Montreal is the most popular North American destination among Belgians, after New York. There are many reasons to travel: inter-school exchanges, family or business ties, holidays... But while many Belgians fly to Montreal to discover Quebec, many Canadians also come on holiday to Belgium. One draw is the Westhoek where Canadians fought alongside the British during the First World War.
What to do in Montreal?
Let’s start with Old Montreal
A historic part of the city, Old Montreal borders the St. Lawrence River. Its small cobbled streets, oozing charm, are an ideal place to stroll. Don't miss the stained glass windows of Notre-Dame Basilica, the Bonsecours Market and Place Jacques Cartier.
The Plateau Mont-Royal and its belvedere
The Plateau is home to several atypical neighbourhoods where you will be spoilt for choice of small restaurants, bars and other shops. With its colourful spiral staircases and facades, it has become an iconic part of Montreal. The peaceful Parc La Fontaine is definitely worth a visit. The Mount Royal Park, designed by the man behind Central Park in New York, counts a belvedere offering an incredible view of the city and its skyline. Too cold to go outside? The Portus 360 restaurant, located near the river, gives you a unique panoramic view as it revolves 360 degrees as you eat.
Shop until you drop
For the best window-shopping experience, head for Rue Sainte-Catherine, one of Montreal's longest shopping streets. And close to the Mc Gill metro station, there is a vast underground pedestrian network with 32 km of linked passages. More than one store in ten is located in this area.
When to go there?
To make the most of the good weather, May to September are the best months to visit. In December, there is little sunshine. But lit up for the Christmas and New Year celebrations, the city is still a hive of activity, despite the polar temperatures (-10 to -20°C).
You want to discover the city?
This summer flights
- Air Canada (B787 Dreamliner): every day
- Air Transat: 3 times a week
- Brussels Airlines: 5 times a week
- From the 2nd of May 2020, Air Canada will also be flying to Toronto (and the rest of Canada) 5 times a week.