Montreal is a beautiful Canadian city with European flair but that doesn't mean visiting has to be hard on one's wallet. There are a multitude of things to do in Montreal that are absolutely free.
Jean Talon Market
The largest of four Montreal Markets, Jean Talon has a local feel to it. The market is a feast for the senses with it's many booths of produce, cheeses, oils, meats, and specialty items. The best Gelato can be found at Havre-Aux-Glaces. Pick up lunch at the market for picnicking later in the day on the Mountain or at the Old Port.
Old Port Of Montreal
Historic Old Montreal is a place for photos and wandering. Enjoy a self guided walking tour. The cobble stoned St Paul Street is home to many great restaurants and art galleries showcasing Canadian art. St. Pal takes you to Place Jacques Cartier, an area often filled with Buskers and artisans selling their wares. Green space along the water has benches for enjoying a picnic and people watching. Visit The Notre Dame Basilica. Dating back to 1829, this beautiful church is free to visit from 4pm on Saturday until 12:30 Sunday afternoon. If attendance is impossible during those times the fee is inexpensive and does help with restoration costs.
Parc Mont Royal
The gem of many great parks in Montreal, Parc Mont Royal is 101 hectares of wilderness that sits on Mont Royal. The park offers great views of the city and a place to relax, picnic or read. There are many cleared trails for hiking, biking or cross country skiing. Enjoy watching the ducks or the sunset near Beaver Lake. On Sundays (except winter) pull up a piece of grass and enjoy an impromptu free spirited drumming jam session. The free music of Tam Tam is found at the base of the mountain near Parc Ave.
Entertainment at The Festivals
Montreal is a city of festivals, many that can be enjoyed outdoors for free. The main festivals are The Montreal Jazzfest, that runs from the last week in June until mid July. Immediately following is the Just For Laughs Festival. During those two festivals selected streets of central Montreal are closed to traffic and full of free entertainment.
Explore The Underground City
Safe from the outdoor elements, the underground city links thousands of boutiques, hotels, restaurants, universities and franchise stores. It is a network of 30 km of underground tunnels that are accessible via Peel, McGill and Bonaventure Metro stations.
Visiting the cosmopolitan city of Montreal doesn't have to be expensive. No matter what the weather there are lots of free attractions to enjoy in Quebec's Montreal. Come see the history, parks and markets of the city.
For Montreal visits with children, read Montreal With Kids - Fun Family Attractions in the Old Port and Beaver Lake Restaurant, Le Pavillon, in Montreal Park Mount Royal.
For winter visits read Beaver Lake-Outdoor Ice Rink in Montreal.
Linda Wongkee - Linda is an online and print author. She writes about travel and education, her two passions!!
