Montreal Travel Guide
Montreal Travel Guide – prepare your trip to Montreal with our practical guide: where to go, what to do, food, rooftops, how to get around, safety and more. Travel to Montreal!
Montreal is a popular destination for tourists from around the world, with its rich history, cultural diversity, and vibrant arts and entertainment scene. The city is especially known for its European charm, with its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and French-inspired cuisine. Visitors can explore the city’s many museums and galleries, attend festivals and concerts, or simply relax and enjoy the city’s laid-back atmosphere.
One of the main draws of Montreal is its cultural events, which take place throughout the year. The city hosts a number of music festivals, including the Montreal Jazz Festival, which attracts top jazz musicians from around the world, and the Osheaga Music and Arts Festival, which features popular bands and artists from a range of genres. Montreal is also known for its winter festivals, such as the Montreal High Lights Festival, which includes light shows, concerts, and outdoor activities. Other popular events in Montreal include the Montreal International Fireworks Competition, the Just for Laughs Comedy Festival, and the Montreal Pride Festival. With so many events and activities to choose from, Montreal is a great destination for tourists looking to immerse themselves in a vibrant and exciting culture.
Travel to Montreal
The best time to go – the 4 seasons in Montreal
Here’s an overview of what to expect in Montreal’s four seasons:
Spring (March to May): Spring in Montreal can be unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from cool to mild. However, the city comes to life with the arrival of warmer weather, and the many outdoor cafes and restaurants start to open up. Spring is also the time when Montreal’s many parks and gardens start to bloom, making it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Montreal, with warm temperatures, long days, and plenty of festivals and events. The city’s many parks and outdoor spaces are popular spots for picnics and outdoor concerts, and there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the city’s rich arts and culture scene.
Fall (September to November): Fall in Montreal is a beautiful time, with mild temperatures and stunning foliage. It’s a great time to explore the city’s many museums and galleries, and to sample some of the city’s famous fall foods, such as pumpkin pie and apple cider.
Winter (December to February): Montreal winters can be cold and snowy, but the city comes alive with winter festivals and activities, such as the Montreal High Lights Festival and the Montreal Ice Festival. It’s also a great time to experience some of the city’s famous winter sports, such as ice skating and skiing.
Visa and entry requirements
Here are the visa requirements for some common nationalities:
Americans: US citizens do not need a visa to enter Canada for tourism or business purposes. However, they do need to have a valid passport or other travel document.
Europeans: Citizens of most European Union countries, as well as Switzerland, do not need a visa to visit Canada for tourism or business purposes for stays of up to 6 months. However, they do need to have a valid passport or other travel document.
Other nationalities: Citizens of other countries may need a visa to visit Canada. The visa requirements vary depending on the country, the purpose of the visit, and the length of the stay. You can check the visa requirements for your specific nationality on the website of the Canadian government or by contacting the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate.
It’s important to note that even if you don’t need a visa, you may still need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before traveling to Canada. This is a simple online process that is required for visitors from visa-exempt countries, including the United States and many European countries.
From the airport to the city center
If you are landing at Montreal–Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport and want to get to the city center, there are several transportation options available:
Taxi: Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal and can take you to the city center in about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The cost of a taxi ride from the airport to the city center is typically between $40-$50 CAD.
Public transit: The STM (Société de transport de Montréal) operates a bus service from the airport to the city center. The 747 Express Bus runs 24/7 and takes passengers to the Berri-UQAM station, which is a major transportation hub in the city. The cost of a one-way fare on the 747 Express Bus is $10 CAD, and it can be purchased with cash or credit card on the bus.
Airport shuttle: Several companies operate airport shuttle services that can take you directly to your hotel in the city center. The cost of an airport shuttle ride varies depending on the company and the location of your hotel, but it typically ranges from $15-$30 CAD per person.
Car rental: If you plan to explore the city and its surrounding areas, you may want to consider renting a car at the airport. Several car rental companies have offices at the airport, and rates vary depending on the type of vehicle and the length of the rental.
The best ways to get around Montreal
Montreal has a variety of transportation options for getting around the city, depending on your budget and travel preferences. Here are some of the best ways to get around Montreal:
Metro: Montreal’s metro system is fast, efficient, and affordable. It covers most of the city and is a great option for getting around quickly and easily. The metro runs from approximately 5:30am to 1am, with trains arriving every few minutes during peak hours. A single ride on the metro costs $3.50 CAD, or you can purchase a day pass for $10 CAD or a weekly pass for $25.75 CAD.
Bus: Montreal’s bus system is extensive and covers areas that the metro doesn’t reach. It’s a good option for exploring different neighborhoods or getting to attractions outside of the city center. A single ride on the bus costs $3.50 CAD, or you can purchase a day pass or weekly pass that includes unlimited bus and metro rides.
Bixi: Bixi is a bike-sharing system that allows you to rent a bike from one location and return it to another. It’s a great option for exploring the city’s many bike paths and parks. A 24-hour pass costs $5 CAD, and you can rent a bike for up to 30 minutes at a time without any extra fees.
Taxi and rideshare: Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Montreal. They’re a good option for getting around quickly or for traveling to areas that aren’t well-served by public transit. Taxis and rideshares are metered, with fares starting at around $3.45 CAD plus additional charges based on distance and time.
Walking: Montreal is a walkable city, with many attractions located close together. Walking is a great way to explore the city’s neighborhoods and discover hidden gems. Plus, it’s free!
Exploring the neighbourhoods in Montreal
Montreal is a city with many diverse and vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and points of interest. Here’s a brief presentation for each of Montreal’s main neighborhoods:
Old Montreal: Old Montreal is the historic heart of the city, with cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and charming cafes and restaurants. Some of the main attractions in Old Montreal include the Notre-Dame Basilica, the Old Port, and the Montreal Science Centre. The neighborhood is also home to many art galleries and boutique shops.
Downtown: Downtown Montreal is the commercial and financial center of the city, with many high-rise office buildings, shopping centers, and restaurants. Some of the main attractions in downtown Montreal include the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, the Montreal Symphony Orchestra, and the Bell Centre, which is home to the Montreal Canadiens hockey team.
Plateau-Mont-Royal: The Plateau-Mont-Royal is a trendy and bohemian neighborhood that is home to many artists, musicians, and students. Some of the main attractions in the Plateau-Mont-Royal include Mount Royal Park, which offers stunning views of the city, as well as the many cafes, bars, and restaurants along Saint-Denis and Saint-Laurent streets.
Mile End: Mile End is a multicultural and artistic neighborhood that is home to many young professionals and families. Some of the main attractions in Mile End include the many boutique shops and cafes along Saint-Laurent Boulevard, as well as the beautiful architecture and street art in the neighborhood.
Griffintown: Griffintown is a rapidly developing neighborhood that was once an industrial area. Today, it is home to many trendy cafes, bars, and restaurants, as well as several new condo developments. Some of the main attractions in Griffintown include the Lachine Canal, which offers scenic bike paths and walking trails, as well as the many art galleries and boutique shops in the neighborhood.
Quartier Latin: The Quartier Latin is a lively and colorful neighborhood that is home to many students and artists. Some of the main attractions in the Quartier Latin include the many theaters and performance spaces, as well as the many cafes and restaurants that line Saint-Denis Street.
Attractions and things to do in Montreal
Top attractions to see in Montreal
Here are some of the top attractions that you should consider visiting during your trip to Montreal:
Notre-Dame Basilica: This magnificent cathedral is one of Montreal’s most iconic landmarks, with its stunning interior featuring intricate wood carvings, colorful stained glass windows, and a beautiful pipe organ. Admission to the basilica costs $8 CAD for adults and $6 CAD for seniors and students.
Old Montreal: This historic district is a must-see for any visitor to Montreal, with its cobblestone streets, 17th-century buildings, and charming cafes and restaurants. It’s a beautiful area to stroll through and explore, and admission to the district is free.
Mont-Royal: This stunning park is located in the heart of the city and offers breathtaking views of Montreal. Visitors can hike to the top of the mountain, picnic in the park, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery. Admission to the park is free.
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts: This world-class museum features an impressive collection of artwork from around the world, including works by Canadian artists and European masters. Admission to the museum costs $24 CAD for adults, $20 CAD for seniors, and $12 CAD for students.
The Montreal Botanical Garden: This stunning garden is home to over 22,000 plant species from around the world. Visitors can stroll through the various gardens, including a Japanese garden and a rose garden, and take in the beautiful sights and smells. Admission to the garden costs $21.75 CAD for adults, $18.50 CAD for seniors, and $10.75 CAD for students.
The Montreal Biosphere: This museum is dedicated to environmental education and features interactive exhibits on climate change, renewable energy, and sustainable living. Admission to the museum costs $15 CAD for adults, $13 CAD for seniors, and $10 CAD for students.
The Biodome: This indoor nature museum is located in the Olympic Park and features four ecosystems from the Americas, including a tropical rainforest, a Laurentian maple forest, a Gulf of St. Lawrence marine ecosystem, and a penguin habitat. Admission to the Biodome costs $21.75 CAD for adults, $18.50 CAD for seniors, and $10.75 CAD for students.
The Montreal Science Centre: This interactive museum is located in the Old Port and features exhibits on science and technology, including virtual reality experiences, a giant screen theater, and a human body exhibit. Admission to the museum costs $16.50 CAD for adults, $14 CAD for seniors, and $12 CAD for students.
Fun things to do in Montreal
Montreal is a city that offers a wide variety of fun things to do for visitors of all ages and interests. Here are some of the top fun activities that you should consider doing during your trip to Montreal:
Attend a Festival: Montreal is a city that loves to celebrate, and there are numerous festivals and events throughout the year. Some of the most popular festivals include the Montreal Jazz Festival, Just for Laughs Comedy Festival, Montreal International Fireworks Competition, and the Montreal Pride Festival.
Explore the Food Scene: Montreal is known for its delicious and diverse food scene, with everything from French-inspired cuisine to poutine and bagels. Take a food tour to sample some of the best eats in the city or explore the many food markets, such as Jean-Talon Market and Atwater Market.
Take a Bike Ride: Montreal is a bike-friendly city with many dedicated bike lanes and paths. Rent a Bixi bike or bring your own and explore the city’s many parks and bike paths, such as the Lachine Canal and the Mount Royal Park.
Visit a Museum: Montreal has many world-class museums, such as the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, the Montreal Science Centre, and the Montreal Museum of Contemporary Art. Many of these museums offer interactive exhibits and activities that are fun for visitors of all ages.
Enjoy the Outdoors: Montreal is a city that loves to be outdoors, with many parks and green spaces to explore. Visit Mount Royal Park for a hike or a picnic, take a stroll along the Lachine Canal, or enjoy a day at the beach at the Jean-Doré Beach in Parc Jean-Drapeau.
Experience the Nightlife: Montreal is known for its vibrant and diverse nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and music venues to choose from. Check out the trendy bars in the Plateau-Mont-Royal or the jazz clubs in Old Montreal for a fun night out.
Montreal has many fun activities to offer visitors, whether you’re interested in festivals, food, museums, nature, or nightlife. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to have a memorable trip to this exciting city.
Free and fun things to do in Montreal
Montreal has many fun and free activities that visitors can enjoy, making it an affordable and accessible destination for travelers. Here are some of the best free and fun things to do in Montreal:
Visit a Museum: Many of Montreal’s museums offer free admission at certain times or on certain days of the week. For example, the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is free on the last Sunday of every month, and the Montreal Museum of Contemporary Art is free on Wednesday evenings.
Explore the Parks: Montreal has many beautiful parks and green spaces that are free to visit. Mount Royal Park is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking, while Jean-Drapeau Park is home to a beach, bike paths, and a lake.
Take a Walking Tour: Montreal is a city with a rich history and culture, and there are many free walking tours available that can help you explore the city’s many neighborhoods and landmarks. Some popular walking tours include the Old Montreal Walking Tour and the Plateau-Mont-Royal Walking Tour.
Attend a Festival: Montreal is known for its many festivals and events, many of which offer free activities and performances. The Montreal Jazz Festival, Just for Laughs Comedy Festival, and the Montreal Pride Festival are just a few of the many events that visitors can enjoy for free.
Discover Public Art: Montreal is home to many beautiful public art installations, from murals and sculptures to street performances and installations. Take a stroll through the city and discover the many creative works that are on display.
Enjoy Free Concerts: Many parks and public spaces in Montreal host free concerts and performances throughout the summer months. Check out the Quartier des Spectacles website for a schedule of free events and concerts.
Fun things to do with kids and teens in Montreal
Montreal is a great destination for families with kids and teens, as there are many fun and exciting activities to enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do with kids and teens in Montreal:
Fun Things to Do with Kids:
Visit the Montreal Biodome: The Montreal Biodome is a popular attraction for families with kids, as it offers the chance to see animals and plants from different ecosystems, such as a tropical rainforest, a Laurentian maple forest, and a Gulf of St. Lawrence marine ecosystem. Admission to the Biodome costs $21.75 CAD for adults, $18.50 CAD for seniors, and $10.75 CAD for students.
Explore the Montreal Science Centre: The Montreal Science Centre offers interactive exhibits on science and technology, including virtual reality experiences, a giant screen theater, and a human body exhibit. Admission to the museum costs $16.50 CAD for adults, $14 CAD for seniors, and $12 CAD for students.
Have Fun at La Ronde: La Ronde is an amusement park located on Île Sainte-Hélène, with many rides and attractions for kids of all ages. Admission to the park costs $68.99 CAD for adults and $54.99 CAD for children.
Take a Stroll through the Botanical Garden: The Montreal Botanical Garden is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit with kids, with many different gardens to explore, including a Japanese garden and a rose garden. Admission to the garden costs $21.75 CAD for adults, $18.50 CAD for seniors, and $10.75 CAD for students.
Fun Things to Do with Teens:
Visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts: The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is a world-class museum that features an impressive collection of artwork from around the world, including works by Canadian artists and European masters. Admission to the museum costs $24 CAD for adults, $20 CAD for seniors, and $12 CAD for students.
Explore the Plateau-Mont-Royal: The Plateau-Mont-Royal is a trendy and bohemian neighborhood that is popular with teenagers. Stroll along Saint-Laurent and Saint-Denis streets to explore the many cafes, bars, and shops, or visit Mount Royal Park for a hike or a picnic.
Take a Bike Ride: Montreal is a bike-friendly city with many dedicated bike lanes and paths. Rent a Bixi bike or bring your own and explore the city’s many parks and bike paths, such as the Lachine Canal and the Mount Royal Park.
Try Something New: Montreal is a city that loves to experiment and try new things, and there are many unique and offbeat activities that teenagers might enjoy, such as escape rooms, indoor rock climbing, and street art tours.
Experience Montreal like a local
Here are some of the things that locals like to do in Montreal, as well as some customs and ways of life that are characteristic of the city:
Enjoy the Food Scene: Montreal is known for its diverse and delicious food scene, and locals love to explore the many restaurants, cafes, and food markets that the city has to offer. From French-inspired cuisine to bagels and poutine, there’s always something new and exciting to try.
Celebrate the Seasons: Montreal is a city that experiences four distinct seasons, and locals embrace each one with enthusiasm. In the summer, there are many festivals and outdoor activities to enjoy, while in the winter, the city comes alive with ice skating, sledding, and other winter sports.
Embrace Multiculturalism: Montreal is a city with a rich history of immigration, and locals embrace the diversity of cultures and traditions that make up the city’s fabric. From festivals and celebrations to neighborhood markets and cultural events, Montreal is a place where different cultures come together to create something unique and vibrant.
Speak Both English and French: Montreal is a bilingual city, with both English and French spoken by many locals. While the city is predominantly French-speaking, many locals also speak English fluently and appreciate the opportunity to use both languages in their daily lives.
Love the Outdoors: Montreal is a city that loves to be outdoors, and locals take advantage of the many parks, bike paths, and outdoor activities that the city has to offer. From hiking and picnicking in Mount Royal Park to exploring the Lachine Canal on a bike ride, there’s always something new to discover in Montreal’s great outdoors.
Food and drinks in Montreal
Traditional dishes of Montreal where to try them
Montreal has a rich culinary tradition, and there are many traditional dishes that visitors should try during their visit. Here are some of the most popular traditional dishes of Montreal, and where to find them:
Smoked Meat Sandwich: Schwartz’s Deli is the most famous spot in Montreal for smoked meat sandwiches. They have been serving their signature sandwich since 1928 and are a must-visit for anyone who wants to try this classic Montreal dish.
Poutine: La Banquise is a popular spot for poutine, with a wide variety of toppings and variations to choose from. It’s open 24 hours a day, so it’s the perfect spot for a late-night snack after a night out in Montreal.
Bagels: St-Viateur Bagel and Fairmount Bagel are two of the most famous Montreal-style bagel bakeries in the city. Both bakeries use wood-fired ovens to bake their bagels, and offer a variety of flavors and toppings.
Tourtière: The Montreal-style tourtière is a traditional meat pie that is often served during the holiday season. Chez Doval is a popular spot for tourtière in Montreal, with their recipe passed down through generations of family.
Sugar Pie: Rustique Pie Kitchen is a popular bakery in Montreal that offers a delicious sugar pie made with local maple syrup. It’s the perfect spot to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Montreal’s iconinc restaurants
Montreal has a thriving culinary scene, with many iconic restaurants that have become staples of the city’s food culture. Here are some of the most iconic restaurants in Montreal that are worth a visit:
Joe Beef: Joe Beef is a restaurant in the Little Burgundy neighborhood of Montreal that is known for its inventive and creative cuisine. The restaurant is named after a 19th-century Irish-Canadian innkeeper and is famous for its dishes that feature local and seasonal ingredients.
Au Pied de Cochon: Au Pied de Cochon is a Montreal institution that is famous for its decadent and indulgent dishes, such as foie gras poutine and duck in a can. The restaurant’s chef, Martin Picard, is known for his love of excess and his dedication to using local ingredients.
L’Express: L’Express is a classic French bistro located in the Plateau-Mont-Royal neighborhood of Montreal. The restaurant has been serving classic French dishes, such as steak frites and escargots, since 1980 and is a favorite of locals and tourists alike.
Stash Cafe: Stash Cafe is a Polish restaurant located in the heart of Old Montreal. The restaurant has been serving traditional Polish dishes, such as pierogis and kielbasa, since 1977 and has become a beloved institution in the city.
Wilensky’s Light Lunch: Wilensky’s Light Lunch is a classic Montreal diner that has been serving its famous Wilensky Special sandwich since 1932. The sandwich features a combination of beef salami and bologna on a steamed roll with mustard, and is a must-try for anyone visiting Montreal.
Montreal best rooftops
Montreal has many beautiful rooftop bars and terraces that offer stunning views of the city’s skyline and are perfect for enjoying a drink or a meal in the open air. Here are some of the best rooftops in Montreal:
Terrasse Nelligan: Located in the heart of Old Montreal, Terrasse Nelligan is a rooftop terrace that offers panoramic views of the city’s historic district. The terrace is part of the Hotel Nelligan and features a bar and restaurant that serves Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.
Terrasse sur l’Auberge: Terrasse sur l’Auberge is a rooftop terrace located on top of the Auberge du Vieux-Port hotel in Old Montreal. The terrace offers views of the St. Lawrence River and the city’s skyline and is a popular spot for cocktails and small bites.
La Terrasse at Hotel William Gray: La Terrasse at Hotel William Gray is a rooftop bar and restaurant located in the heart of Old Montreal. The terrace offers stunning views of the city’s skyline and features a menu of Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and craft cocktails.
Terrasse Place d’Armes: Terrasse Place d’Armes is a rooftop terrace located on top of the Hotel Place d’Armes in Old Montreal. The terrace offers views of the city’s skyline and features a bar and restaurant that serves classic French cuisine and creative cocktails.
Terrasse St-Ambroise: Terrasse St-Ambroise is a rooftop terrace located in the St-Henri neighborhood of Montreal. The terrace is part of the McAuslan Brewery and features views of the Lachine Canal and the city’s skyline. The terrace serves a variety of craft beers and pub-style food.
The cool bars in Montreal
Montreal is known for its vibrant nightlife, with many cool bars and clubs that cater to all tastes and preferences. Here are some of the best bars in Montreal and where to find them:
Bar Renard: Bar Renard is a cozy bar located in the Plateau-Mont-Royal neighborhood of Montreal. The bar features classic cocktails and a rotating selection of craft beers and has a speakeasy vibe.
Big in Japan Bar: Big in Japan Bar is a popular spot located in the Plateau-Mont-Royal neighborhood. The bar has a Japanese-inspired decor and serves an extensive selection of sake and Japanese whiskey.
SuWu: SuWu is a trendy bar located in the Mile End neighborhood of Montreal. The bar features a retro-chic decor and serves a selection of craft cocktails, beer, and wine.
Terrasse William Gray: Located in the heart of Old Montreal, Terrasse William Gray is a rooftop bar and restaurant that offers stunning views of the city’s skyline. The bar features a selection of creative cocktails and a menu of Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.
Le 4e Mur: Le 4e Mur is a hidden gem located in the Griffintown neighborhood of Montreal. The bar is tucked away behind an unmarked door and features a menu of classic cocktails and small plates.
Le Mal Nécessaire: Le Mal Nécessaire is a basement bar located in the Chinatown neighborhood of Montreal. The bar has a tropical vibe and serves a variety of creative cocktails and Asian-inspired small plates.
What not to do in Montreal: things to avoid
there are some things that visitors should be aware of and avoid in order to have a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some things to avoid when visiting Montreal:
Not Respecting the French Language: Montreal is a bilingual city, with both French and English spoken by many locals. While many people in the city speak both languages, it is important to show respect for the French language and culture by trying to use basic French phrases and being mindful of bilingual signage.
Not Paying Attention to Pickpockets: Like any major city, Montreal has its share of pickpockets and thieves. Visitors should be vigilant and keep a close eye on their belongings, especially in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation.
Not Dressing for the Weather: Montreal experiences four distinct seasons, and visitors should be prepared for the weather conditions during their visit. In the winter, temperatures can drop below freezing, so it is important to dress in warm layers and bring appropriate winter gear.
Not Following Traffic Rules: Montreal has a reputation for aggressive drivers and chaotic traffic. Visitors should be cautious when crossing the street and follow traffic signals to avoid accidents.
Not Tipping Properly: In Montreal, tipping is a common practice and is expected at restaurants, bars, and other service establishments. Visitors should be aware of the standard tipping rate, which is typically around 15-20% of the total bill.
Shopping, taxes and tipping in Montreal
When shopping in Montreal, visitors should be aware of the tax system in the province of Quebec. The province has a provincial sales tax (PST) of 9.975% and a federal goods and services tax (GST) of 5%. The two taxes are added together to create the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST), which is currently set at 14.975%. This means that visitors will pay an additional 14.975% on top of the listed price of goods when making a purchase.
When it comes to paying for food in Montreal, it is important to understand the tipping and service charges. In restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip of around 15-20% of the total bill for good service. It is also common for restaurants to add a service charge of around 15% to the bill for larger groups or during peak hours. This service charge is not a tip, and visitors should still leave a tip on top of the service charge if they feel the service was exceptional.
In some cases, such as at a bar or a cafe, visitors may be expected to leave a small tip of around $1-$2 per drink or order. It is also common for taxi drivers and hairdressers to receive a tip of around 10-15% of the total cost of the service.
Safety and security in Montreal
Montreal is generally a safe and welcoming city, with a low crime rate compared to other major cities in North America. However, visitors should still take certain precautions to ensure their safety and security during their trip. Here are some tips for staying safe in Montreal:
Be Vigilant in Tourist Areas: Like any major city, tourist areas in Montreal can attract pickpockets and scammers. Visitors should keep a close eye on their belongings and be aware of their surroundings in crowded areas.
Use Common Sense: Visitors should use common sense when walking around the city, such as staying in well-lit areas at night, avoiding dark alleys, and not leaving valuables in plain sight in their car.
Be Aware of Traffic: Montreal has a reputation for aggressive drivers, and visitors should be cautious when crossing the street and follow traffic signals to avoid accidents.
Know the Emergency Numbers: Visitors should know the emergency phone numbers for Montreal, including 911 for emergencies and 311 for non-emergency services.
Stay in Safe Accommodations: Visitors should research and book accommodations in safe and reputable areas of the city, and ensure that the building and room are secure.
Final practical travel advice
Electricity: In Montreal, the standard voltage is 120 volts AC, which is the same as in the United States. Visitors from countries with different voltage systems will need to bring a voltage converter or adapter to use their electrical devices.
Currency and Payments: The currency used in Montreal is the Canadian dollar (CAD), which can be easily exchanged at banks or currency exchange booths. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Montreal, and visitors can easily use them to pay for purchases. It is also advisable to carry some cash on hand for smaller purchases and to tip service staff.
Language: Montreal is a bilingual city, with both French and English spoken by many locals. While most tourist areas and establishments have English-speaking staff, it is advisable to learn some basic French phrases and use them when possible.
Transportation: Montreal has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and subways. Visitors can purchase single tickets or multi-day passes to use public transportation. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also widely available in Montreal.
Wi-Fi: Many establishments in Montreal offer free Wi-Fi, including cafes, restaurants, and hotels. Visitors can also purchase a SIM card for their phone at a local cell phone provider to have access to mobile data.
Climate: Montreal experiences four distinct seasons, with cold and snowy winters and warm and humid summers. Visitors should pack appropriate clothing and gear for the season in which they are visiting.
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