Montreal is an enchanting city that seamlessly blends old-world charm with modern-day innovation. The vibrant cultural and cosmopolitan hub boasts a plethora of activities, attractions, and landmarks that cater to all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, art lover, or outdoor enthusiast, there is something for everyone in Montreal. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey through the best things to do and see in Montreal. So, if you’re planning a trip to this beautiful city, buckle up, and get ready to be inspired by Montreal’s top attractions.

The 13 Best Unusual Things To Do In Montreal

1. Highlights of Montreal Guided City Tour by Montreal Scooter
2. Scooter Sightseeing in Montreal
3. Scooter Sightseeing in Montreal
4. 20 or 30 Minute Helicopter Tour Over Montreal
5. Quebec City and Montmorency Falls Winter Tour
6. Montreal Old Port Urban Zipline Skip the Line Ticket
7. Montreal City Guided Sightseeing Tour
8. Laurentian Mountains Fall Leaves Tour from Montreal
9. Private Tour of Ottawa
10. Ottawa 1 Day Tour
11. Walking Tour of Old Montreal
12. Old Montreal Walking Tour
13. Montreal Shore Excursion Pre or Post Cruise Guided Sightseeing Tour of Montreal

The 13 Best Unusual Things To Do In Montreal

1. Highlights of Montreal Guided City Tour by Montreal Scooter

Experience the best of Montreal’s attractions on a private guided city tour by a stylish scooter. Perfect for those who have limited time, this tour covers most of the city’s top highlights. You can choose between morning and afternoon tour times based on your convenience. Hop on your Honda Metropolitan Scooter with a MOMO Design helmet from Italy, available in size XXS to XL, and explore Old Montreal, Mile End, and Mount Royal Park. Get ready to make a pitstop at a famous bakery for a bagel snack along the way. This private tour offers you personalized flexibility and a safe, convenient way to travel. Bottled water is provided, and gratuities are included in the tour. The meeting point is at 520 Rue Berri at the corner of Rue Berri (Berri Street) and Rue Notre-Dame Est (Notre-Dame Street East).

2. Scooter Sightseeing in Montreal

Explore the beautiful city of Montreal on two wheels with this exciting scooter sightseeing tour. Cruise along the city’s back streets and visit interesting neighborhoods as you scoot past landmarks and top attractions. This tour is perfect for those who want to discover Montreal in a unique and fun way. All equipment required for the tour is included, and a driver/guide will accompany you throughout the tour. Please note that no driver’s license is required if you’re 18 and over. This activity ends back at the meeting point and travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level. The cancellation policy allows for cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

3. Scooter Sightseeing in Montreal

Explore Montreal in a unique way on this guided scooter tour. Zip through the streets and discover neighborhoods filled with cool art galleries, quirky boutiques, and bohemian-style jazz bars. On this tour, you’ll also visit the historic Jean-Talon Market and take in hilltop sights at Mount Royal. With a scooter, you can cover more ground in less time and see more of Montreal’s beautiful parks and flower-filled public spaces. The tour includes a helmet, bottled water, and gratuity for the guide. Please note that this tour is not suitable for pregnant women or people with vertigo.

4. 20 or 30 Minute Helicopter Tour Over Montreal

Soak up the beauty of Montreal from above on a memorable 20 or 30-minute helicopter flight. With a knowledgeable pilot/guide by your side and top-of-the-line headsets to help you hear everything, you’ll take off from the airport with confidence. Experience stunning panoramic views of the city’s highlights, including the Olympic Stadium, Mount Royal, and the Îles-de-Boucherville National Park (on the 30-minute option).

During the flight, you’ll fly over Downtown Montreal, seeing the Quebec Capitol building from an altitude of 1500 feet, and you will be able to take memorable photos from the endless skies above the city and its surroundings. As you pass by the Old Port of Montreal and Victoria Bridge, you’ll be amazed at the stunning views from above.

Before you take off, your experienced pilot will take a moment to brief you on safety procedures and the aircraft. They will also answer your questions and provide you with enjoyable, informative commentary throughout the entire flight. Don’t forget to take a great photo in front of the helicopter before your adventure starts. Book your helicopter tour now to discover another side of Montreal!

5. Quebec City and Montmorency Falls Winter Tour

Explore the sights and history of Quebec City with the Quebec City and Montmorency Falls Winter Tour. This full-day tour takes you on a hassle-free journey from Montreal to Quebec City and Montmorency Falls with premium coach transportation. Enjoy the scenic ride and skip the hassle of self-driving.

Starting from downtown Montreal hotels, the tour takes you to the Old Quebec, where you can explore the narrow streets, steep hills, and history of the city’s Old Town. A guided tour of 45 minutes will provide you with the best insights and highlights about the town.

The next stop is the impressive Montmorency Falls, where you’ll admire extraordinary views of the waterfall. With 20 minutes to visit, you’ll have enough time to take stunning photos and enjoy the views. After the visit, the tour will take you to see Old Quebec from a different perspective with a 1-hour bus tour.

With a stop at Quartier Petit Champlain, you’ll have 3 hours of free time to explore the area on your own. Take the chance to check out local attractions, shop, or savor delicious Quebec cuisine at a local restaurant.

Finally, heading back to Montreal, the tour will drop you off at your hotel. The Quebec City and Montmorency Falls Winter Tour is the perfect way to experience the beauty and history of Quebec City in winter.

6. Montreal Old Port Urban Zipline Skip the Line Ticket

Experience Canada’s only urban zipline circuit and explore Montreal from a bird’s eye view on this Skip the Line Ticket for the Montreal Old Port Urban Zipline. Soar above the city on a 1200 foot cable and enjoy a thrilling and unique experience with the whole family. Upon arrival at the Old Port, head towards the 100-foot tower with a red and white sign that says “Zipline” and check in with one of the fun and engaging employees who will explain how you can enjoy a safe, smooth, and fun-filled adventure. After securing your harness and helmet, you’ll be ready to strap in and experience the weightless excitement of ziplining while taking in breathtaking views of Montreal. This 15-minute adventure will leave you with a big smile on your face and memories to last a lifetime. Don’t miss out on the chance to skip the line and enjoy one of Montreal’s best attractions!

7. Montreal City Guided Sightseeing Tour

Experience a comprehensive overview of Montreal with this guided sightseeing tour of the city. This tour takes you to many of the top attractions and historical sites, such as Notre-Dame Basilica Chinatown, Mount Royal Park, Olympic Stadium, Saint Joseph’s Oratory, Old Port, and Old Montreal, to name a few. Hop aboard a comfortable motor coach and enjoy live commentary from a professional tour conductor who will provide insightful information about the city. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included for your convenience. Admire famous sites such as Old Montreal, Notre-Dame Basilica, and St. Joseph’s Oratory, and soak up the quaint French atmosphere. This bus tour offers more sights and information than you could possibly see on foot. The air-conditioned bus provides comfort, and the knowledgeable guide makes sure you do not miss any detail. The tour also includes gratuities to make it easy for you. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to see all the best that Montreal has to offer in a single day tour.

8. Laurentian Mountains Fall Leaves Tour from Montreal

Escape from the city for one day and uncover the beautiful backdrops of the Laurentian Mountains on a full-day excursion from Montreal. This tour allows you to discover the beautiful mountains and forests of southern Quebec, as well as visit the quaint villages of St-Agathe-des-Monts and St-Sauveur. The highlight of the tour is your free time to explore the sights and activities of Mont-Tremblant. This picturesque village offers a wide range of options – from leisurely strolls along the shores of Lake Tremblant to adrenaline-fueled activities like zip-lining or rock climbing. Your tour includes pickup and drop-off from downtown Montreal hotels, a tour guide and driver, live bilingual commentary in English and French, and local taxes. Food, drink, and gratuities are not included.

9. Private Tour of Ottawa

Discover the charming capital of Canada on a VIP Private Tour of Ottawa. Your exclusive fully narrated tour includes complimentary hotel pick up and drop off in Downtown Montreal. A private tour guide will take you to the most iconic attractions in Ottawa, such as the Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal and Mont-Royal. You’ll have the opportunity to experience the rich history and culture of the city firsthand. This private tour is perfect for those looking for a personalized and intimate experience with their group. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible and near public transportation. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Book now and discover the beauty of Ottawa with your group!

10. Ottawa 1 Day Tour

Make the most of your time in Ottawa with a full-day tour that will take you to the capital’s historical landmarks and cultural highlights. Travel aboard a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle and skip navigating the city by yourself. Explore Parliament Hill and admire the Gothic Revival buildings, visit the Canadian Museum of History, and take a boat cruise on the Ottawa River to get a new perspective on the landmarks of the city. Rideau Hall, the official residence of the Governor General of Canada, is also part of the itinerary. With admissions, gratuities, meals, and an air-conditioned vehicle included, this is the perfect way to discover Canada’s capital. The meeting point is at 1242 Rue Stanley in Montreal, and the activity ends back at the meeting point.

11. Walking Tour of Old Montreal

Explore the historic heart of Montreal with a guided walking tour of Old Montreal. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll discover the city’s rich history, architecture, and culture as you visit famous sites like Notre-Dame Basilica, Place Jacques-Cartier, Bonsecours Market, Montreal City Hall, and Champ de Mars. With three different itineraries to choose from, you can opt for a shorter tour around either the east or west sides of Old Montreal or a longer tour that includes both. The East tour, offered twice daily at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., includes major historic sites such as the Bonsecours Market, the exterior of Notre-Dame Basilica, Bonsecours Street and its chapel, or Place Jacques-Cartier. The West Tour means you’ll explore the western side of Old Montreal. Experience the charm and beauty of Old Montreal with this unforgettable walking tour.

12. Old Montreal Walking Tour

Explore the historic heart of Montreal on this guided walking tour of Old Montreal. With two afternoon and one morning departure times, our knowledgeable guide will lead you through the public squares of Place Jacques-Cartier, Place d’Armes, and Place Royale. Stroll down the picturesque historic streets of Saint-Jacques, Saint Paul, Notre-Dame, and Rue de la Commune. Take in the architectural beauty of Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal and Pointe-à-Callière. Learn about the history, heritage, and culture of this vibrant area, which dates back to New France. Finally, meander along the riverbank of Old Port and see the many famous sites that this beautiful area has to offer.

13. Montreal Shore Excursion Pre or Post Cruise Guided Sightseeing Tour of Montreal

Before or after your cruise, explore beautiful Montreal aboard a tram complete with live narration from your friendly and knowledgeable guide. This 3-hour sightseeing shore excursion in Montreal covers more than 200 points of interest, including Old Montreal, Notre-Dame Basilica, Chinatown, Mt Royal Park, and more. Your comprehensive guided tour includes hotel or port pickup and drop-off, and is covered by a worry-free policy ensuring guaranteed on-time return to your ship. Join this amazing tour to get to know more about Montreal’s rich history, culture and attractions.

Exploring Montreal: FAQs for Tourists

Are you planning a trip to Montreal and have a lot of questions on your mind? Don’t fret, we’ve got you covered. Montreal is a beautiful city that offers a rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious food. But before you take off, here are some frequently asked questions by tourists that will help you make the most of your trip.

1. When is the best time to visit Montreal?

Montreal has distinct seasons, each with its charm. The best time to visit the city depends on your preference and what you want to do. The summer months of June to August are the busiest time, with festivals, outdoor activities, and generally warm weather. Fall, from September to November, brings fall foliage, mild temperatures, and fewer crowds. Winter, from December to February, is when the city transforms into a winter wonderland with snow-covered streets and winter festivals. Spring, from March to May, brings milder temperatures and the beginning of the city’s outdoor festival season.

2. What is the best way to get around Montreal?

Montreal has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses and a metro network. The metro is the most efficient and fastest way to get around the city, with four lines connecting different areas. The buses are also reliable and operate on an extensive network. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are also available, but they tend to be pricey. Walking and cycling are also great options, especially in the summer months when the weather is pleasant.

3. What are some must-see attractions in Montreal?

Montreal offers an array of attractions that cater to various interests. The most popular attractions include:- Old Montreal: The historic district is home to cobblestone streets, the Notre-Dame Basilica, horse-drawn carriages, and quaint cafés.- Mount Royal: A scenic park located in the heart of the city that offers stunning views of Montreal.- Saint Joseph’s Oratory: A Catholic basilica that is a prominent landmark in Montreal.- Montreal Botanical Garden: A vast garden with ten greenhouses, over 20 themed gardens, and a stunning bonsai collection.- Musée des Beaux-Arts de Montréal: One of Canada’s most significant art museums, with over 42,000 works of art.

4. Is Montreal a bilingual city?

Yes, Montreal is a bilingual city, with English and French as the official languages. Most signage, menus, and tourist information are available in both languages. However, some locals speak only French, so it’s always useful to learn some basic French phrases.

5. What is the nightlife like in Montreal?

Montreal has a vibrant nightlife that caters to different tastes. The city’s nightlife centers around the downtown area, with a variety of nightclubs, bars, and music venues. The Plateau and Mile End neighborhoods also offer a vibrant nightlife scene, with intimate bars, music venues, and speakeasies.

6. What is the food like in Montreal?

Montreal is famous for its food scene, with a mix of French and North American influences. Some must-try dishes include:- Poutine: A dish of fries topped with gravy and cheese curds.- Smoked meat: A type of deli meat that is smoked and cured for several days.- Bagels: Montreal-style bagels are different from their New York counterparts, with a sweeter taste and smaller size.- Tourtière: A meat pie that is usually served during the holidays.- Sugar pie: A dessert that consists of a sweet filling made of brown sugar, cream, and flour.

7. Is it safe to visit Montreal?

Montreal is generally safe, but like any major city, it’s always important to take precautions. It’s advisable to stay alert and stick to well-lit and crowded areas at night. Keep your valuables close and be wary of pickpockets in tourist areas.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Montreal

Montreal is a vibrant cosmopolitan city in the Canadian province of Quebec. It is a popular tourist destination due to its rich history, cultural diversity, and stunning natural beauty. If you are planning a visit to Montreal, there are many things to explore and experience. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make the most of your time as a tourist.

Step 1: Visit Old Montreal

Old Montreal is a historic neighborhood dating back to the 17th century. It is famous for its charming cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, quaint shops, and cafes. You can spend hours wandering through the winding streets, admiring the beautifully restored buildings, and taking in the atmosphere.

Things to do in Old Montreal:

• Visit the Notre-Dame Basilica, a stunning gothic cathedral with intricate wood carvings and stained glass windows.
• Walk along the picturesque waterfront of the Old Port.
• Explore the Pointe-à-Callière Museum, which showcases the history of Montreal.
• Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets of Old Montreal.

Step 2: Discover the Vibrant Culture

Montreal is a cultural hub with a thriving arts and music scene. There are many festivals and events throughout the year that celebrate the city’s diverse heritage. You can explore the lively neighborhoods and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Things to do to discover the vibrant culture:

• Visit the Quartier des Spectacles, Montreal’s entertainment district, which hosts many music and art festivals.
• Enjoy the stunning views of the city from the Mount Royal Lookout.
• Explore the street art and murals in the Plateau-Mont-Royal neighborhood.
• Go on a food tour and sample the city’s famous poutine, smoked meat, and bagels.

Step 3: Explore the Nature Surrounding Montreal

Montreal is surrounded by stunning natural beauty with many parks, gardens, and trails. There are many opportunities for hiking, biking, and outdoor activities.

Things to do to explore the natural surroundings:

• Visit the Montreal Botanical Garden, which boasts over 22,000 plant species and 10 greenhouses.
• Hike to the top of Mont Saint-Bruno and enjoy the panoramic views of the city.
• Take a scenic drive to the Laurentian Mountains and enjoy the fresh air and stunning scenery.
• Visit the Parc Jean-Drapeau, situated on two islands in the middle of the Saint Lawrence River, which features a beach, amusement park, and bike paths.

Step 4: Visit Museums and Galleries

Montreal is home to many world-class museums and galleries, showcasing the city’s rich cultural heritage and contemporary art.

Things to do to visit the museums and galleries:

• Visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, which has over 43,000 works of art from all over the world.
• Explore the McCord Museum, which showcases the history and culture of Montreal and Quebec.
• Visit the Canadian Centre for Architecture, which features a collection of architecture and design materials.
• Explore the contemporary art at the Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal.

Step 5: Relax in Montreal’s Parks

Montreal has many beautiful parks and green spaces where you can relax and unwind. These parks offer a range of activities from picnics to outdoor concerts.

Things to do to relax in the parks:

• Visit the Parc La Fontaine, which features a lake, walking trails, and outdoor theatre.
• Explore the Parc du Mont-Royal, which has a stunning lookout and many walking trails.
• Relax in the Jardin Botanique de Montréal, which has themed gardens and greenhouses.
• Enjoy a picnic in the Parc Jean-Drapeau while watching a concert or event.

Book Your Tour Now

Montreal is a beautiful city with much to offer tourists. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature or art, Montreal has something for everyone. By following this step-by-step guide, you can make the most of your time as a tourist in Montreal.