The Ultimate Guide to Montreal, Quebec

Go to the local markets: A trip to the market is mandatory. Montreal has two amazing markets: the Atwater Market and Jean-Talon Market. Each market is filled with local and imported goods. There is a bit of everything there: bright produce, local butchers, bakeries, cheese shops, and specialty stores.

Hike Mont Royal: Mont Royal is located in the center of the city. The mountain is filled with nature trails that are perfect for a hike and just a short walk from downtown. At the top of the mountain, there are two separate outlooks to get some of the best skyline views in Montreal. There are even some friendly resident raccoons at the top.

Stroll Old Montreal: Spend some time exploring Old Port Montreal. It feels like you've traveled to Europe. Old Montreal has a ton of fun stores, activities, and restaurants. In the winter, there is a popular ice-skating rink under the Ferris wheel. It is also the perfect spot to walk along the Lachine Canal.

Visit the Biodome: The Biodome is a museum of enclosed ecosystems located at Olympic Park. It's a beautiful concept for a zoo. It's the perfect way to spend a day and only a short metro ride away from downtown.

Shop in the underground malls: Downtown, there are several connecting underground malls. Filled with stores and food courts, this is the perfect way to spend a rainy or cold day in the city.

Joe Beef: My favorite restaurant. Everything here is good, guaranteed.

L'Avenue: The best brunch. They have locations around the city and there's almost always a line, but it's worth the wait. A must-do.

Fairmount Bagel: Go here for a dozen famous Montreal wood-fired sesame seed bagels. A Fairmount bagel was also the first bagel to make it to space!

L'Usine de Spaghetti: Perfect for a night out in Old Montreal. This quaint Italian restaurant is reasonably priced. The stone walls make it cozy, their homemade garlic butter and bread start the meal off right, and a salad bar is included. Don't skip the sangria or dessert.

Old Montreal Poutine: One of the best spots in the city for a traditional poutine. They have a gorgeous terrace for the summer and indoor seating on the second floors with views of Rue Saint Paul. The crispy chicken poutine is my go-to here.

Brit & Chips: If you like fish and chips, you have to go here. It's the best.

Bar Ganadara: Make a reservation. This trendy Korean bar has great traditional Korean dishes and cocktails—and they're open late!