In Eastern Canada, Montreal is probably one of the most interesting cities to visit. It was named a UNESCO City of Design pretty recently and it is also considered the country’s cultural capital. Since most people speak fluently English in addition to French, it is a friendly place for tourists from all around the world. One of the spots you should not miss when you visit the city is definitely Old-Montreal, being a hub of tourism for the city. Are you planning to come to Montreal shortly? If so, here are a few things you could witness while visiting Old-Montreal.
Architectural beauty
The beautiful streets of Montreal
It is no secret that this part of Canada was colonized by the French Empire a few centuries ago. Walking in Old-Montreal will make you feel like you’ve stepped in Europe: cobbled streets and very old buildings look like nothing like other parts of the city. Even Old-Montreal Hotels actually look great in that portion of the city! For a romantic walk, this neighborhood is extremely appropriated.
Notre-Dame Basilica
Quebec’s province has a very strong religious heritage. The basilica was built using the Gothic Revival style and it proves to be very impressive. Every day, guided tours are organized around the building to introduce you to the history of the building as well as its key architectural features. Visiting with a guide is not mandatory but if you speak French or English, you should not miss the opportunity. Special activities are also organized inside: for example, you can attend repetitions of a famous organist, Pierre Grandmaison. A few concerts as well as a sound and light show are also happening from time to time.
Different museums are waiting for you
Once again, history fans will rejoice: many museums can be reached by foot once you are in Old Montreal. For example, you can go to Point-a-Calliere museum if you are interested in archeological studies as well as artefacts. The history of Montreal is recreated from 1000 years ago until today with one of its expositions. Château Ramezay, on another hand, is mostly dedicated to the history of Montreal (as well as Quebec) through different paintings. Magnificent gardens were created within Château Ramezay and many special activities take place for families throughout the year. If you’d like to participate in workshops to create marbled paper, traditional dyeing or textile, you’ll be at the right place!
Welcome to Chateau Ramezay!
A great spot for maple delicacies
Touring is nice, but eating is also a very satisfying moment. If you just arrived in Canada and crave to taste some maple products, Canadian Maple Delights is a bistro located on St-Paul Street. They sell many premium maple syrup products to bring back home as well as delicacies to eat in the spot. Cookies, coffee, candies and much more things are made with it. The location received a few prizes across the years: it is a renowned place for tourists to visit.
A boutique that will make your taste buds dance.
Of course, Montreal could not only be limited to visiting Old Montreal: many festivals, concerts and comedy shows can be watched all around the city. When you’ll step in Canada’s cultural capital, you’ll find out it takes more than a few days to make a complete tour.
Charles often writes about Montreal’s touristic industry. He also works for Hotel St-Paul, a boutique hotel situated in Old-Montreal.
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