Holidays in Montreal

Canada's second largest city, Montreal is located on a group of islands in the St. Lawrence River. This bilingual city is composed of many unique and diverse neighbourhoods. Home to many festivals throughout this year, this cultural hotspot is considered a top culinary destination in North America.

Planning your Montreal holidays

Montreal has a humid continental climate and four distinct seasons. The best time for Montreal holidays is between May and September, when the weather is warmer. Although winters can get very cold, with an average low of -10 degrees Celsius, it is a good city in which to experience Canada's winter sports and culture. During the colder months residents and visitors take respite from the weather in the underground city, a pedestrian walkway connecting metro stations, shopping centres and office buildings. There are direct flights from London to Pierre Elliott Trudeau Airport. One can take a taxi or airport express bus to the downtown area. The downtown area and other neighbourhoods can be explored by foot but visitors need to use the metro and public buses to move around the city. Montreal is in the Eastern Time zone.

Montreal holidays: highlights

Montreal's most picturesque area is the historic Old Montreal neighbourhood, dating back to the 17th century. Stroll along the cobbled streets filled with upscale restaurants, galleries and see the many attractions in the area such as Montreal's Notre Dame Basilica. Montreal's old port is filled with sights such as the Cirque du Soleil, a labyrinth, the clock tower and the Montreal Science Centre. Mount Royal is a large forested park with many hiking paths offering panoramic views. Another green space is Parc Jean-Drapeau where one can find an artificial beach, a racing circuit, the Montreal casino and the Biosphere. Le Plateau is home to many restaurants, shops, bars and clubs. The Gay Village is another area to experience Montreal's varied and exciting nightlife.