Montréal is a large, vibrant city in Quebec, where residents predominantly speak two languages: English and Canadian French. Most locals communicate in Canadian French as their native language, with some understanding a bit of English. This dynamic made me feel like I was in Canada yet also not quite in Canada, which was a bit strange for me. Additionally, Montréal is one of the most populous cities in Quebec, contributing to its lively atmosphere.
We didn’t have to worry about commuting because we had someone to drive us around, which we were really grateful for. Many of the tourist attractions are spread out, making it more convenient to have a driver. A friend mentioned that the trains can be quite confusing, so having our own transportation made our trip much easier!
Getting there:
We traveled from Ottawa to Montreal via VIA Rail Canada. The travel time is approximately 2 hours from Ottawa. It cost us $63 for an economy seat. There is also a straight trip from Toronto City.
1. Mount Royal Park
It’s the perfect spot to take in the cityscape of Montreal! I’ve always been a fan of cityscapes, and I find them especially beautiful at night with all the lights. It was quite cold that evening, and my hands were freezing, but I finally mustered the courage to snap this quick photo.
2. Saint Joseph's Oratory
Founded in 1904, Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal is the largest shrine in the world dedicated to Saint Joseph and a world renowned place for pilgrimage associated to Saint Brother André, its founder. - Sanctuaires Quebec
3. Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal
I was in awe seeing the magnificent altar. The picture doesn't even justify how beautiful the Basilica was.
Notre-Dame Basilica is a significant part of the Catholic religious heritage of Montreal.
The Basilica's vast size, executed in the Gothic Revival style, the extraordinary craftsmanship and artistic polish of its fittings, its many fine works of religious art, and the interior of its chapel inspired by the Sainte-Chapelle in Paris, are heritage whose preservation and enhancement demand the greatest possible attention and care - Basilique Notre Dame
4. Montréal Biosphère
The Biosphere is the only environment museum in North America! Exploring themes related to meteorology, climate, and water and air quality, the museum offers scientific exhibitions and guided activities designed to give visitors a better understanding of environmental issues and raise their awareness of the importance of making environmentally responsible choices.
Architectural masterpiece and symbol of Expo 67, the Biosphere is a unique and spectacular structure, located at Parc Jean-Drapeau in Montréal. - Environmental and Climate Change Canada
5. Habitat 67
Habitat 67, designed by the Israeli-Canadian architect Moshe Safdie as the Canadian Pavilion for the World Exposition of 1967, was originally intended as an experimental solution for high-quality housing in dense urban environments. Safdie explored the possibilities of prefabricated modular units to reduce housing costs and allow for a new housing typology that could integrate the qualities of a suburban home into an urban high-rise.
Reflecting on the project’s significance in “A look back at habitat ’67” Safdie stated that “Habitat ‘67 is really two ideas in one. One is about prefabrication, and the other is about rethinking apartment-building design in the new paradigm.” - Arch Daily
6. Olympic Stadium
Olympic Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium in Canada, located at Olympic Park in the Hochelaga-Maisonneuve district of Montreal. Built in the mid-1970s as the main venue for the 1976 Summer Olympics, it is nicknamed "The Big O", a reference to both its name and to the doughnut-shape of the permanent component of the stadium's roof. It is also called "The Big Owe" to reference the astronomical cost of the stadium and the 1976 Olympics as a whole. - Wikipedia
7. Old Port of Montreal
The Old Port is the perfect place for dining, relaxing, shopping, and enjoying sunny days at the Clock Tower Beach. Paddleboats, quadricycles, and a guided historical tour help you see the city from a new perspective, while several cruises and excursions offer maritime activities, at full speed or nice and easy with a gourmet meal. The area is also home to the Montréal Science Centre and the IMAX TELUS, where you can have fun learning more about the world. In winter, the area is enlivened by exciting events like TELUS Fire on Ice and Igloofest, as well as a large outdoor skating rink and a host of other activities. - Tourisme Montreal
8. Old City Hall
The Old City Hall is located at the Old Montreal just across the Old Port. With in this area, there are a lot of kiosks and fashion stores to check around. There are also benches, where you can relax after long walks in the city or by simply drinking your favorite fruit juice while enjoying the nice weather and view.
All photos are owned by the writer and owner of this blog.
© Monica Peralta
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