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Best Things to do in Montreal (2026)

Many of the best experiences in Montreal are free or close to it, and they show how locals spend their time. Start with the Old Port, where more than two kilometres of quays run along the St Lawrence past the Clock Tower, the Science Centre and an urban beach, and where part of the Bonsecours Basin becomes a skating rink in winter. From there, the Lachine Canal path heads west for 13.5 kilometres through the city's old industrial districts, and it is best explored by bike.

The city's public markets are another highlight. Jean-Talon Market in Little Italy is the largest, with farmers' stalls from spring to autumn and an indoor section in winter, while Atwater Market, in an Art Deco hall beside the canal, is smaller and has a canal-side terrace for picnics. A good day combines a morning at Atwater with a ride along the canal to the Old Port. For something slower, Bota Bota, a floating spa moored in the Old Port, offers a water circuit, massages and riverside gardens for guests aged 18 and over. Book the spa ahead, visit the markets early in the day for the best choice, and check the season before planning outdoor activities, as Montreal's winters change what is possible.

5 places · Updated October 27, 2026

Our top 3 things to do in Montreal

  1. Old Port of Montreal Waterfront promenade, Old MontrealMore than two kilometres of quays along the St Lawrence below Old Montreal, with the Clock Tower, the Science Centre, an urban beach and winter skating.
  2. Jean-Talon Market Public food market, Little ItalyMontreal's largest public market, in Little Italy since 1933, with farmers' stalls, cheese, maple products, bakeries and restaurants, open year-round.
  3. Atwater Market Public food market, Saint-HenriArt Deco public market from 1933 beside the Lachine Canal in Saint-Henri, with butchers, cheesemongers, bakers and seasonal farmers' stalls.

Thing to do

3. Atwater Market

Public food marketSaint-Henri

Art Deco public market from 1933 beside the Lachine Canal in Saint-Henri, with butchers, cheesemongers, bakers and seasonal farmers' stalls.

View details — Atwater Market