Montreal is the second largest city in Canada and the largest city in the Quebec region. There are so many things to see and do in Montreal. You could probably search the internet for weeks on what to see and still find something new in each article. After visiting Montreal quite a few times, we have compiled a list of places to see during one of our trips. Some you may have heard of , and some may even surprise you. If you are looking for a list of what to do or an itinerary please see our other articles. Looking to visit the largest city in Canada? Check out this itinerary for Toronto, the largest city in Canada.
The Clock Tower
The Clock Tower is located in the Old Port area of Montreal. You are able to park at the Old Port for a fee or you can also park on the street if you are able to find a spot. Access to the park and to the Clock Tower is free. This is one of our favorite free things to do in Montreal. You are allowed to climb up to the top of the clock tower for a fascinating view . There are no elevators though and climbing with a stroller or buggy is difficult. The space is tight with a flow of people going up an down sharing the same set of stairs. The view at the top is very beautiful and worth the 192 steps to get there. You can also view and admire the clock tower from down below. The Clock Tower was built between 1919 and 1922. It was designed by a Montreal based engineer. It currently marks the entrance to the Old Port and serves as a memorial for sailors who were lost at sea during war.
The Olympic Stadium
The Montreal Olympic stadium is the largest of its kind in Quebec.It was first opened in 1976, and has welcomed over 66 million visitors over the years. As you can see, it definitely deserves a spot on our list. It is located across the street from Jardin botanique de Montréal and you could get a paid parking spot there. One of the biggest draws to this Stadium besides the stadium itself is the Observatory. It is 165 meters high at a 45 degree angle which makes it the tallest inclined tower in the world. The Observatory portion is currently closed as of 2019. Please click the website link to see if has reopened. There is a fee to enter the stadium.
Crew Collective & Cafe
Crew Collective & Cafe is a converted co-working space and cafe. It was originally a historic bank in Montreal. Architecturally, it is beautiful inside and out with its intricate ceilings and stone. The best part is that you can grab a coffee or something from the cafe while you appreciate the intricacy of the building. This building is located in Old Montreal. It is also a stop on the Old Montreal Food Tour. You can see our review for that food tour here.
La Grande Roue de Montréal
La Grande Roue de Montréal also known as The Montreal Observation Wheel has some of the best views in Montreal. This attraction is also located in the Old Port of Montreal. The Observation Wheel has 42 cabins that are fitted with ultra-clear tempered glass windows to view the city from. One VIP cabin ,number 42, even has a glass floor! This attraction is open all year round and has both day and evening hours. The Wheel itself lights up at night and you will usually find a line here.
Old Montreal
Old Montreal is a favorite among the tourist attractions within the city. With plenty to do such as shopping, museums, and restaurants you can find yourself getting lost and spending the day here. The area is known for its cobble stoned road and has some pedestrian only streets. You will feel as if you are walking down a street in France. If you get a chance make your way to the Old Montreal Center.
You may be able to catch a street performance or have your portrait painted. Its center is located across from the Old Port.
Old Port of Montreal
While the Old Port has plenty of attractions in it to see, it does deserve its own spot on our list. The Old Port is a hub of; tourist attractions, museums, restaurants, shows, the cirque, playground, shopping, and even festivals. That being said it it is a great place to see in Montreal. The Old Port is free in Montreal to enter however attractions do have a cost. The Old Port does offer paid parking with Summer and general daily rates for its visitors.
Notre-Dame Basilica
Notre-Dame Basilica is a historical Catholic place of worship with close ties to the history of Montreal. Pope John Paul II, raised the church to the rank of a minor Basilica in 1982. The Notre-Dame Basilica has both historical and artistic importance in Quebec’s own heritage. As you can see pictured, it is an attraction that visitors flock too. The basilica itself is a work of art both inside and out. You can take a twenty minute guided tour inside for $8 CAD per adult and $5 CAD per child. The basilica also offers an Aura experience to its visitors. This experience seems similar to a light show.
Mount Royal Lookout
The Mount Royal Lookout is located in Mount Royal Park. Though you can’t walk to it from the park itself. It is wise to use the suggested GPS address of 1576 Voie Camillien-Houde, Montréal, QC H2W 1S8, Canada to get here. The lookout has its own paid parking lot which is perfect for this viewing point. The views from here are the best in Mount Royal! You can take your time and enjoy the view here. They have recently added a cafe to the parking lot with outdoor seating. Make sure to enjoy the moment!
The Sculpture Garden
The Sculpture Garden is an outdoor exhibit from The Museum of Fine Arts in Montreal. It is located directly in front of the main building of the museum. The street itself has been turned into art and is lined by beautiful statues and sculptures. This is another prime Tourist and Instagram spot in Montreal. The Sculpture Garden is free to view in Montreal. We do very much recommend visiting the museum as it is a must do here. Please see our “What to do in Montreal” article for more.
Sainte-Catherine Street
Sainte-Catherine Street stretches from the west corner of the city to the east of it. It is about 9 miles (11 kilometers) long and is an unmissable attraction. Through your time here, you will probably cross it a few times just to get from point A to point B. Within it’s 9 miles, finds home to a variety of shopping centers, small shops, restaurants, and festivals.
Biosphere
The Biosphere is located in Parc Jean-Drapeau and is actually part of the Biosphere Environmental Museum. To enter the Biosphere you must pay the admission for the museum. However, to admire the Biosphere itself from outside is free. After you are done getting your photos you can take a walk to the nearby playground. Don’t forget to pack a lunch or a picnic to enjoy your day at the park. There is a paid parking lot here.
Montreal Murals
The murals and /or street art in Montreal is everywhere and has truly become part of its own culture. Montreal even hosts two different street art festivals every year. Where can you find it? Honestly, almost anywhere. You just need to walk around and explore.
Beaver Lake in Mount Royal Park
Beaver Lake is one of our favorite section in Mount Royal park. The artificial lake was built in 1993, and is shaped like a four leaf clover. On the lake you are able to rent a rowboat and enjoy viewing the fish in the lake. During the winter months, it turns into a ice skate area; Weather permitting. Bedsides the fact that it is beautiful park to visit, it is also highly accessible. There is a paid parking lot located next to the Beaver Lake Pavilion which you can easily make your way into the park from. In the Pavilion itself, you have access to sport services, restrooms, and eating areas. If you walk up and take the paths on your right, you will find picnic areas and a playground. You can also find our next stop here…
The Falls at Beaver Lake
The falls are located right next to Beaver Lake. This is one of those finds that you just happen upon by visiting the area. During hot Summer days, it can get crowded as everyone is sitting by the falls to cool off. You can also find picnic tables nearby and plenty of shady areas to sit.
The Sun
Another stop outside of the Museum of Fine Arts. The Sun was created by Dale Chihuly in 2003. It was created by blown glass and steal. This is an iconic piece that sits outside of one of the Museum of Fine Art pavilions that can’t be missed whether your are driving or walking by. This is another piece in the museums Sculpture Garden.
Montreal Sky Line
This beautiful view can be viewed at the Glass Court in the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts. Take a moment and get a glimpse of the beautiful sky line of Montreal. The mural you see is that of Leonard Cohen singer, songwriter, poet, and Montreal historical figure. The mural is around 10,000 square-feet and rises over twenty-one storeys of Montreal.
Memory Collector
The Memory Collector is an exhibit located in the Pointe-à-Callière, Archaeology and History Complex of Montreal. The museum is a great experience and is on our “What to do in Montreal” article.The multi-sensory contemplative experience brings the visitors through a portion of the old collector sewer of Montreal. Did I just read that right? Collector Sewer? Yes, yes you did. What once was an active sewer that carried rainwater and wastewater is now an underground path connecting the two buildings. Not only is it a path but a complete experience with light installations that are projected onto the stone walls. The stroll through the sewers is about 110 meters long and is a great experience. Why Instagrammers are not flocking here is beyond me since this is a great Instagram spot in Montreal. You will find yourself walking back and fourth on this unique path finding it hard to leave. I bet you wouldn’t ever think of a sewer like that.
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Tickets For Four 
I can’t wait to visit Montreal with the kids! It looks like such a fun town.
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Montreal looks like so much fun! All that street art is awesome
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I’ve never been to Canada but it’s on my list! Thanks for the destination list!
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WAHH I WENT TO MONTREAL AND I DIDNT DO ANY OF THESE *cry emoji* But! That just means I have to go back…. 🙂
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