Our most recommended things to do in Downtown Montreal

Montreal: Guided Bus Tour

1. Montreal: Guided Bus Tour

Discover Montreal by bus and admire over 200 points of interest in the vibrant Canadian city. Your bilingual guide will tell you all about each place you visit, offering insights and historical background as you go. Stroll through charming Old Montreal for a panoramic view of the Old Port, and admire Place Jacques Cartier in the heart of this historical area. Located between the St. Lawrence River and downtown, Old Montreal is the center of the city and offers a fascinating glimpse into Montreal's past. See prestigious McGill University and Universite de Montreal, then stop by Montreal's City Hall before heading to vibrant Montreal Harbor, an ocean port 1,000 miles (1,600 km) from the sea. Enjoy beautiful views of the city from Mont Royal Park as you stand next to the massive basilica of St. Joseph's Oratory at the park summit. The bus will also take you to Chinatown, the Place Des Arts performing arts center, and the Place Ville Marie underground luxury shopping center. See the tallest inclined building in the world at Olympic Park and admire the new home of the Montreal Canadien ice hockey team at the Bell Centre. See all there is to see in Montreal's French Quarter, and residential and financial districts as you get to know this fascinating French Canadian city.

From Montreal: Quebec City and Montmorency Falls Day Trip

2. From Montreal: Quebec City and Montmorency Falls Day Trip

Explore the sights and history of Quebec City on a hassle-free guided day trip from Montreal. Relax in the comfort of a premium bus as you begin the scenic journey with complimentary pickup from downtown Montreal hotels. Start your day by meeting your driver from downtown Montreal. On arrival in Quebec City, visit sites like Place Royale, Old Quebec, Petit Champlain, Notre Dame Basilica, and the Quebec Citadel. Drive along Grande-Allee, stop at the Chateau Frontenac, and admire Quebec's oldest skyscraper. Enjoy leisure time to explore the city’s winding streets and Quebec City’s oldest public stairs, Escalier Casse-Cou. Ride the funicular built into the cliff which links Upper and Lower Quebec for magnificent views of the river and its surroundings. Stop at the Plains of Abraham to see where the famous battle between French and English armies took place in 1759. Depart Quebec City’s Old Town for Montmorency Falls to enjoy extraordinary views of the impressive 274-foot (83-meter) high falls. Then, get back aboard the bus for your return trip to Montreal.

Montreal: La Grande Roue de Montréal Entry Ticket

3. Montreal: La Grande Roue de Montréal Entry Ticket

Take in breathtaking views of Montreal with entry tickets to La Grande Roue de Montréal, the largest observation wheel in Canada. See the city and its surroundings from 60 meters in the air. The wheel is located in the heart of the picturesque setting of Old Port, on the shore of the Saint Lawrence River. Step aboard climate-controlled gondolas with ultra-clear glass for unbeatable panoramic views 60-meters high. Year round, rain, snow or shine, admire exceptional views of the city and its surroundings. Your ride will last around twenty breathtaking minutes. No matter the weather, the temperate gondolas will keep you cool in summer and warm in winter.  Under the sun or stars, enjoy the historic buildings of Old Montreal, the city center’s eclectic architecture, Mont-Royal, and the majestic Saint Lawrence River. On a clear day, you can admire up to 28-kilometers of the horizon. As dusk falls, Montreal’s lights up in color, creating a romantic and festive atmosphere. At the base of the wheel, relax on terraces or saver a tasty treat at the onsite cafe and bistro. You can upgrade your experience with the option of a private gondola for 8 people.

Montréal: St. Lawrence Sightseeing River Cruise

4. Montréal: St. Lawrence Sightseeing River Cruise

Embark with your guide on an unforgettable round-trip cruise along the St. Lawrence River, departing from the historic Old Port of Montreal. This scenic journey will take you on a captivating exploration of the city's iconic landmarks and stunning waterfront vistas. As you glide beneath the magnificent Jacques-Cartier Bridge, a marvel of engineering and architecture, a world of beauty unfolds before your eyes. The waterway is adorned with a succession of magnificent monuments that pay homage to Montreal's rich history and vibrant culture. Each monument tells a story, and as you pass by, informative commentary will enlighten you about the significance and background of these landmarks. The heart of Montreal City reveals itself as you cruise along the St. Lawrence River. You'll witness the bustling streets, the vibrant energy, and the unique blend of old-world charm and modern urbanity. The cityscape showcases an enchanting fusion of architectural styles, from the historic buildings of Old Montreal to the sleek skyscrapers of the downtown core. One of the most awe-inspiring sights awaits as you approach the Olympic Stadium, a monumental structure that hosted the 1976 Summer Olympics. Its iconic inclined tower stands tall, serving as a reminder of the city's sporting achievements and architectural grandeur. To witness Montreal in a whole new light, consider taking the evening cruise. As the sun sets and the city's lights illuminate the skyline, Montreal truly earns its reputation as "Canada's City of Light." The enchanting glow transforms the city into a magical spectacle, casting a romantic ambiance upon the river and its surroundings. Throughout the cruise, enhance your experience with the complimentary audioguide, available in 8 languages. Engaging commentary in French, English, Italian, Spanish, German, Mandarin, Japanese, and Korean will provide fascinating insights into each landmark. A round-trip cruise along the St. Lawrence River is a remarkable journey that showcases the very best of Montreal. From the captivating monuments to the stunning waterfront views.

Montreal: 5 Attractions Pass

5. Montreal: 5 Attractions Pass

Experience more of Montreal for less with the "Passport MTL", which gives you entry to five of the city's top attractions. Consider the pass your special discounted all-access ticket to the city’s sights, sounds, tastes, and thrills, including a wide range of big attractions including the BioDome, Biosphère, La Grande Roue, McCord Museum, beer tasting, bike tours, river cruises Seasonal, and so much more. Present your Pass at the entrance of each attraction you have selected (from the list of participating attractions). Limit of one visit per attraction. Some attractions require a reservation made directly with the local operator. Included in your passport package are: 3 attractions in the Pink Collection and 2 attractions in the Blue Collection: Pink Collection (choice of three): - La Grande Roue de Montréal (no reservation required) - Pointe-à-Callière, Montréal Archaeology and History Complex (no reservation required) - Le Saint Motel - Selfie Experience (no reservation required) - PHI Centre (no reservation required) - Birra bar à bières maison - 4 tasting glasses of house beers as well as 1 pint of house beer (no reservations required) - OASIS immersion (reserve the date and time of your visit on the Ticketpro platform by using your passport number in the promo code field to get a ticket - this will be found on your voucher after booking) - 16/42 Tours - A 2-hour guided walking tour. (reservation required) - Pointe-à-Callière, Montréal Archaeology and History Complex (no reservation required) - A\Maze Escape Games (reservation required) - Ateliers et Saveurs : Ateliers & Saveurs : 30 minutes of cooking class + 30 minutes of tasting = 1 hour of pleasure (reservation required) - Boulzeye, Pub & Attractions (reservation required) - Cirka Distilleries, visit and tasting (reservation required) - Ski Saint-Bruno (Beginning in November) Blue Collection (choice of two): - Château Dufresne, museum and historical heritage site (no reservation required) - Biodôme de Montréal (no reservation required) - Biosphère (no reservation required) - McCord Stewart Museum (no reservation required) - The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (no reservation required) - Écomusée du fier monde (no reservation required) - Laser Game Evolution (Ste-Catherine or Marché Central) (no reservation required) - Ecomuseum Zoo (No reservation required) - Musée des Hospitalières de l'Hôtel-Dieu de Montréal (no reservation required) - Château Ramezay – Historic Site and Museum of Montréal (no reservation required) - Montréal Tower (no reservation required, open on weekends only) - Maison Saint-Gabriel, Museum and Historic Site (no reservation required) - Maison nationale des Patriotes - Site de la Prison-des-Patriotes (no reservation required) - Cycling Café (no reservation required)

Montreal: OASIS Immersion Entry Ticket

6. Montreal: OASIS Immersion Entry Ticket

Take part in a unique walk-through immersive exhibition in a vast new space in Montreal, extending over 2,200 m2. Launching December 2023, experience Dreaming Asia, the immersive experience for the first time in North America. Located in the heart of Montreal, between the Old Port of Montreal and the Quartier des Spectacles, step into OASIS Immersion, an uplifting experience featuring inspiring people, places, and trends from around the world. With various rotating exhibits, secure tickets to the show of your choice. Dreaming Asia A veritable dreamscape promises to plunge visitors into the heart of Chinese and Japanese colours and traditions. Dreaming Asia is an original exhibition concept by OASIS Immersion, in collaboration with the French digital art studio Danny Rose. It brings together, for the first time, three enchanting immersive experiences providing the opportunity to (re)discover ancestral treasures such as the graceful Japanese prints that have struck the imagination of people all over the world, to stroll along the river during the Qingming festival, immersed in China’s most famous painting, Along the River during the Qingming Festival, but also to see the Piying shadow puppets come to life, an art developed over 500 years ago and now included on Unesco’s list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. These captivating immersive works by the Danny Rose studio have been internationally acclaimed and prized at Atelier des Lumières in Paris, at INSIDE in Shanghai and Shenzhen, China, and in Kadokawa Culture Museum, Japan. It will be presented by Canada’s largest immersive destination, a North American premiere. Additionally, relax before or after your show at the lounge area, with a café and boutique.

Old Montreal: Traditional Ghost Walk of the Haunted City

7. Old Montreal: Traditional Ghost Walk of the Haunted City

Enjoy a unique and memorable experience in the unparalleled and fascinating ambience of Old Montreal with your family, friends, or colleagues. Follow a storyteller and explore a completely different Old Montreal full of ghosts and unexplained mysteries. In your guide's company you will learn about some of the town's most gruesome legends and stories. Visit the sites where major events took place and which are rumored to still be haunted. Discover the secrets of Old Montreal during this unforgettable evening.

Montréal: Cruise with 3-Course Brunch

8. Montréal: Cruise with 3-Course Brunch

Enjoy a day out at sea on the Saint Lawrence River aboard this cruise. Enjoy a delicious 3-course brunch, see Montreal's iconic sites such as the Old Port, Jacques Cartier Bridge, Olympique Park, and many more from a sea view. Meet your host at the Grand Quay pier in Old Montreal to board the cruise. Enjoy brunch for 1 hour before departing on a scenic 1.5 hour river cruise. The river cruise will depart at 11:30 AM. Take a seat, sit back, relax, enjoy the ride and listen to the commentary from the crew members as you drift along the river in style. Smell the sweet aroma from the kitchen as the chefs prepare your food. Taste a delicious 3-course brunch cooked from local products. Sip on complimentary coffee or tea as you savor your meal. Feeling full up? No worries, you can chill in the dining rooms or head to the open-air outdoor terraces to admire the view. See Montreal from a different perspective, and make sure you take photos of the Old Port, La Grande Roue, Jacques Cartier Bridge, and many more sites as you cruise along.

Montreal: Explore Old Montreal Small-Group Walking Tour

9. Montreal: Explore Old Montreal Small-Group Walking Tour

This is an exclusive small-group tour with a maximum of only 10 people - a much more personal Old Montreal experience than other walking tours with larger groups. We're passionate local Montrealers and we love showing off our city! Your engaging certified local guide will lead you on a fun and interactive walk to learn about the fascinating historical highlights that contributed to making Montreal the unique and diverse city that it is today. History, architecture, culture, food, art, fun facts and stories are all covered. Due to the small group size, you'll be able to hear your guide, navigate the narrow streets with ease and interact with the other guests. You'll leave the tour armed with our personal list of recommendations for things to see/do/eat in Montreal, a tiny treat and a unique parting gift. We have limited capacity on our tour so don't wait to book your prized spot on our carefully curated bestselling small-group experience. You're our special guests and we’ll make sure you have a great time with us!

3-Hour Scooter Sightseeing in Montreal

10. 3-Hour Scooter Sightseeing in Montreal

Morning Tour (3 hours) First trip to Montreal? Join your guide for the "all-in-one" sightseeing tour at 10:00am. This is a cultural tour that covers everything you'll want to see and much more. You’ll stroll through four vibrant districts of Montreal, stop by the Jean-Talon market, taste specialties at local food shops, and discover urban gems such as hidden alleyways. On Sundays, we'll step by the tam-tams concerts at the foot of Mount Royal. You'll love the way the city’s multiple identities beat with the same equable heart. You'll also discover an unbelievable wealth of cool art galleries, kitsch-loving boutiques, bohemian style jazz bars & flower-filled parks for taking a respite from the streets. Afternoon Tour (3 hours) In Montreal, it’s all about neighborhoods, and each has its own distinct identity. On this 2:00pm sightseeing tour you'll enjoy the color, character and energy of the West side districts! You'll ride through downtown, up to Westmount and back down to the trendy Atwater market where you'll sample specialties. After exploring the market, you'll discover the industrial roots of Saint-Henri, a pure working-class neighborhood that is currently being revived with a cool, contemporary atmosphere. We'll also swing by the canal Lachine and the Old Montreal. By the end of the day, you’ll know the city more like a native – its culture and all the good places for music, art, food, shopping and other entertainment. Evening Tour (3 hours) The "Night Flight" is a panoramic night tour of Montreal's city lights at 8pm. First, your guide will take you on top of the Mount Royal. After, swing by the downtown core, the Quartier Latin, the pint-sized but colorful Chinatown, and the historic district waterfront, giving you the chance to view some of Montreal’s most famous sights at their floodlit best. Of course, your guide will also introduce you to some of Montreal best live music scenes and pubs.

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Things to do in
Downtown Montreal

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What people are saying about Downtown Montreal

Overall rating

4.6 / 5

based on 818 reviews

The trip was perfect from start with complimentary pick up from hotel in Montreal downtown. Very good bus driver and guide who had explained and shown us around. The quick brief intro tour of Quebec old city was very helpful when we were left on our own fir 2hours free time in the city. The Christmas decoration and snow made the December trip even more exciting but slightly chilly. Be prepared to warm up.

They picked me up from my hotel on time. Driver was good and funny. Bus was clean and comfortable. It was one day trip to Quebec city and Waterfall. Guide was also really nice and funny. They explained everything and gave us enough time too. I would definitely recommend this trip if you have tight schedule. It was worth the price.

The tour was great. The tour agency picked us up and dropped us back at our hotel. Both the bus driver and tour guide were entertaining. Quebec’s Old Town was reminiscent of Europe and we had a great time walking the cobblestone roads, learning the history and enjoying shopping, food, and sightseeing of the château.

Amazing guide and driver. Took their time to explain all important places. Would recommend the tour for all.

Excellent trip and guide but the bus was too old ..