Montreal

Founded in 1642, Montreal is the second largest city in Canada. Originally a French settlement, it retains much of the old European charm that is one of the city’s attractions. The old section of the city with its cathedrals and shopping district along with the quays of the Montreal port on the St. Lawrence River and its many other historic sites make this an exciting destination that can take days to explore.

Here are a few highlights:

Old Montreal aka “The Port”

The old city is known as “The Port” and was the original center of shipping on the river. Today the commercial port has moved further down river and the old quays have become centers of shopping and entertainment. Alongside the quays is a larger historic district with many buildings in the dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries.

St. Lawrence River

Promenades paralleling the river and city canals provide views of the water and the city as well as the river quays and bridges that span the St. Lawrence.

Underground City

The old city and the core metropolitan area are connected by a virtual underground city of shops, metro stops and continuous pedestrian corridors. It is particularly useful during the long winters, but also disperses pedestrians in some of the city’s more densely populated areas.

Diverse Architecture

From colonial structures to the Art Deco University of Montreal. The city is a hub of diverse architecture.

Other Historic Sites

The Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue and Lachine canals, Fort Chambly and many old sites that chronicle the fur trade that was so important to the city’s early commercial viability are all on display inside and just outside the city.