I visited Montréal in early October 2024 (when the US observes Indigenous Peoples’ Day). It was Canada’s Thanksgiving day (I didn’t know they celebrated their own Thanksgiving as well with food and Canadian football, per my Lyft driver).

Originally, I had wanted to take the train up and maybe catch some fall foliage on the way. But I found out the train ride takes over 8 hours, so I opted to take the 1.5-hour flight instead. Although international, Montréal is a nice weekend getaway from NYC, and shares the same time zone. Be sure to download the ArriveCAN app on your phone before arriving at YUL Montréal-Trudeau International Airport to expedite customs processing.

I was there for 3 nights and 4 days. In looking at hotels, I found out Montréal is an expensive city to stay in, so I opted for an Airbnb (an alternative I mention in my solo travel post). Below are my recommendations for sights to visit in Montréal.

Mount Royal Park

I read about Mount Royal Park, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the same designer of Central and Prospect Parks in NYC.

Fall foliage was on display (pictures below), but so was the chance of rain. Checking the weather before I arrived, I knew my best shot at hiking up the mountain was the day I arrived (I wanted to view the lookout at the top). After my morning flight from NYC, I stored my carry on and hiked up the mountain.

Weather in early October was similar to late fall/early winter in NYC, chilly at night and when the wind gusts. I was glad I brought thermals to layer. Montréal seems like they’ve adapted and prepared for freezing temperatures; they have an Underground City that spans miles! Bus connections are also abundant. One doesn’t have to walk if you don’t want to. I’m sure it’s a lifesaver during the snowy winters.

To get a view of the city of Montréal, hike to the top of Mount Royal to the Chalet du Mont-Royal et belvédère Kondiaronk. A chalet at the top awaits you with food, drink, restrooms, and sweeping views of downtown and the St. Lawrence River (pictures above).

Marché Jean-Talon

I seek out local food whenever I travel and am a fan of farmer’s markets. The Marché Jean-Talon is one of the best markets I’ve visited. I was amazed at how clean all the produce were, from onions to the potatoes. They have a variety of foods (I was able to buy baklava, a scone, and maple-flavored treats).

Jardin botanique de Montréal

I visited the botanical garden (pictures above), which had plants for various terrains. It’s expansive, not heavily ornamented with flowers like Butchart Gardens in Victoria, Canada or Keukenhof in Lisse, Netherlands. Instead it’s serene with natural space laid out that feels like you’re exploring a forest.

Visiting the botanical garden after lunch timed perfectly with the illuminated night show (which requires a separate admission fee—both can be purchased online). Jardins de Lumière (Gardens of Light) is worth checking out (pictures above). They pause the light show in the winter, so be sure to check the calendar. I exited when the park closed and re-entered less than an hour later.

In that time, I walked across the street to snap a photo of the Biodome (featured image for the post), which was originally built for the 1976 Olympics and reopened in 1992.

Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal

The Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal, a Roman Catholic Church, intrigued me because it has a unique light show called the AURA experience. I bought a ticket and it felt like Disney-caliber special effects, but with respect and reverence for the faithful. If you decide to come for the AURA experience, be sure to come early, as a line forms for first come, first served seating (especially if you want to sit as a group). We sat in the pews. No cameras are allowed to photograph or video, which I liked. It forces everyone to be present and experience the wonder together. I don’t think there’s any bad seating; I tend to choose by the aisle in case someone tall sits in front of me.

La Grande Roue

Gravitating toward the water, I found myself within view of the La Grande Roue. I didn’t ride it, but marveled at the sight of the Ferris wheel hovering over the reddish leaves on the trees surrounding it. Perfect fall photo.

Public Transportation in Montréal

Public transportation in Montréal was easy and efficient. I took the 747 shuttle from YUL Montréal-Trudeau International Airport to the Métro station downtown. I bought the pass for the 747 shuttle at the airport, which is valid on public transportation (Métro and buses) for 24 hours from the first time you use it. Planning on taking the same 747 shuttle back to the airport, I bought two 1-day passes when I landed. (Since I had an early flight on my last day, I used it on my last full day in Montréal.)

Canadian Dollars

Canada has its own currency, Canadian dollars (CAD), so be sure to bring a credit card with no foreign transaction fees. I didn’t need to carry CAD in cash.

My impression of Montréal

As you can tell from the names, they speak French, the official language of the province of Quebec, where Montréal is located. If you’re like me and only know a few key phrases in French, fear not. Since they’re Canadian, the locals toggle to English readily.

My Lyft driver touted how safe the city was, and I felt it. I saw everyone, young and old, walking around late at night. Montréal is one of the places I could see myself living in. It should be on your travel list.