As the second largest French-speaking city behind Paris, you will be transported to a place with European-feels, without ever leaving North America. Montreal, Québec is a vibrant city filled with cafes and arts and culture. If you’re stuck on which activities to choose from, fear not – here’s our top five things to do in Montreal, Québec.
Enter the classic retro diner with 1950s vibes, with blue upholstered booths and seats for delicious breakfast entrees. The time capsule that is Beautys Luncheonette has been a Montreal staple since 1942. Founded by the couple, Freda and Hymie Sckolnick, the family-owned diner has been passed on through the generations. Order breakfast entrees like omelettes, waffles, bagels, and milkshakes to get a bite of nostalgia from this Montreal establishment.
There’s much to admire at Montreal Botanical Garden. Founded in 1931, the robust garden spans 190 acres and includes thousands upon thousands of species of plants. Cultural gardens marry cultural architecture and design with nature, such as the Chinese Garden, Japanese Garden, First Nations Garden, and are definitely worth exploring. For instance, The Japanese Garden includes a pavilion where tea ceremonies are hosted and has a tranquil ambiance from the carefully cultivated bonsai plants that are in the area. Enjoy a peaceful stroll throughout the grounds when you visit the Montreal Bontanical Garden.
Afternoon tea is not stuffy or pretentious when you choose to sip on a cup of Fortnum & Mason tea at La Brume. Made with love and friendliness, the tea towers are filled with cucumber sandwiches, custard pastries, and cream & scones – delicious to nosh-on for lunch or an afternoon snack with a delicate cup of tea. The cozy tea and coffee shop is a perfect place to rest as you explore all Montreal has to offer.
Take in the views of the sunset from up high when you head to the Vieux-Port de Montreal. Situated right above the St. Lawrence River, La Grand Roue de Montreal, or the sunset ferris wheel, is Canada’s tallest type of structure, towering at 60 metres with panoramic views of the city. The Ferris wheel is perfect for a romantic date night or just to enjoy the changing of the seasons year-round.
Sammi and Soupe Dumpling is a family business making dumplings since 1990 and has been recognized by The New York Times and The Montreal Gazette. The cozy establishment tucked into Montreal’s bustling Chinatown brings warmth with every bite of their homemade dumplings. Renowned for their xiao long bao, or soupe dumplings, you’ll receive 10 small pieces with your order. Flavors vary from the Classic Juicy Pork to the Shrimp & Coriander. Their Dumpling Frits, or Pain-Fried Dumplings, and Pizza Dumplings are wonderful to share with friends and family.
Located in the heart of Downtown Montreal in the Quartier des Spectacles (Place-des-Arts), your stay at Best Western Plus Hotel Montreal is the ideal starting point for all your urban adventures. Best Western Plus Hotel Montreal is also just a quick walk from Chinatown, Quartier des Latins, The Notre Dame Basilica, and Vieux-Port de Montreal, so you can easily check things off your Montreal bucket list. Book your stay at Best Western Plus Hotel Montreal today.
From wildlife to city life, there’s plenty of room to roam in Canada. Find more Canadian travel inspiration at Travel Zone | Adventure Across Canada. Explore past the coastline to the turquoise waters of national parks and discover rich, urban centres when you stay with Best Western® Resorts & Hotels Canada.