Looking for the best places to visit in Montreal this winter? If you decided to face the Canadian cold, we got plenty of recommendations for you. Learn more about the romantic things to do in Montreal this winter or read more about the Montreal winter festivals here.
Let’s see what’s happening in Montreal this winter!
Experience Montreal Christmas Villages
If you’re visiting the city in December, you can’t miss this! December is always tight in with Christmas markets and Christmas atmosphere in the city which makes Montreal even more beautiful! Visiting some Christmas villages is a great way to get into the holiday mood and spend some time with your friends and family!
There is a big variety of activities, stands and events happening every weekend! You can buy some presents from the local or international sellers, attend one of the gourmet evenings or watch one of the many shows and variety or artists! The markets take place every weekend from November 29th to December 24th 2019, and it’s completely free.
Go Ice Skate at the Old Port of Montreal
Visiting Montreal in winter, nothing counts as a more classic activity than ice skating outdoors! With two maintained surfaces (one natural, one refrigerated) is the old port of Montreal a perfect spot for both beginners and advanced skaters.
Beautiful views, music, laughter, and many events and activities throughout the winter will ensure a good atmosphere and entertainment on the cold days.
Activities feature holiday fireworks, karaoke, DJs, and even cardio on-ice workouts! The ice rink is open from early December until late February, and you can check the event schedule on their website if you want to experience fun on the ice!
Explore the Inside of Notre-Dame Basilica
No, I’m not talking about Paris one! Notre-Dame Basilica is Canada’s first Gothic Revival-Style church, and it’s one of the most visited places in Montreal. It doesn’t look that special from the outside but once you walk in, you’ll be in awe of how stunning it is from the inside! The architecture of it, detailed ornate carvings, stained glass windows, and the colorful ceiling feels like being in a different world.
There is a $10 admission fee for adults and $5 for kids (7-17 years old) which is very reasonable, and you can also take one of the guided tours to learn more about Basilica! Note that kids that are younger get a free entry.
Try Local Restaurants & Bars
Are you wondering what to do in Montreal in winter? Exploring the local food scene gives you an excuse for why you don’t have to stay outside all day long in freezing cold streets. There are two ways of doing this! The first one is doing it on your own, so you might read about some places or have them saved for later, so if you prefer this does it!
But I would definitely recommend doing the Old Montreal Food Tour that gives you better local experience and it brings you to places you might not even know about!
Moreover, this tour is great for exploring a bit of a city and learning more about the history of Old Montreal. Either way, one meal that you definitely can’t miss is traditional Poutine (fries with gravy and cheese curd) and as a dessert, try warm maple taffy!
Escape the Snow Underground
Montreal winter activities are great and there is so much to do and experience however, it’s always nice to warm up and exchange outside for the inside!
Did you know that Montreal has the largest underground city in the world?! It’s made of connecting tunnels through which you can get to the metro lines, you can find a lot of shops, restaurants, hotels, banks, and so much more! It’s a city built under the city or it also feels like a huge shopping mall where you could easily spend a full day by going around this complex! Grab a map before you walk around and explore underground like a local!
Enjoy Mount Royal Park
Visiting Mount Royal Park is one of the main things to do in Montreal during winter if you like fun activities in the snow and outdoor winter sports! It might sound unreal but it’s true – take yours or rented equipment and go cross-country skiing, skating, or sliding. Where you ask? In the city’s heart, where this mountain offers one of the best views in the city!
Or you can also bring your snowshoes or Nordic skis and take a park’s free trial that will walk through beautiful nature in the area! Although if you feel like you want to have more fun than exercise, you can slide down the slope on your toboggan or inner tube!
