The Old Port Montreal (or Vieux-Port) was used by French fur traders as early as 1611. Although it is has not operated as the city’s main port since the 1970s, it still has a main purpose – tourism. Here, you can eat, drink, walk, cycle or paddleboat along the pier. Other attractions include the Montreal Science Centre, a wintertime skating rink, a Ferris wheel (called the Grande Roue) and a zip line. This family friendly spot is lined with food trucks along the pier.
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JoJo Hall
Old Montreal looks like a little place straight out of Europe! I can definitely see some inspiration in the architecture and designs within the location. It would be a cute little weekend getaway.
The.Holidaymaker
It is most definitely the perfect getaway weekend kind of city!
Andi Fisher
I’ve had Montreal on my bucket list for a very long time, but when I was living on the West Coast I always just went to France instead. Now that I live on the East Coast, Montreal is calling to me, as it looks like a fabulous town for a Francophile to visit!
The.Holidaymaker
Oh definitely, you will fit right in with this Francophone European-esque city.
Emma
I really enjoyed visiting Montreal, and especially Old Montreal. Living in Vancouver it was nice for a change to see a Canadian city with a bit more history, something I’m used to coming from Europe. You’re making me want to go back and visit Montreal again. And now I have some more dining recommendations too – especially the historic places
The.Holidaymaker
Yes, a return trip is in order, definitely for the food alone!
Candy
I hope to explore Old Montreal someday. Everything looks so beautiful and the hotel suggestion you made looks fabulous. It’s great that it’s a lively historic city and so funny that Bourdain said it was where the cool kids hung out. I hope I’m cool enough to hang out here!
The.Holidaymaker
Hopefully you get a chance to visit one day soon.
Maggie
I had no idea how many old, beautiful buildings Montreal has! It looks more like a European city than one on this side of the Atlantic. Hard to believe I still haven’t visited there. It’s definitely on my list though!
The.Holidaymaker
Hopefully you’ll be able to experience it one day soon. It’s such a great city and a must if coming to Canada!
Amrita
Old Montreal sounds so fascinating. The place looks so beautiful and has so much history. Definitely a place that I would love to visit. The Notre-Dame Basilica and Montreal city Hall looks so grand and majestic. I am sure Old Montreal will be a fascinating visit.
The.Holidaymaker
Indeed it is, with a touch of European charm.
Bhushavali N
As a history buff, Old Montreal is the kind of place I’d totally love to visit. To begin with I can see the French influence in the name of the Cathedral itself. The architecture of Centre d’Histoire de Montréal is so beautiful, reminds me much of European buildings. Good to see the entrance to metro stations look exactly the same as in Paris. Interesting to learn about Marguerite Bourgeoys and the filles du Roi.
The.Holidaymaker
Thank you for your comment. This French speaking city definitely has a European charm.
Emma Earthwanderer
I knew nothing about old Montreal before reading this post, except ofcourse Notre Dame. I’m intrigued by the nightclub in the old bank vault, that would be cool! I’d also love to wander the cobblestoned street of St Paul and check out some of those cafes and boutiques.
The.Holidaymaker
I’m so glad I was able to introduce you to this fantastic part of the city.
Gustavo A Feliciano
Old Montreal looks like an amazing place to visit, Notre Dame looks awesome!
The.Holidaymaker
So glad you think so, and hopefully you’ll get the chance to go there one day.
Barbara Farfan
It’s hard to imagine a time when the Royal Bank Tower was the tallest building in Canada, eh? I’ve been to all the major cities of Canada and Old Montreal beats them all with authentic charm. It’s almost like a theme park! Montreal is also where I had my first – and last – Poutine. That was a Memorable Montreal Moment, indeed! This is a reall great Old Montreal roundup – thanks!
The.Holidaymaker
I’m so glad it brought back some memories for you. Indeed it’s a fantastic city!
Riana Ang-Canning
Ah this post puts such a smile on my face! I’ve visited Montreal a few times and wandering through Old Montreal is always a highlight. I love the streets, eateries and beautiful buildings. Chez Suzette is definitely a favourite! I haven’t seen the Two Snobs statues though. Will have to keep an eye out for those on my next visit!
The.Holidaymaker
Thank you Riana for your comment. Yes, you will definitely have to keep your eye out for those statues. Agree about Crepe Suzette, I definitely wanted to add it to my recommendation on places to eat.
Clarice
The Old Port Montréal looks like a great place to spend the an relaxing afternoon. Love the idea of eating and drinking along the pier. It’s nice it has a skating rink and Ferris Wheel. My kids would love it.
The.Holidaymaker
Clarice this city is incredibly family friendly. The port has many other great things to do with kids. Hopefully you get a chance one day soon.
Agnes
Old Montréal seems a fabulous place for a trip. I had no idea that it dated to the early 1600s. I want to visit Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel and the Bonsecours Market. Château Ramezay also seems very exciting as it shows how the people of New France lived many centuries ago. It’s great to know that it’s on a list as one of the ‘1001 Historic Sites You Must See Before You Die’ by a team of experts in partnership with UNESCO. I add it to my bucket list.
The.Holidaymaker
Thank you Agnes for your kind comment. It seems like a lot of the highlights here intrigued you, so I do hope you get a chance to visit this amazing city.
Barry
I have to say this first, as it’s so true. Montreal has one of the best Modern Art Galleries in the world. I too visited Montreal several years ago and the Gallery visit was one of my most endearing moments. The artworks were superb, in well lit settings and such an eclectic variety.
It’s interesting how we are similar in our takes on the city but also slightly different.
Your pics are beautiful. That’s a wonderful pic of the Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel. I took it from the back and clearly thought that was the main part, duhhh – yours show the front and is a much better angle and pic.
Would have loved to see the places you highlight as they look enchanting – pressure of time again reduced the number of places I could see. I will visit your choices next time round!
The.Holidaymaker
Thank you Barry for your kind compliments. I too have a picture of the back of the Chapel, but opted to share the front!
I will have to visit the Gallery, I couldn’t as I was travelling with my dog. But next time I need to sneak that in. Thanks for the recommendation.
Anda
Montreal has been on my list for a while now, so I’m glad I stumbled upon your post. It contains a lot of useful information that concerns not only the attractions, but also about lodging and places to eat. I love those statues in Place Marguerite-Bourgeoys.
The.Holidaymaker
Thank you Anda, I’m so glad you found the article helpful.
Vasu Devan
Canada is on our list. I am also somewhat of a history buff. Reading this article definitely comes at the right time. Thanks for sharing.
The.Holidaymaker
Hopefully you’ll be able to visit it soon. Thanks for stopping by.
gloria li
Montreal is the one Canadian city I am dying to visit having been to Ottawa and Vancouver. Thanks for sharing these tips.
The.Holidaymaker
Yes, you definitely have to visit it. It’s one of my favourite cities.
Raksha
I never knew that Montreal had such old part of history. I love all those places listed here, especially would love to see the cathedrals and walk around the Old Montreal. I have never been to Montreal till now but have always had it on my list. Hopefully I will make it there soon.
The.Holidaymaker
Visiting Old Montréal is a must! The entire city is fantastic, but there is so much history in this one neighbourhood. Hopefully you’ll get there one day.
Laureen Lund
It’s been about six years since my one and only visit to Montreal. I have always wanted to go back!!! It felt so European and the food was exceptional! Here’s hoping we can get the Canada USA border open soon…can’t wait to travel in Canada again. Great post…great photos.
The.Holidaymaker
Thank you Laureen, I’m so glad you enjoyed the article. And, hope the border opens soon too!
Alma
What a perfect insight into Old Montreal! Would love to explore here but enjoyed seeing it through your eyes.
The.Holidaymaker
Thank you Alma for stopping by and so happy to hear you enjoyed the article.
Linda (LD Holland)
This post is SO timely. We leave for Montreal on Tuesday for a few days before we head to Atlantic Canada. It has been a long time since I wandered in Montreal so these are great suggestions. I love all the older buildings and architecture. I always think of great food when I think of Montreal, so I have noted your suggestions.
The.Holidaymaker
Oh, how wonderful. I’m so glad to hear that you’ll find it useful. Enjoy your trip!