Montreal

Blending French-inspired joie de vivre with metropolitan energy, Montreal shows visitors vibrant experiences and flourishing culture, enveloped in an elegant blend of history and modernity. This island city is the second-largest French-speaking city in the world, after Paris. Swanky restaurants, indie rock, and unending festivals make a jet charter to Montreal, Quebec the perfect opportunity for a lively, eye-opening getaway.

Must See: Downtown Montreal is easily one of the hottest spots in the city for locals and visitors alike. The number and variety of festivals held here every year is amazing alone. Most are held during summer and fall, but the city is seeing more and more festivals pop up throughout the year.

Old Montreal is an equally important destination for tourists in Montreal. As you walk along the historic city's cobblestone streets, you'll see a variety of 17th to 19th century buildings and museums. Old Montreal also attracts fun street performers, like musicians, jugglers, and musicians, who often perform in the city's public squares and along the riverfront.

Lodging: Montreal's hotels are sights to see in themselves. Each neighborhood offers a unique flair in its accommodations. The Plateau neighborhood for example is known for fully furnished holiday homes available for rent. The Old Port of Montreal features charming boutique hotels that mix history with sophistication. Close to museums, shops, and fine restaurants, Auberge du Vieux-Port is arguably the most popular.

Ground Transportation: During winter, public transit is the safest way to travel around Montreal. Tourist passes are available for unlimited rides on the bus and metro, which connect downtown to numerous stops, train stations, and major attractions. Walking is also a popular way to get around the city, especially downtown during summer. Driving is possible, but not recommended due to congestion, slick roads, and different traffic rules.

Packing Tips: Summers in Montreal warm up and often reach high humidity levels. It's important to stay hydrated while enjoying the sunshine. The winter months, however, are ice cold. Unwitting tourists have been known to get frostbite for not wearing suitable attire. Long underwear is strongly recommended. Winter boots are also useful when walking along snowy pavement.

Recommended Books: Bone and Bread, Saleema Nawaz (2013) - As two orphaned sisters make their way through hardship in this freshly published novel, the author vividly depicts Montreal's warts, beauty, and the lively world in between.

Currency: The Canadian dollar is the local currency.

Calling Code Canada: 1

Best Travel Dates: Late April to early May is the best time to take a private jet charter to Montreal if you want to avoid colder temperatures and huge tourist crowds. On the other hand, fall in Montreal is gorgeous, with color-changing leaves and blankets of snow that last through winter. Just be sure to gear up for the cold and your fellow travelers!

Airports in Montreal