visit montreal november

13 Unbeatable Things To Do in Montreal in November

Our list of the best things to do in Montreal in November includes winter activities, indoor entertainment, the Christmas Market, the Santa Claus parade, a food festival and more.

If you’re heading to Montreal in November and are looking for things to do, this list is full of great suggestions. We’ve spent quite some time combing through the various activities available during November so you don’t have to. 

The first thing you should know before visiting Montreal in November (and winter in general) is that daylight saving time means it gets dark very early. Locals tend to gravitate toward indoor activities, which as you’ll see isn’t a bad thing. Another perk of visiting Montreal in November is it’s traditionally the first month of the holiday season. 

Read more to discover the wide range of cozy and festive things to do in Montreal in November! 

Events in Montreal in November 

1. mtlàtable.

• November 2024 (Dates TBC)

MtlàTable is every foodies' favorite event in Montreal in November. Over one week, Montreal’s best restaurants offer their finest dishes at a reduced price. It’s an exciting way to discover the many tastes of Montreal’s decadent restaurant culture. Reservations are highly encouraged.

2. International Documentary Festival 

• November 15 to 26, 2023 (2024 Dates TBC)

The Montreal International Documentary Festival (RIDM) is one of North America’s premier documentary film festivals. It showcases approximately 100 Canadian and international documentaries annually. Forum RIDM, its industry event, is Quebec's sole documentary forum.

3. Santa Claus Parade

•  November 25, 2023 (2024 Date TBC)

Montreal’s Santa Claus Parade has been going on for over 70 years. Each year, a cast of holiday characters descend onto Sainte-Catherine Street and enchant its attendees. This is a wonderful family activity to enjoy in Downtown Montreal in November.

• Related: What to do in Montreal in October
• Related : Things to do in Montreal in December

Things To Do in Montreal in November

Here are various types of activities available in Montreal in November. As this is also the first month it typically snows, we’ve made sure to include a few wintertime activities. 

4. Go to the Christmas Market

One of the most popular things to do in Montreal in November is shopping for gifts and souvenirs at the various Christmas markets. Although most of them begin in December, the Great Montreal Christmas Market at Quartier des Spectacles typically starts in the last week of November. 

Related: Here are more of the best things to do in Montreal during Christmas .

5. Bagel Making Workshop 

This intimate and interactive bagel cooking session is ideal for families with older children who enjoy cooking. Together, you can discover insider techniques for perfecting authentic Montreal bagels at home.

6. Cosy Up at a Concert

There’s a long list of live music venues in Montreal. I suggest you check out the calendars of the Bell Centre , MTelus and Beanfield Theatre as they consistently offer high-quality indoor entertainment. 

7. Visit an Art Museum

Thinking about what to do in Montreal in November and interested in the arts? Spending a day or evening seeing an exhibition at an art museum is an excellent option. The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Contemporary Art are two popular art museums in Montreal.

8. See a Performance by the Montreal Symphonic Orchestra

It starts getting dark very early in Montreal in November (we’re talking before 5 pm). So head indoors to experience a performance by the Montreal Symphonic Orchestra while you’re here.

9. Witness the First Snowfall

Very often the first snowfall in Montreal occurs in November. It’s a magical thing to be walking in this beautiful city – either Downtown , in the Old Port or around the Plateau – watching thick snowflakes slowly fall and cover the city streets.

It's also a good time to play in the snow. You can do so at one of Montreal’s many large public parks. My favourites are Mount Royal Park , Jeanne-Mance , Parc La Fontaine , Laurier and Jarry . 

Related: Looking for more ideas to play in the snow? Here's our complete article about the Province of Quebec in winter .

What To Do Elsewhere in Quebec in November

10. road trip to the eastern townships .

• Distance: 1h45 drive from Montreal

It commonly snows earlier in the Eastern Townships than it does in Downtown Montreal. If you want to escape the city for a day, the Townships aren’t far away. The region is complete with pretty villages, gorgeous landscapes and great restaurants such as Taverne 1855 , Beat & Betterave , Arvida and Maison Boire . 

11. Mont-Tremblant 

• Distance: 2.5 hours drive from Montreal

If you have extra time, Mont-Tremblant is the perfect place for a weekend trip while visiting Montreal in November. The lovely resort town has lots of great activities and attractions year-round. Being located north of Montreal, it also typically has snow earlier than the city. 

12. Quebec City Toy Parade

• Distance: 3 hours drive from Montreal
• November 11, 2023 (2024 Date TBD)

Quebec City’s 2023 Christmas Parade is called the Toy Parade . It is magical in all aspects and is worth the trip to Quebec City if you have young children. Your entire family will be enchanted by the characters, dancers and musicians the parade offers. 

Related: Quebec City in November

Weather in Montreal in November

November in Montreal is definitely when things start getting cold. You’re going to want to bundle up to thoroughly enjoy your time here. 

So, if you want a magically snowy winter escape early on in the season, visiting Montreal in November is a safe bet. Plus if there’s no snow on the horizon, you can always go searching outside of the city. Then you can defrost at one of Montreal’s many fun indoor activities.

If you’re looking for further escapes from the city this November, check out the best Montreal day trips .

About the Author

Joshua is our Montreal expert. He has been living in Montreal for over 15 years. He is passionate about sharing his love for Montreal and some local tips with our readers.

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The best things to do in Montreal for November 2020

We're in lockdown, but we're not locked up—these are the best things to do in Montreal during November 2020

As if the last month of fall in the city couldn't get any weirder: People find themselves asking what is open and what they can and can't do in Montreal  as they wait for the red zone restrictions in the city to (hopefully) lift by November 23. Until then, despite what the mood in the city may tell you, there are a lot of things to do in Montreal during November 2020. Best to get out while the weather's still good enough for walks in parks with hot lattés from the best cafés , explore the always-increasing takeout and delivery options around you, plan recipes with  farmers markets , and more.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Montreal

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Celebrate the holidays at Time Out Market Montréal

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Stop by the Market for holiday magic,   events   and special seasonal   dishes!

Time Out Market Montréal, Canada’s first editorially curated food and cultural market, will be hosting its upcoming Holiday market: Marché de Noël Signé Local , in collaboration with the Quebec-based brand   Signé Local.

From December 3 to 11, the Market will turn into a winter wonderland and welcome over 140 local vendors. In partnership with the   Make-A-Wish/Rêves d’enfants   foundation, the Marché de Noël Signé Local will offer guests the chance to discover artisanal products and gift ideas for loved ones—all 100% from local vendors, giving them a platform and access to a wide audience during the busy holiday season. 

The Market will also be unveiling the brand-new holiday menu on December 5, which will feature limited-edition seasonal offerings from each restaurant to satisfy all your holiday cravings! 

The best things to do in Montreal during November 2020

1.  Shop for swanky Christmas gifts at SOUK

Starting November 17 and lasting until December 17, SOUK MTL will be launching an all-new online platform to gather the work of dozens of locals that range from painters and jewelers to bespoke maple syrup makers and pottery artisans. It's the swankiest Christmas market of its kind, and it's the perfect place to get a jump on some handmade and lovingly crafted goods from Montrealers directly.

2.  Order a DIY brunch or dessert

While you could stick to your old haunts in your neighbourhood, we recommend that you mix up your takeout and delivery game this month by ordering up brunch baskets—we  recommend  Le Bistrot La Fabrique  ,  Restaurant Well  ,  Maison Boulud  or  Les Brunchs de Mathieu  for a good taste—or DIY dessert kits (with flambée options!) from places like Ratafia (pictured). Nothing says "we'll get through this month together" like setting a dessert on fire for the loved ones or roommates you live with.

3.  Visit Illumi, the massive drive-thru light show

It's official: Following its huge  reformatting for Halloween  that lasted until November 1, Laval's giant light show Illumi is now selling tickets until January 2021. That means a massive light show to go check out and get into the holiday spirit with as many as 15 million individual lights shining across hundreds of thousands of sculptures in a 1 million square-foot lot. They'll likely be shifting out the pumpkins and ghosts for smoething a little more festive and hivernal.

4.  Visit an online museum

We're keeping things high-class 'n' educated this month by revisiting one of our original lockdown aspirations: Visiting a museum on the other side of the planet. From the Musée d'Orsay in Paris and the Van Gogh in Amsterdam to the British Museum in London and the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Seoul, there's a bunch of museums to visit from the comfort of your armchair, and it's all absolutely free.

5.  Visit a farmer's market

While a lot of us are going off about how we've been able to cook up storms at the beginning of the lockdown, we know some of you out there aren't the best home cooks. That's ok! Now's the time to get out there and chat it up with this city's best farmers markets, find out what's in season and try out recipes you've never attempted before. Seize the month!

6.  Get your home ready for Christmas

Putting up Christmas decorations during the month of November have been proven to make people happier and bring some joy to our hearts. Given the current situation in Montreal, this is one more reason to show off your decorating skills and wow the neighbors: Get out there are pick up some lights and baubles in preparation for when the trees start arriving—no shame if you want to start dipping into the nog a little early either.

7.  Watch a concert by the Montreal Symphony Orchestra

Since the beginning of Montreal's lockdown on March 14th, the Montreal Symphony Orchestra been helping us class up our days and nights by offering free online performances that can be viewed on their website. Past performances have included the likes of John Adams, Richard Strauss, Ravel and Dukas, as well as solo and duet performances by members of the orchestra and the occasional post on the OSM's social media where we can check in with what artists are up to.

8.  Plan out a movie night at home

The month of November is definitely one of those better months to have some movie nights (or watch the US election unfold). Take out some leftover Halloween candy, pop some popcorn, bundle up under a blanket and off you go. Since it's getting darker earlier, you can play two films without even cutting into your sleep cycle. We've got tons of movie recs for you to check out, and even if the forecast at the time of this list going out suggests temperatures will be going up, it'll undoubtedly be getting colder this month—don't shoot the messenger!

9.  Go outside while the weather's still good

Obvious, right? But make no mistake, if you're one of those Montrealers who likes to avoid the cold and snow of the winter, then now's a good time to get outdoors. Enjoy the last autumn leaves or the first snow while walking the city, and take the opportunity to take a thematic tour   of the city's   public works of art , or look at the results of this past summer's Mural Festival .  Whatever you do, make sure to maintain some social distancing if you go with anyone else and don't get fined!

10.  Book a staycation

If you've haven't noticed, there's no tourists in town. Surprise, surprise. The thing is, this is a chance for all Montrealers to take advantage of some massively low room prices right now in fancy places that are sporting spas with massages and super attentive room service. If you can't afford a weekend away, take advantage of our city's hotels?   Treat   yourself   to a little extra something-something with a   dinner delivered   straight to your room from your favorite restaurant in town, turn on the TV and put down your phone. Just forget all your worries for a day or two.

11.  Level up your home (bar) game

From  embroidery  and your early evening cocktails to  candles  and ceramic painting, going DIY this month is more than one nice wat to help reconnect with yourself and decrease any stress you might be feelings. There's a  Montreal company  that offers a monthly DIY box that includes a project to do at home, and as for learning a thing or two about mixology and new flavour combinations, check out the cocktailboxes from  Crowd Bar  and  Alambika .

12.  Book a cabin getaway outside the city

Don't get us wrong, it's not recommended for anyone to leave a red zone, and it's definitely not encouraged by the provincial government. However: Mental health is also a major concern as our province's lockdowns continue, and getting out of town is a great form of self-care. Plan a getaway now, or (if you want to wait until you're given the green light by the government), book a stay at one of these gorgeous cabins during a later month when you'll feel more comfortable doing so. We've selected the best of the best right here. 

13.  Get cultured with the Cinemania film festival

Montreal's annual French film festival Cinemania is going live tomorrow with an all-new digital platform this year. Beginning November 4 and running until November 22, it's a new hybrid edition that will feature as many as 50 feature films, documentaries, 30 short films, masterclasses, conferences and special events, along with some virtual reality experiences for anyone packing the appropriate gear. It's cheap too: $8 for a single feature, $1 for short films, or $65 for an all-access pass.

14.  Play an escape game at your own pace

, or even explore the city in a different way with an adventure game offered by  Adventure City Games .

15.  Watch art projections on the walls of the BAnQ Grande Bibliothèque

Get out and see it while you can: Since September, the projection festival MAPP_MTL has an ongoing projection on the side of the BAnQ where over 30 migrant children and their parentshave contributed to a grand project by artists Charlotte Risch and Thaïla Khampoto present drawings brought to life. The creations are screened from Thursday to Saturday between sunset and 11 p.m. until January 30, 2021.

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Things to do in Montreal in November

The crisp air of fall is getting colder and colder, the sky is grey, the fall colours have slowly fallen and maybe we even had our first or second snowfall. Montreal’s November weather might not be the main reason why you are visiting our great city. However, there are plenty of activities and things to do in Montreal in November. Maybe you are stopping by for a big meeting or a conference or simply for a weekend getaway, this guide will tell you all the things to do in Montreal in November, from how to get around to what to wear.

MTL à Table

This is by far my favourite event in Montreal in November. MTL à Table (MTL is short for Montreal, in case you didn’t know) is the foodie week by excellence. For 11 consecutive days, 150 restaurants across the city offer table d’hôte (multi-course) dinner menus at great prices! This unique event gives you the opportunity to go to fancy and award-winning restaurants for a fraction of the price. While there are very different types of restaurants that participate in the event, I would suggest opting for high-end restaurants since you might not splurge on your meals as often. The restaurant week offers menus at $38, $53, $68 and $83 for a three- or four-course meal. Did I say that many restaurants have a delicious brunch menu for $17? And who doesn’t love brunch?

For Montrealers, this is the time of year where everyone flocks the restaurants and indulges on all its great gastronomy. Since it is a prime event for tourists and locals alike, I would suggest calling restaurants to reserve a table in advance! Here is the list of all the restaurants that offer MTL à Table.

This year’s theme is once again to highlight local products and local cuisine. There are 2 sub-events in this year’s edition, MMFA and Cacao Barry challenge. The MMFA à Table invites selected chefs to create a dish inspired by artwork from the Québec and Canadian collections. These dishes are a work of art for your eyes and your belly alike. The Cacao Barry challenge is an event for all the chocoholics of the world. There are 15 restaurants that display their love for chocolate in the yummiest and most creative ways.

This year we decided to go to the restaurant M. Mme. It is one of the best wine bars in the city. For MTL à Table, the restaurant offers a table d’hôte of 3 services for $33. For the three services you had three choices; I ordered the leek salad as an appetizer and the arctic char with stewed Jerusalem artichoke for the main course followed by a chocolate mousse with a light touch of raspberry as dessert. Worth noting that the wine bar offers a wine pairing for each item on the menu.

Psst: The restaurant M. Mme. closed in 2019, however, the formula and the festival still exist.

Montreal is a foodie destination, so don’t worry if you cannot make it to the festival. You can either join one of the many Montreal food tour s or you can try one of these 10 must-try dishes which include Poutine, Bagels or Smoked meat to name a few. Of course, Quebec is known for its delicious maple syrup so you can add it to your breakfast order. If you are a beer lover, don’t forget to check out my craft beer guide . Your taste buds can thank me later! November is also harvest season and it is the perfect timing to go visit farmers markets like Atwater Market & Jean-Talon Market.

As you know, Montreal is a prime festival destination as we have more than 140 festivals year long. While summer festivals are the biggest, fall festivals make us enjoy indoor ones. Below you will find a list of all the festivals in Montreal in November. However, yearly the dates fluctuate a little, so I will suggest checking the website beforehand. Also, the festivals usually have free options so I would encourage you to check them out!

The main events for the month are 2 film festivals, Montréal International Documentary Festival ( RIDM ) and CINEMANIA . The first one, the Montreal International Documentary Festival, as its name indicates, showcases documentaries from all over the world, it is the smaller version of the Hot Docs Festival in Toronto. On the other side, CINEMANIA highlights cinema from French-speaking countries (don’t worry they have English subtitles). If you are a cinema lover, then this is the time for you to visit Montreal. Both festivals over more than 100 from around the world to see. image+nation is Canada’s first and oldest LGBTQ+ film festival and is held in Montreal every November. 

For music aficionados, we have the Arab World Festival of Montréal where the Arabic cinema and performing arts will dazzle you. Mundial Montreal , the World Music Summit also has music from all over the world and has some events open to the public. M for Montreal (or M pour Montréal is where you will find emerging artists and the next big star.

If you are a fan of baroque music then, the Festival Bach Montreal is for you. The festival gathers hundreds of talented singers, conductors, and other performers from Quebec and Europe to pay tribute to the music of Johann Sebastian Bach and other composers. Montreal Bach Festival has a total of 20 concerts in over 10 concert halls, including churches where you can enjoy live music. The festival includes concerts, lectures, and workshops, if you like classical music, this is for you.

Another Montreal November event is La Grande Dégustation de Montréal (The Grand Tasting of Montreal) runs from the end of October until early November. Here, there are over 200 wine producers, distillers, and brewers who showcase their products to the public. Each year the event features a different wine region in the world.

For book lovers, we also have some festivals for you! The biggest book fair, Salon du Livre is the perfect place to find local authors. I know I love reading books about the destinations that I visit. The book fair has author readings, roundtable discussions and of course, books for sale. Read Quebec Book Fair celebrates Québec’s English-language publishers and writers.

November is also the start of the holiday markets at the end of the month so you can get into the Christmas spirit. If you are visiting with the little ones or you just like the upcoming holiday season then the annual Santa Claus Parade should be on your list of things to do. The parade is in downtown Montréal on Sainte-Catherine Street. It is usually on the last Saturday of November (you check the dates since they fluctuate.) The Souk Christmas market showcases local artists, this is the perfect place to buy a souvenir. The Great Christmas Market has over 60 exhibitors from the province.

Museums & street art

While it’s raining or it might be a little cold, visiting the city museums is always a great option to get warm. The two main museums are the Fine Arts Museum (MMFA) and the Contemporary Art Museum (MAC). But in fact, there are more than 40 museums in the city that cover a wide range of topics from a firefighter museum to a hospital museum all with very different exhibitions. Usually, the MAC has a “ Nocturnes ” (nocturnal) in November. This is a unique concept in which the museum opens its doors past midnight and invites performers, artists and more to enjoy art with a bite to eat or a drink. The other notable museums in the city are the Pointe-à-Callière Museum , and the Montréal Archaeology and History Complex located in Old Montréal where you can learn about the city’s history. The McCord Stewart Museum always has an indigenous exhibition for you to learn more about First Nations in the province but also across Canada.

It will not take you long to see that Montreal is full of street art, it is one of the city's main attractions. For the complete itinerary of where to find the best graffiti and murals, go to my other article .

Old Port & Old Montreal

Of course, a visit to Montreal will be incomplete without visiting the Old Port & Old Montréal, especially for first-timers. Walk along Saint-Paul Street for that old European charm with cobblestones and colonial architecture. This is the part of the city that makes you feel in Europe while staying in North America.

From dusk until 11 pm enjoy the projections of Cité Mémoire . Download the app, choose a circuit, and walk through the old port hunting for the multimedia projections loosely telling the history of Montreal in a playful way.

The Notre-Dame Basilica is a beautiful church that has a light and sound show, Aurora . There is an entrance fee for the basilica but if you pay for the show, the price of the entrance is waived. The show, done by Moment Factory (they are the ones that do the visuals for the concerts for Muse, Madonna, among others), is modern and non-religious, a must-go.

Other activities in this area are going up the Ferris wheel, La Grande Roue , for amazing views of the city which is 200 ft high. If the temperatures are suitable, you might be able to do ice skating at the Old Port skating ring. In this area, you can go to the Bota Bota spa for water circuits. Also, a lot of the walking tours of the city start here.

Ice hockey is one of Montreal’s passions. The city vigorously roots for the Montréal Canadiens as the NHL season unfolds. Go cheer for the Habs (from the French  Les Habitants ) at the Bell Center and enjoy the joyful crowd. Through this experience, you will understand why Canadians love ice hockey so much. The history of hockey is intertwined with the Montreal team. Originally part of the original 6, the team was founded in 1909. has won the Stanley Cup a cool 24 times (five of which were consecutive from 1956 to 1960), making it the most decorated team in the NHL.

The tickets range from different prices but you can find great last-minute deals with StubHub or other similar platforms. If you are a real fan, you can take a guided tour of the Bell Centre.

Looking for other things to do?

Montreal is also a hub for the circus (after all Cirque du Soleil is originally from Montreal), theatre, dance, RV and other interactive art, look up these things to do in the city. If you have specific dates in mind, use this tool to see what is going on in the city within that time frame.

Here is my 3-day itinerary in the city for activities year-round.

Day 1: Old Montreal + Saint Henri. The Lachine Canal is my favourite sport in the city and it links both neighbourhoods. The canal is a park and a national historic site located in the southwest of Montreal. It is a 14km waterway and a park. It is close to the Atwater farmers market; so, grab something to eat and do a picnic by the water if the weather allows it. Then you can have a nice walk by the canal, or you can bike and even kayak. From here, wander around Saint-Henri , an up-and-coming neighbourhood with tons of things to eat.

Day 2: The Mont-Royal, the little mountain overlooking the city. It has various lookout points to admire the city’s skyline. It has also plenty of hiking trails. You can admit the fall foliage early in November. The Mile End is the hipster and cool quarter of the city. If you are looking to show a unique piece made in Montreal, this is the place to go.

Day 3: Olympic stadium + downtown + Quartier des spectacles. At the Olympic Stadium , you can also go to the other Espace pour la Vie installations which encompass the Montréal botanical garden , the Planetarium and the Biodome .

As always, you can mix and match. Everything is relatively close so you don’t have to worry about going from one end of the city to the other. 

Practical tips

If you are staying a little longer into the winter, I would suggest that you read my complete winter guide of the city .

Getting around

Transportation in and outside the city can be very difficult since the city is undergoing a major makeover so I would suggest leaving your car and embracing discovering the city by foot, bike or public transport. Also, signs for parking can be extremely confusing, so you can skip a headache just to know where to park. The last tip will be to be aware that the subway system is not 24-hour and it closes its doors from 11 pm or 1 am depending on the day and the line colour.

Temperature

While November is still considered fall, sometimes it can feel like winter. The average temperatures in November in Montreal typically range from around 1°C (34°F) to 7°C (45°F), however, they can range from -2°C to 10°C. During your visit, there is a possibility of frost and occasional snowfall. There will not be enough snow on the ground to go skiing or snowshoeing.

What to wear?

November in Montreal is not the warmest month; it is all downhill from here! If you are not used to cold weather, I would suggest dressing warmly as temperatures can sometimes go below 0°C. I will suggest dressing in layers, having a good jacket, gloves, scarves, tuques and mittens! It might be a good idea to bring an umbrella and waterproof shoes and coat.

GETTING IN AND OUT OF THE CITY

Airport: Montreal has an international airport called Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL). From the airport, you can take the bus 747 which will leave you at the main subway stations like Lionel Groulx and Berri-Uqam.

Travel tips: I would suggest taking an Uber or a taxi since the bus doesn’t come very often and often gets delayed due to the roadwork. How much do these cost? The bus costs $10 to get in and out of the city. Taxis have a flat fee of $41 to get downtown. The airport is located around 25km away from the city center.

Train: Unfortunately, the rail system in North America is not developed at all when compared to Eastern Europe and Japan. In Canada, Via Rail operates trains from coast to coast. The train can be taken to the Gare Centrale (Central station), located at the Bonaventure metro station.

Bus: The are several buses that connect the city. You can take the buses at the Gare d'autocars de Montréal , it is near the Berri-Uqam metro station.

Whether you are looking for day trips or a multi-day trip, here is the ultimate list of great getaway trips from Montreal that you have been looking for! The list includes destinations like Quebec City which is only 3 hours away by car.

WHERE TO STAY IN MONTREAL?

Montreal is a city of neighbourhoods, much like New York, every neighbourhood feels like its own little city. Most hotels are located in Old Montreal and Downtown. Other great places to stay are The Plateau, Little Italy and the South West . All of these parts of the city are filled with great restaurants, bars and shops. Here is a curated list of the best hotels to stay in the city , by other travel bloggers.

The currency is the Canadian Dollar, the sign is $. The dollar can be easily found abroad at any currency exchange office. Credit and debit cards are accepted everywhere.

It is customary to tip around 15% of the final price . If you are horrible at math like me, you can sum the 2 taxes and it will give you a ballpark amount of what you have to tip

The voltage in Canada is  110 Volt

Montreal is among the safest cities in the world (according to SafeAround's global ranking ).

BRB acknowledges that Montreal is located on unceded Indigenous lands. The Kanien’kehá:ka Nation is recognized as the custodian of the lands and waters on which we gather today. Tiohtià:ke/Montréal is historically known as a gathering place for many First Nations. Today, it is home to a diverse population of Indigenous and other peoples.

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Disclaimer: We dined at MTL à Table as guests of Montreal Tourism. A big thank you! All opinions are my own.

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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Montreal — Luxury Hotels, Beautiful Parks, and Canada's Best Restaurant Included

Here's where to eat, stay, and explore in Montreal, according to a local.

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Despite its sometimes divisive language politics, extreme seasons, and chronic traffic headaches, Montrealers, or les Montréalais , are justifiably proud of their distinctive, if idiosyncratic, city — and for good reason. Travel + Leisure readers named Montreal one of their favorite cities in Canada in 2023 .

The sophisticated, French-speaking (yet very bilingual), culturally diverse city lays claim to world-class restaurants, lovely parks, superb art galleries and museums, a dynamic music scene, inspiring 18th- and 19th-century architecture, and vibrant nightlife.

It can also be a lot of fun in the winter , when locals like to get out and celebrate the cold and snow, even extending the revelry at outdoor festivals and concerts at night.

Thom Seivewright, a Montreal expert and former hotel concierge, launched his small-group tour company, Tours Montreal , in the Canadian city in 2016. “Our art scene is on par with cities two or three times our size,” he says. “There’s obviously a big emphasis placed on arts and culture in Montreal.”

There’s a big emphasis on food , too. Montrealers love their bagels, cheeses, poutine, and maple syrup, and they’re loyal to their chef-owned restaurants. “It’s a little gem of a city that has world-class dining — and world-class junk food,” says Seivewright. 

Long known for its exuberant after-dark scene, Montreal has it all, from cocktail bars to Irish pubs, jazz bars to pulsating dance clubs. The city is even planning to create a 24-hour nightlife district .

Here's everything you need to know to plan a memorable trip to Montreal.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• The fashionable, Parisian-style brasserie and rooftop terrace at Hôtel Le Place d’Armes, a boutique luxury property overlooking Place d’Armes and the Notre-Dame Basilica, attracts locals and tourists alike.
• Designed by American landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, who was also responsible for New York City’s Central Park, Parc du Mont-Royal is an oasis of greenery in the city center.
• Mon Lapin, a cozy wine bar and restaurant in Little Italy serving natural wines and an ever-changing menu of small plates, was voted Canada’s best restaurant in 2023 . 
• Bar Furco’s lovely terrace becomes lively in the summer during Montreal’s ritual cinq à sept (happy hour).
• Saint Laurent Boulevard, a.k.a. the Main, is a good place to get a glimpse of Montreal’s 19th- and 20th-century immigrant history. It's also the historical dividing line between French and English in the city.

Courtesy of Four Seasons Resorts

Hotel Nelligan

Hotel Nelligan , located in the heart of Old Montreal, was T+L readers' favorite city hotel in Canada in 2023 . Spanning four 19th-century graystones, the 105-room boutique property lies near the Notre-Dame Basilica and Old Port waterfront. Its seasonal rooftop terrace is a summer favorite for its picturesque views and lively happy hour.

Hôtel Place d’Armes

Another T+L reader favorite, Hôtel Place d’Armes is housed in four 19th-century neoclassical buildings opposite the Notre-Dame Basilica. The property is highly rated for its tasteful rooms featuring hardwood floors and brick walls, swanky French brasserie , and popular rooftop terrace. 

Hôtel Uville

One of the city’s newer hotels, opened in 2020, Hôtel Uville got its name thanks to its location in Old Montreal’s Place d’Youville. Uville is part design hotel, part museum — a love letter to the Montreal of the 1960s and '70s. This was transformative period, a time when francophone Quebecers were turning away from the Catholic church and leading the charge in North America vis-à-vis cuisine, style, and design — the culmination of which were Expo 67 and the 1976 Olympics.

“This hotel is very cool,” says Seivewright. “They did a great job. The details, like the tiled bathrooms and custom-made wallpapers, are amazing. They’ve got archival photos and artifacts from the '60s and '70s in each of the rooms, and documentary films from the National Film Board that you can watch on your room’s TV.”

The Ritz-Carlton, Montreal

Montreal’s grande-dame hotel, the Ritz-Carlton , opened in 1912 in the city's Golden Square Mile. In addition to housing chef Daniel Boulud's Maison Boulud , the refined property offers afternoon tea in the ornate Palm Court and seasonal garden terrace, Spa St. James, and an indoor saltwater pool.

Four Seasons Hotel Montreal

Located in Golden Square Mile since 2019, the posh  Four Seasons Hotel Montreal is connected via a third-floor walkway to the luxury department store Holt Renfrew Ogilvy . The hotel boasts Marcus Restaurant + Terrace, in partnership with legendary Manhattan chef Marcus Samuelsson; a Guerlain Spa; and a skylit swimming pool with an upstream current generator.

Best Things to Do 

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Parc du Mont-Royal

What Central Park is to New Yorkers and Hyde Park to Londoners, Parc du Mont-Royal, or Mount Royal Park, is to Montrealers. At 764 feet high, Mount Royal may not be much of a mountain, but the park is, as Seivewritght says, “the heart and soul of the city.” He adds, “The fact that Montreal is a four-season city and Mount Royal is a four-season park makes it even better because you’ve got skiing, skating, and tobogganing in the wintertime. And in the summer, you can go biking and walking.” You can also go for a picnic and rent a rowboat or Mölkky or spikeball equipment at Beaver Lake. 

Old Montreal

With its graystone buildings and narrow streets, Old Montreal can sometimes feel like a slice of Europe in North America. Certainly no visit to Montreal is complete without a stop here. Not only will you find the city’s most important historic landmarks, including the Notre-Dame Basilica , the 18th-century Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel , the Second Empire-style City Hall, and the neoclassic Marché Bonsecours , but it’s also home to pretty boutique hotels, haute-couture shops, and chef-owned restaurants.

Pointe-à-Callière

A national archaeological site, Pointe-à-Callière , now an impressive archaeology and history museum, sits above the ruins of the birthplace of Montreal. “The Pointe-à-Callière museum is amazing,” says Seivewright. “They’ll take you underground to see the ruins of the original fortifications of Montreal, the original city the French built here in the 1600s.” Visitors can also see Indigenous artifacts uncovered during a dig and part of North America’s first collector sewer, built between 1832 and 1838.

Arsenal Contemporary Art Gallery

Opened in Montreal in an 80,000-square-foot building in 2011, Arsenal Contemporary Art has since expanded to include locations in Toronto and New York City. “Outside of the museums, I would send my clients to certain galleries around town. These days, one of my favorites is Arsenal. It has an amazing [selection] in its permanent collection, but it also puts on temporary exhibits that are just mind-blowing,” says Seivewright.

Montreal is a city of festivals, with everything from jazz (the city hosts the world’s largest jazz festival) to Pride to circus arts celebrated here. There’s even a dedicated festival and outdoor performance space downtown called the Quartier des Spectacles . While there are festivals year-round , May to September is the city’s busiest period.

eyedias/Getty Images

La Banquise

One of Quebec's most beloved foods is poutine, traditionally a mess (translation of "poutine") of french fries, cheese curds, and gravy. But poutine continues to get more upscale. A veritable institution since 1968, La Banquise doesn’t claim to be high-end, but the casual eatery serves 35 kinds of poutine and it’s open 24 hours. “La Banquise is a classic. I’m [vegetarian], and in my opinion, the veggie gravies are even more delicious,” says Seivewright. “A lot of people knock La Banquise because it’s popular, but I stand by it.”

Montreal Plaza

The design at Montreal Plaza is elegant and stylish, yet also notable for its eccentric touches like a dollhouse hanging upside down from the ceiling and Elmo sitting on the bar. Even certain dishes, like crudo or oysters, are served atop a toy triceratops or among plastic Smurfs. Chef and owner Charles-Antoine Crête and his team enjoy serving great food in a playful, joyous way. “This is my favorite place,” says Seivewright. “It’s not the just the way the food is prepared or what it is, but the whimsical, creative way it’s presented.”

Sushi Momo , from Mexican-Canadian chef Christian Ventura, is Montreal’s best vegan sushi restaurant. The sleek, dimly lit, botanically adorned space in the Plateau area is inviting, while the artfully plated confections are a feast for the eyes and the fusion of flavors a song for the taste buds.

Nora Gray , a lively, casual restaurant in Griffintown, is known for its southern Italian cuisine, updated cucina povera , and privately imported natural and organic wines. The dark wood, banquettes, long bar, and warm candlelight lend the restaurant an intimate, romantic, and club-like feel. 

Dominique Lafond

Voted Canada’s best restaurant in 2023 , Mon Lapin is a cozy wine bar and restaurant in Little Italy. It serves natural wines and an ever-changing menu of French- and Italian-inspired small plates. Each dish highlights fresh, seasonal, and local ingredients plus unexpected flavor combinations.

Henryk Sadura/Getty Images

Cloakroom Bar

The 25-seat Cloakroom Bar , with a cloak-and-dagger atmosphere, was named Canada’s second-best bar in 2023 . “It’s one of my favorite bars anywhere in the world,” says Seivewright. “It’s hidden behind a menswear shop, which makes it even cooler. It’s very exclusive feeling. You tell them, 'I like gin, I like citrus,' and they’ll create something for you. If you’re three people and you all like the same thing, they’ll create three different drinks.”

Situated in the Plateau Mont-Royal, Diese Onze is an intimate jazz bar that also serves tapas and mains. “I’m a big jazz fan, and I love Diese Onze,” says Seivewright. “It’s a good mix of local and out-of-town musicians.”

Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill

A Montreal institution since 1995, Upstairs is, funnily enough, located in a basement. It attracts big-name international jazz acts who make this a routine stop on their tour itineraries.

Pub Le Sainte-Élisabeth 

Established in 1997, this European-style pub between the Quartier des Spectacles and student-heavy Quartier Latin is quite cozy inside, but it’s the enclosed, leafy terrace at the back that draws people here come summer. The service many not win any awards, but Le Sainte-Élisabeth is about the ambience. 

The minimalist redesign of the Canadian Fur Company building (hence Furco ), located on a downtown back street, is a big draw for wine lovers and the happy hour crowd. It features an adventurous food and wine menu, in addition to more traditional charcuterie and cheese plates.

Maison Marie Saint Pierre

Marie Saint Pierre 's Montreal-made, ready-to-wear pieces marry timeless feminine styles with contemporary flair and function.

Entering this handsome Crescent Street atelier-cum-boutique near the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is like stepping into an old-school European tailor shop. Started by their father, Arthur Der Shahinian, sons Tavit and John carry on the tradition of crafting impeccably fitted and designed bespoke men’s suits and shirts, with damask silk lining and hand-sewn button holes, never compromising on quality or friendly, professional service.

Simons is originally from Quebec City, but it’s popular in cities across Canada. The small, mid-range department store downtown carries popular fashion brands as well as its own collections, in addition to homewares. “I’m a big fan of Simons,” says Seivewright. “I buy half my clothes there. The price point is good, the quality is good, and I like that it’s a local brand.”

Holt Renfrew Ogilvy

Montreal’s answer to Saks Fifth Avenue, Holt Renfrew Ogilvy is a one-stop shop for all things luxury, including clothing, shoes, and accessories. Clients can also enjoy a personal shopping experience in one of the five fifth-floor suites or the glamorous art-deco Café Holt, with its remarkable solar-like orb set above the central bar.

Saint Laurent Boulevard

“Saint Laurent [Boulevard], between Saint Joseph Boulevard and up to Van Horne Avenue, has the best boutique design shopping nowadays,” says Seivewright. “You could go all the way up to Little Italy and it’s still amazing. I was walking there the other day and every single window I walked by made me want to go in. There are furniture shops, clothing shops, and jewelry shops — some of it is new, some of it is vintage, and it’s all local.”

Saint-Henri

Saint-Henri, once a francophone working-class neighborhood, is now gentrified, replete with popular, chef-owned wine bars and restaurants, antiques shops, cafes, and boutiques. Still, it retains pockets of its former self. “I love it because it has parts that haven’t changed in a hundred years and others that make it the most modern neighborhood in Montreal,” says Seivewright. “It’s got a cool, little rough-around-the-edges vibe. It’s one of those neighborhoods where you’ll have a multimillion-dollar home next to a really rundown place, and you see that contrast. Then, you listen to the people and hear French and English. You've got old people, young people — it’s a neighborhood where everything mixes.”

Plateau Mont-Royal/Mile End

Once relegated to working-class European immigrants, the Plateau/Mile End area is the epicenter of Montreal’s creativity and bohemian joie de vivre. Leafy streets lined with triplexes fronted by balconies and steep, often-winding, wrought-iron staircases invite visitors to explore this neighborhood bursting with convivial cafes, top-drawer restaurants , funky vintage shops, and trendy boutiques.

For a glimpse into how the upper crust of Montreal lived until the 1970s and '80s, head to the neighborhood of Outremont. Its two main shopping and dining strips are Bernard Ouest and Laurier Ouest avenues — part of the former turns into a pedestrian-only area come summer, with restaurant terraces sitting directly on the street.

Montreal is a four-season city. Late April to mid-May tends to be best for blooming trees, while October to early November is usually prime for leaf peeping. The holiday season is lovely, but a white Christmas is increasingly rare. For a stronger chance of experiencing the romance of winter snow, January and February are ideal. Summers in Montreal are hot and humid, and heat waves can now begin as early as May. Visit in May, June, or late August through September and October to avoid the worst of the summer temperatures and crowds.

Chris Jongkind/Getty Images

Montreal can be reached via regular flights with Air Canada, Delta, American, and United. Flying from New York’s LaGuardia to Montreal-Trudeau International Airport, better known as Dorval (YUL), takes about 90 minutes gate to gate. Driving may be cheaper, but it takes about seven hours, and unless you’re planning to pay for hotel parking, parking in Montreal can be a hassle. For travelers living in New York or Vermont, a more scenic and leisurely option (10 hours) is Amtrak’s Adirondack train from Moynihan Train Hall to Montreal’s Gare Centrale (Central Station).

Patrick Donovan/Getty Images

In summer, the best way to get around is on foot or by Bixi, the city-wide bicycle rental system. In 2023, Bixi decided to end the storage of their bicycles during the winter, so they are now available year-round. However, there are not as many stations as in summer. The metro (subway) is fairly reliable and frequent during rush hour — and often the quickest way to get from point A to point B. Buses tend to be less reliable, but they go everywhere the metro does not. An Opus card can be purchased with several fares added, if you’re planning on using the metro and/or buses often. Taxis and Ubers are readily available, too, and taxis can be hailed on the street.

Things to do in Montreal in November

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Looking for a different month?

November is a good time to visit Montreal . The weather is usually really cold with a gentle breeze, with temperatures ranging from 28—42°F (-2—6°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Montreal during this time. Some of our top recommendations: take a day trip to the Laurentian Mountains for outdoor activities, take a scenic drive to Mont-Tremblant National Park, take a guided tour of Old Montreal's historic sites, and more!

Montreal has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your November trip to Montreal. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to November. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Montreal in November. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout November, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

Table of contents

• Experiences
• Weather and what to wear
• Attractions

Best events and things to do in Montreal in November

Top experiences in november, take a day trip to the laurentian mountains for outdoor activities, take a scenic drive to mont-tremblant national park, take a guided tour of old montreal's historic sites, attend the montreal international documentary festival (ridm), take a food tour of montreal's diverse culinary scene, explore the montreal museum of fine arts' special exhibitions, holidays in montreal in november.

• Remembrance Day ( November 11 )

Other notable holidays

• Thanksgiving Day ( October 14 )
• Halloween ( October 31 )
• Anniversary of the Statute of Westminster ( December 11 )
• Christmas Eve ( December 24 )
• Christmas Day ( December 25 )
• Weather in Montreal in November

Temperatures on an average day in Montreal in November

The average temperature in Montreal in November for a typical day ranges from a high of 42°F (6°C) to a low of 28°F (-2°C). Some would describe it as really cold with a gentle breeze.

For comparison, the hottest month in Montreal , July, has days with highs of 81°F (27°C) and lows of 63°F (17°C). The coldest month, January has days with highs of 22°F (-5°C) and lows of 3°F (-16°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Montreal in November based on historical data.

Visiting Montreal? See our Montreal Trip Planner.

Historical temperature average in November

General weather summary, what to wear in november, best attractions for montreal in november.

Top searches in Montreal

Popular road trips from montreal, what's the weather like in montreal.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Montreal for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Montreal in January
• Weather in Montreal in February
• Weather in Montreal in March
• Weather in Montreal in April
• Weather in Montreal in May
• Weather in Montreal in June
• Weather in Montreal in July
• Weather in Montreal in August
• Weather in Montreal in September
• Weather in Montreal in October
• Weather in Montreal in December

All road trips from Montreal

• Montreal to New York City drive
• Montreal to Boston drive
• Montreal to Washington DC drive
• Montreal to Toronto drive
• Montreal to Quebec City drive
• Montreal to Orlando drive
• Montreal to Ottawa drive
• Montreal to Chicago drive
• Montreal to Niagara Falls drive
• Montreal to Philadelphia drive
• Montreal to Baltimore drive
• Montreal to New Orleans drive
• Montreal to Nashville drive
• Montreal to Cleveland drive
• Montreal to Pittsburgh drive
• Montreal to Gatlinburg drive
• Montreal to Atlanta drive
• Montreal to Newport drive
• Montreal to Savannah drive
• Montreal to Williamsburg drive
• Montreal to St. Augustine drive
• Montreal to Charleston drive
• Montreal to Saint Louis drive
• Montreal to Branson drive
• Montreal to Memphis drive
• Montreal to Burlington drive
• Montreal to Miami Beach drive
• Montreal to Conway drive
• Montreal to Gettysburg drive
• Montreal to Atlantic City drive

Explore nearby places

• Saint-Lambert
• Cote Saint-Luc
• Saint-Hubert
• Sainte-Catherine
• Sainte Catherine de la Jacques Cartier
• Boucherville
• Saint-Constant
• Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville
• Sainte-Julie
• Dollard-des-Ormeaux
• Pointe Claire
• Saint-Basile-le-Grand
• Chateauguay
• Saint-Mathias-sur-Richelieu

All related maps of Montreal

• Map of Montreal
• Map of Saint-Lambert
• Map of Westmount
• Map of Longueuil
• Map of Cote Saint-Luc
• Map of Brossard
• Map of La Prairie
• Map of Saint-Hubert
• Map of Sainte-Catherine
• Map of Lachine
• Map of Candiac
• Map of Sainte Catherine de la Jacques Cartier
• Map of Boucherville
• Map of Kahnawake
• Map of Delson
• Map of Laval
• Map of Saint-Constant
• Map of Dorval
• Map of Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville
• Map of Sainte-Julie
• Map of Dollard-des-Ormeaux
• Map of Pointe Claire
• Map of Saint-Basile-le-Grand
• Map of Varennes
• Map of Terrebonne
• Map of Chambly
• Map of Chateauguay
• Map of Rosemere
• Map of Kirkland
• Map of Saint-Mathias-sur-Richelieu
• Map of Boisbriand

Montreal throughout the year

• Montreal in January
• Montreal in February
• Montreal in March
• Montreal in April
• Montreal in May
• Montreal in June
• Montreal in July
• Montreal in August
• Montreal in September
• Montreal in October
• Montreal in November
• Montreal in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Montreal?

Get inspired for your trip to Montreal with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Montreal Itinerary
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• What to do in Montreal in November 2024
• North America

Why you should visit Montreal in November

Montreal weather in november, montreal events in november.

• Montreal's top places to visit in November

Flights, tours, and hotels in Montreal

Video guide.

If you’re looking for a unique and captivating travel experience, then Montreal in November is the place to be. With the fall foliage still lingering and the city transitioning into the winter spirit, November offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities, cultural events, and culinary delights. The city is less crowded, allowing you to explore its charm at your own pace. Plus, the weather is ideal for leisurely walks and enjoying cozy indoor activities. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a foodie, or a culture vulture, Montreal has something to offer for everyone in November.

In November, Montreal experiences the transition from fall to winter. The average temperatures range from 36°F (2°C) to 46°F (8°C), often accompanied by light rain and occasional snowflakes. It’s best to pack layers and a waterproof jacket to stay comfortable while exploring the city. Despite the cooler weather, the city’s picturesque streets and parks remain enchanting, creating a cozy atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.

Montreal International Documentary Festival

The Montreal International Documentary Festival, known as RIDM, takes place in November, showcasing a diverse array of documentary films from around the world. The festival provides an excellent opportunity for film enthusiasts to engage with thought-provoking documentaries and interact with filmmakers through Q&A sessions and panel discussions.

M for Montreal

Music lovers shouldn’t miss M for Montreal , a dynamic music festival that brings together emerging and established artists to perform in various venues across the city. The festival celebrates Montreal ‘s vibrant music scene, offering an exciting and eclectic mix of performances that cater to a wide range of musical tastes.

La Grande Dégustation de Montréal

For those with a penchant for wine and spirits, La Grande Dégustation de Montréal is a major highlight in November. This annual event gathers wine and spirits producers from different regions, allowing visitors to sample and discover an extensive selection of products. Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or an enthusiastic novice, this event provides a fantastic opportunity to expand your knowledge and indulge in exquisite flavors.

Montreal’s top places to visit in November

Mount royal park.

With the autumn colors still lingering, a visit to Mount Royal Park offers breathtaking views and serene nature walks. The park’s iconic lookout provides a panoramic vista of the city, making it a prime spot for capturing stunning photographs.

Old Montreal

Immerse yourself in the historical charm of Old Montreal , where cobblestone streets and historic architecture create a captivating ambiance. Explore the quaint boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafes that line the narrow streets, offering a perfect setting for leisurely strolls and cultural discoveries.

Museum of Fine Arts

Take refuge from the brisk weather by delving into the rich world of art at the Museum of Fine Arts. The museum’s diverse collections feature renowned works from various periods and styles, providing an enriching experience for art enthusiasts and casual admirers alike.

Underground City

Escape the cool temperatures by exploring Montreal ‘s vast underground network, known as the Underground City. This interconnected series of pedestrian tunnels houses an array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, allowing you to navigate the city comfortably while enjoying a diverse indoor experience.

Tours in Montreal

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When is the best time to go to Montréal?

Sep 19, 2023 • 6 min read

Summer festival season brings the party to the streets of Montréal © VincentJIANG / Shutterstock

A vibrant mashup of styles, Montréal has both Parisian-style bakeries and cutting-edge arts events. You could spend weeks exploring the city’s many layers, with 18th-century architecture , canal-side trails and hilltop overlooks all woven into the urban landscape.

Most people think only of summer when planning a trip to Montréal, but there’s really no bad time to visit (as long as you pack knitwear in winter). The city has an abundance of activities and festivals all year round, and visiting outside of the busy summer season will help you beat the crowds and enjoy substantial savings on accommodation.

Plan the perfect time for your visit with this guide to seasons and events in Montréal.

June to August is the best time for outdoor festivals

The summer brings an undeniable current of joie de vivre to the streets of Montréal with a packed lineup of outdoor concerts and other big events.

Going strong for more than 40 years, the Festival International de Jazz de Montréal draws music lovers from around the globe to see some 600-plus concerts — over half of which are free. Also kicking off in June, the Mural Festival sees top graffiti artists transform blank walls around town into brilliant works of art. Dance parties add to the fun.

Montréal’s great diversity is celebrated at gatherings like the Festival International Nuits d’Afrique , representing over 30 countries from Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean. There’s also the Korean street food fest of Pocha MTL , the outdoor EDM celebration of Ile Soniq and the rock-loving Osheaga — staging some of the world’s top performers.

Music and revelry aside, the summer is the best time to be out and about, and you can spend your day hopping between outdoor cafes or watching the sunset at rooftop bars like the Terrasse Place d’Armes and Terrasse William Gray .

For a more active experience in Montréal, head to the Old Port for zip lining , taking the kids on a challenging ropes course or heading off on a jet boating adventure on the St Lawrence. The Old Port is also a great starting point for a spin along the Canal de Lachine . You can hire a bike at Ça Roule and pedal out to the Atwater market , the perfect spot for a picnic, and keep going all the way out to Parc René Lévesque (a lovely 15km/9.3-mile ride) if so inclined.

There’s more kid-themed fun at La Ronde , an amusement park on the Île Sainte-Hélène opposite Old Montréal. On various nights over the summer, the park shoots off fireworks during the L'International des Feux Loto-Québec . Viewing is best from the park grandstands, though you can see the fiery display in other parts of Montréal as well.

September to November is the best time to see autumn colors

You needn’t trek into the wilderness to see leaves painted gold, crimson and orange during the fall. Montréal’s parks and tree-lined neighborhoods offer enviable photo ops of nature’s finery from late September to early November, with peak colors typically arriving around mid-October.

Head up to the Parc du Mont-Royal to walk the wooded trails and take in the views from the Belvédère Kondiaronk over the lower slopes of the mountain against the backdrop of downtown’s glass and steel high-rises. Other prime spots for leaf peeping are in the riverside forests of Parc Jean-Drapeau , the lookout from the Oratoire St-Joseph and in tree-lined neighborhood parks like the Carré St Louis in the Plateau.

By day, the changing leaves make a cinematic backdrop to the Jardin Botanique de Montréal . In the evening, the botanical gardens become even more dramatic during Gardens of Light , when colorful lanterns transform the tree-lined ponds and thematic gardens into colorful works of art. The immersive event runs from September to the end of October.

December to March is the best time for winter activities

When the temperature plummets, most Montréalers don’t hibernate. Instead, they take advantage of the snow (and even the ice!) that transforms their city into a wintery landscape. They know how to dress for the cold, and you should follow suit. Parc du Mont-Royal becomes the epicenter of outdoor fun, with cross-country ski trails and ungroomed snowshoe trails lacing through the serene forests. There’s also ice skating and sledding near Lac aux Castors . Access is free, and you can rent gear from the Pavilion du Lac aux Castors, which also has a cafe that serves up hot chocolate.

Parc Jean-Drapeau is another big draw for winter fans. There’s skating, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and sledding as well as fat biking. The oval skating rink yields fine views of the city across the water, and the wooded paths make a pleasant escape from the city.

Elsewhere the ponds of neighborhood parks become gathering spots for ice skating. The winding waterway in Parc La Fontaine is a favorite among residents of the Plateau, while Mile Enders flock to Parc Saint-Viateur. Downtown hosts its own ice rink, the newish Esplanade Tranquille , which is lit with colorful projections as music plays overhead. This rink is also free, and there are skate rentals and a two-floor indoor area where you can watch the action while warming up by the fire. If you’re staying in Old Montréal, you can stroll over to the Old Port for ice skating action on (not free) Patin Patin at the foot of the slowly spinning Grand Roue .

A number of big events happen in winter. If you come in December, you can catch the Village de Noël held in front of the Atwater Market . Dozens of artisans and producers from around Québec sell their wares at this Christmas market, and there are also special family events like caroling and a parade.

From late January to mid-February, the Old Port stages Igloofest . Proudly proclaiming itself to be "the coldest music festival in the world" the event features DJ-fueled dance parties outdoors. Laser lights and pyrotechnics in the frosty air add to the surreal atmosphere. Later in February, downtown transforms into an outdoor arts hub during Montréal en Lumiere , with concerts, dance performances and light installations. It overlaps with Nuit Blanche , with yet more cultural events packing an arts-filled night that lasts until dawn.

April to May is the best time to visit museums and see springtime flowers

Winter can seem neverending so when the first blue petals of the Siberian Squill appear in early April, the city welcomes spring with open (and bare) arms — never mind that there’s probably still snow on the ground. Montréalers enjoy leisurely strolls in the warm(er) weather, gather at outdoor pubs and once again pedal their way around town. Bixi , the city’s bike-sharing network emerges from winter slumber in mid-April, when over 10,000 bikes scattered at 865 stations around Montréal are placed back on the streets for easy hire.

In late April, bibliophiles descend on Montréal during the Blue Metropolis International Literary Festival . You can attend readings by poets, novelists and historians, or take part in workshops, literary walks and dozens of other events. The last Sunday in May is Montréal Museums Day when many museums around town offer free admission and host special arts events. That’s also around the time when Parc Jean-Drapeau stages the three-day Eureka! Festival , a free outdoor science fair with hands-on activities for kids.

This article was first published June 2021 and updated September 2023

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20 Best Things to Do in Montreal

By Todd Plummer

Montreal is one of Canada's most exciting cities, but it's also an incredibly historic place. When French explorer Jacques Cartier visited what is now known as Montreal in 1535, he found a thriving community of St. Lawrence Iroquois, whom are now believed to have inhabited the area for at least 3,000 years. Flash forward to today, and there are centuries of history weaving their way through each and every neighborhood, and a plethora of museums, tours, and architecture that all speak to that. But Montreal hums a modern tune as well, with music and nightlife, and world-class design and technology community, and some of the best food in the world . From Plateau to Verdun, our editor's picks of what to do in Montreal will have you leaving the city enlightened, full, and probably a little bit tired—all marks of a trip well spent.

Read our full Montreal travel guide here .

Mount Royal Arrow

Mount Royal Park, Montreal's unofficial playground north of downtown, was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted (of Central Park fame) and inaugurated in 1876. The park sprawls more than 692 acres and is a favorite destination of Montrealers, who make use of the park year-round, from jogging and enjoying family picnics in summertime, to skiing and tobogganing in winter. Attractions include the Mount Royal Cross (first erected in 1643), Mount Royal Chalet, Beaver Lake, and Sir George Etienne Cartier Monument.

La Grande Roue de Montréal Arrow

Situated on the banks of the St. Lawrence River just steps from Old Montreal, the largest observation wheel in Canada, brings guests nearly 200 feet into the sky, offering panoramic views over the city, tee river, and Mount Royal. It’s touristy, but it’s worth it for those of us who love seeing cities from above. Bringing you high above Old Montréal, each ride is long enough for you to appreciate the sights and start to understand the city’s topography, but not so long that you’re wishing it would be over. For added thrills, upgrade to the “VIP Package” aboard gondola number 42: It’s the only one on the wheel that has a glass floor and Italian leather seats.

Montreal Museum of Fine Arts Arrow

The MMFA was founded in 1860 and has since grown into one of the most visited museums in North America; visitors flock from all corners of the globe to view the outstanding permanent collection: some 43,000 works from antiquity to today, much of it on display throughout five pavilions. The enormous institution also hosts seasonal blockbuster exhibitions. Be sure to visit the breathtaking Napoleon collection.

McGill University Arrow

Canada's leading research university occupies a prime piece of picture perfect real estate in central Montreal, nestled between Mount Royal and the skyscrapers of downtown. Whether you're dropping in for a lecture or just passing through on your points elsewhere, spend a little time getting lost amid the buildings here and you'll be rewarded with some serious Hogwarts vibes. Walking up the main entrance from the front gates, you'll be greeted by the inspiring, iconic tableau of the Arts Building cupola framed by Mount Royal; museums and libraries are to your left, and imposing gothic revival classroom buildings to your right. Guided tours are available and depart from the Welcome Center on rue McTavish, just make sure to sign up online as group sizes are limited.

Jessica Puckett

Hannah Towey

Karthika Gupta

Marché Jean-Talon Arrow

In the heart of Little Italy, Jean Talon Market, one of the largest open-air markets in North America, is an unmissable Montreal experience for food lovers. The space, which is full of small shopkeepers, bustles with activity year-round; you'll find local fruit and vegetable growers, butchers, bakers, fishmongers, grocers, and restaurateurs. It's hugely popular with locals and tourists, and if you're looking for old-world charm, there's nothing better.

OASIS Immersion Arrow

There's a deep history of and passion for design and technology in Montreal, and this immersive exhibit held at the Palais des Congres is the largest of its kind in Canada. The show itself is a stunning display of natural landscapes, videos of artists performing and creating, poetry that floats across the screen, and psychedelic designs that transport the audience; the substance of the show itself appeals to adults and children alike. Because you need to book tickets in advance the exhibit never gets too crowded, so you'll be able to keep your distance from others and experience the magic without feeling cramped. Expect to hear lots of "oohs" and "ahs."

Space for Life Arrow

The Montréal Space for Life, home to the Biodôme, Insectarium, Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium, and Botanical Garden, is the largest natural sciences museum complex in Canada. This is a great place to explore and embrace the natural world; don't miss the “Gardens of Light” lantern festival and the dazzling “Butterflies Go Free” event, both held annually at the Botanical Garden.

Cafe Olimpico Arrow

Founded in 1970, Café Olimpico is a European-style café that serves a wonderful selection of coffee, espresso drinks, and Italian pastries. The Mile End landmark is a favorite among hipsters and artists, including Montreal-raised singer-songwriter Rufus Wainwright.

Bota Bota, spa-sur-l’eau Arrow

There are two volumes of conversation allowed at Bota Bota, a floating spa docked in Montreal's Old Port: “quiet” and "silence." Since opening in 2010, it has become an attraction for locals and tourists drawn to its spa treatments and hydrotherapy circuit. You can soak in a mineral-rich hot tub—and perhaps conquer that jet lag—while gazing upon the Downtown core, Mount Royal, and the historic Old Port, all from the river. While admission is typically limited to guests over the age of 18, the spa recently brought back its popular “Pirates Layover,” where children between 12 and 17 can visit on select dates to learn about and experience the benefits of hydrotherapy.

MURAL Festival Arrow

From Mile-End to Griffintown, Montreal is covered with murals. Public art is a huge part of the city’s cultural landscape, and each summer for about ten days, the annual MURAL Festival offers live painting sessions, workshops, and music performances in celebration of the street artists who keep this city (which can be oppressively grey and cold for much of the year) so colorful. Luckily for those of us who can’t make the trip up north during the festival itself, many of the murals are left up year-round. Boulevard Saint-Laurent is now the largest street art corridor in Canada, with works ranging from figurative representations of historic Montrealers to more abstract designs: The MURAL Festival website has a wonderful dynamic map to help you navigate them all.

Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill Arrow

Upstairs, located downtown, is home to many Montreal-based acts, such as renowned drummer Jim Doxas, blues queen Dawn Tyler Watson, and jazz legend Ranee Lee. But international musicians often headline at the club too, which was also the first off-site jazz club to be a part of the Montreal International Jazz Festival; it has also been selected by Downbeat Magazine as one of the world’s 150 most important jazz clubs, so you know there'll always be something good on.

Pointe-à-Callière - Museum of Archaeology and History Arrow

Pointe-à-Callière, the largest archaeology museum in Canada, is built atop the historic Old Montreal sites where the city was founded in 1642. There is lots of drama here, from the excavated remains of the original settlement to interactive video installations. Pointe-à-Callière also presents three to four temporary exhibitions every year.

Saint Joseph's Oratory Arrow

The majestic Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal, one of the world’s great Catholic basilicas, was founded by Saint Brother André, who is credited with thousands of miraculous healings. More than 2 million people visit the pilgrimage site each year (both religious and non-religious), and its dome is the third-largest of its kind in the world after the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace of Yamoussoukro in Côte d'Ivoire and Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome . It's without question one of Montreal's most impressive architectural jewels.

Beyond the Bagel Tour – Museum of Jewish Montreal Arrow

Jewish food historian Kat Romanow knows her bagels, bialys, and rugelachs. Her Beyond the Bagel walking food tour, offered through the Museum of Jewish Montreal, is a highly informative, well-organized romp. The Plateau and Mile End might be known today for their posh hipsters and nightlife hotspots, but this tour pulls back the curtain on the layers of history found in this part of the city. It's a much more fulfilling dive into Montreal cuisine than just grabbing a bagel or smoked meat sandwich on your own. As much of the excursion is outdoors, just note that this one is not generally offered between November and March.

Lachine Canal Arrow

The Lachine Canal flows from the historic buildings of Old Montreal, past the gentrified glass condo buildings of Griffintown, and through the hipster neighborhood of St. Henri before flowing into the industrial areas of Angrignon and Lasalle. Because it cuts through so many residential neighborhoods, you'll get a real glimpse of how Montrealers spend their downtime. On warm summer days, there isn't a better place to go for a jog or walk in the city.

Guidatour's Old Montréal Walking Tour Arrow

Guidatour's professional guides have earned their excellent reputations, and the company's Old Montréal East and Old Montréal West itineraries both stop off at the must-see Notre-Dame Basilica , including an interior visit at no additional charge. Both tours last 90 minutes, and they're best for those looking for a crash course in the history of Montreal. You'll be amazed at how many hidden treasures you stumble upon in such a short time span. As much of Guidatour’s offerings are held outdoors, scheduled tours are generally on hold for the colder months. If you can brave the cold, however, feel free to reach out directly through their website to inquire about setting up a private tour.

Les Tam-Tams du Mont Royal Arrow

Since the mid 1960s, the informal, yet institutionalized, phenomenon known as Tam Tams has been one of the city's quirkiest and most beloved traditions, coming to Mont Royal Park every Sunday during the warmer months. At the base of the George-Étienne Cartier Monument obelisk, groups of friends, strangers, and percussionists from all walks of life gather to form communal drum circles, artisans and craftspeople sell their wares and LARPers (that's, Live Action Role Players) have lightsaber fights and medieval jousting matches.

Cité Mémoire Arrow

Cité Mémoire, the largest outdoor video-projection installation in the world, features 25 tableaux composed of images projected on alley walls, trees and the ground throughout Old Montréal accompanied by narration, and music. The work as a whole tells stories of famous and not-so-famous Montrealers; and they put forward themes and values central to the city's identity. You'll learn about Marguerite Bourgeoys, the French founder of the Congregation of Notre Dame of Montreal, as well as sports icons Jackie Robinson (whose season with the Montreal Royals was important in his breaking of baseball's color barrier) and Maurice Richard. There are also tableaux about The Jewish Children’s Transport train (the orphans who survived Nazi concentration camps and were adopted by Montrealers); the burning of the Parliament in Montreal in 1849; Montreal’s fabled Sin City era (set to the rhythm of Montrealer and jazz icon Oscar Peterson’s piano).

La Banquise Arrow

If you go to just one poutine joint in Montréal, make it la Banquise in the Plateau district a 1968 institution that's known far and wide for its classic and comprehensive poutine menu. You'll find something for everybody here, from meat gravy to vegan sauce. Late night, be prepared for long queues of hungry club-goers.

Cabaret Mado Arrow

Like much of Montreal's Gay Village, Cabaret Mado, a cabaret drag bar, is a little gritty, a little sparkly, and utterly fabulous. Mado, an icon in Quebec's vibrant gay scene who has performed for more than 30 years, often oversees the nightly festivities herself by hosting live drag shows most nights of the week. It's a pretty intimate space, so there isn't a bad seat in the house. Just be warned: Those seated in the front row are most vulnerable to be corralled into the show (willingly or unwillingly).

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The Best Time to Visit Montreal: A Month-by-Month Guide

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“When is the best time to go?” is usually my first question when researching a new destination. Part of the appeal of location independence is not having to suffer through the rainiest, coldest, or most humid parts of the year (all depending on your preferences) in whatever place you choose to call home for the moment. In that spirit, I’ve written this guide to the best time to visit Montreal, one of my recent stomping grounds.

I was parked in Montreal for quite some time, so I’ve experienced the glory of summer, the beauty of fall, and the misery of winter – all multiple times. So without further ado, here is my (subjective) list of the best months to visit Montreal – ranked from worst to best.

12) January: Truly the worst time to visit Montreal

Do not do it. Just don’t. 

Maybe you are picturing some kind of charming, winter wonderland scene in your mind. It’s not impossible. I won’t deny that it’s magical when it happens. 

However! I can count the number of fluffy, sticky snowstorms I’ve experienced in three Montreal winters on my nearly frostbitten fingers. Most of the time there will just be tiny shards of ice flying in your face as you go for a stupid walk for your stupid mental health. 

Look, Montreal is a great cultural city with an impressive, world-renowned food scene, so I’m not saying it would be a complete waste of your time. In early January, you still have some leftover holiday cheer hanging around. (Manage your expectations, though – it’s not a particularly “cheery” town.)

You can go sledding, skating, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing up on Mount Royal. (There is a gear rental service next to Beaver Lake .) Maybe even head to Igloofest (tagline: “the coldest music festival in the world”) at the Old Port. (This takes place over several weekends, some of which usually fall in February.)

Watch the local kids enjoy hockey rinks in every neighborhood park. Warm up in a cozy café or pub to watch the blizzard outside.

Montreal may be described as “European” in pretty much every guide in existence, but this is still Canada, and Canada knows how to do central heating. Bring your layers and the right outerwear, and you’ll be fine.

If it’s really unbearable outside, head to the Underground City . This pedestrian network linking metro stations and shopping malls stretches over 33 kilometers. You can traverse most of the central downtown area, from the Bell Center to Place des Arts, without ever having to face the elements.  

So yeah, if you think this may be the only chance you ever get to visit Montreal, okay, fine. But honestly, there are so many places in the world with perfect weather in January. Pick one, and come back to Montreal literally any other time.

11) February: A close second-to-last, for the same reasons as above

There are certain months when the weather in Montreal can be variable. February is not one of those months. 

It  will  be freezing. (Actually, if we are speaking literally, it will be well below freezing). The muddy, black snow that has accumulated over the past few months  will  be piled higher than the cars parked on the street.

I considered putting February dead last, in fact, because when you live in Montreal, February is undoubtedly the absolute worst. The winter already feels like it has lasted forever, and it’s not even close to over. For a temporary stint, though? I don’t know. At least in February the sun sets after 5:00 p.m. (barely). 

The skating rinks at the Old Port and Beaver Lake (on Mount Royal) are open throughout the month.

February is also typically when the city hosts its magical Montréal en Lumière festival in the Quartier des Spectacles. The event is known for its colorful light installations, theater performances, and dance shows.

As an added bonus – you can find great deals on accommodation at this time of year. A whole lot of rooms built for summer occupancy levels are sitting empty in January and February, so check hotel rates for some serious steals. (…Relatively speaking. Prices are still out of control in this city, but they are  less  out of control in the dead of winter.) Moreover, almost every Montrealer who can afford it will try to escape for somewhere warmer this time of year, so you may luck out on Airbnb as well. 

There is another upside. They say that Montreal has two seasons: winter and construction. These are the only months when you won’t be subjected to the incessant noise of jackhammers and buzz saws, so I guess there’s that. 

10) March: Nope, still terrible

In many places in the northern hemisphere, March is what we might call “spring.” Do not be fooled, sweet naïve newcomer! March is very much still winter in Montreal, and there’s a good chance you’ll find yourself in a proper Canadian snowstorm at this time of year. 

The chance of a spring flower? Pretty much zero, unless we’re talking about the last 3-4 days of the month. And even then, manage your expectations. A tiny purple crocus poking out of the ground here and there is probably the most color you’ll see. There will be nothing on the trees for 2 more weeks at the very least – sometimes nothing blooms until May. 

Any guide that tells you to visit Montreal in March because it’s “shoulder season” is written by someone who’s never been. 

When I think of Montreal in early March, I think of checking the weather and saying “No, stupid phone, show me Fahrenheit.” A beat. Realizing that number IS in Fahrenheit. By the end of the month, much of the snow will have melted, but we are still a long, long way from the radiant summer.

9) November: Getting better, but still far from ideal

I struggled with whether to put November in ninth or tenth place. I decided on ninth because November has been atypically warm the past few years, which may simply be the new normal. A few years ago, we still had beautiful fall colors up until the middle of the month! 

Definitely don’t count on that though. Most of the time, the trees are pretty much bare by Halloween. Skies are typically gloomy, and it’s starting to get pretty cold. (Average high around 6 Celsius/43 Fahrenheit, average low around 0 Celsius/32 Fahrenheit.) 

But it’s okay if you are primarily here to eat and drink. You won’t experience Montreal in its full glory, but you also won’t have to mentally prepare yourself and spend 10 minutes layering up every time you go outside. 

8) April: Not the worst time to visit Montreal, but wait a month if you can

In April, we are starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel. It can still be pretty cold some years, and you may get some snow flurries, but everyone knows it’s almost over. 

Some years, you’ll start to see flowers and buds on the trees by the middle of the month. The mountain trails start to fill up with walkers and families again (rather than just the heartiest winter sports enthusiasts and runners wearing ice cleats). 

You most likely won’t be enjoying your meals on an outdoor terrace just yet, but walking around in a jacket and regular shoes becomes possible in April. The days get longer and longer, and everyone’s mood seems to improve. Spring is either here or almost here. 

7) December: Cold and dark, but cozy during the holidays

December is not a bad time to visit Montreal  if  you like holiday markets , Christmas decorations, and that sort of thing. If not – move it to the bottom of the list, on par with January (although slightly warmer, darker, and generally without the same low season deals on accommodation). 

Even if you live for mulled wine and The Nutcracker in December, you shouldn’t head to Montreal expecting a European holiday market situation. Strasbourg it is not – not even close. It’s still nice though; local artisans sell unique holiday gifts, music plays in the background, and food stalls dish out seasonal (and not-so-seasonal) treats. 

December is also when the city busts out its skating rinks and the famous Luminothérapie light and art festival. 

Montreal has great nightlife, so it’s a fun place to celebrate New Year’s Eve – if you can get past the sub-freezing temperatures and the slushy sludgy streets and the wind that hurts your face. 

6) July: The best time to visit Montreal for summer fun and festivals

July is FUN, no doubt, but I’m putting it mid-list because the chance of an unbearable heat wave is just a little too high for me to recommend it wholeheartedly. This is a city that only recently started experiencing said unbearable heat waves with some regularity, and the air conditioning situation has not entirely caught up. As long as you make sure your accommodation has solid AC where you can cool off and recover at night, though, you should be fine. 

July is peak summer, and summer is peak Montreal – outdoor terraces, festivals, live music – a true joie de vivre , if you will. In a place where it’s winter for a solid half of the year, the fun goes into overdrive in the warm months. 

Some of July’s most famous events include the Montreal International Jazz Festival (which often starts in late June and spills into July) and the Just for Laughs comedy festival, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. (Sadly, Just for Laughs 2024 has been cancelled .)

Check out this year’s summer festival line-up to get an idea. 

5) August: Summer summer summertime. A good choice for the same reasons as July

Ok, there’s still a good chance of some very hot, very sticky weather in August. However , often the worst of the summer heat is over (especially in the second half of the month). You still have the nonstop fun without quite the same risk of heatstroke. (To be clear though, you definitely, definitely still want to book a place with air conditioning in August.)

August’s festivals usually include the weeklong Montreal Pride celebration and the massive Osheaga music festival (Canada’s largest!) at Parc Jean Drapeau, but double check the dates – sometimes they happen in July!

If you like electronic music (but perhaps didn’t love the idea of Igloofest), ÎleSoniq is usually held the weekend after Osheaga.

4) September: Comfortable temperatures and the first glimpse of Montreal’s incredible autumn colors

September is truly a delightful time to visit Montreal. The weather is still summery, but it’s usually not  hot anymore.

Nobody is packing away the outdoor seating just yet, and you can stroll down some of the city’s pedestrianized summer streets for the first few weeks of the month. 

The city’s trees and gardens are still mostly green in September, but some of the very first fall colors start to show up in the second half of the month. If you head up Mount Royal, you will see the really vibrant colors a week or so before the rest of the city. 

The POP Montreal International Music Festival, which showcases independent and emerging talent, takes place at the end of the month. It is much more than a music festival – it features fashion and visual art shows, film, and other events throughout the year.

3) May: The only month with genuinely spring-like weather – and one of the best times to visit Montreal

May is finally springtime in Montreal, and it is absolutely gorgeous. Magnolias, cherry blossoms, and a thousand shades of green brighten the city as the winter finally starts to fade from memory. This is the start of terrasse season – locals who have been cooped up inside for six months are eager to enjoy their leisurely meals and drinks in the fresh air. 

Montreal’s weekly (yep – every Sunday) electronic music festival, Piknic Électronic , kicks off near the end of the month and lasts until October. 

May is also tulip season in Quebec. The Montreal Botanical Garden and the Old Port of Montreal typically host events, but you’ll also find tulips to admire in front gardens all over the city. 

It’s not peak tourist season quite yet, so the accommodation prices hopefully won’t make your eyes pop out of your head either. Overall, May is a fantastic time to visit Montreal. 

2) October: An excellent time to see Montreal’s incredible fall foliage

The weather in Montreal becomes a little unpredictable in October. Sun, rain, light jacket weather, winter coat weather – it’s all possible. What is pretty much guaranteed in October is that the city will be absolutely, breathtakingly gorgeous. Fall foliage lovers, this is your month. October in Montreal is simply wonderful. 

Early in the month, the autumn colors are not out in full force quite yet, but the upside is usually warmer temperatures. Peak foliage varies from year to year, but the second and third week of October are your best bet for bright, colorful leaves that are still mostly on the trees rather than the ground.

So yes, it is starting to get dark early. May and September have nicer weather. June, July, and August are more fun. But… just look at it! Personally, this is my favorite time of year in Montreal. 

Some of my favorite places to enjoy the fall colors are Mount Royal, Angrignon Park , and Montreal’s leafy residential neighborhoods. (I love autumn walks through Mile End, Outremont, NDG, Westmount, and the Plateau.)

We’re nearing the end of Montreal’s lengthy list of annual festivals by the time we get to October, but the Montreal Burlesque Festival is a late season favorite. 

1) June: Overall, the best month to visit Montreal

In June, summer has well and truly arrived in Montreal. The sun sets close to 9 p.m., outdoor tables line the main streets in almost every neighborhood, and seemingly everyone is out and about with friends and family. 

Some of Montreal’s liveliest streets become pedestrian-only walkways from June to early September, including Avenue Mont-Royal in the Plateau and Rue Wellington in Verdun. Go shopping, grab a table at a café, or just sit and people-watch with an ice cream cone in hand.  

It’s also a perfect time of year to hop on a Bixi and explore the city via Montreal’s extensive network of bike paths. 

The weather is  usually  chef’s-kiss-perfect in June. (Think mid-20s Celsius, mid-70s Fahrenheit.) That said – there have been a couple of really oppressive June heatwaves in recent years. Just something to keep in mind when booking your accommodation. 

Montreal’s world-famous International Jazz Festival also starts at the end of the month and typically continues into July. 

Another June highlight is the MURAL festival, which celebrates Montreal’s incredible street art scene with a 10-day concert series. Check out the event schedule and the art, including an interactive map of the newest murals, on the festival website . 

The best time to visit Montreal ultimately depends on you!

Of course, the absolute best time to visit Montreal depends on your preferences and priorities. If you really can’t stand the heat, don’t risk coming June through August. If you’re a music festival lover, on the other hand, you’re just gonna have to brave it! Digital nomads looking for a reasonably-priced sublet – I’m sorry to say, your best bet may just be the dead of winter. 

No matter your priorities, I hope this post has given you a good sense of what to expect at various times of the year. Bonne chance, and enjoy!

Trip booked? Read more about where to eat, stay, and explore in my (subjective) guide to the city’s best neighborhoods .

I’ve also written up itinerary suggestions for 2 days in Montreal if you’re planning a weekend trip or other short city break.

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11 Free Things To Do In Montreal This November

Time to start saving for those holiday presents. 💸

Posing in front of a mural near the Village. Right: Montreal's Grand Marché de Noël.

November, is that you already? The end of fall is near but that does not mean the fun has to end with the cooler weather . While getting out and about in the 514 can often be pricey, living your best life doesn't always mean breaking the bank.

There are plenty of free things to do in Montreal this month, and we're hooking you up with some original options that'll give your mood a boost and your wallet a break until the holiday season.

Attend An Indigenous Art Show

See on Instagram

When: November 12 and 13, from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Where: Espace culturel Georges-Émile-Lapalme, Place des Arts

Why You Should Go: The "Indigenous Open Mic" will include dance, literature, musical shows, an artisan fair and short film projections.

Embrace The Holiday Spirit at Montreal's Christmas Markets

When: All three Montreal Christmas markets open in late November. You can find the schedules here .

• The Grand Marché de Noël de Montréal will be at the Quartier des Spectacles
• The Village de Noël de Montréal will be held at Atwater Market
• The Marché de Noël will be at Jean-Talon Market

Why You Should Go: This year, you can expect lots of free surprises at Montreal's trio of Christmas markets , including film screenings and shows and presentations staging the "realm of the elves."

Go On A Street Art Tour

When: Whenever you feel like it!

Where: Across the city

Why You Should Go: If you like street art and city walks, you can come up with your own itinerary and discover our city's hidden cultural gems for free thanks to the interactive maps by Art Public Montréal and MURAL .

Go Window Shopping At Bazar Vintage

• Bazar Vintage Montreal is on November 19 to 20, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Bazar Vintage du Plateau is on November 12, from 10 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.
• Bazar Vintage Montreal is at Saint-Jean Berchmans Church, 5945, rue Cartier
• Bazar Vintage du Plateau is at Saint-Denis Church, 454, avenue Laurier E.

Why You Should Go: These gatherings are for antique enthusiasts! Over 30 vintage vendors will display their retro gems at both free-to-attend markets. Beware, as you might find it difficult to resist a compulsive buy.

Facebook Event

Watch The Moon Turn Red Over The City At Dawn

When: November 8 at 4 a.m.

Where: Parc Jeanne-Mance

Why You Should Go: A total lunar eclipse is coming this month and you can get a front-row seat to the celestial event! At Parc Jeanne-Mance, you'll have the chance to use telescopes for free. Organizers will accept donations.

Attend Expozine 

When: November 19 and 20, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m

Where: Saint-Arsène Churc, 1025, rue Bélanger

Why You Should Go: This free-to-attend comic book exposition will be back in town so you can see the work of some great local illustrators. Whether you're into novels, zines, magazines, graphic novels or comics, you'll also have the chance to buy some fresh stuff to read.

Party Hard Under The Van Horne

When: November 18 from 4 p.m.

Where: Van Horne skate park, 5855, boulevard Saint-Laurent

Why You Should Go: M for Montréal and Mundial Montreal are joining forces to host a big free-to-attend outdoor party this fall, including live performances, a bar and food trucks.

Pay Tribute To The Offspring At Billy Buck

When: November 12. Doors open at 8 p.m. and the concert starts at 9 p.m.

Where: Billy Buck, 3135, rue Masson

Why You Should Go: Fans of the iconic rock band can attend this live performance by The Igniters, and it's totally free!

Find A New Career Path 

When: November 30, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Where: Holiday Inn Montreal Centre-ville, 999, rue Saint-Urbain

Why You Should Go: If you're looking for a new job, this free job fair in will feature several hiring companies, as well as specialists in employment and career development.

Have A Good Laugh At A Comedy Show

• Open mic is on November 6, 13, 20, and 27, at 12 a.m.
• Soirée d'humour is on November 7 at 8 p.m.
• Open Mic is at 3rd Floor Comedy Club, 2015, rue Crescent
• Soirée d'humour is at Café Les Oubliettes, 6201, rue de Saint-Vallier

Why You Should Go: If you think you're funny enough to entertain a crowd, you could try your luck as a comedian at one of the open mic nights. Alternatively, you can sit and enjoy the jokes at Café Les Oubliettes' Humor Night. It's 100% free but reservations are required.

Master The Art Of Coffee At Hudson's Bay

• November 17 at 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.
• November 26 at 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.
• November 17: La Baie D'Hudson Anjou Galeries, 7895, boulevard des Galeries d'Anjou
• November 26: La Baie D'Hudson Carrefour Laval, 3045, boulevard le Carrefour, Laval, QC

Why You Should Go: Baristas will teach you how to prepare a specialty coffee in this 45-minute free class. Plus, you'll get 50% off on the coffee beans at labaie.com. Reservations are required.

• Montreal's 3 Christmas Markets Are Officially Coming Back — Here's ... ›

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11 free things to do in montreal this weekend, 17 bucket list things to do in montreal this november, 14 free things to do in montreal this weekend, 31 free things to do in montreal this winter, 13 free things to do in montreal this weekend, 19 bucket list things to do in montreal in march to kickstart your spring, 12 free things to do in montreal this weekend, 21 things to do in & around montreal this february, 8 things to do in montreal for when you want to get out but stay inside, 9 free things to do in montreal this weekend, 11 montreal christmas markets to add some sparkle to your holidays.

Montreal   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Pgiam | Getty Images

13 Best Things To Do in Montreal

Updated December 14, 2022

Montréal's museums, landmarks, shopping districts and nightclubs provide plenty of entertainment. For a taste of historic Montréal, spend a day exploring the 18th-century buildings of  Vieux-Montréal , which now house small museums and souvenir

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal) Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal) free

As the site of the original city of Montreal, Vieux-Montréal (accessible from the Orange Line's Place-d'Armes and Champ-de-Mars métro stations) is the hub of the city's culture. Not much has changed in this neighborhood despite the city's rapid urbanization. Horse-drawn carriages traverse cobblestone streets and meander past such notable sites as the Basilique Notre-Dame , the Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall), the Vieux-Port (Old Port) and the Marché Bonsecours (Bonsecours Market).

Here, you'll mingle with Montrealers at sidewalk cafes while overlooking the river, or enjoy the summertime street performers at Place Jacques-Cartier. This is also a popular shopping area (despite the kitschy souvenir shops), and numerous bars and clubs bring Vieux-Montréal to life come sundown. Recent visitors said this area is a must for strolling, eating and experiencing the history of Montreal and feels very European thanks to its beautiful architecture.

Montreal Botanical Garden (Jardin Botanique Montreal) Montreal Botanical Garden (Jardin Botanique Montreal)

Thanks to 10 large greenhouses – each tailored to a specific theme – the 190-acre botanical gardens is home to more than 22,000 species of flora and offers scenic year-round respite from the metropolis' downtown core. Spend some time strolling through the tranquil bonsai trees in the Japanese Garden or learn about the principles of yin and yang in the Chinese Garden, which showcases designs from the 14th to 17th century Ming Dynasty. Outdoor gardens include a colorful rose garden and a stunning alpine garden.

Recent visitors called the garden a must-visit with lots to see. If you're visiting with kids, don't miss the ever-popular toxic plant garden. What's more, the Insectarium is one of the largest insect museums in North America, with more than 250,000 specimens of living and naturalized insects. Permanent exhibits include We Are the Insects, Atta Ants, Butterflies Go Free (a favorite among the garden's youngest visitors) and The BuzzGround, a fun discovery zone especially for kids. Reviewers say the variety is amazing and that kids love visiting.

Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux-Arts) Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux-Arts)

Montreal's most prestigious museum has been building its collection of fine arts for more than 150 years. Feast your eyes on an impressive assortment of Canadian and international works, including pieces by such renowned artists as Rembrandt, El Greco, Renoir, Cézanne and Picasso. Other interesting members of the museum's collection include 18th-century English porcelain, artifacts from World War I and several beautiful pieces of furniture designed by Frank Gehry.

Recent visitors described the exhibits as outstanding and worth the admission price, and highly recommend spending a few hours here if you have the time. There's also a bookstore and restaurant located on-site.

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Parc du Mont-Royal Parc du Mont-Royal free

This 761-foot hill from which Montreal got its name is the largest of the city's parks. Towering over central Montreal (and accessible from the Green Line's Peel métro station or the Orange Line's Mont-Royal métro station), Parc du Mont-Royal is frequented by joggers, picnickers, dog walkers and bicyclists throughout the year. During the warmer months, you can rent row boats to take on the park's  Lac des Castors (Beaver Lake), while the Chalet du Mont-Royal offers breathtaking park and city views any time of year. Also, be sure to stop by the  Croix du Mont-Royal  (Mont-Royal Cross), or the park's two cemeteries (one English and one French).

Recent visitors highly recommended walking up the stairs to the top of the hill for an unbeatable view of the city, but reviewers also warned it's a steep trek.

Jean-Talon Market Jean-Talon Market free

In a world dominated by overly refrigerated, fluorescently lit supermarkets, the Jean-Talon Market is literally a breath of fresh air and one of the largest public markets in North America. Located a block or so off Boulevard Saint-Laurent (accessible from the Blue Line's Jean-Talon métro station), this open-air market entices with the aromas of grilled sausages, Quebecois cheeses, mounds of fresh produce, home-grown spices and handmade chocolates.

Even if you're not looking to buy, recent visitors recommend that you take a stroll through the market to meet and mingle with Montrealers and check out the convivial setting. Others praised the variety saying this is a must-visit for foodies and a great place to find Montreal specialties.

St. Joseph's Oratory (Oratoire Saint-Joseph) St. Joseph's Oratory (Oratoire Saint-Joseph) free

Sitting adjacent to  Mont-Royal , this immense basilica is the highest point in Montreal. Dedicated to St. Joseph, Jesus' earthly father and Canada's patron saint, St. Joseph's Oratory was designed in an Italian Renaissance style with a copper dome rising 318 feet high. The inside of the basilica is decorated with intricately carved murals and thousands of votive candles leading to the crypt. St. Joseph's Oratory receives several million visitors each year (the most devout Catholics climb the basilica's 99 steps on their knees).

Recent visitors agree this stunning basilica is a must-see, for both devoted and secular tourists, calling it spectacular. Recent visitors were particularly fond of the view from the top of the structure. If you'd rather not climb to the top on our two feet, there is a free shuttle that transports visitors from the main entrance on Queen Mary Road to the top.

Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal (Basilique Notre-Dame de Montreal) Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal (Basilique Notre-Dame de Montreal)

It is said that when architect James O'Donnell designed the Notre-Dame Basilica in 1824, he was so moved by the outcome that he himself converted to Catholicism. Constructed in a Gothic Revival style and adorned with intricate statues and tranquil chapels, this grand church can accommodate 3,200 worshippers.

Recent visitors said a trip here is worth it, and highly recommend taking the time to go on a 20-minute guided tour. Reviewers were also complimentary of the "Aura" sound and light show that is offered regularly.

Barbie Expo Barbie Expo free

This whimsical exhibit, in what it bills as the largest permanent collection of Barbie dolls in the world, has more than 1,000 Barbies on display. Many of the dolls have been dressed to the nines by designers such as Christian Dior, Armani, Vera Wang, Bill Blass, Oscar de la Renta and practically any other fashion designer you can think of. There's even a fashion show, with Barbie models on the catwalk, with a Barbie audience in attendance. In addition, special celebrity-themed Barbies, such as Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor and Cher are on display, as well as Barbies designed as movie characters, such as the cast from "The Wizard of Oz" and "The Twilight Saga." Recent visitors said the exhibit is fun, adorable and for many, brings them back to their childhood.

Admission to the museum, which is located in the Les Cours Mont-Royal shopping center, is free. The exhibition is open Monday through Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. There is direct access from the Peel métro into the mall. For more information on the exhibition, visit its official website .

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Montreal Holocaust Museum Montreal Holocaust Museum

This powerful museum's mission is to tell the story of Jewish communities before, during and after the Holocaust. It offers both permanent and temporary exhibits featuring testimonies and objects from survivors to teach visitors about genocide in the past as well as in the present. Recent visitors called the museum humbling and moving, especially the video collection, which is narrated by survivors.

The museum, located near the Côte-Sainte-Catherine métro station (orange line), is open Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It is closed on Saturdays. Admission for adults is CA$8 (about $6) and CA$5 (about $4) for kids 18 and younger. Note that the museum's permanent exhibition is not suitable for children 8 and younger. The museum recommends setting aside between 90 minutes and two hours to tour its exhibitions. For more information, visit the museum's website .

Museum of Archaeology and History (Pointe-à-Callière Museum) Museum of Archaeology and History (Pointe-à-Callière Museum)

Many say that this is the best place to begin discovering Montreal. While the modern architecture may not be typical of a history museum, the real reason to come here is to hop in the elevator and head underground. Here, an archaeological dig revealed the foundations of the city's original settlement, established in the 17th century. You can follow the development of Montreal from its days as a fledgling colony and on up through the present day to an exhibit showing the city's multicultural lifestyle. During the summer, the museum hosts numerous period fairs and festivals.

Recent visitors highly recommend visiting the museum for its excellent exhibits and great staff. Others said it appeals to children as much as adults thanks to an exhibit devoted to pirates.

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Visitor information

When you come for a visit, you’ll find friendly agents at easily accessible points in central Montréal, all ready to assist you in making your visit the greatest and most memorable trip ever.

Official brochures

• Official Tourist Guide : This is your tourist guide to living like a local, with cool businesses, landmarks and attractions.
• Official Tourist Map : You'll find everything you need to experience the city of joie de vivre, neighbourhood by neighbourhood in this tourist map.

Bonjour Québec

Tourism information about Montréal and other Québec regions.

514 873-2015/1 877 BONJOUR (266-5687)

Email | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube  | Twitter | Website #BonjourQuebec

Montréal Tourist Information Office

Tourism information about Montréal. Tourist bus and transit fares and Passeport MTL.

174 Notre-Dame Street East

Metro Champ-de Mars

May 1 to June 15, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; June 16 to August 31, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; September 1 to October 31, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; November 1 to April 30, Thursday to Monday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ( closed from December 24 to January 3 ).

Mobile Tourist Welcome Office

The Mobile Tourism Services Team scours the central districts on foot or on an electric scooter. May 1 to September 30: Daily, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Kahnawà:ke Tourism Welcome Center

1 River Road, Kahnawà:ke

450-635-2929 

Courriel | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Twitter | Site web  

Montréal Professional Tourist Guides Association

The Montréal Professional Tourist Guide Association (APGT) is an NPO representing more than 150 tourist guides, graduates of the AEC Tourist Guide program of the Institut de tourisme et d’hôtellerie du Québec (ITHQ) and holders of a license to the City of Montréal.

Its main mission is to represent its members with the various stakeholders in the Montréal, Québec and international tourism community. The APGT also offers professional development and networking activities to its members in addition to supervising them using a code of ethics and liability insurance coverage. www.apgt.ca

Weather & Climate

Montréal-Trudeau International Airport Guide

Where to Stay in Montreal

Public Transit Guide

48-Hour Itinerary

Day Trips From Montreal

Top Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Shopping in Montreal

Skiing in Montreal

Best Montreal Beaches

Guide to Mount Royal Park

Top Museums to Visit

Live Music in Montreal

Montreal's Iconic Food

Best Bars in Montreal

Top Breweries to Visit

Best Restaurants

The Best Time to Visit

The Best Time to Visit Montreal

 TripSavvy /  Hilary Allison

The Weather in Montreal

Popular events and festivals, peak season in montreal.

• Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit Montreal is during October when the temperatures are mild—not muggy like summer or brutally cold like during the winter—and fall foliage is at its peak. However, this historic Canadian city charms travelers in almost any season, even when the weather is less than ideal.

Choosing the best time to visit Montreal also involves weighing your travel needs and wants with your travel budget and then finding what's available. Read on for more about the best times to visit Montreal.

Montreal temperatures get pretty steamy in summer: Think hot and humid. Temperatures in July and August typically average over 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius) though high humidity can make days feel even hotter. Nevertheless, evenings and waterside locations offer some respite from the heat.

In fall, temperatures drop considerably as the season progresses, but it's still warm enough to enjoy time outside. The average temperature in October is 48 degrees F (9 degrees C). The average high in October is 57 degrees F (14 degrees C), and the average low is 39 degrees F (4 degrees C).

In the winter, the weather is harsh, with temperatures reaching sub-zero consistently. Pack your gloves and parka! Most of Montreal's snowfall occurs from December through March, averaging between 13 and 20 inches per month. Snowstorms can be sudden and intense, affecting traffic and air travel so be prepared for delays and even canceled flights. Spring is a welcome respite from winter in the city, as temperatures begin to creep into the 40s. Pack a rain jacket though, as sudden rain (and yes, even snow) storms are not uncommon.

Many of Montreal's most popular events and festivals take place in the summer months when temperatures are more amenable to spending time outdoors. Among the most popular are the Montreal Jazz Festival, the Canadian Grand Prix, Mondial de la Bière, and the French music fest Les FrancoFolies. 

Additionally, Montreal celebrates the following holidays: New Year's Day (Jan. 1),  Family Day  (the third Monday of February), Good Friday and Easter Monday (March or April), Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day (June 24),  Canada Day  (July 1), La fête Nationale, also known as Bastille Day (July 14), Labour Day  (the first Monday in September),  Thanksgiving  (the second Monday in October), Remembrance Day (Nov. 11),  Christmas Day  (Dec. 25), and Boxing Day (Dec. 26). If you're in town during one of these holidays, be sure to verify opening hours for the restaurants you hope to visit and activities you plan to enjoy.

Summer by far sees the most visitors descending on this unique and historic city, which is best explored on foot. However, if you are not a fan of crowds or big festivals, aim to visit in late spring or June. Of course, with popularity and demand come inflated prices and limited availability. Book Montreal hotels early for summer stays, especially for weekend dates and during festivals. And make reservations well in advance if you're trying to visit any popular restaurants.

A lot of visitors are reluctant to go to Montreal in the winter because of the cold, snow, and ice. And it will be cold, snowy, and icy. However, you can still pack a lot of fun into a chilly Montreal vacation and enjoy its fine food, shopping, and culture. Not to mention outdoor activities, like ice skating, cross-country skiing, or Montreal winter festivals. Montreal is colder and gets more snow than Toronto or New York City. If you're not from a cold climate, the chill and snow of Montreal may be unlike anything you've experienced. Brace yourself but do not be afraid. Your reward for braving the brisk of Montreal? Hotel savings. Rates are cheaper in winter except over the Family Day weekend in February when demand increases. However, because the number of visitors drops off so sharply in winter, much of Old Montreal shuts down. 

Events to Check Out

• Igloofest 's iconic subzero raves are a must-visit in January.
• During Christmas, visit the city's iconic Christmas markets and ice skating rinks.

Spring in Montreal can be dicey. Winter weather can linger into April, meaning temperatures can remain quite cold. But for the most part, you can expect warmer weather, gardens turning green, and a spring returning to Montrealers' steps.

• April is the last month to hit the city's surrounding ski slopes.
• Montreal really loves St. Patrick's Day and hosts a parade and other festivities in March each year.

Peak travel to Montreal occurs between June and September, especially during July and August, the months when most North American schools are out. July and August are also when   Old Montreal  is bustling and the city's festival schedule  is in full swing. Summer weather in Montreal is warm and sunny and perfect for strolling the streets, and tens of thousands of people descend on Montreal to shake their stuff for these festivals and others. If you visit Montreal between June and September, you will have no shortage of open-air activities, public programming, and neighborhood festivities—both big and small scale—to spice up your Montreal stay.

• The Montreal Jazz Festival takes place each summer and is among the city's most popular events.
• Pride Montreal is a multi-day celebration of the city's LGBTQ+ each August.

October—especially early October, but beware of the Thanksgiving holiday—is a beautiful time to visit Montreal. The fall colors are at their peak or just past it, and the weather is cold, but conditions are not bleak or mucky. Some of the best places around the city to see the colorful leaves include: Mount Royal Park, the Montreal Botanical Garden, the Morgan Arboretum, the nearly 400-acre Bois-de-Liesse Park, Parc Jean-Drapeau, Bois de l'Île Bizard, and Parc Angrignon. Old Montreal businesses are still open and comfortably meandering the cobblestone streets is still possible.

• Montreal Botanical Garden hosts its Gardens of Light, an annual event featuring Chinese lanterns and light displays, every October.
• November in Montreal marks the start of the holiday season, plus the city's most popular parade of the year, the Montreal Santa Claus Parade .  

The best time to visit Montreal is fall when the hot summer temperatures have gone down and the crowds have gone home. Late spring is usually pleasant in the city as well, but winter may linger on unexpectedly long.

Summer is by far the busiest time in Montreal. Tourists flock to the city to take advantage of the warm temperatures and summer events, but hotels and flights are at their highest prices.

If you want to avoid the crowds and score some travel deals, head to Montreal in the winter. The weather is intensely cold, but if you can handle the chill then there's a wintry charm to enjoy—not to mention cheap rates at local hotels.

Accuweather. "Montreal, Quebec, Canada Monthly Weather." Retrieved Jan. 29, 2021.

Current Results. "Montreal QC Snowfall Totals & Snow Accumulation Averages." Retrieved Jan. 29, 2021.

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Best time to visit Montreal

Best time of year to visit Montreal

A period from April to September is the best time to visit Montreal . A little bit chilly spring starts with its famous Montreal Nuit Blanche; the temperatures rise and the room rates drop. The tourist season kicks off in warm June and runs till August . Summer is packed with unforgettable festivals like Montreal Cirque Festival, Osheaga Music Festival and, of course, famous Montreal Pride. The air gets chillier after dark, so pack a warm sweater just in case. September usually holds summer temperature, and you are at odds to find nice rooms during autumn. December–February is a rather cold and snowy time in the city, but keep in mind the Underground City beneath the downtown Montreal.

7 THINGS TO DO IN MONTREAL ( JULY 08 - JULY 17 )

Montreal Cirque Festival

The best circus performers from all around the globe perform right in streets of this city

See the unique annual celebration of the First Nations dedicated to the awakening of nature

Just for Laughs Comedy Festival

Meet your favorite comedians and sitcom stars around Montreal during the summer

Piknic Électronik Montréal

Summertime open-air music and dancing in the park

With a beginning of the snow crab season, the seafood restaurants of Quebec become very popular

Canada & New England Cruises

Discover the amazing North Atlantic Coast with its history, national parks, and natural wonders

River Surfing in Montréal

Montréal is famous for its perpetual waves on the St. Lawrence River

35   THINGS TO DO OUT OF SELECTED DATE RANGE

Festival International de Jazz de Montréal

Visit the world's largest jazz festival listed in the Guinness Book of World Records

New Year's Eve

Celebrate the night away in the largest city of Canada's Québec province!

Rogers Cup (Canadian Open)

The third-oldest tennis tournament in the world

Fête des Neiges de Montréal

Experience a winter wonderland on two islands in the middle of the city

Montréal Pride (Fierté Montréal)

Join this stylish, sexy and hot summer event

Montréal en Lumière

One of the largest and most beautiful winter festivals in the world

St. Patrick's Parade

One of the oldest and most popular spring events in Montréal

Tour de l’Île de Montréal

The most important cycling event of the city

Montreal Nuit Blanche

Among other beautiful nights in Montreal, there is one that will definitely be remembered

Christmas Markets in Montréal

Explore charming holiday fairs reflecting rich European Christmas traditions

Snow Geese Spring Migration

This show is perfectly suitable for amateur birdwatchers, as it will let you see birds in their natural habitat and in a very convenient way

Cherry Blossom

Spring blooms dress Montreal in stunning pink

Fall Foliage

See gorgeous fall vibes in Montreal, which is the last to change colors in the province of Quebec

Carifiesta Montreal

Become a part of the Caribbean festival in the heart of Montreal

Christmas Parades & Events

Noël is a special and magical time in the largest city of Québec

Snow Geese Fall Migration

Hundreds of thousands of snow geese cover the skies in Quebec, and you should see this phenomenon at least once in a lifetime

Dîner en Blanc Montréal

When thousands of people have a chic dinner all together

Chinese New Year

Lion dances and traditional food to ring in the Lunar New Year in Montreal Chinatown

The festival that brings best DJs together to warm up cold Montreal winter

Northern Lights

The hunt for elusive aurora borealis starts north of Montreal

Osheaga Music Festival

The world's seventh top grossing festival draws over 130,000 devoted fans from all over North America and Europe

St. Jean Baptiste Day

Quebec's national holiday celebrates the longest day of the year

Maple Taffy

Real Quebecois make maple syrup lollipops with snow

All the spooky, scary and terrifying things to do in October in Montreal

Montréal Comic Con

A paradise for the fans of comics, costuming, gaming, and modern pop culture overall

Grands Prix Cyclistes

Since 2010 this race in Montréal and Québec City has become one of the major sports events in the region

Dog Sledding

As soon as winter begins in Quebec, dog sledding is practiced in every corner of the region

Canadian Grand Prix Montreal

Have yourself an excellent trackside experience!

Montreal Rock 'n' Roll Oasis Marathon

Choose your route and enjoy the run

Je t'Aime en Chocolat

Satisfy your sweet tooth and get all of your Valentine's Day gifts at the Montréal chocolate fair

Ice Fishing

Pêche blanche—this tradition that comes from the indigenous people is an unusual winter activity

Illumi Laval

Marvel at 25 million lights and thousands of larger-than-life light structures

Winter Forest Treks

A great winter activity for nature lovers

This well-known meal is especially delicious in Quebec region as a part of Christmas réveillon

When you think of Quebec, does spa come to mind? Try local Nordic baths with breathtaking landscapes all around

Montreal weather in January

Montreal weather in february, montreal weather in march, montreal weather in april, montreal weather in may, montreal weather in june, montreal weather in july, montreal weather in august, montreal weather in september, montreal weather in october, montreal weather in november, montreal weather in december.