest addition to the line up of shopping malls in Montreal.
You will certainly have no problem finding plenty of shopping opportunities in this vibrant city in Quebec. Montreal shopping offers visitors the experience to shop for a whole host of goods in a wide variety of enviable locations. Whether it is at the legendary Bonsecours Market or one of the trendy underground malls, you are sure to have a great time shopping this city.
Montreal Nightclubs, Canada
Montreal nightclubs are just one aspect of the vibrant and thriving party scene in the capital of Quebec. Montreal nightlife includes everything from comfy pubs and trendy cafes to pulsing nightclubs and swanky wine bars. You will find a wide variety of nighttime attractions and activities spread throughout the nineteen boroughs of Montreal, whether you are interested in classical music and opera or raving and bar-hopping the trendiest clubs and bars on St. Laurent. Determining the best nightlife in Montreal will largely depend upon your specific areas of interest. It will be no problem finding numerous things to do, especially when it comes to Downtown Montreal nightlife. The challenge will be choosing amongst all of the options.
For people traveling to Montreal that are interested in experiencing the dynamic club scene in the city, a great place to start is St. Laurent. This largest borough in the city of Montreal is the epicenter of trendy fashion and high-class partying. There are a large number of clubs, restaurants, bars, and what are referred to as super-clubs. At the Montreal nightclubs that fall into this category, you can expect to find multi-tiered layouts, exotic interiors, multiple bars, and themed parties. If you are most interested in hitting the hottest clubs in the city, the best nightlife in Montreal for you is likely going to be St. Laurent.
Crescent Street is another area of town where you can enjoy some of the best Montreal nightlife. It is located in the western portion of Downtown Montreal, and spans three blocks from Sherbrooke to the north to Rene-Levesque to the south. Just as with all of the streets in St. Laurent, Crescent Street offers a wide variety of clubs, bars, and a nice array of places to appeal to most all people. There are all kinds of shopping boutiques, cafes, and cool places to hang out, lending to Crescent’s reputation as one of the coolest parts of town to hang out. It is also a center for English-speaking partiers in the city.
Old Montreal is one of the other most popular places for Montreal nightlife. It is not as prone to trends as it is the oldest part of the city, having been the place of its founding in 1642. However, in the last several years the district has undergone a significant gentrification and renovation in many important areas. You will find all kinds of chic hotel accommodations, historic cafes and restaurants, as well as a broad selection of bars and clubs. You do not have to be in Montreal nightclubs to enjoy some of the most appealing nightlife in the city.
The Latin Quarter is popular with students and artists from the universities and art schools of Montreal. Here you will find many appealing cafes, independent record shops, art galleries, and generally, a cool and amicable environment.
The best nightlife in Montreal is up to you to decide. Once you have a chance to experience the diversity of the boroughs and districts, you will be able to better judge which areas of town are best suited for you and your group.
For people traveling to Montreal that are interested in experiencing the dynamic club scene in the city, a great place to start is St. Laurent. This largest borough in the city of Montreal is the epicenter of trendy fashion and high-class partying. There are a large number of clubs, restaurants, bars, and what are referred to as super-clubs. At the Montreal nightclubs that fall into this category, you can expect to find multi-tiered layouts, exotic interiors, multiple bars, and themed parties. If you are most interested in hitting the hottest clubs in the city, the best nightlife in Montreal for you is likely going to be St. Laurent.
Crescent Street is another area of town where you can enjoy some of the best Montreal nightlife. It is located in the western portion of Downtown Montreal, and spans three blocks from Sherbrooke to the north to Rene-Levesque to the south. Just as with all of the streets in St. Laurent, Crescent Street offers a wide variety of clubs, bars, and a nice array of places to appeal to most all people. There are all kinds of shopping boutiques, cafes, and cool places to hang out, lending to Crescent’s reputation as one of the coolest parts of town to hang out. It is also a center for English-speaking partiers in the city.
Old Montreal is one of the other most popular places for Montreal nightlife. It is not as prone to trends as it is the oldest part of the city, having been the place of its founding in 1642. However, in the last several years the district has undergone a significant gentrification and renovation in many important areas. You will find all kinds of chic hotel accommodations, historic cafes and restaurants, as well as a broad selection of bars and clubs. You do not have to be in Montreal nightclubs to enjoy some of the most appealing nightlife in the city.
The Latin Quarter is popular with students and artists from the universities and art schools of Montreal. Here you will find many appealing cafes, independent record shops, art galleries, and generally, a cool and amicable environment.
The best nightlife in Montreal is up to you to decide. Once you have a chance to experience the diversity of the boroughs and districts, you will be able to better judge which areas of town are best suited for you and your group.
Restaurants in Montreal, Canada
Montreal restaurants can be found in great abundance throughout the nineteen boroughs that comprise this cosmopolitan city located in the southwestern portion of the province of Quebec. Montreal is second only to Paris when it comes to the largest, primarily French-speaking cities in the entire world. As such, dining in Montreal is dominated to a certain extent by French cuisine, which, for any lovers of the French gastronomic tradition and heritage, is a welcome disclaimer. The city is, however, too ethnically diverse to be restricted to just one kind of food.
Although French fare is predominant, other prevalent cultural traditions are reflected in the city’s many Chinese, Thai, Italian, Greek, and Eastern European restaurants. Dining in Montreal is an experience that can be enjoyed by absolutely everyone. There are even traditional American fast food joints housed in historic buildings for those, shall we say, less adventurous diners. The best Montreal restaurants are spread throughout the city, from Old Montreal and Downtown to the Golden Square Mile, Cote-des-Neiges, and Little Italy.
Depending upon the pace you wish to take on your trip, you can enjoy dining in Montreal in a range of different settings. In the morning, the cafes are bustling with people enjoying a café au lait or an espresso, and during the warm spring and summer months, umbrellas are set outside at myriad cafes for people to enjoy drinking and dining in Montreal outdoors. Lunch may be taken later in the day and dinner is almost always served late, as is the tradition in many European countries, obviously including France. These traditions remain in tact for the large French population in the city, as well as for its visitors.
The café experience is especially enjoyable in quaint and historic areas of the city like the Old Port, where you will sense the history and cultural heritage of the city with its cobblestone streets, old cafes, historic buildings, and seemingly countless restaurants. In fact, some of the best Montreal restaurants can be located in the Old Montreal district, know as much for its pleasing ambiance and welcoming atmosphere as for its broad selection of bars, clubs, cafes, and shops. You may wish to try some of the local favorites, including beef carpaccio (thinly sliced raw beef served with capers and olives, generally served in a sort of balsamic marinade), gamberi (shrimp in a garlic sauce), or rack of lamb. The French gastronomic tradition is evident in the careful preparation and flawless presentation that are ubiquitous throughout the best Montreal restaurants. For a comprehensive, French-style dinner in Montreal, you may want to consider having a long meal at one of the fine restaurants in the city where you can experience a gorgeous, seven-course meal. This normally involves a soup, salad, sherbet, several main dishes, desert, and oftentimes a cheese plate.
St. Laurent is a magnificent street for locating excellent Montreal restaurants of all kinds, as is Bernard Street, St. Patrick Street, and St. Urbain. These are just a few of the locations that you will find a range of Montreal restaurants. As you get to know the city and come to find out which of the delicacies are most appealing to you, you will naturally begin to narrow your search and then can offer advice to others as to where to go for an amazing meal in Montreal.
Although French fare is predominant, other prevalent cultural traditions are reflected in the city’s many Chinese, Thai, Italian, Greek, and Eastern European restaurants. Dining in Montreal is an experience that can be enjoyed by absolutely everyone. There are even traditional American fast food joints housed in historic buildings for those, shall we say, less adventurous diners. The best Montreal restaurants are spread throughout the city, from Old Montreal and Downtown to the Golden Square Mile, Cote-des-Neiges, and Little Italy.
Depending upon the pace you wish to take on your trip, you can enjoy dining in Montreal in a range of different settings. In the morning, the cafes are bustling with people enjoying a café au lait or an espresso, and during the warm spring and summer months, umbrellas are set outside at myriad cafes for people to enjoy drinking and dining in Montreal outdoors. Lunch may be taken later in the day and dinner is almost always served late, as is the tradition in many European countries, obviously including France. These traditions remain in tact for the large French population in the city, as well as for its visitors.
The café experience is especially enjoyable in quaint and historic areas of the city like the Old Port, where you will sense the history and cultural heritage of the city with its cobblestone streets, old cafes, historic buildings, and seemingly countless restaurants. In fact, some of the best Montreal restaurants can be located in the Old Montreal district, know as much for its pleasing ambiance and welcoming atmosphere as for its broad selection of bars, clubs, cafes, and shops. You may wish to try some of the local favorites, including beef carpaccio (thinly sliced raw beef served with capers and olives, generally served in a sort of balsamic marinade), gamberi (shrimp in a garlic sauce), or rack of lamb. The French gastronomic tradition is evident in the careful preparation and flawless presentation that are ubiquitous throughout the best Montreal restaurants. For a comprehensive, French-style dinner in Montreal, you may want to consider having a long meal at one of the fine restaurants in the city where you can experience a gorgeous, seven-course meal. This normally involves a soup, salad, sherbet, several main dishes, desert, and oftentimes a cheese plate.
St. Laurent is a magnificent street for locating excellent Montreal restaurants of all kinds, as is Bernard Street, St. Patrick Street, and St. Urbain. These are just a few of the locations that you will find a range of Montreal restaurants. As you get to know the city and come to find out which of the delicacies are most appealing to you, you will naturally begin to narrow your search and then can offer advice to others as to where to go for an amazing meal in Montreal.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)