30+ Things to Do in Montreal: Ultimate Guide to Top Attractions, Food & Festivals

Dating back to the 17th century, the Old Port remains one of the city’s liveliest areas. Walk along the St. Lawrence River, hop on a boat cruise, or ride the giant Ferris wheel for panoramic views. The cobblestone streets, historic warehouses, and buzzing energy make it a favorite for visitors and locals alike. It’s also one of the most iconic spots for a Montreal photoshoot—you’ll capture both the romance of old Europe and the vibrancy of a modern city.

Mount Royal is more than just a hill—it’s the green heart of Montreal. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the same landscape architect behind New York’s Central Park, it’s a place where locals go to hike, picnic, and even cross-country ski. At the top, the Kondiaronk Belvedere offers sweeping views of downtown and beyond. Visiting at sunrise or sunset is magical, especially if you’re looking for dreamy, golden-light photos.

Step inside Notre-Dame Basilica and you’ll be amazed by its dramatic Gothic Revival architecture. The deep blue vaulted ceiling, studded with golden stars, creates a sense of awe the moment you enter. Light and sound shows bring the history of the basilica to life, making it a must on any list of Montreal things to do. For photos, its striking interior and colorful stained glass windows are simply unforgettable.

As one of the oldest streets in the city, Saint-Paul Street is bursting with character. Galleries, boutiques, and sidewalk cafés give it a distinctly European flair. Whether you’re window-shopping or sitting down with a coffee, this pedestrian-friendly street is an essential stop for soaking up the atmosphere. Couples especially love it for romantic photoshoots, with cobblestones and historic facades as the backdrop.

Sitting on the western slope of Mount Royal, Saint Joseph’s Oratory is one of the largest churches in the world. Its huge dome is visible from across the city, while its peaceful gardens and votive chapel provide a serene atmosphere. Pilgrims climb its grand staircase on their knees, while visitors admire the sweeping views of Montreal from its terrace.

Montreal’s iconic steel bridge isn’t just for drivers. Pedestrians and cyclists can cross it too, rewarded with breathtaking views of the city and river. In summer, the bridge is lit up with a dazzling array of colors thanks to interactive lighting technology. Watching the skyline glow while crossing the bridge is an experience to remember.

Built on the very spot where Montreal was founded, Pointe-à-Callière is both a history and archeology museum. Visitors can walk through centuries-old ruins, learn about the city’s Indigenous roots, and experience multimedia shows that bring Montreal’s past to life. It’s a fascinating way to understand how the city grew from a fur trading post to the cultural hub it is today.

Photo by pacmusee.wc.ca

The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is one of Canada’s most prestigious cultural institutions. With collections spanning everything from Old Masters to contemporary works, there’s something for every art lover. Beyond the exhibits, the museum’s architecture itself is stunning, with historic and modern buildings connected seamlessly.

Photo by mbam.qc.qa

This large urban park is beloved for its shaded walking trails, ponds with ducks, and open green spaces. In the summer, locals flock here for picnics and outdoor theater performances, while in the winter, the ponds become charming ice-skating rinks. Families especially enjoy the relaxed vibe, and photographers love capturing candid shots of laughter and play here.

The Lachine Canal stretches for 14 kilometers, offering one of the city’s best cycling and walking paths. Along the way, you’ll find public art, charming industrial architecture, and plenty of spots to stop for a bite. In summer, you can even rent a kayak or paddleboard. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the outdoors without leaving the city center.

Sweeter, denser, and chewier than their New York counterparts, Montreal bagels are legendary. Baked in wood-fired ovens, they’re best enjoyed hot, straight out of the bag. St-Viateur and Fairmount are the two bakeries that locals swear by, and a visit to either is practically a rite of passage.

A dish that started as Quebecois comfort food has become a worldwide icon. Classic poutine consists of French fries topped with squeaky cheese curds and smothered in rich brown gravy. In Montreal restaurants, you’ll also find creative versions topped with smoked meat, foie gras, or even lobster.

Schwartz’s Deli has been serving its world-famous smoked meat sandwiches since 1928. Thick slices of spiced, smoked beef are piled high on rye bread, topped with mustard. It’s messy, indulgent, and completely worth the wait in line.

Bursting with color and life, Jean-Talon Market is the place to taste Quebec’s bounty. From fresh berries and maple syrup to artisanal cheeses and seasonal specialties, it’s both a local shopping spot and a tourist attraction. The vibrant stalls also make for fantastic lifestyle photography.

With its Art Deco building and bustling stalls, Atwater Market is known for gourmet treats. Butchers, bakers, and cheesemongers here sell some of the finest local products. It’s a paradise for anyone who loves food photography—or simply loves to eat.

While Montreal steak spice has international fame, its lesser-known cousin, Montreal chicken seasoning, deserves attention too. With a fragrant blend of herbs and spices, it’s perfect for grilled poultry and veggies. Many local shops sell blends to take home as a tasty souvenir.

Montreal has embraced craft brewing with enthusiasm. Popular spots like Dieu du Ciel! or Le Saint Bock are always buzzing. From hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, you’ll find flavors to suit every palate.

Food in Montreal isn’t just sustenance—it’s an art form. French bistros, trendy fusion restaurants, and cozy eateries make dining out an adventure. Whether you’re indulging in a seven-course tasting menu or grabbing late-night bites, the variety ensures there’s something for everyone.

In spring, locals head to sugar shacks, or “cabanes à sucre,” in the countryside around Montreal. Here you’ll enjoy hearty meals of ham, pancakes, baked beans, and of course, maple syrup poured over everything—including fresh snow to make maple taffy.

No visit is complete without trying Montreal seasoning, the iconic spice blend that began at Schwartz’s Deli. Perfect on steaks, roasted veggies, or even sprinkled on eggs, it’s a taste of the city that you can bring back home.

Every summer, downtown Montreal transforms into one giant stage for the Montreal Jazz Festival. With over a thousand concerts, many of them free, it’s a chance to hear both jazz legends and up-and-coming performers. The atmosphere is electric, and the festival draws music lovers from all over the world.

For three days in June, the Montreal Grand Prix brings Formula 1 excitement to the city. Held on the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, it’s as much a social event as a race. Streets come alive with parties, events, and a contagious sense of energy.

Osheaga is one of North America’s biggest indie and pop music festivals, attracting top artists and thousands of fans. Set in Parc Jean-Drapeau, it combines music with beautiful views of downtown Montreal.

Winter doesn’t slow Montreal down—it ramps it up. Igloofest is an outdoor electronic music festival where revelers dance in snow gear under the stars. With DJs, ice bars, and glowing visuals, it’s one of the coolest Montreal attractions, literally and figuratively.

Photo by Montreal City News

Montreal’s Underground City, or RESO, stretches over 32 kilometers beneath downtown. It’s a network of tunnels connecting malls, hotels, offices, and metro stations. In the depths of winter, it’s a lifesaver for locals and visitors alike, offering warmth, shopping, and surprises around every corner.

Photo by MTL Detours

From the towering murals of Boulevard Saint-Laurent to hidden gems in alleyways, Montreal’s street art is world-renowned. The annual MURAL Festival brings artists from across the globe, turning the city into a massive outdoor gallery.

One of the largest in the world, Montreal’s Botanical Garden is home to themed gardens like the Chinese and Japanese Gardens. Each season offers a different experience—from blooming tulips in spring to lantern festivals in autumn.

This unique spa is housed on a converted ferryboat docked on the St. Lawrence River. Guests can soak in outdoor hot tubs, enjoy saunas, or book massages—all with views of Old Montreal.

Photo by Bota Bota

Montreal’s Little Italy is filled with authentic trattorias, espresso bars, and pastry shops. In summer, outdoor terraces come alive with chatter, and you’ll feel transported straight to Europe.

Photo by GPSmyCity

With so many Montreal attractions offering stunning backdrops, why not take the opportunity to capture your story with a professional photographer? Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, a photoshoot transforms fleeting moments into timeless memories. Old Port, Mount Royal, and the Botanical Garden are just a few of the locations where Montreal shines on camera.

Couple photoshoot by Priscila, Localgrapher in Montreal