Getting ashore
Ships tie up at the Iberville Passenger Terminal in the Old Port, right in the heart of Vieux-Montréal. Restaurants, bars, boutiques and historic sites are within walking distance. The science centre, an IMAX theatre and a clock tower you can climb are at the pier.
Watch-outs
Montreal’s weather is very cold in winter and hot and humid in summer, so check the season before you pack. Cobbled streets in the old town are hard to walk on, so wear comfortable shoes. Bilingual signs are common, and French is the main language of the city.
Old Montreal
The old town has stone buildings, cobbled squares and the Notre-Dame Basilica. Place Jacques-Cartier is the main square, lined with cafés and street artists. The Old Port has a promenade, a ferris wheel and a boardwalk along the river.
Mount Royal
Mount Royal is the wooded hill above the city, with the lookout at Kondiaronk belvedere. It is reached by taxi, bus or a walk up the park’s paths, and the view over the city is the highlight.
Underground city
The Underground City, the RÉSO network, links shops, metro stations and offices under the downtown core. It is useful in winter, and it can be a quick way to cross the centre.
Food & shopping
Montreal is known for bagels, poutine, smoked meat and craft beer. The Jean-Talon and Atwater markets are good for food and local produce. Shops in the downtown core are busy on weekends.
Money & connectivity
The currency is the Canadian dollar. Cards are accepted almost everywhere. ATMs are common in the centre.
Accessibility & mobility
The pier and Vieux-Montréal are mostly flat, but the cobbles are hard for wheelchairs. The Underground City and the metro have lifts at many stations. Mount Royal involves hills and slopes, so a taxi or a tour is easier. Ask your operator about accessible transport.