Five Unique Travel Experiences in Montreal

This may not be your typical tourist round-up — but we’ve selected five unique Montreal travel experiences to share with readers. Sure, there are some fabulous museums and art galleries in the city. But if you’re up for a little exploration off the beaten track, keep reading. Here are a few ideas for exploring Montreal:

1. Wander the neighborhoods

There are many unique and quaint neighborhoods to explore in Montreal. Take the time to get to know them a little better. Stop for a coffee in a café, or poke around in one of the many boutiques, antique or art shops. Old Montreal and Plateau Mont-Royal are golden oldies, where there are tons of stores and little shops to peruse. Griffintown is also becoming an increasingly popular neighbourhood for upscale restaurants and shops.

2. Visit a Jazz Club

Montreal loves its jazz music. In June, the annual Jazz Festival takes over the downtown. Stages get set up across the city and people gather everywhere, enjoying the music and drinking beer. Not visiting during a festival? Jazz clubs are scattered throughout the city, allowing visitors to experience jazz with a cocktail instead.

3. Marvel at Notre-Dame Basilica

Sounds a lot like France, right? But this church is quite distinct from Notre Dame in Paris, and has its own quiet beauty. The interior décor and architecture of this church is stunning and really worth a closer look. It’s very calm, and the colours are vibrant. If you want an authentic experience, attend a Sunday mass — but note that the service is held in French.

4. Eat out!

Montreal has a lively culinary scene not to be missed. Reviews for restaurants can be found online, or see our article on Four Places to Feast. If you’re adventurous, just pop into a restaurant on a whim, and see what you find. St. Sulpice, St. Elizabeth and St. Laurent streets are also lined with unique bars and restaurants for your choosing.

5. Enjoy the tam-tams at Mont-Royal and munch of Fairmont Bagels

Pick up a bagel (or two) at Fairmont Bagel and then hike to Mont Royal – a beautiful park overlooking the city. Every Sunday, the “tam-tams” perform around noon (weather dependent). This is basically a big, organic drum circle. Anyone can play drums or dance — and you’re more than welcome to watch.

Sit back with a fresh bagel and take in the beats. It’s hard to put into words why this is such a thrilling experience — except to say that it’s a unique Montreal experience.

To plan your trip or get more information, visit the Tourisme Montreal website.