Before you travel to Montréal, check out these 12 essential tips

I was raised in Ottawa, but my father grew up in Montréal, so we frequently visited during my childhood.

I can still recall the thrill that surged through me each time we arrived.

Montréal left an indelible mark on me – from the local language (French with a unique Québécois twist) to the driving culture (drivers can be quite aggressive, and turning right on red is a no-go) to the city's lively atmosphere. At 17, I decided to move there to study at Concordia University, and I’ve cherished living there for the past 15 years. It remains one of my favorite destinations worldwide.

Can you navigate it speaking only English? (Absolutely.) How frigid does it get? (Very cold – but not all the time.) Keep reading for more essential insights before you embark on your Montréal journey.

1. Allocate at least three days for your visit

If you intend to explore both Montréal and Québec City during your Québec adventure, prioritize more time in Montréal. The larger city offers a wealth of sights and culinary delights, and some of its best experiences come from simply unwinding at a terrasse or in a public park, soaking in the ambiance.

2. Visit in early summer or autumn to avoid the chill

Indeed, Montréal experiences extreme cold. In January and February, wind-chill can plummet to -40°C/F, with the city covered in snow and ice. Locals cope by layering their clothing and darting between cozy cafes and heated indoor spaces. Contrary to popular belief, they don’t spend the entire winter underground, although there are some subterranean pathways linking malls and office buildings downtown.

However, Montréal isn't perpetually icy. In June, July, and August, temperatures can rise to 30°C (86°F), offering a delightful summer reprieve after the long winter. September and October are equally beautiful, showcasing vibrant fall foliage in shades of yellow and red.

November and March often bring dreary rain and gray skies. During these months, the main activity tends to be lamenting the length of winter in Montréal.

3. Don’t confine yourself to downtown

It often feels like every tourist is clustered in the Old Port and downtown. However, sticking to these busy spots means missing out on the vibrant neighborhoods that give the city its energy, such as Le Plateau, Mile End, and St-Henri. Make sure to set aside time to explore beyond the city center.

4. Montréal redefines east and west

In Montréal, streets are labeled “est” (east) or “ouest” (west) based on their position relative to Blvd St Laurent (often called The Main) – for instance, Rue Sherbrooke O and Rue Sherbrooke E. But looking at a map reveals that these streets are actually oriented northeast and southwest due to the island's angle. Just embrace the local navigation style.

5. Leave the car behind and explore on bike or Metro

Having driven in many countries, I can confidently say that driving in Montréal ranks among my least enjoyable experiences. Drivers often cut each other off unexpectedly, and during the summer, roads are either littered with orange construction cones or closed to pedestrians. Plus, understanding parking regulations is a challenge; make sure to read all signs closely and park only where arrows don’t indicate. If you decide to drive, remember that turning right on a red light is prohibited on the island of Montréal.

I highly suggest leaving the car behind and getting around by foot or bike. Montréal boasts an excellent and affordable bike-share program called Bixi, offering both standard and electric-assisted bikes for one-way rides or inexpensive monthly passes. You can also take the Metro (subway) to experience life like a true Montrealer.

6. Speaking French isn’t mandatory (but it’s appreciated)

French is the official language of Montréal. However, as a vibrant international city in a bilingual nation, visitors can comfortably navigate in English. That said, it’s nice to sprinkle in a 'bonjour' or 'merci' when possible, or to use any French phrases you might know. Don’t be surprised if locals switch to English; they’re simply trying to make things easier for you.

7. Savor a delightful picnic in the park during happy hour

Looking for an authentic Montréal experience? Grab a bottle of wine and share it with friends or family in a beautiful public park like Parc La Fontaine or Parc Jarry. Keep in mind that you can only drink alcohol legally at a picnic table while enjoying a meal (think baguette and Brie, not just chips). Drinking without a proper picnic setup can result in a fine.

8. Book restaurant reservations – and be ready to wait

One thing that caught me off guard when I moved to Montréal was the constant lines outside restaurants, no matter the weather, especially at popular spots like Schwartz’s Deli (famous for smoked meat) and La Banquise (known for poutine). Make sure to allocate time for waiting at places that don’t accept reservations, and plan ahead for those that do. Some places, like Joe Beef, require reservations months in advance.

9. Tipping is essential. Seriously

Unless the service was exceptionally poor, it’s customary to tip at least 15% of your total bill before tax. Servers earn less than the minimum wage since tips are expected, so they depend on your generosity for their livelihood. Is this system flawed? Absolutely. But it’s the reality, and withholding tips won't change anything.

10. The legal drinking age is 18; for cannabis, it’s 21

At 18, Québec boasts the lowest drinking age in Canada. When purchasing alcohol at a dépanneur (convenience store) or the SAQ (government-operated liquor store), you may need to show ID (a driver’s license works) to confirm your age.

Cannabis is legal in Montréal for those 21 and older, and it can only be purchased at government-run SQDC stores. Smoking in public spaces, including parks and on the streets, is prohibited.

11. Supporting the Habs is a major local tradition

Montrealers are fervent fans of their National Hockey League team, the Montréal Canadiens – or simply the Habs. During games, the energy at Centre Bell and sports bars across the city is palpable. If you find yourself cheering for the Habs’ rivals, be ready for some friendly banter and teasing, especially if your team is the Boston Bruins or Toronto Maple Leafs. Honestly, if you’re a Bruins or Leafs fan, it might be wise to stay home. (Just kidding... sort of.)

12. Montréal is generally safe, but healthcare isn’t free for visitors

Montréal is safe for strolling, but it’s wise to walk in pairs at night, no matter where you are.

If you find yourself needing hospital care for any reason, ensure you have travel insurance—healthcare in Québec is only free for RAMQ cardholders, and out-of-pocket expenses can be exorbitant.