Top 10 Montreal Travel Tips: Festivals, Poutine, and the Underground City

North America

Jan 2

Written By Sophie

“Montreal is a city of festivals, a city of food, and a city where the world meets in a French accent.”

— Unknown

Montreal is the second-largest French-speaking city in the world after Paris, but it has a vibe that is entirely its own. It’s a place where historic cobblestone streets meet soaring skyscrapers, and where culinary innovation is found on every corner.

Whether you are visiting for the world-famous Jazz Festival or to explore the snowy slopes of Mont-Royal, navigating this bilingual metropolis requires some local savvy. Here is your guide to Montreal.

1.

Bilingualism: Start with "Bonjour-Hi"

Montreal is officially French-speaking, but almost everyone is bilingual.

The Rule: It is polite to start any interaction with "Bonjour-Hi". This signals to the person that you are open to speaking either language. Even if your French is limited to "Merci," making a small effort is highly appreciated by the locals.

2.

Survive the Winter in the "Underground City" (RÉSO)

Montreal winters are legendary for their intensity and heavy snow.

The Hack: Use the RÉSO, a massive network of 32 kilometers of underground tunnels. It connects shopping malls, metro stations, office buildings, and hotels. You can basically cross half the city center without ever putting on a winter coat!

3.

Eat the "Real" Poutine at La Banquise

You cannot visit Montreal without trying Poutine (fries, gravy, and squeaky cheese curds).

The Tip: While it's available everywhere, La Banquise is the most famous spot. It’s open 24 hours and offers over 30 different types of poutine. Be prepared to wait in line, but the "classic" is worth every calorie.

4.

Montreal Bagels vs. New York Bagels

There is a massive rivalry here. Montreal bagels are smaller, denser, and sweeter (boiled in honey-water) than their New York cousins.

The Hack: Head to the Mile End district and visit St-Viateur Bagel or Fairmount Bagel. Both are open 24/7. Buying a hot, fresh sesame bagel straight from the wood-fired oven is a religious experience for foodies.

5.

Hike Up Mont-Royal for the View

The city is named after this hill ("Mount Royal"), and no building is allowed to be taller than its summit.

The Tip: Hike or bike to the Kondiaronk Belvedere lookout. It offers the most iconic panoramic view of the Montreal skyline and the St. Lawrence River. In the autumn, the colors of the trees are breathtaking.

6.

Use the BIXI Bike System

Montreal is one of the most bike-friendly cities in North America.

The Hack: Rent a BIXI bike. There are stations every few blocks. It’s the fastest and most fun way to explore neighborhoods like Le Plateau or the Old Port. The first 30 minutes are often very cheap or included in short-term passes.

7.

Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal) is for History

This is the oldest area of the city, dating back to the 17th century.

The Tip: Walk along Rue Saint-Paul and visit the Notre-Dame Basilica. The interior is a masterpiece of blue and gold. The Warning: Restaurants in the Old Port are expensive; walk a few blocks north toward the city center for better value meals.

8.

Tipping is Mandatory

Like the rest of Canada and the US, tipping is a standard part of the culture.

The Rule: In restaurants and bars, a tip of 15% to 20% on the pre-tax bill is expected. If you don't tip, it is considered extremely rude and implies the service was terrible. Note that the taxes (TPS and TVQ) add about 15% to your bill, so the final price is always higher than the menu price.

9.

Check the Festival Calendar

Montreal is the "City of Festivals" for a reason.

The Tip: There is a major festival almost every week in summer, including the Montreal Jazz Festival, Just for Laughs, and Osheaga. Many events are free and take place in the Quartier des Spectacles. Always check the calendar before you visit!

10.

Smoked Meat at Schwartz's

Besides Poutine and Bagels, Montreal is famous for its "Smoked Meat" sandwiches.

The Hack: Schwartz’s Deli is a legendary institution on Saint-Laurent Boulevard. It’s been there since 1928. Order the "Medium Fat" sandwich for the best flavor. If the line is too long, you can order for take-out at the shop next door much faster!