Montreal is a vibrant, multicultural city renowned for its rich historical heritage, dynamic art scene and varied gastronomy. Its European charm combined with its North American dynamism make it a completely unique city to stroll around between two days of trade shows.
Take advantage of your next visit to Montreal to discover these eight must-do activities:
1. Taste the local cuisine
Montreal is renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, which attracts chefs from all over the world. Whether you’re a fan of poutine, bagels, donuts or gourmet cuisine, the city offers a variety of restaurants to suit all tastes.
2. Explore Old Montreal
Just a stone’s throw from Hôtel Bonaventure and the Palais des congrès, Old Montreal is a charming district where history and modernity meet. Stroll the cobblestone streets, visit Notre-Dame Basilica and its AURA show, and stop off at one of the many quaint cafés, including the magnificent Crew Collective Café located in a former bank. Old Montreal is the perfect place to unwind after a busy day at a trade show or convention.
3. Visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is a must-see if you’re in need of a healthy dose of culture and inspiration. With exhibitions ranging from classic works to contemporary creations, the museum is the perfect place to stimulate your creativity and find new ideas for your business.
4. Relax in one of the city’s many green parks
Parc du Mont-Royal is a vast natural space in the heart of the city, with hiking trails, cross-country ski trails in winter and a belvedere offering spectacular panoramic views of the city. Parc Jean-Drapeau, located on Île Sainte-Hélène and Île Notre-Dame, includes numerous sports facilities, gardens, beaches and the famous La Ronde amusement park. This is also the site of the famous Montreal Grand Prix. Next to the Olympic Stadium is Parc Maisonneuve, home to the Montreal Botanical Garden, with its vast collection of plants, thematic gardens and exotic greenhouses.
5. Take in a concert in the Quartier des Spectacles
The Quartier des Spectacles is the cultural heart of Montreal. In summer, numerous music and arts festivals follow one another to the delight of all. Consult the calendar of events to make sure you don’t miss a thing during your stay.
6. Shop on Sainte-Catherine Street
Sainte-Catherine Street is one of Montreal’s main commercial thoroughfares. You’ll find department stores like the Eaton Centre and The Bay, as well as small independent boutiques.
7. Refresh at a local microbrewery
Montreal is home to many craft microbreweries, including Dieu du Ciel!, Brasserie Harricana and Les Brasseurs de Montréal. This is a great opportunity to network in a relaxed setting with other trade show professionals.
8. Take a stroll on the Lachine Canal
Need a little peace and quiet? Rent a bike or take a walk along the Lachine Canal. This picturesque route offers beautiful views of the city and leads to the famous Atwater Market, where excellent butchers and greengrocers await you.
