Montreal City Guide

Montreal's food scene is diverse, including local staples like poutine and smoked meat sandwiches. Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options. Late-night food is common in the Plateau and downtown areas.

Nightlife ranges from pubs and cocktail bars to clubs and live music venues. Popular areas include Crescent Street, St-Laurent Boulevard, and the Latin Quarter.

Strong coffee culture combining European-style cafés with modern specialty shops. Local roasters are growing in number.

Tipping is expected for service workers. Restaurants typically get 15-20%, taxis 10-15%, bartenders $1-$2 or 15-20%.

Local SIMs are sold at provider shops and the airport. Providers include Bell, Rogers, Telus, Fido, Koodo, and Virgin Plus. eSIM is becoming common. ID or passport needed for registration.

Generally clean especially in tourist and residential areas. Waste pickup and recycling programs are effective.

Decent 24/7 services in central areas. Some pharmacies and convenience stores open all night. Emergency rooms always open.

Supermarkets like Metro, IGA, Provigo, and Maxi cover basics and international foods. Fresh markets like Jean-Talon and Atwater offer produce and meats. Stores usually open 8 or 9 AM to 9 or 10 PM weekdays, shorter hours on weekends.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most places. Cash is accepted but rarely needed.

ATMs are common at banks, stores, and malls. Major banks include RBC, TD, and BMO. Using out-of-network ATMs may cost CAD 1.50 to 3 per transaction.

English and French schools are available. Notable are the English Montreal School Board and Lester B. Pearson School Board. Some private schools like Lower Canada College and Selwyn House have competitive admissions.

Montreal's digital nomad scene is growing with meetups, co-living, and many nomad-friendly cafés, but still developing compared to bigger hubs.

Excellent green spaces like Mount Royal Park, Parc La Fontaine, and Parc Jean-Drapeau provide walking, running, and relaxation areas.

Popular running routes at Mount Royal Park, Lachine Canal, and Parc La Fontaine. Generally safe with good air quality most of the year.

Gyms are widely available across the city with many options for different workout styles.

Tennis courts are common in public parks and private clubs. Booking and equipment rental available. Coaching is widespread.

Padel courts are growing but still few in number.

Many yoga studios offering varied styles and wellness options. English-speaking instructors are common.

Wide range of martial arts including BJJ, Muay Thai, Judo, Karate, with many gyms offering drop-in classes and English-speaking instructors.

Ski resorts like Mont Tremblant and Bromont are 1 to 1.5 hours away with good snow and terrain for all levels. Season runs December to April.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing are popular on the Lachine Canal and Saint Lawrence River with rentals and tours available.

River surfing on the Saint Lawrence at Habitat 67. Suitable for experienced surfers with seasonal water temperature. Not ocean surfing.

Limited diving in city rivers but some sites in nearby lakes and quarries. Best in summer and early fall.

Montreal has good public and private healthcare. Hospitals like MUHC and CHUM have English-speaking staff. Pharmacies include Jean Coutu, Pharmaprix, and Uniprix with pharmacists available. Emergency number is 911.

Tap water is safe to drink and meets high standards.

Many parks with playgrounds, kid-friendly cafés, and baby supplies in stores. Attractions include the Science Centre, Biodome, Insectarium, and La Ronde amusement park.

Highly LGBTQ+ friendly with a vibrant Gay Village and major pride events. Legal protections are strong and discrimination is low.

Pet-friendly city with many off-leash areas, veterinary services, and pet supplies. Some restaurants allow pets on patios.