Saturday, 30 July 2011

Attractions in Montreal, Canada

Montreal attractions run the gamut from cultural and historic points of interest like churches and monuments to international festivals and vibrant boroughs and districts. Montreal is the second most populous city in Canada and is considered by many to be the cultural capital of the country. It is without question one of the most cosmopolitan cities in North America, blending French culture and tradition with those of Canada and the United States, to offer an authentically unique, but decidedly European atmosphere. It is difficult to make a list of the best Montreal Canada attractions, simply because there are so many. Whether you are interested in Montreal nightlife, the art scene, or exploring the natural beauty of this southwestern part of Quebec, there are sure to be Montreal tourist attractions that appeal to you and everyone in your group.

Old Montreal and the Old Port, located south of downtown in the Ville-Marie borough, rank among the best Montreal Canada attractions. It was at one time a fortified part of the city, but is now a popular destination for tourists as well as residents of Montreal. The entire district represents the distinctly European character of the city, with its cobblestone streets, quaint cafes, classical architecture, and independent restaurants, markets, and boutiques. Old Montreal and the Old Port are some of the top Montreal attractions because people truly get a sense of the cultural heritage of the city while enjoying some of its finest destinations, from the Notre Dame de Montreal Basilica and Place Jacques-Cartier to the Montreal Science Center and Bonsecours Market.

The Montreal International Jazz Festival has grown into one of the biggest such musical gatherings in the world. Besides serving as an incubator for up-and-coming talent, it also features upwards of 500 concerts by some of the most notable international jazz artists from over 20 countries. Over 75 percent of the performances at this marquee event are free, making it one of the most popular Montreal tourist attractions for lovers of music who are also looking to travel on something of a budget.

The Montreal Biodome is a fascinating destination for people of all ages. It is one of the most notable Montreal tourist attractions not only because of the wonderful replication of four American ecosystems you will find within this unique museum, but also because of the distinctive architecture of its exterior. In general, you will find that the city of Montreal is filled with magnificent and highly unique examples of architecture, dating back as far as the seventeenth century, and also featuring the best in contemporary and modern design. The Biodome is one of the popular Montreal tourist attractions and serves as a welcome oasis in the very center of Montreal. The four ecosystems on display include: the Tropical Forest, the Laurentian Forest, the St. Lawrence Marine, and the Polar Worlds of the Arctic and Antarctic.

Mount Royal is the triple-peaked mountain in Montreal for which the city takes its name. The lookout at Mount Royal is a part of the Mount Royal Park, landscaped by the same designer who worked on New York City’s Central Park. The vistas of the city and the confluence of the Ottawa and St. Lawrence Rivers are unparalleled from the lookout. It is well worth it to take a couple of hours to hike up the hills and see Montreal in all its glory.

Some of the other best Montreal Canada attractions include the Point-a-Calliere Museum, the Montreal Museum of Contemporary Art, Montreal Underground, and the Bell Centre. No matter what your interests are, Montreal has something to offer.

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