Author's product rating: 
| Advantages: |
An amazing day of discoveries . . . |
| Disadvantages: |
none |
| Recommend to potential buyers: |
yes |
You will find Old Montreal nestled between the St. Lawrence River and the downtown skyscrapers... this ancient part of the city was originally surrounded by walls and is best explored on foot. In fact, much of it is not open to vehicles, but parking is easily found and Montreal's excellent transport system simplifies the journey.
The city of Montreal was founded in 1642, and as you stroll through Old Montreal you'll notice a vast array of buildings from periods dating between the original founding in 1642 up until the early 1950's.
My recollections, as a native of Montreal, are perhaps biased... but let me begin...
Firstly, as you enter the old section known as Old Montreal, you notice the original cobbled streets... (I suggest you wear flat heels if you plan on visiting, because the cracks will swallow you whole), and are immediately charmed by the old buildings, horse-drawn carriages and exterior pubs, bars, restaurants, hotels, inns, and cafes. There is this extraordinary feeling of awe as you approach the ever popular area of Place Jacques Cartier (no cars allowed). This area, a wide band of space nestled between buildings, is a treasure trove of activity, and adults and children alike will be astounded by the numerous (free) shows given by musicians, artists and clowns... this is, truly, an extraordinary way to spend a lazy, sunny afternoon. And as you may know... or not... Montreal is blessed with more sunshine per year than the sunniest area in England.
There is a festive quality to Old Montreal, and the cheer and awe of the reveller's is extremely infectious... this is the meeting ground for musicians who love to play for passersby, and for artists who display their work outside in the open air (paintings can be purchased here). Tourists abound between May and September, and the different cultures gathered at that time make for an entertaining and informative visit. Of course, Old Montreal isn't constrained within this section... there are alleys to discover, narrow streets snaking between buildings, and tiny cafes snuggled here and there just waiting to be discovered... and, of course, there are the shops... what can I say... this is a shopper's paradise (bring money)!
Hungry? The restaurants are extraordinary, the food highly acclaimed, with prices suiting every budget. Don't try to find a MacDonald though, or even a Pizza Hut... this is, after all, Old Montreal. However, if fast-food is what you fancy, it's a short walk to Montreal's downtown area (approx. 10 minutes).
If you stick around until nightfall, I guarantee you'll be amazed! Why? Because of the lights! Because of the nightlife! Because, at night, Old Montreal sparkles and shines like a jewel upon the St. Lawrence River. Music drifts from the buildings, inviting you inside, and once nestled at a table within one of the numerous pubs, you ask for a cold beer and join your voice to that of the revellers and singers onstage. Old Montreal, at night... is the place to be for old-fashioned fun. But if this isn't what you're looking for... a short walk will take you to Montreal's downtown section where a vast selection of noisy clubs and discos will no doubt tempt you.
What is there to see?
First of all, there are guided tours available... either by foot (prices unknown), or by caleche (horse-drawn carriage) with prices varying from $30.00 for 30 minutes, to $75.00 for 60 minutes. In pounds, this would come to approx. £15 for 30 minutes, and £35 for 60 minutes (give or take on the exchange). I suggest the caleche... this is the perfect way to visit, especially at night.
My personal favourites to visit are Notre-Dame Basilica, Bonsecours Market, Notre-Dame-de-Bonsecours Chapel and Montreal's Museum of Archaeology and Natural History. However, on a gorgeous, sunny day, being indoors might not be to everyone's taste, therefore I suggest you make your way down to the riverside, and stroll down the Promenade des Artistes. There are parks situated along the walk, and bicycle rentals are available (single, tandem and family carts)... it's also a great spot to take a break and have a quiet lunch (tables and benches available). Cycling is 100% safe as the Promenade does not permit vehicles.
Cycling not your thing? Then perhaps the IMAX Cinema is more your thing, and it's situated along the Promenade. IMAX, for those who don't know, is not your normal cinema... the screen is absolutely gigantic, and the movies shown there are created to make you believe you are part of the movie... sometimes you'll think you're in a canyon... then at other times you might be flying above the ocean... regardless of the movie, you will be thrilled and awed... guaranteed.
Want more? Then why not take the time to discover the Old Port, and walk along the piers.
There is so much more to see, so many things to experience... Montreal's Jazz Festival, or the Just For Laughs Festival... or even the Fetes Gourmandes which consists of food tasting from countries around the world... or Formula car racing... the casino... boat tours along the St. Lawrence River... La Ronde Amusement Park...
Montreal, in summer, is the place to be... trust me!
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