One of Canada’s most popular cities for tourists is Montreal. It may not be your first choice to discover the city during the cold months, but there are plenty of activities to enjoy during the winter season. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, these activities can captivate the hearts of locals and tourists alike, as long as you don’t mind that it might be –40 degrees outside!
The city also offers numerous indoor activities for those seeking warmth. Museums, art galleries, and cozy cafes are a great way to take a break from the cold while immersing yourself in Montreal’s rich culture.
After Vancouver and Ottawa, it’s now time to share 5 fun things to do on a budget in Montreal.
1. Enjoy the great outdoors
One of the most popular activities during winter in Montreal is ice skating, but there’s definitely more to do out there! Take part in a variety of activities at major parks in the city such as Maisonneuve, La Fontaine, Angrignon, Frédéric-Back or Mont-Royal.
Immerse yourself in nature without leaving the island with Montreal’s picturesque parks. With endless activities for the whole family to enjoy, you can hike, snowshoe, cross-country ski in the city, or head out on a winter bike ride. The trails that run through these parks are also ideal to take time to enjoy the view.
Looking for activities that are out of the ordinary? A host of possibilities are available to you, including tales around the fire or guided evening walks.
2. Cozy up in a charming café or traditional eatery
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On bitterly cold days, take the time to visit one of Montreal’s cozy cafes. Café Olimpico, Café Myriade, or Pikolo Espresso Bar are popular spots to warm up with a hot cup of coffee and indulge in delicious pastries while and studying or conversing with your neighbour. Because Montreal is such a cosmopolitan city, it’s great to be in small public spaces where you can hear conversations in multiples languages at the same time.
If you prefer a more traditional approach and want to indulge in typical French Canadian cuisine, La Banquise should be at the top of your list. Open 24 hours, it offers more than 30 types of poutine, all day breakfasts and much more (not so healthy) delicious food.
3. Discover Montreal’s underground city
Montreal’s underground city, also known as RÉSO, is a fascinating labyrinth of interconnected tunnels and passageways that stretch over 32 kilometers beneath the bustling streets of Montreal. This underground network is a true marvel, offering a unique experience for both locals and tourists alike.
Picture this: You step off the cold, snowy streets of Montreal into a warm and inviting world below ground. The hustle and bustle of the city above disappears as you enter this subterranean wonderland. Here, you can find everything from shops and restaurants to theaters and art galleries. It’s like a city within a city!
4. Spend time at the Montreal en Lumiere Festival
Montreal En Lumiere is an annual winter festival that celebrates the beauty and diversity of the city through a series of artistic performances, culinary experiences, and outdoor activities.
As one of the most anticipated events in Montreal, the festival showcases various forms of art, including concerts, theatre performances, and visual arts exhibits. Renowned artists from around the world gather to showcase their talents and entertain the audience with their mesmerizing performances. The streets come alive with colorful lights and decorations, creating a magical atmosphere that captivates everyone who attends.
5. Montreal’s Great Christmas Market
Montreal’s Great Christmas Market is a magical event that takes place every year in the heart of the city. It’s popularity confirms it competes with all the other famous Christmas markets around the world. The streets come alive with twinkling lights, festive music, and the delicious aroma of holiday treats. The market offers a wide variety of unique gifts, handmade crafts, and mouthwatering food that’s sure to delight visitors of all ages.
It’s an enchanting experience that brings people together during this special time of year. It captures the true spirit of Christmas and reminds us all to embrace joy and generosity. Grab your loved ones and head down to this festive event – you won’t be disappointed!
BONUS! Attend a Montreal Canadiens hockey game
For sports enthusiasts, watching a Montreal Canadiens ice hockey game is a must, even if it’s not necessarily the most budget-friendly family activity. Bundle up and join the vibrant atmosphere at the Bell Centre, as you cheer for the famous “Habs” surrounded by passionate fans. Catching a game not only allows you to appreciate the sport, but also immerses you in Montreal’s unique hockey culture.
Montreal truly comes alive during the winter season, offering plenty of activities to suit any traveller on a tight budget. From ice skating and winter sports to cultural events and cozy indoor culinary experiences, there’s never a dull moment. Embrace the magic of winter in Montreal and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Let us know if there are any other affordable things to do in the city below in the comments!
Happy travels,
Marie
