Montreal is a captivating blend of European charm and North American energy, where cobblestone streets and 17th-century architecture meet a cutting-edge culinary and arts scene.

Day 1: Historic Charm and Island Escapes

Parc Jean-Drapeau

Visit the Biosphere. Originally the United States pavilion for Expo 67, this massive geodesic dome has become a permanent landmark of the Montreal skyline. Located in Parc Jean-Drapeau, this architectural marvel now serves as an environmental museum, standing as a striking symbol of modern design. There’s a parking lot near the biosphere.

Habitat 67

Just across the water from the Old Port, this experimental housing complex is a world-renowned icon of brutalist architecture. Its unique “stacked cube” design was created to rethink urban living, and it remains one of the most photographed and architecturally significant sites in the city. There’s Parking Lot at Parc de Dieppe.

Old Montreal

Start in the city’s historic heart. Walk the cobblestone streets to Place d’Armes and see the breathtaking Notre-Dame Basilica (https://www.basiliquenotredame.ca/en/). Step inside this 19th-century Gothic Revival masterpiece to find one of the most stunning interiors in North America. Its deep blue vaulted ceiling, adorned with golden stars and intricate wood carvings, creates an atmosphere that feels truly otherworldly.

In my opinion, it’s the second most beautiful church I’ve seen. (Guess which one is my favorite? Hint: It’s in Spain.) I’ve checked out Notre-Dame Basilica during the day and night. If you only have limited of time, get the Sightseeing Visit ticket to visit during the day time. You can quietly enjoy the beauty of the church. But if you have more time, get the Aura Experience ticket at night as well. The Aura experience is like a magic light show and you can see the church is quite different way. What I like about the Aura experience is that phone is not allowed during the show. So the experience is not ruined by people’s arm or phone screen.

Tips:

• During the day, visiting right before the closing time is the best as most tourists visit during earlier of the day. The time before closing is relatively quiet and a lot easier for pictures.
• For the Aura experience, do arrive 15-30 minutes before the show time. The queue started early. The seats are first come first served. Try to sit in the middle back seats to get the best view of the show.
• There’s 12% discount when buying both tickets. I booked the Sightseeing Visit ticket online and then decided to buy the Aura Experience ticket when I got there. When I went to the ticket booth, once I showed the Sightseeing Visit ticket, they gave me the discount right away.

Old Port

This historic waterfront has been transformed into a lively recreational hub where the city’s past meets its present. Whether you’re walking the promenade for river views or riding the Ferris wheel, it’s the perfect place to soak in the architectural charm of Old Montreal.

If you want something for fun, try Voiles en Voiles for pirate-themed amusement park with rope courses, climbing walls, inflatables, water games & more. You can also try Tyrolienne MTL Zipline if you like speed. Or you can rent a boat at Écorécréo (Pédalos) – Vieux-Port de Montréal for water activities.

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Day 2: Botanical Beauty and Mountain Views

Jardin botanique de Montréal

Spend your morning at one of the world’s largest botanical gardens. Explore the Chinese Garden, the Japanese Garden, and the impressive greenhouses. It is a peaceful escape and a dream location for nature photography. The botanical garden is pretty big. So better plan at least half a day there.

Tip: The Botanical Garden is located right next to the Olympic Stadium (the one with the world’s tallest inclined tower). If you have extra time, you can snap a photo of this architectural marvel

Mount Royal Park (Parc du Mont-Royal)

Designed by the same visionary behind New York’s Central Park, this massive green space offers a peaceful escape from the downtown hustle. Drive up to the parking lot in the park. A short hike leads you to the Kondiaronk Belvedere, providing the most iconic panoramic view of the Montreal skyline and the St. Lawrence River. Try to visit during sunset time and you’ll see the golden buildings.

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Where to eat:

Montreal’s food scene is a vibrant reflection of its dual heritage, blending traditional French culinary techniques with a bold, North American spirit. From the comforting aroma of world-famous bagels and savory poutine to the sophisticated flavors of hidden bistros, the city offers a “joie de vivre” that is best experienced through its diverse and legendary restaurants.

Here are a few of my favorite spots that are definitely worth a visit:

• Poutine: La Banquise. This place is super popular. Every time I came here during day or night, there’s a long line outside.
• Bagel: St-Viateur Bagel and Fairmount Bagel. You have to come to one of these 2 places when you come to Montreal. But they can be popular and hard to get seats in the morning.
• Gnocci: Drogheria Fine. This place is only for takeout and the gnocci was very good.
• Deli: Schwartz’s Deli – This place is popular. We visited before dinner time and there was a line. I’m not a deli person, and I was super skeptical initially. But I gave it a try as my friend highly recommended. But it was really good. I love the sandwiches here and it’s one of the top ones I’ve ever had.
• Cafe: Café Origine and Trois Cats 34
• Chinese food: Amigo Restaurant. This restaurant is located in China town and it’s pretty authentic. The service was good too.
• Farmers’ market: Jean Talon Market. I like to visit local markets in each city. Jean-Talon Market is a must-visit for food lovers, packed with an incredible variety of local Quebecois products and diverse restaurants to sample.