Montreal is a city unlike any other in Canada. Situated in the Province of Quebec, it is the cultural capital of the region. Rich in history, it is the second largest city in Canada. Montreal has a distinctive French culture and it radiates sophisticated glamour. The city is renowned for its innovative fashion, extensive arts community and delectable cuisine. Old Montreal, situated on the banks of the St Lawrence River, stands as a tribute to the city’s ancient beginnings, resounding in historical significance.

What to see in Montreal

Old Montreal has cobblestone streets, and is lined with buildings dating back to the 17th Century. This area is best explored by foot, where one can find the Marche Bonesecours, the Notre Dame Basilica and several museums.

The Old Port is a large waterfront green space, home to the world famous Cirque du Soleil, the Montreal Science Museum, the Labyrinth and the Clock Tower.

Chinatown has one of the largest Asian communities in Canada and is best known for it’s many excellent restaurants and oriental gift shops.

Plateau Mont-Royal is found in the heart of the city, the distinctive neighbourhoods are a maze of quiet tree-lined streets, where one can easily get lost! Secret ‘inner’ streets connect gardens and houses to other adjacent street - just remember to take a map!

St Joseph’s Oratory is the largest church in Canada and is a favourite for the Pilgrims of Brother Andre. A collection of crutches and canes can be found here, reputedly left by the many handicapped visitors who have been healed. The gardens are beautifully maintained and the views from the Oratory are magnificent.

The Basilique Notre-Dame is a spectacular Gothic church. Services are open to the public, but a donation is expected.

Jardin Botanique - A huge and stunning botanical garden, featuring numerous themed gardens. Admission is $13.75 and includes admission to the Montreal Insectarium.

Parc Jean-Drapeau - Part of the site of the 1967 World's Fair, is now devoted to green spaces and a large outdoor concert venue. Incorporating the Gilles Villeneuve racing circuit, home of the Montreal Formula 1 Grand Prix, an artificial beach, a huge outdoor pool complex and the Montreal Casino the Parc Jean-Drapeau is well worth a visit.

The Underground City - This network of underground malls and passageways is a very convenient way to walk around during the winter months. It encompasses 6 metro stations on the green and orange lines and all of the major downtown shopping malls, encompassing food courts, cinemas, innumerable boutiques and services.

Montreal is also known as a great skiing destination. Some of the most popular ski resorts around Montreal include:

Tremblant - A traffic-free, colourful resort in Quebec. A French speaking Province, Tremblant oozes it’s own special brand of joie de vivre. The resort offers an array of boutiques, restaurants and bars, and the apres-ski and nightlife are not to be missed! This is an excellent resort for beginners, where one can start on the “Equilibre” area before advancing to the gentle “Nansen” run. Intermediates and Advanced skiers are well catered for too, try the “Beauvallon” slopes or for those who wish for a more challenging route, why not try the “Expo” or “Dynamite” runs?