With 5 days in Montreal, you'll have time to experience the city's highlights. The city's energy is famously seasonal, transforming from the euphoric, festival-packed summer streets of the Quartier des Spectacles to a serene, snow-dusted wonderland where the Underground City becomes a vital artery. This duality is Montreal's heartbeat—a place where you can hike the wooded trails of Mount Royal for a panoramic city view, then descend into the earth to explore the world's largest interconnected underground complex, a testament to the city's ingenious adaptation to its climate and creative spirit.
Why Visit Montreal
A World-Class Festival City: The city pulses with creative energy year-round. Experience the international circus arts at the Montréal Complètement Cirque festival in July, laugh out loud at the Just for Laughs comedy festival, or immerse yourself in film at the Fantasia International Film Festival.
Stunning Architectural Contrasts: Witness centuries of history through architecture, from the Gothic Revival splendor of the Notre-Dame Basilica in Old Montreal to the futuristic habitat of Moshe Safdie's Habitat 67 and the sleek skyscrapers of the downtown core.
A Thriving Arts & Street Art Scene: Montreal is an open-air gallery. Take a guided mural tour in the Plateau Mont-Royal, discover contemporary art at the Musée d'art contemporain (MAC), and explore the unique artist studios in the historic Fonderie Darling.
Find cheap transport to Montreal
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Montreal
Enter your departure city to see prices
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & First Impressions
Start your Montreal adventure by getting your bearings and exploring the city's most iconic landmarks. Take time to soak in the atmosphere and discover why this destination captures the hearts of millions.
Old Montreal
Experience Old Montreal, one of Montreal's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Canada's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Mount Royal
Experience Mount Royal, one of Montreal's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Canada's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 2: Local Life & Neighborhoods
Experience Montreal like a local today. Wander through authentic neighborhoods, discover hidden cafes, and get a taste of everyday life in Canada.
Notre-Dame Basilica
Experience Notre-Dame Basilica, one of Montreal's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Canada's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Mile End
Experience Mile End, one of Montreal's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Canada's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 3: Art, History & Discovery
Uncover layers of history that shaped Montreal. From ancient remains to modern marvels, today reveals the stories behind the city's evolution.
Jean-Talon Market
Experience Jean-Talon Market, one of Montreal's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Canada's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Underground City
Experience Underground City, one of Montreal's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Canada's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 4: Off the Beaten Path
Venture beyond the tourist trail to discover Montreal's lesser-known treasures. These local favorites offer authentic experiences away from the crowds.
Day 5: Last Adventures & Farewell
Savor your last hours in Montreal. Whether it's a final coffee at a favorite spot or one more landmark to check off, make it memorable.
Ready to explore Montreal?
Travel Tips
- 1Book accommodation in the city center for easy access to attractions. Montreal is best explored by combining walking with public transport.
- 2The best time to visit Montreal is May to October. Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
- 3The local currency is Canadian Dollar (C$). Carry some cash for small vendors and markets.
- 4A few words in French go a long way with locals. Even "please" and "thank you" will earn smiles.
- 5Download offline maps and translation apps before your trip. WiFi can be spotty in historic areas.
- 65 days gives you time to see the highlights and discover some hidden gems.
Must-Try Food in Montreal
💡 In restaurants, tap water is safe, free, and excellent. Ask for 'une carafe d'eau' to avoid paying for bottled water.
Book Activities in Montreal
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Neighborhoods to Explore in Montreal
Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal)
The historic heart of the city, with 17th-century architecture, cobblestone streets, and a romantic, old-world atmosphere.
Plateau Mont-Royal
A bohemian, vibrant district known for its colorful row houses with iconic spiral staircases, indie shops, bustling cafes, and some of the city's best street art.
Mile End
A trendy, multicultural hub that's the epicenter of Montreal's indie music, art, and food scenes.
Day Trip Ideas
With 5 days in Montreal, you have time for a memorable day trip. Here are some great options nearby:
Québec City
Step back in time in North America's only walled city north of Mexico.
Eastern Townships (Cantons-de-l'Est)
A picturesque region of rolling hills, vineyards, and quaint villages perfect for a countryside escape.
Plan your Montreal adventure
Let AI create the perfect itinerary for your trip to Montreal. Just describe what you want to experience.
Plan Montreal trip