Montreal is a city in the province of Quebec, in Canada, and it is the largest French-speaking city in the country. For a visitor, that shapes almost everything, from the language on signs and menus to the rhythm of cafés and street life. The city is often described as having a European character, and the facts behind that impression are easy to see on foot.
What the city offers
- The historic Old Town, where the older streets and squares give the centre its distinctive feel.
- A vibrant cultural scene, with much to see and hear across the city in the arts, music and everyday street life.
- A bilingual-to-French atmosphere, which makes it a useful place to practise French or simply to enjoy a different linguistic setting within North America.
Planning a visit
Montreal suits travellers who enjoy wandering. Much of the appeal lies in moving between neighbourhoods, sitting in a café, and letting the city's European-leaning streets set the pace. Because the Old Town is compact, it is easy to combine with time elsewhere in the city.
If you are interested in culture, the city's arts scene gives you plenty of reasons to plan ahead, while those who prefer a slower day can simply explore on foot. Whatever your pace, Montreal rewards a visit that is unhurried and open to what each street offers.