Montréal, Canada’s second-largest city, is a hub of culture, history, and diverse activities. Blending European charm with modern urban flair, this vibrant city offers a little something for everyone, from outdoor adventures to world-class dining. If you’re planning a trip to Montréal, here are the top 10 things you must add to your itinerary for a well-rounded experience.

1. Explore Old Montréal (Vieux-Montréal)

Old Montréal is the heart of the city’s history, featuring architecture dating back to the 17th century. Visitors can admire the stunning Notre-Dame Basilica, renowned for its intricate Gothic Revival architecture and vibrant interior. The Old Port area offers scenic views of the St. Lawrence River, and you can enjoy activities like river cruises or visiting the Pointe-à-Callière Museum, where the city’s history unfolds through archaeological artifacts and multimedia exhibits.

2. Visit Mount Royal

A trip to Montréal wouldn’t be complete without visiting Mount Royal, the volcanic hill that gave the city its name. The park, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted (who also co-designed Central Park), offers trails for hiking, cycling, and even cross-country skiing in winter. The Kondiaronk Belvedere lookout provides stunning panoramic views of the city, especially at sunset. In summer, Mount Royal is a great spot for picnicking and paddle boating on Beaver Lake.

3. Discover the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts

The Montréal Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA) is the largest art museum in Canada, housing over 44,000 works from classical to contemporary art. It showcases renowned artists like Rembrandt, Goya, Picasso, and local Québécois artists. The museum is known for its diverse collection, covering painting, sculpture, and design, and offers temporary exhibits, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

4. Take a Walk Through the Botanical Garden

Montréal’s Botanical Garden is one of the largest in the world, spanning 75 hectares and home to 22,000 species of plants. The garden features a range of themed gardens and greenhouses, including the Chinese and Japanese gardens, and a unique Insectarium. It’s a tranquil retreat from the city, ideal for nature lovers and families.

5. Experience the Montréal Biodome

Located within the Space for Life complex, the Montréal Biodome is a fascinating indoor nature exhibit where visitors can experience five different ecosystems under one roof. From the tropical rainforest to the polar environment, the Biodome allows you to explore a variety of wildlife and plant life, making it a family-friendly destination for those interested in biodiversity and environmental conservation.

6. Wander Through Le Plateau-Mont-Royal

Le Plateau-Mont-Royal is one of Montréal’s trendiest neighborhoods, filled with colorful murals, quirky boutiques, and hip cafés. The area is known for its vibrant art scene and charming residential streets lined with Victorian row houses. It’s a great place to experience Montréal’s laid-back culture while enjoying street art, live music, and some of the city’s best eateries.

7. Indulge in Montréal’s Food Scene

Montréal is famous for its diverse culinary offerings, heavily influenced by French and international flavors. Try the iconic poutine, a comfort dish of fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. You can’t leave without grabbing a Montréal-style bagel from Fairmount or St-Viateur Bagel, thinner and sweeter than their New York counterparts. For smoked meat lovers, head to Schwartz’s Deli, where the city’s renowned smoked meat sandwich has been a staple since 1928.

8. Visit the Montréal Science Centre

Located in the Old Port, the Montréal Science Centre offers interactive exhibits for both children and adults, focusing on science, technology, and innovation. With an IMAX theatre and a range of permanent and temporary exhibitions, it’s a fun and educational stop for families. The center frequently hosts exhibitions on cutting-edge topics such as artificial intelligence and space exploration.

9. Attend a Festival

Montréal is known for its festivals, earning it the nickname “City of Festivals.” If you visit during summer, don’t miss the world-famous Montréal International Jazz Festival, which draws top jazz performers from around the world. Just for Laughs is another huge attraction, the largest international comedy festival, showcasing talent in both French and English. Winter visitors can enjoy Igloofest, an outdoor electronic music festival that turns the Old Port into a party zone despite the cold.

10. Discover Jean-Talon Market

For foodies, the Jean-Talon Market in Little Italy is a must-see. This bustling public market is one of the largest in North America and offers an incredible array of fresh produce, local cheeses, meats, and baked goods. It’s the perfect place to sample Québecois specialties like tourtière (meat pie) or pick up fresh maple syrup and artisanal products. The market is a great way to experience local flavors and interact with farmers and producers.

Montréal is a city of contrasts, blending old-world charm with modern energy. Whether you’re there to enjoy the historic architecture, sample world-class cuisine, or immerse yourself in the lively arts and music scene, Montréal has something to offer every type of traveler.