Montréal – Ideas for Free Time
Whilst in Montréal, take some time to explore the Old City, with its charming shops and historic buildings. The Notre-Dame Basilica is a must-visit, featuring grand wooden panelling, intricate stained-glass windows, and hand-carved sculptures. An informative sound-and-light show depicting the history of the building takes place daily, highlighting the importance of this impressive church in the development of Montréal and the province as a whole.
From here, it’s an easy walk to the central Place Jacques-Cartier, one of the best spots to soak up the city’s atmosphere. Flanked by cafés and often bustling with street entertainers, it’s a lively and vibrant space. The surrounding cobbled alleys are lined with boutique stores and art galleries, many of which are inspired by the city. If you’re looking for a souvenir of your time here, this is the place to find it. A short stroll from Place Jacques-Cartier takes you to the waterfront and the Montréal Observation Wheel, the tallest in Canada, offering extensive views over the city.
Montréal’s diverse neighbourhoods are easily explored on foot, but we recommend joining a guided walking or cycling tour to truly get the most out of your visit. A local guide can provide fascinating insights into the city’s history and the origins of its distinctive cultural quarters.
Finally, stretch your legs with a climb up Mont Royal, the heart of the city. This large park offers leafy spaces for outdoor activities year-round and, on clear days, spectacular views of the city and the St. Lawrence River. From the walking trails on this ‘mini-mountain’ to leisure boats and paddleboarders on the river below, modern-day Montréal has something for everyone.
