In Three Days

If you've followed the one- and two-day itineraries, you've already visited Montréal's primary must-see sights. On this third day, take in the great parks and waterways of the city. Start: Peel Métro station (if you're in the mood for a hike) or a taxi ride to Lac des Castors in Parc du Mont-Royal.

1. Parc du Mont-Royal

The hill that rises behind downtown is the small mountain, Mont Royal, that gave the city its name. Its rounded crest became a public park somewhat according to plans by architect Frederick Law Olmsted. Throngs of people come for its woods, paths, and meadows in all four seasons. You can join them with a stroll up from Peel station or a taxi ride to Lac des Castors (Beaver Lake).

Make your way either by bus and Métro, or by taxi, to the southern end of the city.

2. Vieux-Port

The Old Port at the edge of Vieux-Montréal has been transformed into a broad, vibrant park. Principal among the attractions is the Centre des Sciences de Montréal, on quai (pier) King Edward. It contains a popular IMAX theater, in addition to interactive exhibits to enthrall most everyone's inner geek.

In the warm months, Les Sautes-Moutons (tel. 514/284-9607) depart from the park's east end, near the old clock tower. Also known as Lachine Rapids Tours, the company provides wave-jumper powerboats with which to take on the St. Lawrence River's roiling Lachine Rapids. Other companies provide more sedate river cruises.

You can also rent bicycles and in-line skates by the hour or day from here, and then head out to the peaceful Lachine Canal, a nearly flat 11km (6.8-mile) bicycle path that's open year-round.

3. Le Jardin Nelson

Vieux-Montréal has a large number of restaurants. One of the most popular is Le Jardin Nelson, on the main square, Place Jacques-Cartier. It's open in the warm months and has a large terrace where jazz musicians perform during the day and evening. The menu offers a delectable roster of main-course and dessert crepes. 407 Place Jacques-Cartier. tel. 514/861-5731.