I just imagined Montreal and Canada in December really differently. It was my first time in Montreal, let alone Canada, and I expected snow. A lot of snow. Huge masses of snow. Instead I arrived during some unusual warm days in December and the last snow has just melt. No Canadian winter wonderland for me. What a shame, a bit of snow would have made the perfect background for my Christmas shopping in Montreal.
Anyway, Montreal is the perfect city for shopping, even in winter. Most of the malls have an underground access, as almost the whole city centre of Montreal is connected by an underground tunnel system. You can walk through the whole city without getting your feet soaked wet if the city is hit by a real Canadian winter!
My best tips for a day in Montreal
Apart from Shopping, there are so many things to explore in Montreal, here are my favourites:
1. Eating + Drinking
It may be the french heritage, but I discovered so many cute cafés and restaurants in Montreal! Like the Bar A Beurre or the Café de Mercanti in the Old Town of Montreal. Good coffee and sweet treats.
Café de Mercanti
350 Notre Dame Est.
Old Port Montreal, QC H2Y1C7
Website
Right next to it:
Bar A Beurre
Website
2. Marché Bonsecours
Are you looking for some souvenirs? Head over to the Marché Bonsecours. Small shops with edgy souvenirs from Montreal and Canada in general, different from the usual touristy stuff. A bit pricey, but worth it.
3. L’Horloge (for summer!)
A beach in the middle of the city: At the Old Port of Montreal at the end of the Quai d’horloge you will find a tiny sand beach, L’horloge – perfect for warmer days in spring or summer. And if the weather is too cold, head over to Bota Bota – a relaxing spa!
4. Visit some churches
Montreal is known for its numerous churches. Among them are some really beautiful ones like the St Joseph’s Oratory on Mont Royal or the Basilica Notre Dame of Montreal in the Old Town (photos).
