Montreal

As Quebec’s largest city, Montreal blends old-world charm with a cosmopolitan feel. Stroll through the cobblestone streets of Vieux-Montréal, the city’s cultural hub that is home to 18th-century historical sites. Soak in the natural beauty of the 180-acre Montreal Botanical Garden. And don’t miss the museums, landmarks, green spaces, trendy boutiques, open-air markets and galleries sprinkled throughout this vibrant city.

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QUICK GUIDE

WHEN TO GO

Montreal winters are harsh, with average high temperatures in the upper 20s F from December through March. Spring and fall bring cool, crisp temperatures and fewer crowds. Festival season goes into full swing during summers, thanks to warm and sunny weather, so book accommodations well in advance.

NEED TO KNOW

Visas: Canadian law requires that all persons entering Canada carry both proof of citizenship and proof of identity. A valid U.S. passport, passport card or NEXUS card satisfies these requirements for U.S. citizens. If they’re visiting Canada for less than 180 days, U.S. citizens do not need visas.
Money: The official currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD), which is roughly equivalent to the U.S. dollar, and ATMs are widespread.
Travel Health: Check with Tourisme Montreal for the latest health safety information, including travel protocols and requirements like negative COVID-19 tests, quarantines, mask mandates and more in connection with COVID-19. Before traveling, research and prepare for what to do if you get sick while away.

GETTING AROUND

Getting Here: Fly into Montréal–Trudeau International Airport (YUL), 20 minutes from downtown. If you arrive by bus, the main station is downtown’s Montréal Bus Central Station.
Getting Around: The metro (subway) system is reliable, clean, safe and fast. The simple public transit network (just four lines) connects the downtown center to major tourist sites, bus stops and train stations. Taxelco (eco-urban electric taxies) and chauffeured limousine service can also get you where you want to go. Plus, the pedestrian-friendly streets and BIXI public bike-share service make Montreal a walkable, bikeable city.

LOCAL INTEL

Local Lingo: Because Montreal is located in the French-speaking province of Quebec, it helps to know a few French phrases, such as bonjour (hello), au revoir (good-bye), s’il vous plaît (please), ami (friend) and merci (thank you).
Must-Have Apps: Air CanadaBIXIGoogle TranslateMontreal Underground CityP$ Mobile ServiceTransitWhatsAppUber
Insider Tip: Your best bet for exploring Montreal? The affordable Passeport MTL, which gives you access to up to 23 key attractions in the city over a two- or three-day period.