The Best of Montréal in 3 Days: The Great Outdoors

If you’ve followed the above itineraries on Days 1 and 2, you’ve already visited Montréal’s primary must-see sights. Today, 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 at the top of Parc du Mont-Royal.

1. Parc du Mont-Royal
The hill that rises behind downtown is the small mountain, Mont Royal, which gave the city its name. This 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, a taxi ride to Lac des Castors (Beaver Lake) at the top, or bus #11, which runs between Métro stations Mont-Royal and Chemin de la Côte-des-Neiges.

After some time at the city’s highest point, make your way either by bus and Métro, or by taxi, to the waterways at 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 interactive exhibits that enthrall most everyone’s inner geek.

In the warm months, glass-enclosed Le Bateau-Mouche, reminiscent of the boats on the Seine in Paris, takes passengers on a route inaccessible by traditional vessels and providing sweeping views of the city and nearby islands.

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 plenty of good 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 back terrace where jazz musicians perform during the day and evening. The menu offers a roster of main-course and dessert crepes.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.