Montreal is the most European city in North America. French is the primary language, the old town has 400-year-old buildings, and the cafe culture could rival Paris. But it's also distinctly North American: friendlier, more diverse, and with a creative energy that combines the best of both worlds. Montreal is a fantastic value. Hotels, food, and nightlife cost less than in most comparable cities. The festival scene (jazz, comedy, Just for Laughs) draws crowds. Flight deals to YUL appear regularly. Come for poutine; stay for everything else.
Best Time to Fly to Montreal
Peak Season
June through August brings festivals, outdoor dining, and tourists. July's Jazz Fest and Just for Laughs are especially crowded.
Off Season (Best Deals)
November through March is cold but significantly cheaper. January and February are quietest with best deals.
Summer (June to August) is warm and pleasant at 70-80°F. Fall (September to October) brings stunning foliage at 50-60°F. Winter (November to March) is harsh at 15-30°F with heavy snow. Spring (April to May) thaws slowly.
💡Book months ahead for Jazz Fest (late June) and Grand Prix (June). Winter deals appear last-minute.
Cheapest Months to Fly to Montreal
Cheapest Months
January, February, November
Most Expensive
June, July, August
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Must-Try Foods in Montreal
Poutine
Fries, cheese curds, and gravy: Quebec's gift to drunk food and comfort eating. La Banquise serves 30+ varieties 24/7. Purists want classic; adventurous eaters add smoked meat or foie gras. Essential Montreal.
$8-15 CAD
Montreal Bagels
Smaller, denser, and sweeter than New York bagels, boiled in honey water and baked in wood-fired ovens. St-Viateur and Fairmount battle for supremacy. Get them hot, fresh, and often.
$1-3 CAD
Smoked Meat Sandwich
Montreal's answer to pastrami: brined brisket cured with spices and smoked. Schwartz's Deli has served it since 1928 with long lines. Main Deli across the street is equally good without the wait.
$15-20 CAD
Top Attractions in Montreal
Old Montreal
Cobblestone streets, 18th-century buildings, and the magnificent Notre-Dame Basilica create a European atmosphere. The waterfront has Bota Bota spa (in a converted ferry) and views of the St. Lawrence. Essential walking territory.
Mount Royal
The mountain in the middle of the city offers hiking trails, a viewpoint overlooking downtown (Kondiaronk Belvedere), and the famous orange Julep stand nearby. Locals picnic and drum on summer Sundays.
Montreal Jazz Festival
The world's largest jazz festival takes over downtown every late June/early July. Hundreds of free outdoor concerts complement ticketed shows. The city transforms into one massive party.
Daily Costs in Montreal
Montreal is affordable for a major city. Hotels and food cost less than Toronto or Vancouver. Nightlife is excellent value. Budget $80-120 USD per day.
Accommodation (per night, pick one)
Budget
$70-120 CAD
Mid-Range
$130-220 CAD
Airbnb
$90-160 CAD
Food (per day)
Street Meal
$10-18 CAD
Restaurant
$25-45 CAD
Coffee
$3-5 CAD
Transport
Local Transport
$3.75 CAD/ride
Comfortable Daily Budget
(excluding flights)
$100-150 CAD
Getting Around Montreal
From the Airport
The 747 Express bus runs from YUL to downtown for $11 CAD and takes 45-60 minutes. Taxis charge a flat $45 CAD. Rideshares cost $35-50 CAD.
Getting Around
The Metro is clean and efficient. BIXI bike share works well in summer. Old Montreal and the Plateau are very walkable. Taxis and rideshares are easy to find. Most people don't need a car.
Tips
- •Take the 747 bus from the airport. It's cheap and includes a 24-hour transit pass.
- •Rent a BIXI bike. Montreal is flat and has excellent bike infrastructure.
Where to Stay in Montreal
Old Montreal
Historic architecture, the basilica, and waterfront restaurants make this perfect for first visits. Touristy but genuinely charming. Walking distance to downtown. Start here for orientation.
Plateau Mont-Royal
The hippest neighborhood has Boulevard Saint-Laurent's bar strip, colorful row houses, and excellent restaurants. Young, creative, and active late. Montreal's best nightlife scene.
Mile End
Bagel shops, indie cafes, bookstores, and a thriving creative community. St-Viateur Bagel is here. The streets are quiet and residential with real neighborhood character.
Smart Travel Tips for Montreal
FAQs About Flights to Montreal
Montreal is affordable for a major North American city. Budget $80-120 USD per day. Hotels and restaurants are cheaper than Toronto or NYC. The exchange rate helps Americans.
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